Bridgestone acquiring French tire retailer Ayme

Brussels - Bridgestone Europe NV/SA has entered into an exclusivity agreement with the shareholders of Groupe Ayme to acquire what it described as “the largest independent tire specialist in France.”

In a 17 Jan statement, the Japanese tire-maker said the acquisition is part of achieving its retail vision “to become the most trusted provider of tire and automotive services in every business segment it serves."

The move will also improve Bridgestone’s footprint in the French market and allow it to gain a better understanding of end-users, the company explained.

The acquisition will add 104 points of sale for Bridgestone in France under the “Côté Route” brand. This will expand Bridgestone's French retail network, consisting of First Stop, Speedy and Côté Route, to over 900 outlets.

Completion of the transaction is subject to information and consultations with the 'social partners' as well as competition authority clearance.

Bridgestone did not give further detail on the price of the acquisition.