Bridgestone completes acquisition of French tire retailer

Brussels – Bridgestone EMEA has completed the previously-announced acquisition of French tire retailer Groupe Ayme, the Japanese tire maker announced 17 May.

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.

The takeover was part of Bridgestone retail vision aiming to “get closer to the market and gain a better understanding of end-users.”

This, said the tire-maker, is “essential” to continue building a leading position in the market.

“This acquisition is another great step forward to fuel Bridgestone’s growth in the region,” said Paolo Ferrari, CEO and president of Bridgestone EMEA.

Ferrari went on to say that Groupe Ayme has developed a very solid business, due to its “outstanding competence in retail management and founded on its unique relationship with the end users through their outlets and affiliates.”

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