Bandag to build tire retreading factory in Georgia

Brussels – Retreading specialist Bandag and its owner Bridgestone have entered an agreement with Georgian automotive parts maker Tegeta Motors to build a $2 million (€1.7 million) retreading plant in the country.

To be built in Rustavi, near Georgia's capital Tbilisi, the Tegeta Bandag factory will have the capacity to produce up to 5,000 retreaded tires annually.

Set for operation late next year, the unit will be equipped with “state-of-the-art Bandag machinery” to be sourced from Europe and the US, Bridgestone announced 10 Dec.

The partners expect to begin operations by retreading tires for buses and trucks and to double the factory's capacity in five years.

“With the launch of the Tegeta Bandag factory, we are advancing fleet solutions, promoting sustainable mobility, and strengthening our presence in the Caucasus region,” said Ekaterine Kavtaradze, CEO of Tegeta Motors.

Tegeta Motors will integrate the retreading operations into its existing ecosystem, which includes tire services, oil and battery operations, and recycling activities.