Bekaert acquiring two tire reinforcement businesses from Bridgestone

Brussels - Bekaert SA has announced that it has reached an agreement with Bridgestone to acquire its tire reinforcement business in China and Thailand for €60 million.

As part of the deal, announced 28 Jan, the two companies have signed a long-term supply agreement, as well as the transfer of two of Bridgestone’s 'captive' tire cord manufacturing sites.

The transaction, expected to close in the first half of 2026, includes Bridgestone (Shenyang) Steel Cord Co., Ltd in China and Rayong-based Bridgestone Metalpha (Thailand) Co. Ltd, with an estimated combined annual sales of €80 million.

Bekaert went on to add that its rubber reinforcement (RR) business is the largest division of the group.

The purchase, it said, will improve its position as “a leader in the global tire reinforcement market.”

The acquisition “reinforces the division’s uniquely global manufacturing footprint and strengthens the long-standing strategic partnership with the global key account Bridgestone.”

The long-term tire cord supply agreement ensures supply continuity of “high-quality tire reinforcement in a trusted supplier model," Bekaert added.

The proposed transfer of business is part of Bridgestone’s strategy to enhance competitiveness over the mid-to-long term by leveraging collaboration with global partners.

As part of the same process, Bridgestone divested its carbon black businesses in Thailand (ERJ report) and Mexico (ERJ report) to Tokai Carbon and Cabot Corp. respectively.