rssLinkedIn

Bridgestone Corporation (Bridgestone) announced that it has launched joint research with Universitas Indonesia, Public University Corporation Yokohama City University (Yokohama City University), and Public University Corporation Maebashi Institute of Technology (Maebashi Institute of Technology) for the genetic analysis of para rubber trees. This collaboration will leverage trees and genetic information from Bridgestone’s natural rubber farm in Indonesia. Working together with the advanced technologies of the partner universities, the joint project aims to create a marker-assisted selection technology that enables early identification of elite trees (high-yielding, stable performers). Through this effort, Bridgestone and the partner universities seek to contribute to future improvements in the productivity and stable supply of natural rubber.

Giti Tire announced the winners of its annual Chester County STEAM Competition, celebrating student innovation and reinforcing the company’s commitment to education in the community where its North American manufacturing facility is located. The 2026 winners are: Elementary school: Chester Park School of Fine Arts; Middle school: Great Falls Middle; High School: Lewisville HS.

The Rubber Division, ACS announced a series of updates and enhancements for the 2026 Global Polymer Summit (GPS), aimed at improving the attendee experience and expanding opportunities for networking and education.

The Global Polymer Summit focuses on polymer, rubber and elastomer industries, bringing together professionals to connect with peers, learn from experts and explore new business opportunities. The event is designed to bridge the tire and rubber sectors through comprehensive programming and integrated experiences.

aurent Fabre, currently Head of the Wheel Brake Solutions (WBS) segment within the Safety and Motion business area, will assume the newly created position of Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) at AUMOVIO starting April 1, 2026. In his new role, he will be responsible for sales across North America, Asia and Europe. Laurent Fabre will report directly to AUMOVIO CEO Philipp von Hirschheydt.

For over 100 years, Cooper has earned the trust of drivers who demand more from their tires—and themselves. This heritage runs through the new identity, which pairs Cooper’s proven DNA with a modern aesthetic. The result is a look that signals strength, purpose, and confidence.

The new visual brand system includes updates to its brand marks, a refined color palette, and a more contemporary design language intended to help the brand cut through in crowded retail environments and digital marketplaces.

Toyo Tire U.S.A. Corp. (Toyo Tires®) announces the promotion of four members of its sales management team, effective March 1. Ken Cole, Shawn Blythe, Bill Carroll, and Steven Shearer have been elevated to director-level roles across sales, strategic accounts, retail channels, and operations. The promotions reflect Toyo’s commitment to internal leadership development and continued growth in a changing tire market.

Bridgestone has been named to the Forbes 2026 Best Brands for Social Impact list for the third consecutive year. The company landed at #20, rising 71 spots from 2025 in the annual ranking. Bridgestone achieved the highest ranking among tire manufacturers, auto repair, and maintenance companies, reflecting its strong reputation among consumers.

The Rubber Division, ACS, has expanded their professional development library with new on-demand training options. In addition to their established Self-paced Basic, Intermediate and Advanced Rubber Technology courses, you can now access recordings of select past courses and webinars anytime it fits your schedule.

Brett Greenhalgh will step down at the end of May 2026 due to retirement, concluding his tenure as President of the U.S. subsidiary KraussMaffei Corporation (KMC). He will leave the industry and the United States for the next three years to join his wife in dedicating themselves to a church mission project that is especially meaningful to him.