· Bridgestone wins stake in Slovak Tire Company

Recently, Bridgestone acquired a majority stake in Slovak ARS Co., Ltd., a tire retailer and tire refurbished manufacturer.

The tire giant from Japan did not disclose the specific amount of the deal, nor the shareholding structure of ARS after the public transaction. However, Bridgestone said that the transaction will "guarantee the steady growth of ARS companies and ensure that customers can enjoy the highest quality products and the highest level of service."

As a strategic partner of Michelin, ARS's eight service locations will be renamed as Bridgestone's strategic partners, and its tire rebuild facility will also be integrated into Bridgestone's Bandag tire repair network. This will help ARS to take a bigger share of the Slovak commercial vehicle tire market.

Founded in 1992, ARS GmbH is located in Banská Bystrica, Slovakia and has grown to become a leading supplier of tire solutions in the country.

“Bridgestone and ARS have a common history in the customer and commercial tire markets. I believe that when the two parties work together, they will build a strong team with great potential.” Bridgestone Eastern Europe Business Director Antonio • Annette said.

“For ARS and its employees, joining the Bridgestone Group is a new opportunity that will further refine our professional services and enhance our brand value.” ARS founder and shareholder Miroslav Ksiti Will said.

It is understood that Slovakia has many unique advantages for foreign investors. It is one of the main centers of European automobile manufacturing, and the country's economy is currently growing. In addition, it has geographical advantages and a large number of skilled labor.

Steven De Bock, director of European business operations at Bridgestone, commented: “Working with major distributors in Slovakia is in line with our European strategy. This will help Bridgestone maintain long-term relationships with tire and service channels. And expand the scope of the Bandag franchise partner. This partnership will reduce operating costs for the entire project."

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