Bekaert Acquires Bridgestone's Tire Reinforcement Business in China and Thailand
On Wednesday, January 28, 2026, Bekaert announced its acquisition of Bridgestone's tire reinforcement business in China and Thailand, including two steel wire manufacturing facilities. The transaction is expected to be finalized in the first half of 2026.
Acquisition Details
Bekaert has reached an agreement with Bridgestone to acquire its tire reinforcement business in China and Thailand. The transaction includes the transfer of two captive steel wire manufacturing sites currently operated by Bridgestone and the signing of a long-term supply agreement. This move strengthens Bekaert's position in its Rubber Reinforcement division on the global tire reinforcement market. This division, the largest within Bekaert, has been a market leader for over 70 years. The acquisition aims to expand the group's position in the steel wire for tires market, strengthen the global manufacturing network of the division, and consolidate the long-standing strategic partnership with Bridgestone. The transaction is subject to applicable regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions. The long-term steel wire supply agreement ensures continuity of high-quality tire reinforcement supply under a trusted supplier model.
Manufacturing Facilities Involved
The acquisition includes the sale of steel wire manufacturing facilities located in China (Bridgestone (Shenyang) Steel Cord Co., Ltd) and Thailand (Bridgestone Metalpha (Thailand) Co. Ltd.). These sites produce high-quality steel wire products for various Bridgestone tire ranges. According to Bekaert, the transaction is expected to add approximately 80 million euros to the group's annual consolidated sales. The cash consideration amounts to 60 million euros, which will be funded by the group's cash reserves. The transfer of this activity is part of Bridgestone's strategy to enhance its medium and long-term competitiveness by relying on enhanced collaboration with global partners to address changes in the competitive environment.
Executive Comments
Yves Kerstens, CEO of Bekaert, stated: 'Bekaert and Bridgestone share a long-standing strategic partnership based on mutual trust and collaboration. Upon closing the transaction, we are pleased to welcome the teams from the plants into Bekaert and remain committed to joint growth and innovation with Bridgestone. The acquisition also clearly signals the strengthening of our position as a global leader in the tire reinforcement industry.' The transaction is expected to be finalized during the first half of 2026.
