The praised solution has been in use at Eurl Saterex-Iris in Algeria since autumn 2019. Eurl Saterex-Iris is the third biggest tyre manufacturing plant in Africa, serving both local and export markets. The modern plant was mainly designed and constructed by Black Donuts Engineering and its international partner network. Black Donuts is also responsible for production management, which applies the core principles of Lean Management and focuses on reducing the interim stocks to the bare minimum according to the pull method. To enhance this, the company developed an RFID-based electronic eKanban solution together with Toptunniste.

“The eKanban project started from a need to improve production management. The first acute challenge we met was the lack of adequate and accurate information on the overall production status,” Solution Manager Aki Nurminen recalls.

Originally, there were nine Kanban boards located all over the two-floor factory. One had to check each board manually, so it took time and effort to capture a complete view of the production status.

Another deficit concerned the insufficient information provided on manufacturing schedules. The old Kanban boards did not give enough information on when certain materials were supposed to be in production.

The returned cards included no accurate time markings, so it was hard to stay updated, notice stock alerts and to respond on time.

Real-time production status

New technology was needed to solve the problem. It became clear that initiating remote monitoring would require electronic boards instead of the traditional ones. Black Donuts contacted another Finnish technology company, Toptunniste, to present the idea and search for a way to actualise it. The solution was simple: adding RFID features to an existing Kanban board would upgrade it to a more accurate, more informative, and easy-to-use eKanban board. Next, the old cards were replaced by RFID tagged cards, readable through RFID technology.

Now, all nine eKanban boards are online in Saterex’s internal data system and easily monitored from any computer. Consequently, an up-to-date overall view of the entire production is now always at hand.

The eKanban solution enables better and real-time tracking of overall production status and enhances the supervision of production processes.

It adds the time markings automatically to each card on return, keeps account, and establishes automatic triggers to replenish stock when predefined minimums are reached for each inventory item.

The system also calculates and presents the estimated time left before reaching the pre-defined minimum of each item in the downstream processes. This is the lens that helps us prioritize and schedule the production runs.

Optimised processes

The new eKanban boards were taken into use at Saterex tyre plant in fall 2019. For the users operating in the production lines, the new solution has not brought any changes in their daily routines, but the Kanban boards are used the same way as before. For the supervisors and factory management, the new system enables a remote and real-time view of the production status through a web interface.

The new solution helps in prioritizing the tasks and shortens the reaction time to different problems arising in production. eKanban is also a great planning tool, as it gives us a complete process overview, Aki explains.

The eKanban system gets all the production information it needs straight from the company’s MES, where the daily consumption levels of each process, as well as the minimum and maximum storage levels, are defined. Separate eKanban views, visualizing the interim storage levels, can be reviewed through MES which enables effective inventory management.

The eKanban solution is designed for tracking the production, not to automatically assign anything. It is always the team, the people, who make the decisions based on the information they receive. However, the solution helps to improve tracking and optimizing operations, Aki says.

Advanced work management

Moreover, the eKanban solution enhances work management.

Compared to manual Kanban systems, eKanban gives additional information on storage unit rotations, events and even stock rotation history. It is valuable information for both follow-ups and for managing transportation activities and best working methods. Earlier, the material transportation could idle, and the return of cards to the Kanban boards be irregular, which caused various scheduling challenges, stockouts and unexpected changes in demand.

It was nearly impossible to find the root cause for problems and consequently improve it. Thanks to the digitised solution, we can now track every event, which supports work development and feedback giving.

While the manual Kanban boards already gave a good boost for companies in optimizing production, the new eKanban solution brings monitoring, tracking and optimizing to a remarkably higher level.

eKanban is an excellent example of how we can improve proven old methods during digital transformation.

eKanban was designed to add a remarkable value to the supply chain support operations. This was accomplished by optimizing cost-effectiveness, efficiency, and the movement of materials. Currently, Aki’s team is already developing the next generation eKanban solution, one without any physical cards or printed labels and boards. This will serve the needs of the highest automation solutions, which require visual identification instead of manual labelling or printed cards.

The operators do not even need to touch the storage units anymore, but the Electronic Shelf Label (ESL) completes the visual identification. Electronic Shelf Label is automatically updated during the manufacturing processes and events referring to RFID identifications and data communication. This way, the labels are never missing, old or wrong, and they are readable in all occasions and all the time, Aki explains.

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Ironman Tires, a brand owned by Hercules Tire and Rubber Company (HTR), a wholly owned subsidiary of American Tire Distributors, has unveiled the All Country HT 4S, marking the brand's entry into the all-weather highway terrain segment. Engineered for daily drivers, this new model delivers reliable traction throughout the year, improved ride comfort and consistent performance in diverse conditions. It represents an expansion of the established All Country family, now offering a highway-focused option that integrates sophisticated tread architecture and advanced material science.

A key distinction of the All Country HT 4S is its Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake certification, achieved through a specialised all-weather compound without sacrificing longevity or value. The tyre’s intricate tread pattern, developed using advanced modelling, enhances wet road handling and braking while contributing to a smoother ride. Its construction is tuned to sharpen steering response and minimise road noise thanks to a carefully arranged tread block design and simulated pitch sequencing that reduces vibration at higher speeds.

The tyre's capability is supported by four wide circumferential grooves and 3D siping, which work together to expel water and provide grip on snow and ice. Built for both daily commutes and long-distance travel, the HT 4S aims to balance comfort with all-season security. Initially launching in 27 sizes, with a total of 46 planned, it carries a 600 UTQG rating, indicating a focus on treadwear. Ironman backs the model with a comprehensive protection plan that includes a 60-month policy against defects, road hazard coverage and a 55,000-mile (approximately 88,513 km) warranty, reinforcing its commitment to dependable and affordable products.

Keith Calcagno, Chief Strategy Officer, Proprietary Brands, American Tire Distributors, said, “The All Country HT 4S brings all-weather confidence to the highway terrain segment. These tyres are designed for drivers who want a quiet, comfortable ride with dependable traction in rain and snow – all at a value they can trust.”

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Firestone AG, a division of Bridgestone Americas, has broadened its Maxi Traction and Radial Deep Tread 23° tyre portfolios with new sizes engineered specifically for the latest generation of John Deere tractors. The expanded lineup was introduced at the Commodity Classic 2026 show, reflecting a parallel development process with John Deere’s recent machinery innovations, which assures growers of reliable performance from a trusted tyre brand. Now included in the RCI Group 50, the range features the flagship VF480/95R54 size, a 90-inch-tall tyre with a load capacity of 16,100 pounds (approximately 7,302 kg).

Engineered for superior ground contact, the Radial Deep Tread 23° ensures steady traction through optimised lug-to-soil interaction. In contrast, the Maxi Traction tyre, frequently used on front axles, delivers extended tread life and increased load potential. For certain sizes, Very High Flexion technology is offered, enabling farmers to operate at lower inflation pressures. This expands the tyre's footprint, boosts traction and plays a vital role in reducing harmful soil compaction. Availability for these new sizes is scheduled to begin 1 May 2026.

Bill Durivage, Senior Agricultural Product Strategy Manager, Firestone Ag, said, “This expansion takes our most established row crop fitment and carries it forward. By strengthening load capacity and incorporating our VF technology, we’re ensuring the tyres continue to support the performance, efficiency and soil management expectations of today’s tractors.”

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Superteam Wheels, a prominent Chinese manufacturer of carbon fibre bicycle wheelsets, has entered into a significant three-year strategic alliance with GCN Italia, the Italian arm of the internationally acclaimed cycling media outlet, Global Cycling Network (GCN). This initiative follows the brand's successful partnerships with GCN's French and Spanish channels established in 2025. By now collaborating with all three major GCN platforms serving France, Spain and Italy, Superteam Wheels is strategically reinforcing its presence within core European markets. This concerted effort represents a vital step in the company's broader plan to deepen its global footprint, particularly across Southern Europe.

Under the terms of this new partnership, Superteam Wheels intends to capitalise on GCN Italia's substantial regional influence across leading global social media networks such as YouTube, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. The collaboration will drive comprehensive brand promotion and the development of co-created content tailored specifically for these platforms. The joint initiatives will focus on producing a diverse array of original material, which is set to include professional assessments of carbon fibre wheelsets designed for road and gravel cycling, authentic local riding experiences and thorough explorations of fundamental carbon fibre technologies.

The content strategy is designed to resonate with the unique perspectives and interests of Italian cycling enthusiasts, effectively demonstrating the technological expertise and intrinsic value of Superteam products. Ultimately, the partnership aims to not only bolster the brand's connection with this key audience but also to further ignite the passion for cycling among enthusiasts both within Southern Europe and across the global community.

Chris Zeng, Overseas Business Manager, Superteam Wheels, said, "Italy is the heart of global cycling, with profound heritage and discerning enthusiasts. GCN Italia is our key bridge to connect Superteam's Chinese carbon fibre expertise with local riders. Building on our 2025 partnerships with GCN France and Spain, this collaboration further strengthens our presence across Europe. We are committed to delivering high-performance, cost-effective wheelsets, enabling more cyclists to experience the exceptional performance of our carbon fibre technology and become part of the European cycling story.”

Dario Esposito, Business Director International, GCN Italia, said, "I hope this solution is appreciated by both parties and that we can expand our valuable partnership to GCN Italia.”

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Kumho Tire USA is set to intensify its commitment to the SUV and truck market by taking a prominent role in a series of off-road events throughout 2026. Following its successful appearances in 2024 and 2025, the company plans to use these gatherings as a platform to boost brand visibility, demonstrate the capabilities of its specialised Road Venture tyre line and forge stronger connections with off-road enthusiasts.

This strategy reflects a focused effort to engage with the growing community of SUV and truck owners. By participating directly in these enthusiast-driven events, the company creates a valuable opportunity to present its products firsthand. This approach allows Kumho to reinforce its standing as a premium alternative that balances exceptional quality and performance with affordability.

The 2026 tour is scheduled to commence at the Overland Expo SoCal in March. A newly designed 80-foot marketing truck and trailer will be the centrepiece of Kumho’s presence at various stops along the tour. This mobile exhibit will offer interactive displays, distribute branded merchandise and prominently feature the Road Venture lineup, which includes the RT, AT52 and MT71 models. Engineered for challenging terrain, this tyre series is recognised for its robustness, reliable performance and comprehensive warranty. Attendees will also have the chance to speak with company ambassadors on-site, who can provide personalised guidance to help drivers select the most suitable Road Venture tyre for their specific vehicle and driving needs.

Kumho Tire’s full 2026 off-road event schedule is listed below:

• Overland Expo SoCal: 14–15 March, Costa Mesa, Calif.
• Jeep Beach: 17–26 April, Daytona Beach, Fla.
• Overland Expo West: 15–17 May, Flagstaff, Ariz.
• Overland Expo PNW: 26–28 June, Redmond, Ore.
• New Jersey Jeep Invasion: 10–12 July, Wildwood, N.J.
• New Jersey Bronco Invasion: 17–19 July, Wildwood, N.J.
• The Smoky Mountain Bronco Stampede: 14–16 August, Pigeon Forge, Tenn.
• The Smoky Mountain Invasion: 20–22 August, Pigeon Forge, Tenn.
• Off-Road Expo: 3–4 October, Costa Mesa, Calif.

Ed Cho, CEO, Kumho Tire USA, said, "We are incredibly excited to bring our dedicated Road Venture product line directly to off-road enthusiasts at major events like Overland Expo and Jeep Beach in 2026. Building on our initial involvement since 2024, this year's expanded presence demonstrates our commitment to the segment and marks a significant milestone in Kumho Tire's strategy to strengthen connections with SUV and truck consumers."

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