Trelleborg Tires is all set to participate in LogiMAT 2026 to demonstrate how its XP series of material handling tyres delivers quantifiable performance gains and enhanced operational efficiency. Recognising that forklift fleets face a variety of demands, the XP range is engineered to match specific intensities, load requirements and working environments. Whether for rigorous warehouse operations or specialised settings needing non-marking or electrically conductive properties, these tyres are designed to help reduce unplanned downtime, optimise energy consumption and bolster workplace safety. The company invites attendees to explore these solutions at Hall 10, Stand A21 during Europe’s premier intralogistics event, which takes place in Stuttgart from 24 to 26 March 2026.

At the summit of the product line is the XP1000, built for the most demanding, maximum-intensity applications. This tyre enhances driver comfort through reduced vibration and superior traction, which also contributes to lower fuel consumption. A standout feature is its integrated Pit Stop Line technology, a visible orange indicator that emerges when roughly 100 operating hours remain. This proactive visual cue empowers fleet managers to schedule timely replacements, thereby circumventing unexpected and costly operational interruptions. The XP1000 is also offered with ProTEX, a specialised non-marking and electrically conductive rubber formulation designed for use in sensitive or potentially explosive atmospheres.

For the rigours of high-intensity tasks common in factories and distribution centres, the XP900 tyre provides exceptional stability and precise manoeuvrability. Constructed from advanced raw materials, its durable rubber compounds are rigorously tested to extend service life while supporting more environmentally conscious operations through a contribution to lower CO₂ emissions.

Addressing the needs of medium-intensity applications, the XP800 tyre is engineered for reliable performance in both indoor and outdoor settings. Its advanced tread pattern is specifically designed to support cost management without compromising on consistency. Completing the lineup, the XP700 tyre caters to lower-intensity material handling. It matches operational requirements with sufficient load capacity and responsive steering, and like its counterparts, includes a protective rim flange to guard against wheel damage, ensuring that efficiency and performance are maintained across all levels of activity.

Anton Stoynev, Director Material Handling & Construction Central Europe, Trelleborg Tires, said, “The full Trelleborg XP range, available in our portfolio and on display at LogiMAT 2026, demonstrates how our tyres support material handling operations across all intensities and environments. With tailored tyre solutions for specific operational needs, we enable customers to reduce downtime, optimise efficiency and enhance safety. As a business tyre partner to the forklift industry, we go beyond manufacturing tyres: we combine application expertise with practical support to empower customers to achieve their operational goals reliably and effectively.”

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Kuraray America, Inc. marked National STEM Day on 8 November by spotlighting a community educational event that brought together 15 of its volunteers and students from the Houston Japanese Supplementary School at San Jacinto College for a day of hands-on exploration and discovery.

Participants engaged in activities illustrating how science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) converge in chemical manufacturing. Experiments with superabsorbent polymer beads explored chemistry and material properties, while a tour of the college’s facilities introduced industrial equipment. Students also learned about water filtration and distillation processes and how mathematical concepts underpin scientific and engineering applications.

One student showed particular interest in the distillation tower, linking the experience to the Kuraray Group’s contributions to everyday life and its mission of achieving for people and the planet what no one else can. The event also benefited KAI volunteers, who shared technical knowledge, exchanged perspectives and learned alongside potential future scientists and engineers.

Kuraray America thanked Reiko Fuwa and Tomohiro Tani for coordinating the visit, Hans Vandommele for sharing his expertise and all 15 KAI volunteers. The company also expressed appreciation to San Jacinto College for facility access and to the Houston Japanese Supplementary School students for their curiosity, enthusiasm and thoughtful questions.

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Liberty Tire Recycling attended the 2026 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, held from 3–6 November at the Las Vegas Convention Center. The automotive aftermarket event, one of the industry's largest, drew over 160,000 attendees from the automotive, tyre and transportation sectors to review new products, technologies and business opportunities.

The Lakin Tire brand, a consistent SEMA exhibitor, once again used the show to reinforce industry relationships and present Liberty's tyre collection, recycling and sustainable resource management capabilities. Personnel from Grade/Used Tires, Commercial Truck Tires, Metals, Recycling and Collection, together with corporate and regional leadership, met customers, suppliers and industry professionals from around the world.

The booth received existing and prospective customers from numerous tyre and automotive segments during the week. Costco Wholesale Corporate Office, United Tires and UTU Wholesale were among the organisations that stopped by to examine Liberty Tire's products, services and nationwide reach. The company viewed the event as an effective forum for monitoring emerging market trends and demonstrating its position in recycling and sustainability, alongside its focus on innovation, workforce development and circular economy principles.

A memorable moment came when a high school shop teacher and students, attending through a special educator programme, toured the booth to learn about tyre recycling and industry operations. Liberty team members provided industry insights, outlined career pathways and acknowledged educators' contribution to developing future skilled trades professionals, supplying tyre inflation gauges for classroom use.

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Laufenn, Hankook's associate brand, earned a ‘Good’ ratingwith an overall score of 2.2 for its G Fit 4S in the Auto Bild Allrad all-season SUV tyre test published on 8 October 2026 (issue 41). The tyre competed credibly against 11 rivals from established premium marques, finishing competitively in a 12-strong field.

Wet handling proved a particular strength, with the G Fit 4S collecting the second-highest rating shared with other models. Aquaplaning resistance also impressed, as the tyre held its line until stability began to fade at roughly 100 kmph (62 mph). In snow, it recorded the third-shortest braking distance, matching two other contenders.

Testing spanned snow, wet and dry disciplines, each weighted equally in the final ranking, with a third-generation MINI Countryman serving as the test vehicle. Snow assessments were carried out in New Zealand, while European venues hosted the wet and dry evaluations. The jury's conclusion underscored Laufenn's value-focused positioning, finding the G Fit 4S a solid option for cost-conscious buyers.

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Tyres Europe has underscored that tyres qualify as fully recyclable under ISO 22628:2002 and UN Regulation No. 133, describing the established methodology as a robust foundation for assessing tyre recyclability. The organisation recently set out its position on the matter.

The distinction between recyclability and actual recycling rates is central to the group's argument. Recyclability refers to the technical potential of a product and its materials to be recycled, while the real rate hinges on treatment capacity and demand for secondary raw materials. Regulatory frameworks should therefore separate the two concepts clearly and align with an internationally recognised standard.

Tyres consist of rubber compounds, chemical additives and reinforcing textile and steel cords, and at end of life they are separated into rubber, textile and steel fractions, all of which existing mechanical or chemical routes can recycle. Mechanical processing yields rubber granules and powders usable as secondary raw materials across many applications, recovered textiles can be further processed and valorised, and cleaned recovered steel can re-enter metal recycling and steelmaking.

Tyres Europe pledged continued cooperation with policymakers and value-chain partners to strengthen circularity and maximise recovery of valuable tyre materials in Europe, with the full paper available on its website.

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