In a recent interview with Tyre Trends, David Chen, CEO of ARP Technologies, discusses the changing landscape of the tyre manufacturing industry, his company’s technological advantages and plans for global expansion amid geopolitical uncertainties.

INDUSTRY TRANSFORMATION

The tyre industry has undergone significant changes recently, with emerging manufacturers rapidly expanding their production capacity. David Chen, CEO of ARP Technologies, observes, “The tyre business has changed so much in the last two years. Much new capacity has been added up by many small tyre companies... when I say small, like outside the top 10 companies.”

Chen clarifies that these companies are ‘non-top 10 tyre companies’ that still make quality products, positioning themselves as serious contenders in the market.

“They’re still making good tyres,” Chen explains. “Not necessarily secondary in quality, but secondary by size.”

When asked about the impact of these changes, Chen seems thoughtful, considering the broader implications before responding. “This is changing the entire industry dynamic. The established players are having to rethink their strategies, and we’re seeing this reflected in the equipment needs of our customers,” he says.

GEOGRAPHICAL SHIFT

A notable trend is the migration of manufacturing centres from Western Europe to Eastern Europe and Asia. “Western Europe has no longer been the hub of tyre manufacturing,” Chen observes. This shift presents both challenges and opportunities for equipment suppliers like ARP Technologies.

Despite this migration, Chen maintains that ARP’s European business remains strong due to its established relationships with top global tyre manufacturers. “We have a good record and history with those top tyre companies worldwide. In this industry, history and record means a lot. Experience means a lot,” he explains.

The closure of European manufacturing plants due to rising labour and input costs has reshaped the market landscape. However, Chen sees this as an opportunity for ARP to showcase its value proposition of cost-effective, high-quality equipment with advanced technology.

“When manufacturers feel cost pressures, they’re more open to considering new suppliers who can offer better value. That’s where we come in,” says Chen.

PERCEPTION CHALLENGES

Chen acknowledges that the market perception of Chinese manufacturing presents a challenge. “It’s a people’s mentality. Oh well, it’s coming from China. So it will take longer for them to recognise that they are good products from China,” says Chen.

“We’re not just competing on price,” he insists. “That’s a misconception. We’re competing on technology and quality. I believe our technology is superior to many established players.”

The company has been developing electric curing technology for 6-7 years and has recently sold this innovation to customers. A key advantage of their approach is minimal modification requirements. “Our technology requires minimum modification on existing presses. That’s a big advantage because otherwise you must invest a lot,” explains Chen.

QUALITY AND RECOGNITION

Chen emphasises that while manufacturing curing presses isn’t particularly difficult from a technological standpoint, maintaining consistent quality at scale is the real challenge. “Curing press is not that difficult to manufacture. Technology wise, it’s not rocket science,”  he admits. But, to make hundreds of curing presses at the same high-quality level is not that easy. You have to have a perfect, solid quality system in order to make hundreds of curing presses at the same level, high level of quality.”

ARP Technologies received the Industry Supplier of the Year at Tire Technology Expo 2025. On receiving the Industry Supplier of the Year award, Chen says, “We have no idea why. One of the probably important elements is always remembering what the customer needs and is looking for. Customer value is number one. Many people understand this and know about it. But when you come to implementation and execution, it varies a lot,” explains the ARP CEO.

PRODUCTION CAPACITY AND GROWTH

ARP Technologies currently produces approximately 500 curing presses annually and plans to increase this by about 50 percent in 2025. When asked whether this ambitious target poses a challenge, Chen says, “We already have two factories in China producing curing presses. Of course, there will be challenges along the way, but we believe, with steady efforts and careful planning, we’ll be able to meet the goal.”

The production timeline for each curing press is approximately 5-6 months, representing a significant investment of resources. Despite this, Chen is confident in the company’s ability to scale production to meet increasing demand. “If we go from 750 to 1,000, then we’d need to add some facilities,” he concedes. “But for now, we’re well positioned to meet our growth targets.”

ARP offers a comprehensive range of products, from small motorcycle tyre presses to enormous OTR (off-the-road) equipment. “We do all types of curing press, from two wheels, motorbike, motorcycle tyres, PCR truck to OTR huge tyre... giant curing press,” Chen says.

GLOBAL PRESENCE AND EXPANSION

The company already maintains service centres worldwide, including South America, North America, Europe and India, supporting its turnkey project capabilities. “Turnkey means starting from design until we’ve finished the press and the customers coming in just to cure their tyres. So they don’t need to worry about anything in between,” Chen explains.

“This comprehensive service includes designing, commissioning, installation, execution till operation level and training, giving customers a complete solution rather than just a piece of equipment,” adds Chen.

When discussing potential expansion into Eastern Europe, Chen shares, “We are exploring the possibility of establishing a manufacturing site outside of China. Our main considerations are to be closer to our customers and to reduce unnecessary import tariffs.”

He mentions that the company is particularly interested in the Middle East and Eastern Europe and that the evaluation process is well underway. “Once we have completed all the necessary procedures and formalities, which should be very soon, we will make an official announcement,” he adds.

MARKET CHALLENGES AND FUTURE OUTLOOK

When asked about the trend of major tyre manufacturers shifting from mass production to premium tyres, Chen indicates this doesn’t significantly impact ARP’s business model. “For us, it’s indifferent. We do the same quality, same standard, no matter what tyre they’re making on our equipment,” he says.

Similarly, the increasing use of recycled materials in tyre production poses no challenges for ARP’s equipment. “It’s a curing process technology, so it doesn’t affect our machine,” Chen explains.

As for the biggest challenges facing his business, pointed to external factors beyond their control. “It’s the war and uncertainty of political [situation]... I think that’s the most uncertain. Other than we believe most other difficulties can be handled through our continuous efforts.”

Despite the challenges brought by geopolitical uncertainties and evolving market conditions, Chen remains quietly confident in ARP’s technology and product quality. “We believe we are heading in the right direction,” Chen says. “There’s still a lot of work ahead, but with steady effort and the support of our partners and customers, we hope it’s just a matter of time,” states Chen.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

India’s Balkrishna Industries Ltd (BKT) has strengthened its original equipment (OE) business with three senior appointments across France and South America, as the off-highway tyre maker accelerates its 2030 growth strategy.

The company said the hires mark a further step in its plan to expand in priority markets and reinforce its position as a global OE partner through technical collaboration and deeper engagement with equipment manufacturers.

In France, BKT has appointed Rémi Morin as Brand Specification Manager. Morin, who has more than 12 years’ experience with a global OEM and a decade in smart farming, mobility and innovation, will lead the firm’s engagement with tractor dealers. BKT said the role is designed to align product development more closely with the needs of OEMs, dealers and end-users in a market where the company already has a strong aftermarket presence.

In South America, BKT has added Cadu Accica as Head OEM South America and Lincoln Sugimoto as OEM Technical Manager South America.

Accica brings 19 years of experience in the specialty tyre sector across Latin America, with a track record in business development, marketing and sales. He will oversee OE partnerships with a focus on customer proximity and long-term collaboration.

Sugimoto, an engineering and project management specialist with 15 years’ experience in the specialty tyre and material-handling industries, will provide technical support to OEMs in the region and drive innovation and operational efficiency.

“These appointments reflect our bold commitment to scaling our OE business worldwide — with Europe and South America being critical parts of that journey. Remi, Cadu, and Lincoln bring passion, expertise, and a shared belief in performance through partnership and innovation. Their arrival enhances our ability to engage with OEMs at the highest level and deliver long-term value across regions. We are building a team that will transform our strong ambitions into reality at a global level,” said Ludovic Revel, President Global OEM, BKT.

BKT said the latest hires follow recent additions to its OE teams across Europe, Africa and the Middle East. The company added that it is now positioned to expand its OE footprint across agricultural, industrial and OTR segments as part of its long-term strategic plan.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

A Legacy of Trust: Abu Dhabi Tyre Company Since 1969.

For over fifty years, Abu Dhabi Tyre Company has been a key player in the UAE's tyre industry. Since 1969, the company has served as the authorised distributor for the globally recognised FIRESTONE brand, specialising in high-quality Truck and Bus Radial (TBR) Tyres.

The company’s slogan—"Whatever you drive, drive a Firestone"—underscores its commitment to quality and service, as well as its focus on the TBR market, where durability is a paramount concern.

New Leadership to Steer Future Growth

Abu Dhabi Tyre Company marks a significant milestone by appointing Dr Amr Anwar as General Manager, effective May 1, 2025. Dr Anwar brings extensive knowledge and a clear vision to the role. He earned a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) and Master degree - MBA in Business Administration.

With this strong foundation, Dr Anwar is well-positioned to lead the company through its next phase of growth and operational development.

A Commitment to Operational Excellence and Market Presence

Upon assuming leadership, Dr Anwar outlined his strategy to strengthen customer relationships, with a particular focus on the commercial sector.

"I will relentlessly strengthen our operational excellence and expand our market dominance," declared Dr Anwar. "My mission is clear: every commercial fleet in the UAE will turn to Abu Dhabi Tyre Company for critical TBR solutions. We will not just honour the Firestone legacy—we will set new industry standards as indispensable partners."

Looking Ahead

As Abu Dhabi Tyre Company moves forward under new leadership, it remains committed to the principles of quality, service, and customer satisfaction that have defined it since its inception in 1969. The company stated, “We are confident that Dr. Anwar’s strategic leadership will solidify our position as the leading Firestone TBR distributor in the UAE and ensure our continued success for decades to come.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Bridgestone India, a leading tyre manufacturer, has announced the appointment of Rajarshi Moitra as its new Managing Director, effective 1 January 2026. He currently serves as the Deputy Managing Director and succeeds Hiroshi Yoshizane, who has served as Managing Director since January 2024 and as Group President, Bridgestone Asia Pacific, India, China (BSAPIC) since May 2025.

Yoshizane will be promoted to Vice-President and Senior Officer of Bridgestone Corporation, effective 1 January 2026. He will continue to serve as BSAPIC Group President, Chairman of the Board of Bridgestone India and Vice Chairman of the Automotive Tyre Manufacturers’ Association.

In these roles, Yoshizane will provide strategic guidance to Bridgestone India and contribute to the growth of the industry.

Rajarshi Moitra, said, “I’m deeply honoured to take on the role of Managing Director and to continue supporting our teams at Bridgestone India, with whom I have worked so closely over the past few years. I look forward to continuing to work in alignment with Bridgestone’s essence and its unchanging mission of ‘Serving Society with Superior Quality’, as we serve our customers, OEM partners and communities at large.”

Hiroshi Yoshizane, said, “Bridgestone India has been an important part of Bridgestone’s growth journey globally, and it has been a privilege to work with such a passionate and capable team driving that progress. Together, we have strengthened our business operations, expanded our market presence, enhanced Safety & Quality, and planted important seeds for the future through initiatives in R&D, social contribution, and sustainability. The team’s strong commitment to serving customers and communities has created a solid foundation for continued success. As I continue my responsibilities as Group President of BSAPIC and Chairman of the Board of Bridgestone India, I look forward to supporting its continued growth under Rajarshi’s capable leadership.”

Moitra has over two decades of experience in Business Strategy, Profit Centre Management, Sales & Marketing and leading transformations. He joined Bridgestone India in 2019 to lead the Consumer business. He expanded his roles to include Consumer & Commercial Business, Solution Business, Logistics & Supply Chain Management. He became Executive Director – Sales & Marketing in June 2024 and Deputy Managing Director in May 2025.

Bridgestone India states that the new leadership structure will help it continue its transformation toward becoming a solutions company, guided by the ‘Bridgestone E8 Commitment.’

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Albourgh Tyres, a brand owned by Heuver Group, has appointed Armando Lima Santos as Sales Manager for Latin America region. This strategic placement is in line with Albourgh Tyres’ global expansion plans after a successful introduction of the first tyre lines for truck and trailer on the European market during the last three years.

Santos brings over 17 years of experience and expertise in truck and OTR tyres and has been associated with major tyre companies like Goodyear, Bridgestone, Tiresur and Prinx Chengshan in the past. In his new role, he will focus on developing the Latin American market, a key step in strengthening Albourgh Tyres’ global presence.

Santos said, “LATAM will be a strategic engine to accelerate Albourgh’s worldwide relevance and reinforce Heuver’s international footprint – with stronger portfolio depth, proximity, scale and customer-centric execution. I’m excited to help build this together – developing long term partnerships in the region and capturing this huge potential with the Heuver family.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!