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.

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Tyre Runner has added Tyres Life to its marketplace network, expanding its wholesale offering for independent tyre retailers.

The partnership brings one of the UK’s fastest-growing tyre wholesalers onto Tyre Runner’s platform, which is designed to connect retailers with suppliers while allowing retailers to retain control over pricing and purchasing decisions.

Tyre Runner said the move comes as independent retailers face continued margin pressure and are seeking greater flexibility in how they source tyres. The company’s marketplace enables wholesale ordering from multiple suppliers through a single platform.

Tyres Life has established nationwide coverage from three warehouse locations and holds more than 100,000 tyres in stock. The company is the exclusive UK distributor of Lassa, Tomket and Waterfall, and also supplies brands including Pirelli, Continental, Goodyear and Michelin.

Founded in 2019 by Bryan MacMillan, a former Kwik Fit software engineer, Tyre Runner has developed from a tyre sales marketplace into a broader software platform focused on tyre health awareness, supply chain connectivity and digital tools for the tyre trade.

Bryan MacMillan, chief executive of Tyre Runner, said: “We’re delighted to add Tyres Life to our growing list of wholesale partners. This partnership exemplifies how our sales platform can connect high-quality wholesalers with independent retailers, helping both grow stronger together.

“The tyre market remains digitally immature, and to compete in an increasingly omnichannel world, online is just one part of the puzzle. Our mission has always been to empower the trade, not compete against it. That’s why we are focused on bringing a range of tools to market to help retailers compete better, not just online, but offline as well.”

Tommie Owens, commercial director at Tyres Life, said: “Tyre Runner opens reach like never before. Bryan and his team have a very clear vision for what the future of tyre retail will look like, and we’re excited to see Tyres Life’s products access even more markets efficiently.”

Tyre Runner said the addition of Tyres Life strengthens its marketplace model, which aims to streamline wholesale access while preserving retailer margins. The company added that the partnership aligns both businesses around shared priorities of efficiency, profitability and safety across the tyre supply chain.

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CarbonX has appointed Rohan Patel to its Advisory Board, gaining a distinguished strategist at a crucial phase of the company’s growth in sustainable battery materials. His profound understanding of regulatory frameworks and supply-chain strategy will directly support CarbonX’s collaborations with major cell manufacturers and its expansion of local, scalable production.

Patel’s career spans top-tier leadership in industry and government. He previously served as Vice President of global public policy and business development at Tesla, where he was part of the executive leadership team. Prior to his work in the private sector, he was a special assistant to the President and a senior advisor for climate and energy during the Obama Administration, shaping pivotal transportation and power sector policies while coordinating with state and local officials. His earlier contributions include roles at the White House Council on Environmental Quality and staff positions for political campaigns and elected officials.

Currently residing in Kensington, Maryland, Patel consults for global companies and nonprofits dedicated to decarbonisation. His appointment equips CarbonX with essential guidance for navigating complex policy landscapes and strengthening value chains in both the United States and European markets.

Rutger van Raalten, CEO, CarbonX, said, “With Patel’s extensive experience in global policy and deep understanding of Electric Vehicle and US regulatory landscapes, his guidance will be invaluable as we establish ourselves as a supplier of quality materials into US Giga factories and navigate US policy, battery-manufacturing regulations and emerging tariff frameworks.”

Patel said, “The team is strong, the technology is proven, US capacity is established and Tier-1 cell manufacturers in the US are taking notice. CarbonX’s disruptive supply-chain solution arrives at exactly the right time. Strengthening domestic supply chains for critical battery materials is essential, and I am pleased to support CarbonX’s mission to deliver local, scalable and sustainable solutions.”

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The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company has appointed David Cichocki to the dual role of Managing Director for the Americas and Chief Sales Officer for the Americas Consumer business, effective 19 January 2026. He will report directly to CEO and President Mark Stewart. In these positions, Cichocki is tasked with enhancing sales execution and driving profitable growth for the consumer division across the region. His broader regional leadership duties will focus on strategic governance, operational excellence and ensuring financial performance aligns with Goodyear's global objectives.

Cichocki joins Goodyear with over 30 years of commercial expertise from prominent consumer and industrial brands. He previously served as Senior Vice President of US Sales at Whirlpool Corporation, where he managed a multi-billion dollar North American consumer business spanning several key sales channels. Prior to that, he held numerous senior roles during a more than 20-year tenure with Kraft Foods and Nabisco.

Mark Stewart, CEO and President, said, "Throughout his career, David has built high-performing teams and delivered strong, sustainable results through customer-centric, brand-driven strategies. His experience leading large organisations through transformation – including simplifying portfolios, modernising go-to-market models and designing sales strategies for profitable growth – closely aligns with the changes we are making at Goodyear to drive long-term success for our company and our customers."

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Marangoni has reinforced its OTR division as of January 2026 with the key hires of Eduard Mundt and Dominik Hörmann. Mundt will apply his extensive technical knowledge and industry experience to serve and build partnerships with OTR customers across Southern Germany. Hörmann, an expert in both OTR and TBR segments with specialised retreading knowledge, will oversee operations in Northern, Central and Western Germany, supporting the core OTR business and segments of the TBR market.

This strategic expansion underscores the company’s commitment to deepening its local engagement with both dealers and end users. By enhancing direct customer relationships and fortifying its regional footprint, Marangoni aims to solidify and sustainably grow its standing in the market.

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