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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Giti Tire has secured the EcoVadis Platinum Medal for the second consecutive year, positioning it within the top one percent of companies globally evaluated for sustainability. This ongoing distinction underscores the organisation's dedication to ethical operations, environmental stewardship and the generation of sustainable value throughout its worldwide activities.

The EcoVadis framework appraisals in four principal domains: environmental impact, labour and human rights, ethical conduct and sustainable procurement. This methodology offers a thorough benchmark for corporate sustainability. Earning Platinum recognition for two straight years indicates that Giti's environmental, social and governance efforts are not only effective but are also demonstrating ongoing enhancement.

Complementing this accolade, Giti’s manufacturing sites in Anhui and Fujian, China, recently secured ISCC+ certification. This dual achievement illustrates the company's holistic sustainability strategy. This approach encompasses corporate governance and operational excellence while also ensuring the responsible procurement of materials essential for developing next-generation tyres.

As the worldwide mobility industry moves towards more environmentally friendly solutions, Giti is persistently investing in advancements aimed at minimising ecological impact, all without compromising the safety, durability and performance expected by consumers. These milestones reinforce Giti's goal to emerge as a prominent contributor to sustainable mobility within the international tyre sector, offering conscientious products and methods that support its customers, collaborators and communities.

Francois Petiot, Director, International QA Centre, said, “Reaching the top is difficult – but staying at the top of the mountain is even harder. This achievement shows not only our commitment to sustainability, responsible business practices and continuous improvement but also the dedication and teamwork of everyone involved.”

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Agricultural machinery specialist Emyr Evans marked four decades in business by restoring the first new tractor it ever sold. The Massey Ferguson 3065, originally purchased in late December 1995 for New Year delivery, has been beautifully brought back to life. It now rides on the latest MICHELIN AgriBib 2 tyres, supplied and fitted by Saracens, a trusted partner and part of the Michelin Quality Centre network. The tyres fitted are 340/85 R24 on the front and 420/85 R34 on the rear.

Emyr Evans founded the company with his wife Gwenda in 1986, starting with used tractors before becoming a Massey Ferguson dealer for Anglesey and Gwynedd in 1996 from their base in Gaerwen. By 2002, their territory had expanded to cover all of North Wales to the Cheshire border, prompting the opening of a second depot in Denbigh. Over the years, the business has grown by adding major franchises including JCB, Fendt, McHale, Pottinger and Bailey. Today, their sons Gwynedd and Berwyn manage the two depots.

The restored tractor is a significant piece of the company’s history, representing the last of Massey Ferguson’s 3000 series of versatile mid-range tractors. It was originally sold to a farmer in Anglesey and had worked there ever since. Despite its coastal location near the Irish Sea, it remained in working order but required dedicated care and attention.

The choice of modern Michelin tyres highlights the evolution in agricultural technology. The current AgriBib 2, with its improved tread pattern featuring 45-degree lugs, offers enhanced traction, durability and a higher load index to cope with the increasing weight of modern machinery. Comparing it to the Bib’X M18 from the 1990s illustrates this progress. For example, a 16.9 R34 Bib’X M18 carried a maximum load of 2,060 kg at 40 kmph, while the equivalent AgriBib 2 now carries 3,075 kg, an increase of over a tonne per tyre.

The restored Massey Ferguson 3065 is being showcased along with a collection of vintage tractors at the company’s 40th Anniversary Open Days (11 and 12 March) at their Denbigh depot on the Colomendy Industrial Estate.

Berwyn Evans, Director at the business, said, “The tractor was sold to a farmer in Anglesey and has been working there ever since. Due to the location by the Irish Sea, it needed some TLC but was still in working order. As the tractor is now 30 years old, it’s been a challenge tracking down replacement parts but a worthwhile one. When it came to fitting new tyres to this special tractor, the only choice was Michelin, which is king in the agricultural world.”

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Bridgestone Central Europe has announced leadership changes effective 1 March 2026, with Francesco Landolfo stepping into the role of Business Unit Director Commercial CER. He will oversee operations across Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden.

Landolfo takes over from Christoph Frost, who guided the commercial division for eight years and was instrumental in embedding the company’s premium approach throughout the region. Frost transitions to a new capacity as Director of Retread Business for Bridgestone EMEA, where he will manage the Bandag retreading enterprise across Europe.

Christoph Frost, Director Retread Business Bridgestone EMEA.

Waqqas Ahmad, Vice President Commercial Europe, highlighted that these moves are vital for advancing the premium strategy in Central Europe and within the retread sector. He noted that both individuals possess the necessary expertise and forward-thinking mindset to deepen client connections and reinforce the brand’s upmarket standing

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Omni United has announced the appointment of Dr Mika Lahtinen as Associate Vice-President for Raw Materials and Compounding. The appointment is intended to internalise expert-led design and performance for the rubber compounds used in the company’s flagship brand, Radar Tires.

Dr Lahtinen joins the Singapore-headquartered firm with over 20 years of experience in tyre material innovation. He previously led material development at Nokian Tyres and managed global technology for tyre oils at Nynas, operating across Finland, Sweden and Singapore.

He holds a PhD in Polymer Materials Technology, and at Omni United, he will be involved in the development of materials and compounds, as well as collaboration with global suppliers to advance the company's tyre technology.

The move is designed to provide the manufacturer with direct control over the chemical engineering of its products. Omni United, founded in 2003, markets a range of consumer and commercial tyres under brands including Radar Tires, Patriot Tires and RoadLux.

Omni United sells products in more than 50 countries. Its primary brand, Radar Tires, has been manufactured as a carbon-neutral product since 2013. The integration of in-house compounding expertise is expected to support the company's commitment to innovation and logistics solutions within the global automotive sector.

In an statement the company stated, ‘Bringing Mika’s expertise in-house is a strong addition to our team. It allows us to take a more direct, expert-led approach to the design and performance of Radar Tires’ rubber compounds. With over 20 years in tyre material innovation, Mika has an extensive background in developing breakthrough materials, developing cutting-edge compounds, and collaborating with global suppliers to advance tyre technology.’

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