Comerio Ercole Marks 140 Years with Major R&D Expansion
- By TT News
- May 26, 2025
Italian industrial machinery manufacturer Comerio Ercole SpA is celebrating its 140th anniversary this year whilst unveiling significant investments in research and development capabilities as the family-owned company seeks to strengthen its position in global polymer processing markets.
The Busto Arsizio-based firm, which exports 94 percent of its production worldwide and employs 250 people across its group operations, has published a commemorative 272-page book documenting its industrial journey from 1885 to 2025. The company was founded by Ercole Comerio, known affectionately as “Ul Balösu”, who launched the enterprise the same year he married Teresa Marcora.
Comerio Ercole will showcase two major technological developments at its main production facility on 6th June, opening its doors to institutional partners and industry stakeholders. The company is launching a new universal Industry 5.0 manufacturing centre alongside an expanded R&D technology centre featuring advanced experimental equipment.
“Our corporate DNA is based on deep respect for tradition and constant forward-looking drive within an evolutionary process that never stops,” said Riccardo Comerio. “Every day we face challenging and stimulating situations that push us to keep improving.”
The R&D expansion includes two new experimental machines - one for mixing and one for calendaring - equipped with cutting-edge longitudinal stretching units for thin sheets. The facility’s main laboratory operates as a “mini-factory” with a four-roll calendering line that can be reconfigured to three or five rolls depending on process requirements.
The enhanced laboratory features a dual-feeding system accommodating direct extrusion and feeding from mills and internal mixers. A second laboratory houses a calendering line designed for the embossing processes of films and nonwovens, offering up to 100 different patterns for material enhancement.
These investments are designed to bolster the company’s capacity to support customers in developing new polymer and elastomer processing techniques. Comerio Ercole’s R&D team provides project support through patent validation, underlining the firm’s focus on technology and service delivery.
Economic journalist Luciano Landoni, who authored the commemorative book's afterword, highlighted the company’s entrepreneurial example. “The entrepreneurial example of Comerio Ercole is highly motivating, especially for young people, who now more than ever need concrete signals based on competence, passion and vision," he said.
The company operates under the corporate structure of Comerio Ercole SpA a Socio Unico, with a share capital of €2.2 million, and is coordinated by Comerio 1885 Holding Srl SB. Its machinery serves customers in the polymer and rubber processing industries globally, and the firm maintains its headquarters at Via Castellanza 100 in Busto Arsizio, northern Italy.
- Himadri Speciality Chemical
- International Sustainability and Carbon Certification
- ISCC Plus
- Anurag Choudhary
Himadri Speciality Chemical’s Hooghly Plant Gets ISCC PLUS Certification
- By TT News
- August 28, 2025
Kolkata-based Himadri Speciality Chemical has announced that its flagship plant in Mahistikry, Haripal, Hooghly, has received ISCC PLUS (International Sustainability and Carbon Certification).
The company has been recognised for its ecological and social responsibility, along with compliance with stringent criteria on greenhouse gas emission reduction, ecosystem protection, social accountability and complete traceability of raw materials.
Anurag Choudhary, CMD & CEO, Himadri Speciality Chemical, said, “Achieving ISCC PLUS certification marks a defining step in Himadri’s sustainability journey. It validates our determination to integrate renewable, low- carbon, and circular solutions into every layer of our operations. As global industries shift towards sustainable value chains, Himadri is leading this transformation—delivering innovative and responsible solutions that create long-term value for society, the environment, and our stakeholders worldwide.”
With this recognition, the company joins a number of global players who are driving systemic change towards responsible sourcing and production.
George Varughese, Founder Of Midas Retreading Materials, Passes Away
- By TT News
- August 28, 2025
George Varughese, founder of General Rubbers and the man behind the iconic Midas brand of tyre retreading materials, passed away on 28th August, 2025.
Varughese established General Rubbers in 1969, building Midas into India’s most recognised name in retreading materials. Under his leadership, the company has grown into a global player, supplying more than 24,000 tonnes of tread rubber, precured tread rubber and other products annually. Today, Midas serves customers across South America, Africa, Europe and Australia.
Known for his vision and emphasis on innovation, Varughese placed research and development at the heart of Midas’s success. His commitment to improving compound formulations with the latest technology ensured the brand’s reputation for durability and reliability.
With operations centred in Kottayam, Kerala, Midas continues to expand its dealer network, reflecting Varughese’s lifelong mission of accessibility and customer service.
Varughese leaves behind a lasting legacy in India’s tyre industry, remembered as a pioneer who transformed the retreading sector into a global business.
Vaculug Appoints Nick Hermitage As Operations Manager – OTR South
- By TT News
- August 28, 2025
Vaculug has named Nick Hermitage as Operations Manager – OTR South, following a significant expansion in its OTR Division.
The company's new OTR Centre of Excellence in the South East will serve as Hermitage's headquarters. He is in charge of making sure the depot runs smoothly, which includes daily administration, logistics, foam filling and tyre pressing. Hermitage brings with him a depth of experience, knowledge and skill – accumulated over 22 years in the tyre industry.
Alan Robin, National Account Manager – OTR, Vaculug Technologies Ltd, said, "This is an incredibly exciting time at Vaculug, and we are fortunate to welcome Nick to the OTR team. His extensive experience and deep knowledge of both OTR and solid tyre operations will be instrumental as we build on our significant investments in the division. I am confident Nick will make a strong contribution to our growth and I wish him every success in his new role."
Hankook Tire Europe Appoints Richard Bezzant As Truck And Bus Marketing Director
- By TT News
- August 27, 2025
Hankook Tire Europe GmbH has appointed Richard Bezzant as the new Marketing Director Truck and Bus with effect from 1 August 2025.
The British-born marketing and sales expert started his career with Michelin in UK in 2003. He brings with him more than two decades of experience in the tyre business for buses and trucks. Following a five-year period in leadership roles in France, he most recently served as Marketing Director for UK and Ireland, where he was responsible for developing and managing the complete marketing strategy across all business divisions.
Bezzant said, “My goal is to support growth opportunities for Hankook in the European truck and bus sector and expand them further. I am confident that we will be able to build on what has been achieved so far and continue to expand the business with innovative products and services. I am glad to be working with a great team to pursue our goals.”
Jang Hyuk Moon, Vice President – Marketing Department, Hankook Tire Europe, said, “With Richard Bezzant, we have appointed an industry-leading expert for our truck and bus marketing activities. With his decades of experience, we will consistently expand our business in the commercial vehicle sector and strengthen our market position in Europe in the long term.”
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