In an interview with Dr Jörn Seevers, CEO of KE FISCHER, the world leader in cord cutting technology, we delve into the company’s strategic growth and its vision for the future. The discussion explores the significance of the recent acquisition of KONŠTRUKTA-TireTech (K-TT) and its impact on KE FISCHER’s position in the market. We also gain insights into the crucial role of cord cutting lines in tyre production, the challenges they address and the opportunities it presents. Seevers sheds light on how KE FISCHER navigates the evolving regulatory environment and outlines the company’s vision for the future of cord cutting lines, emphasising innovation, quality, and environmental sustainability.

How has the business developed after the acquisition of KONŠTRUKTA-TireTech?

The acquisition of KONŠTRUKTA-TireTech, s.r.o. (K-TT) in Slovakia by KE FISCHER marks a significant step towards strategic growth and expansion in the tyre manufacturing industry. KE FISCHER has outlined ambitious plans for leveraging the acquisition to explore organic and inorganic growth opportunities. The collaboration aims to enhance the engineering and production capabilities. Additionally, KE FISCHER is focusing on expanding its service business model, which includes remote maintenance services for global customers.

The acquisition is expected to result in an even broader product range and customer base, combining KE FISCHER’s existing expertise in cutting and splicing technology with K-TT’s high-performance extrusion machinery. We expect this strategic move will foster accelerated growth, enhance customer relations and consolidate its presence in both segments of the tyre manufacturing industry.

In a strategic move to bolster its position within the tyre manufacturing sector, KE FISCHER is expanding its machinery portfolio and developing innovative equipment through a collaborative partnership with K-TT. This synergy will unlock new opportunities for both companies, fostering technological advancements, service offerings and overall industry growth.

Can you elaborate on the importance of cord cutting lines in producing various types of tyres?

Cord cutting lines play a critical role in producing various types of tyres, impacting quality and performance characteristics. The lines are so-called bottle-neck machinery and are essential for keeping the production of the whole tyre plant running.

Cord cutting lines are designed to cut the fabric or steel cord materials that reinforce tyres with high precision. This precision is essential for the tyre’s structural integrity and quality. Accurate cuts lead to efficient material usage, reducing waste and improving the overall cost-effectiveness of the production process.

How rubberised cord material is cut and laid out in the tyre can significantly affect its performance characteristics, including strength, flexibility and wear resistance. For example, the angle at which the rubberised cord material is cut and positioned can influence the tyre’s handling, stability and traction. Precise cord cutting technology optimises these angles, enhancing the tyre’s performance for its intended use, whether for passenger vehicles, trucks, bicycles, agricultural vehicles or performance racing vehicles.

Modern cord cutting lines are often integrated with quality control technologies, such as cameras and sensors, to detect material flaws or errors in the cutting process. This integration helps ensure that only materials that meet strict quality standards are used in tyre production, leading to tyres of superior quality.

Different types of tyres, such as radial versus bias tyres, require different cord arrangements and materials. Radial tyres, for instance, have cords that run perpendicular to the direction of travel, offering improved handling and wear characteristics. Bias tyres have cords that run at an angle to the direction of travel, providing a comfortable ride at lower speeds. Cord cutting lines must be versatile enough to handle different materials such as fabric, steel and others, and cutting specifications to produce a wide range of tyre types.

Automated cord cutting lines in tyre manufacturing enhance production efficiency and consistency and increase machine availability. Automation allows for the rapid processing of materials with minimal human intervention, reducing the likelihood of errors and increasing production speed. This efficiency is critical in meeting the high demand for tyres across various sectors, including automotive, aviation and industrial machinery.

Efficient cord cutting lines also contribute to sustainability efforts in tyre manufacturing. Manufacturers can minimise their environmental footprint by optimising material usage and reducing waste. Additionally, precise cutting reduces the need for excess raw materials, contributing to more sustainable production practices.

In summary, cord cutting lines are essential in tyre manufacturing, influencing everything from the efficient use of materials and production costs to the final product’s performance, quality and environmental impact. These lines’ precision, automation and versatility enable manufacturers to produce tyres that meet diverse requirements, ensuring safety, reliability and performance.

Thanks to operating in a niche, KE FISCHER is in constant contact with tyre manufacturers, and thus, it can be aware quickly of any possible challenge.

Each type of tyre requires a specific material, e.g. fragile material for bicycle tyres, or extremely thick material for OTR tyres.

What specific challenges in the tyre production industry led KE FISCHER to specialise in cord cutting lines?

The first cutting line for the tyre industry was built in the 1970s when a German-based tyre manufacturer asked KE FISCHER to investigate this field because of KE FISCHER’s immense experience and excellent know-how in cutting sheet metal products.

After this first line was successfully put into production, the door was now open for this new field of activity. KE FISCHER gained more expertise in producing cord cutting lines for the tyre production industry, which is a response to several specific challenges and needs within the sector. Integrating cord cutting seamlessly into the tyre manufacturing process improves efficiency and reduces production times. Specialised lines can be designed to fit into existing production lines, enhancing workflow and productivity.

The tyre industry constantly evolves with new materials, designs and specifications. Specialising in cord cutting lines allows KE FISCHER to stay at the forefront of technological advancements, offering solutions that meet the latest industry standards and requirements. Tyre manufacturers require customised solutions to meet specific production needs. A company specialising in cord cutting lines can offer more flexible and tailored solutions than a generalist machinery supplier, addressing unique challenges tyre producers face. The industry faces strict safety and environmental regulations. Specialised cord cutting lines can help manufacturers comply with these regulations by ensuring precise cuts that reduce waste and incorporating features that minimise ecological impact.

KE FISCHER’s focus on developing specialised cord cutting lines reflects a strategic response to these challenges, positioning the company as a critical partner for tyre manufacturers seeking to improve their production processes, enhance product quality and achieve greater operational efficiency.

 Where does the company find more opportunities among the applications – from bicycles and cars to off-the-road and aeroplanes?

KE FISCHER specialises in providing cutting lines for the tyre industry, focusing on various applications from two-wheel vehicles, light vehicles and trucks to OTR tyre manufacturers. The company is a world leader in developing and manufacturing steel and textile cord cutting lines used for all kinds of tyres. This indicates that KE FISCHER is actively involved in supplying equipment essential for the production of tyres across a broad spectrum of vehicle types, including bicycles and cars.

The opportunities for KE FISCHER, among its various applications, depend on the demand for tyres in each sector. Given the company’s focus on providing cutting lines for tyre manufacturers, sectors with high growth in tyre demand would present more opportunities. The automotive and OTR sectors are traditionally large consumers of tyres, driven by both consumer demand and industrial applications. The bicycle sector has also grown, especially with the rise in eco-friendly transportation and urban cycling.

How does KE FISCHER navigate and adapt to changes in the tyre production industry’s regulatory environment?

KE FISCHER adapts to changes in the regulatory environment through several key strategies. KE FISCHER focuses on continuous research and development to ensure its machinery meets the latest environmental and safety standards, following EU safety regulations for all lines delivered. This includes investing in new technologies that reduce emissions, increase energy efficiency and incorporate safer, more sustainable materials.

By working closely with tyre manufacturers, KE FISCHER can understand the specific challenges and requirements these companies face due to regulatory changes. This collaboration helps in designing and modifying equipment that aids manufacturers in meeting new standards. The company’s global footprint allows it to gain insights into trends. This international perspective is of great importance for anticipating future shifts and adapting its offerings accordingly.

These strategies enable KE FISCHER not only to navigate but also to thrive amidst the evolving regulatory landscape of the tyre production industry.

What is KE FISCHER’s vision for the future of cord cutting lines, and how does it plan to stay ahead in the market?

KE FISCHER envisions its future in the cord cutting lines market with a strong focus on customer needs, innovation, quality and environmental sustainability. The company aims to maintain its position as a global leader by continuing to develop cutting-edge machinery that meets the evolving needs of the tyre industry. With a rich history of success and a commitment to research and development, KE FISCHER emphasises the importance of adapting to the continuous improvements in tyre material mixes, which requires staying up-to-date on material behaviour and adjusting cutting lines accordingly. This adaptability ensures the highest quality and efficiency of its products.

KE FISCHER’s strategic plan includes a commitment to development and design, aiming to remain the market leader by continuously developing improved and future-oriented solutions for cord cutting lines. The company leverages its extensive experience and track record of over 900 lines installed globally to enhance its technological leadership and quality standards.

KE FISCHER’s cutting lines and K-TT extrusion lines are equipped with the latest innovative technologies from suppliers and include in-house developed Industry 4.0 solutions.

In summary, KE FISCHER’s vision for the future of cord cutting lines revolves around innovation, quality, sustainability and customer-centric solutions. By continuously improving its technology and services, KE FISCHER’s explicit goal is to stay ahead in the market and meet the dynamic needs of the tyre manufacturing industry.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Balkrishna Industries Ltd. (BKT) has extended its partnership with Cricket Australia for a further three years, remaining the naming rights partner of the Golden Cap awards in the Big Bash League (BBL) until the end of the 2028-29 season. The renewal takes the partnership beyond a decade, making it one of the league's longest-running commercial agreements.

BKT has been an Official League Partner of the Big Bash League since 2018. The companies said the extension reflects their continued commitment to supporting the growth of Australian cricket while enhancing the experience for players and fans.

Over the course of the partnership, BKT has developed a strong presence across the Big Bash Leagues through its association with the tournament and fan engagement initiatives. The renewed agreement, the companies said, reflects a long-term relationship built on community engagement and a shared commitment to Australian cricket.

Rajiv Poddar, Joint Managing Director of BKT, said: “The extension of the partnership with the BBL has continued to evolve since 2018, bringing us to achieve significant milestones together. Australia remains a strategic market for BKT, and cricket is one of the country's most popular and passionately followed sports, bringing together millions of fans every year. That’s why we are pleased to continue supporting one of the world's most exciting cricket competitions through the 2028/29 season. We look forward to building on the success we have achieved together and creating lasting value for our stakeholders, partners and fans around the world.”

Alistair Dobson, General Manager of the Big Bash Leagues at Cricket Australia, said: “We’re thrilled to extend our partnership with BKT, who has been such a fantastic supporter of the Big Bash for nearly a decade. The BKT Golden Bat and BKT Golden Arm caps have long been popular with players and fans and a great way to celebrate the world-class batting and bowling across both the BBL and WBBL. BKT Big Bash Tipping also adds to the fan experience, giving fans another avenue to engage with the leagues and challenge their friends, families and workplaces. We’re looking forward to continuing to build on our strong relationship with BKT as this partnership extends beyond a decade in the coming years.”

The companies said they would continue to work together as the partnership enters its second decade, with a focus on innovation, fan engagement and the long-term development of Australian cricket.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

JK Tyre & Industries has appointed Pushpak Barik as Vice President – Replacement Business, reinforcing its domestic leadership team as the company looks to strengthen its presence in the replacement tyre market, according to a report.

In his new role, Barik will lead the strategic growth of JK Tyre's replacement business, with responsibility for expanding the company's replacement market portfolio, optimising channel performance and strengthening its retail footprint across India.

Before joining JK Tyre, Barik served as Head of Sales – Commercial Mobility at TVS Motor Company, where he led initiatives to accelerate business growth in the commercial mobility segment.

He brings extensive industry experience, having held leadership positions at Continental, Ashok Leyland, Bajaj Auto and Tata Motors. His expertise spans sales leadership, channel development, commercial mobility, strategic partnerships, network expansion and business transformation.

JK Tyre said Barik's experience in driving profitable growth, strengthening distribution networks and expanding market presence will support the company's next phase of growth in the replacement business.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Nokian Tyres has announced the promotion of Tiina Frazer to Senior Vice President of Brand, Marketing and Communications, effective 1 August 2026. In addition to her new executive role, she will join the company’s Management Team, operating from the headquarters in Helsinki, Finland, and reporting directly to President and CEO Paolo Pompei.

Frazer originally joined the Finnish tyre manufacturer in September 2025 as Vice President for the same functional area. Her professional background includes a tenure as Vice President of Brands and Marketing at HKFoods Finland Oy, along with prior senior leadership roles at Lumene, Roche Pharmaceuticals and Fiskars, bringing extensive cross-industry experience to her expanded responsibilities.

Paolo Pompei, President and CEO, Nokian Tyres, said, “I am delighted to welcome Tiina to the Nokian Tyres Management Team. Her experience in building impactful brands make her an excellent addition to our team as we continue to strengthen our premium position in our key markets.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Fornnax Technology has taken a decisive step to strengthen its European footprint by formalising a service partnership with industry veteran Lukas Baur of NOBA Maschinenservice. The agreement, ratified by company CEO Jignesh Kundaria, transitions the Indian manufacturer’s support model from remote coordination to an on-the-ground operational presence. This strategic alignment is designed to address the growing demand for immediate technical intervention across the continent’s recycling sector.

Based in Worbis, Germany, Baur commands a fully integrated service infrastructure that includes a 1,000-square-metre workshop fitted with a 5-tonne crane system, a dedicated hydraulic bay and specialised tooling for bearing replacements. His mobile response unit comprises 12 Mercedes Sprinter vans and a workforce of 24 certified technicians, enabling rapid deployment across a 1,000-kilometre radius. This setup guarantees that Fornnax customers can expect emergency assistance within 24 hours of a service call.

Baur’s professional history spans over 20 years of hands-on work with prominent shredder brands such as Eldan, Lindner and Vecoplan, giving him intimate knowledge of the operational challenges faced by European plant operators. His decision to join forces with Fornnax was driven by the manufacturer’s distinctive combination of competitive pricing, rugged construction and advanced wear-resistant engineering. He recognised that the current market turbulence – marked by tight margins, postponed capital expenditures and a dwindling labour pool – demanded a partnership capable of delivering both technical depth and logistical speed.

Under the new arrangement, Baur assumes full responsibility for the entire equipment lifecycle, covering system commissioning, scheduled upkeep, urgent breakdown recovery and the supply of mechanical, hydraulic and electrical components. He has also expressed a long-term vision to transform his Worbis facility into a regional spare parts consolidation centre, particularly if Fornnax opts to stock inventory at that location. To match anticipated growth, he plans to augment his fleet and technician count by two to three units annually.

This collaboration signals Fornnax’s broader commitment to building a dedicated European service network rather than relying on generalized support structures. With Baur’s proven capabilities now formally integrated, the company aims to deliver faster resolution times and technically nuanced assistance that aligns with the high-throughput demands of modern recycling operations. The partnership ultimately positions Fornnax as a formidable contender in the European shredding equipment landscape, with service excellence as its cornerstone.

Jignesh Kundaria, Director and CEO, Fornnax, said, "We strongly believe that by continuously improving our service quality and customer satisfaction index, we can build long-term relationships with our customers. Higher customer satisfaction leads to greater trust, which significantly increases repeat orders and ultimately drives sustained growth in our sales revenue."

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!