Dunlop Tyres is poised for significant global expansion following Sumitomo Rubber Industries, Ltd. (SRI)’s acquisition of the Dunlop trademark and other rights for four-wheel tyres in Europe, North America, and Oceania from The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company.
On 8 January 2025, SRI signed a purchase agreement worth $526 million (approximately R10 billion). This move empowers SRI to operate its tyre business globally under the Dunlop brand, solidifying its presence in virtually every part of the world.
SRI, the parent company of Sumitomo Rubber South Africa (PTY) Ltd (SRSA), trades locally as Dunlop Tyres South Africa.
Lubin Ozoux, CEO of Dunlop Tyres SA, shared his enthusiasm for the acquisition, stating: “We are extremely excited about these developments at the parent group level of SRSA, as they demonstrate continued confidence in the Dunlop brand across all regions. Through this acquisition, SRI reaffirms its commitment to delivering world-class tyres that uphold Dunlop’s legacy of performance, reliability, and cutting-edge technology. Just over a year ago, SRI reinforced their support for our South African operations with a multi-billion investment in our uMnambithi (Ladysmith) plant. This investment focuses on producing premium quality tyres for the South African market while expanding the manufacturing capabilities of our premium Sport, SUV, and 4×4 ranges for both African and international markets.”
Dunlop has been a trusted and iconic name in the tyre industry for 137 years, dating back to John Boyd Dunlop’s revolutionary invention of the pneumatic tyre in 1888. Today, the brand benefits from SRI’s advanced Japanese engineering technology, cementing its position as a leader in the premium tyre market.
