TWS set out its stall under new ownership

Hiratsuka, Japan – Trelleborg Wheel Systems is now officially part of Yokohama Rubber Co. (YRC), the Japanese tire & rubber products maker announced 2 May.

YRC took over ownership of the business, now called Yokohama TWS, with the delayed completion of its €2.2-billion acquisition from Trelleborg.

The acquired business will operate as a "new company" within YRC, with "no change to its organisational structure", said a statement headed with a Yokohama TWS logo.

Paolo Pompei, former president of the former Trelleborg Wheel Systems will serve as president and CEO of Yokohama TWS.

The acquisition, continued the statement, will enable YRC to consolidate its position among global tire producers, particularly in the off-road segment.

The acquisition, it noted, brings a portfolio of brands including Trelleborg, Mitas, Maximo, Cultor brands and its Interfit service network to YRC.

“Over the last few years, we have delivered continuous business growth combining strategic acquisitions with dedicated investments,” said Pompei.

The merger, the Yokohama TWS leader went on to claim, will build “a new leading player in the off-highway segment.”