Bridgestone has announced that its India business will be merged with the Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) areas, transferring from the China Asia-Pacific strategic business unit. This transfer, says the company, will unlock untapped potential in both India and EMEA and will come into place as of January 2020.
As a result, Bridgestone Europe, Russia, Middle East and Africa (BSEMEA) will become Bridgestone Europe, Russia, Middle East, India and Africa (BSEMIA), one of its four globally strategic business units, alongside Bridgestone China, Asia-Pacific; Bridgestone Americas; and Bridgestone Japan.
“India is a market with huge potential – a potential that is definitely being met. Bridgestone India is only 20 years old, in that time we’ve seen growth in the country build and build to make it a cornerstone market; today we’re the largest premium tire producer in the country, employing over 3,200 people,” said Paolo Ferrari, Bridgestone EMEA CEO and president.
Bridgestone also says that the rapid expansion of the Indian automotive and tire market can be better realized when paired with Bridgestone EMEA’s experience and expertise. Likewise, Bridgestone EMEA’s digital transformation can be accelerated by India’s tech skills and IT know-how.
Parag Satpute will continue to lead the India business as its managing director.
