Bridgestone Europe NV/SA, a key subsidiary of Japanese multinational tyre and rubber company Bridgestone Corporation, has announced its plans to purchase France’s largest independent tyre specialist, Groupe Ayme.
A successful acquisition will allow Bridgestone to support the development of the Groupe Ayme business, and further strengthen Bridgestone’s footprint in France while still maintaining the Groupe Ayme identity.
In line with this, Bridgestone Europe has entered into an exclusivity agreement with the shareholders of Groupe Ayme.
This proposed acquisition will support Bridgestone’s retail vision to become the most trusted provider of tyre and automotive services in every business segment it serves. It will also allow Bridgestone to get closer to the market and gain a better understanding of end-users which is essential to continue building a leading position in the market.
This acquisition will add 104 points of sale in France under the “Côté Route” brand. As a result, the Bridgestone retail network, consisting of First Stop, Speedy and Côté Route, will have more than 900 points of sale.
The finalisation of the transaction is subject to information and consultations with the social partners as well as competition authority clearance.