In 1978 David Poling Sr., founder and CEO of the Poling Group, a mechanical engineer, started Akron Special Machinery after 20 year of being President of Akron Steel Fabricators. Over the years, he has acquired several complimentary companies in the tire testing industry, leading to the creation of the Poling Group in 2003. The Poling Group’s focus on continual improvement and innovation of its machinery and software for the tire industry has grown into a world class supplier to the tire industry, and recent promotions within the companies set the course for continued success and stability.

David Poling, Sr., founder and CEO of the Poling Group, while not retiring, has decided to take on more of an advisory role within the Poling Group of companies. This decision demonstrates his trust and respect in the Poling Group management team moving forward.

Taking the baton ahead
David L Poling, Jr., CFO of the Poling Group since 2003 is stepping into the role of Chief Operating Officer and will take over the day-to-day operations and decision making for the Poling Group. David joined ASM in 1978 and has learned the tire industry from the ground up. His extensive experience includes all facets of shop floor machining, project management, production scheduling, and quality control. 

Brian Mitchell, former VP of sales for Akron Special Machinery (ASM) is promoted to President of ASM. Brian joined ASM in 1979, Brian has extensive knowledge of tire machinery and testing equipment spanning both customer and manufacturing points of view. He is uniquely qualified to ensure that Poling Group customers receive custom tire testing machinery that meets and exceeds their most stringent processing requirements.

Leon Poole, former VP of Akron Steel Fabricators (ASF), is promoted to President of ASF. Leon began his career with ASF in 1987. Formerly he held the position of manager of system controls and design engineering and operating manager for the plant. Leon’s experience ensures he will lead ASF successfully into the future. 

Leading through innovation
These promotions, along with the continued leadership of Troy Anenson, president of CTI and Alexander Hasbach, president of ASM-Hasbach cements the Poling Group as one of the leading innovators in the global tire industry. 

The Poling Group has built a reputation as a leader in the tire industry by supplying equipment from the mill room to final finish areas including, data acquisition and analytics, rubber processing equipment, and factory floor information systems. This showcases the Poling Group’s determination in development and use of superior technology to help its customers increase machine throughput and optimize product quality.

THE TIRE COLOGNE (TTC) 2026 is adopting a new WALK OF SERVICES format that will focus not just on products but on solutions for the economic and organisational sustainability of the tyre industry. The event is scheduled to be held from 9 to 11 June 2026.

The WALK OF SERVICES addresses the dynamic change currently experienced by the tyre industry. Today, having the proper workshop equipment, specialised software architecture, good technical experience and long-term staff engagement and retention tactics are essential for surviving in a market that is becoming more and more complicated. By strategically connecting the pertinent partners, information and solutions in branded areas across the trade show, THE TIRE COLOGNE will provide visitors additional value through the WALK OF SERVICES.

Clear visitor instructions, exhibitor booths with a theme, live demonstrations and a diverse programme on the Service Stage all contribute to the WALK OF SERVICES' content-driven narrative. Employees, system and process solutions, workshop technology and tyre service, vehicle services and disposal and sustainability are the five topics covered by the WALK OF SERVICES. Additionally, the model gives exhibitors access to new prospects. They gain from more visibility, a tailored strategy for their target audiences and a pertinent content foundation for excellent conversations. This new format's emphasis on services shows a strong commitment to the trade show's continued growth.

Michelin, the world's foremost pioneer in tyre technology, has opened its first Michelin Tyres & Services shop in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, in collaboration with Tyre On Wheels, a top auto tyre dealer. Michelin India's emphasis on solid local connections is reflected in the new shop.

Tyre On Wheels offers a wide selection of Michelin tyres for high-end automobiles together with top-notch tools for tyre fitting, alignment and balancing. This alliance is well-positioned to meet changing consumer expectations given the continuous increase in private car ownership and the need for dependable after-sales servicing in Lucknow. Additionally, it backs Michelin India's continuous initiatives to grow its network of upscale stores and offer clients professional advice, high-quality goods and an exceptional level of customer service.

Tyre On Wheels has established itself as a reliable presence in Lucknow's automobile servicing industry by leveraging its 65 years of experience and three-generational heritage. In the city, Tyre On Wheels has two locations: one in Ashiyana Chauraha and one in Gomtinagar. The dealership, which is well-known for its knowledgeable advice, affordable prices and trustworthy after-sales support, provides a variety of services, such as alloy wheels, wheel alignment, balancing, nitrogen filling and tyre sales.

Shantanu Deshpande, Managing Director, Michelin India, said, “We are pleased to expand Michelin’s presence to Lucknow, a city that blends cultural heritage with rapid infrastructural growth. Our partnership with Tyre On Wheels reflects a shared commitment to quality, customer care and trust, values deeply embedded in both their legacy and Michelin’s brand ethos. As we continue to grow our footprint across India, this launch reinforces our commitment to bringing innovative tyre solutions and superior service experiences to emerging cities with growing mobility needs.”

Eighty-two percent of drivers in Canada want to take a day or overnight trip this summer, according to a recent Probe Research survey for the Tire and Rubber Association of Canada (TRAC). However, a majority of drivers are opting to remain in Canada rather than travel to the United States, highlights the survey.

The results of the study, which measures interest in road trips across borders and within provinces, show that only eight percent of Canadians currently have plans to cross the border, and 88 percent of them would prefer to travel inside Canada rather than travel to the United States. This year, 51 percent of drivers cancelled their scheduled road excursions to the United States. In Canada, 28 percent of respondents will drive to another region of the nation, while 69 percent want to travel by car inside their province.

The poll also brought to light the discrepancy between drivers' behaviour and their understanding of the significance of tyre care. Given the present financial strains, the majority of Canadian drivers (89 percent) concur that appropriate tyre inflation and maintenance are more advantageous than ever since they boost tyre longevity and improve fuel efficiency.

Carol Hochu, CEO, TRAC, said, “Our findings reveal that Canadian drivers need more education about how to do tyre maintenance right. This is especially true among younger drivers, who may be taking a road trip for the first time this summer. Proper tyre inflation and maintenance aren’t just safety measures – they’re economic ones. Improper tyre inflation – both underinflation and overinflation – increases fuel consumption, shortens tyre lifespan, and even increases the risk of tyre failure on poorly maintained tyres during long road trips. So, while Canadians are staying on Canadian roads this summer, they should check their tyres before embarking on a road trip adventure. It’s simple, easy, and helps keep drivers safe.”

Pirelli has announced the development of specific P Zero tyres for the new hybrid Porsche 911 GTS. This marks the latest collaboration between the tyre manufacturer and the German automaker, extending the availability of P Zero tyres across the entire 911 range.

The tyre maker states that it has engineered a unique version of the P Zero R as the primary fitment for the sports car. This tyre aims to balance performance with daily usability. A new compound provides grip across varied surfaces and weather, with an emphasis on wet conditions. The tread pattern reduces noise and low rolling resistance supports efficiency.

A dedicated P Zero Winter 2 tyre was also created for Porsche 911 owners seeking winter performance. This tyre features a directional tread pattern to improve wet and snow grip, while enhancing braking and handling on dry surfaces.

The tyre development process utilised Pirelli’s Virtual Development Center (VDC) in Breuberg, Germany. This facility employs virtual design and testing, leading to increased precision, a 30 percent reduction in development time and a 30 percent decrease in physical prototypes. The VDC facilitated the optimisation of tyre characteristics for the Porsche 911.

This joint effort represents the latest in a long-standing partnership between Pirelli and Porsche. Pirelli has achieved 338 homologations for all Porsche models, including SUVs, sedans and sports cars with internal combustion, hybrid and electric powertrains. Previous collaborations include the P Zero Trofeo RS for the 911 GT3 RS and the Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus for the 911 Dakar. The P Zero R will be the main tyre for the Porsche 911 GTS.