In an interview with Dr Jörn Seevers, CEO of KE FISCHER, the world leader in cord cutting technology, we delve into the company’s strategic growth and its vision for the future. The discussion explores the significance of the recent acquisition of KONŠTRUKTA-TireTech (K-TT) and its impact on KE FISCHER’s position in the market. We also gain insights into the crucial role of cord cutting lines in tyre production, the challenges they address and the opportunities it presents. Seevers sheds light on how KE FISCHER navigates the evolving regulatory environment and outlines the company’s vision for the future of cord cutting lines, emphasising innovation, quality, and environmental sustainability.

How has the business developed after the acquisition of KONŠTRUKTA-TireTech?

The acquisition of KONŠTRUKTA-TireTech, s.r.o. (K-TT) in Slovakia by KE FISCHER marks a significant step towards strategic growth and expansion in the tyre manufacturing industry. KE FISCHER has outlined ambitious plans for leveraging the acquisition to explore organic and inorganic growth opportunities. The collaboration aims to enhance the engineering and production capabilities. Additionally, KE FISCHER is focusing on expanding its service business model, which includes remote maintenance services for global customers.

The acquisition is expected to result in an even broader product range and customer base, combining KE FISCHER’s existing expertise in cutting and splicing technology with K-TT’s high-performance extrusion machinery. We expect this strategic move will foster accelerated growth, enhance customer relations and consolidate its presence in both segments of the tyre manufacturing industry.

In a strategic move to bolster its position within the tyre manufacturing sector, KE FISCHER is expanding its machinery portfolio and developing innovative equipment through a collaborative partnership with K-TT. This synergy will unlock new opportunities for both companies, fostering technological advancements, service offerings and overall industry growth.

Can you elaborate on the importance of cord cutting lines in producing various types of tyres?

Cord cutting lines play a critical role in producing various types of tyres, impacting quality and performance characteristics. The lines are so-called bottle-neck machinery and are essential for keeping the production of the whole tyre plant running.

Cord cutting lines are designed to cut the fabric or steel cord materials that reinforce tyres with high precision. This precision is essential for the tyre’s structural integrity and quality. Accurate cuts lead to efficient material usage, reducing waste and improving the overall cost-effectiveness of the production process.

How rubberised cord material is cut and laid out in the tyre can significantly affect its performance characteristics, including strength, flexibility and wear resistance. For example, the angle at which the rubberised cord material is cut and positioned can influence the tyre’s handling, stability and traction. Precise cord cutting technology optimises these angles, enhancing the tyre’s performance for its intended use, whether for passenger vehicles, trucks, bicycles, agricultural vehicles or performance racing vehicles.

Modern cord cutting lines are often integrated with quality control technologies, such as cameras and sensors, to detect material flaws or errors in the cutting process. This integration helps ensure that only materials that meet strict quality standards are used in tyre production, leading to tyres of superior quality.

Different types of tyres, such as radial versus bias tyres, require different cord arrangements and materials. Radial tyres, for instance, have cords that run perpendicular to the direction of travel, offering improved handling and wear characteristics. Bias tyres have cords that run at an angle to the direction of travel, providing a comfortable ride at lower speeds. Cord cutting lines must be versatile enough to handle different materials such as fabric, steel and others, and cutting specifications to produce a wide range of tyre types.

Automated cord cutting lines in tyre manufacturing enhance production efficiency and consistency and increase machine availability. Automation allows for the rapid processing of materials with minimal human intervention, reducing the likelihood of errors and increasing production speed. This efficiency is critical in meeting the high demand for tyres across various sectors, including automotive, aviation and industrial machinery.

Efficient cord cutting lines also contribute to sustainability efforts in tyre manufacturing. Manufacturers can minimise their environmental footprint by optimising material usage and reducing waste. Additionally, precise cutting reduces the need for excess raw materials, contributing to more sustainable production practices.

In summary, cord cutting lines are essential in tyre manufacturing, influencing everything from the efficient use of materials and production costs to the final product’s performance, quality and environmental impact. These lines’ precision, automation and versatility enable manufacturers to produce tyres that meet diverse requirements, ensuring safety, reliability and performance.

Thanks to operating in a niche, KE FISCHER is in constant contact with tyre manufacturers, and thus, it can be aware quickly of any possible challenge.

Each type of tyre requires a specific material, e.g. fragile material for bicycle tyres, or extremely thick material for OTR tyres.

What specific challenges in the tyre production industry led KE FISCHER to specialise in cord cutting lines?

The first cutting line for the tyre industry was built in the 1970s when a German-based tyre manufacturer asked KE FISCHER to investigate this field because of KE FISCHER’s immense experience and excellent know-how in cutting sheet metal products.

After this first line was successfully put into production, the door was now open for this new field of activity. KE FISCHER gained more expertise in producing cord cutting lines for the tyre production industry, which is a response to several specific challenges and needs within the sector. Integrating cord cutting seamlessly into the tyre manufacturing process improves efficiency and reduces production times. Specialised lines can be designed to fit into existing production lines, enhancing workflow and productivity.

The tyre industry constantly evolves with new materials, designs and specifications. Specialising in cord cutting lines allows KE FISCHER to stay at the forefront of technological advancements, offering solutions that meet the latest industry standards and requirements. Tyre manufacturers require customised solutions to meet specific production needs. A company specialising in cord cutting lines can offer more flexible and tailored solutions than a generalist machinery supplier, addressing unique challenges tyre producers face. The industry faces strict safety and environmental regulations. Specialised cord cutting lines can help manufacturers comply with these regulations by ensuring precise cuts that reduce waste and incorporating features that minimise ecological impact.

KE FISCHER’s focus on developing specialised cord cutting lines reflects a strategic response to these challenges, positioning the company as a critical partner for tyre manufacturers seeking to improve their production processes, enhance product quality and achieve greater operational efficiency.

 Where does the company find more opportunities among the applications – from bicycles and cars to off-the-road and aeroplanes?

KE FISCHER specialises in providing cutting lines for the tyre industry, focusing on various applications from two-wheel vehicles, light vehicles and trucks to OTR tyre manufacturers. The company is a world leader in developing and manufacturing steel and textile cord cutting lines used for all kinds of tyres. This indicates that KE FISCHER is actively involved in supplying equipment essential for the production of tyres across a broad spectrum of vehicle types, including bicycles and cars.

The opportunities for KE FISCHER, among its various applications, depend on the demand for tyres in each sector. Given the company’s focus on providing cutting lines for tyre manufacturers, sectors with high growth in tyre demand would present more opportunities. The automotive and OTR sectors are traditionally large consumers of tyres, driven by both consumer demand and industrial applications. The bicycle sector has also grown, especially with the rise in eco-friendly transportation and urban cycling.

How does KE FISCHER navigate and adapt to changes in the tyre production industry’s regulatory environment?

KE FISCHER adapts to changes in the regulatory environment through several key strategies. KE FISCHER focuses on continuous research and development to ensure its machinery meets the latest environmental and safety standards, following EU safety regulations for all lines delivered. This includes investing in new technologies that reduce emissions, increase energy efficiency and incorporate safer, more sustainable materials.

By working closely with tyre manufacturers, KE FISCHER can understand the specific challenges and requirements these companies face due to regulatory changes. This collaboration helps in designing and modifying equipment that aids manufacturers in meeting new standards. The company’s global footprint allows it to gain insights into trends. This international perspective is of great importance for anticipating future shifts and adapting its offerings accordingly.

These strategies enable KE FISCHER not only to navigate but also to thrive amidst the evolving regulatory landscape of the tyre production industry.

What is KE FISCHER’s vision for the future of cord cutting lines, and how does it plan to stay ahead in the market?

KE FISCHER envisions its future in the cord cutting lines market with a strong focus on customer needs, innovation, quality and environmental sustainability. The company aims to maintain its position as a global leader by continuing to develop cutting-edge machinery that meets the evolving needs of the tyre industry. With a rich history of success and a commitment to research and development, KE FISCHER emphasises the importance of adapting to the continuous improvements in tyre material mixes, which requires staying up-to-date on material behaviour and adjusting cutting lines accordingly. This adaptability ensures the highest quality and efficiency of its products.

KE FISCHER’s strategic plan includes a commitment to development and design, aiming to remain the market leader by continuously developing improved and future-oriented solutions for cord cutting lines. The company leverages its extensive experience and track record of over 900 lines installed globally to enhance its technological leadership and quality standards.

KE FISCHER’s cutting lines and K-TT extrusion lines are equipped with the latest innovative technologies from suppliers and include in-house developed Industry 4.0 solutions.

In summary, KE FISCHER’s vision for the future of cord cutting lines revolves around innovation, quality, sustainability and customer-centric solutions. By continuously improving its technology and services, KE FISCHER’s explicit goal is to stay ahead in the market and meet the dynamic needs of the tyre manufacturing industry.

Titan International, a major global manufacturer of wheels and tyres for off-highway equipment, has secured expanded production rights for the Goodyear brand across multiple segments while renewing its existing farm tyre licensing agreement.

The deal extends Titan’s Goodyear brand manufacturing rights to include light construction, industrial, all-terrain vehicle (ATV), lawn and garden and golf tyre categories, significantly broadening the company's market reach.

The Illinois-based firm will continue to produce agricultural tyres under the Goodyear Farm Tyres brand, maintaining its presence in a sector where it manufactures products ranging from small implement tyres to the massive Goodyear Optitrac LSW1400/30R46, which features the company's proprietary Low Sidewall Technology.

"We are excited to expand our rights into new segments, as this positions us to serve our customers better and seize emerging market opportunities. Our research and product development teams are already working on new tyre designs incorporating innovative tyre technologies for the lawn and garden segment," said Paul Reitz, President & CEO of Titan International, Inc. "In addition to our newly acquired rights, we are reaffirming our commitment to the farm tyres segment, a vital part of our business."

Industry analysts note the expansion comes as demand for specialised off-highway tyres remains robust across construction, agriculture and recreational sectors despite broader economic headwinds.

Strategic growth initiative

The licensing expansion aligns with Titan's strategy to offer comprehensive wheel and tyre solutions across forestry, powersports, outdoor power equipment, agricultural, earthmoving, and light construction markets throughout the Americas, Europe, Africa and Oceania.

The company did not disclose the financial terms of the licensing agreement with Goodyear.

Titan International has manufactured Goodyear-branded farm tyres since 2005, when it acquired Goodyear's North American farm tyre business. It has gradually expanded these rights to other regions, including Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Russia, and Australia.

Targets International Expansion With Robust Fy25 Performance

CEAT Ltd, the RPG Group’s flagship tyre company, reported a capital outlay of INR 9–10 billion  for FY2025–26, keeping with its capacity expansion strategy and global integration. This follows a strong FY25 performance of record revenues and double-digit growth across segments despite headwinds in overseas markets.

The business ended FY25 with consolidated revenue of INR 132.18 billion, up 10.6 percent year on year, and Q4 revenue at INR34.21 billion, up 14.3 percent compared to the corresponding quarter previous year. The standalone full-year EBITDA was INR 15 billion, and the Q4 operating margins improved by more than 100 basis points sequentially at 11.5 percent.

"We incurred capex of INR 9.46 billion in FY25 and expect a similar investment of INR 9–1.0 billion in FY26," said Kumar Subbiah, Chief Financial Officer of CEAT. “Our focus will remain on expanding capacities, particularly at the Ambarnath and Chennai facilities, and funding the integration of the recently acquired Camso compact construction business.”

In FY25, CEAT depreciated assets amounting to INR11.40 billion. Much of its FY26 capex will also fund equipment modernisation and normal maintenance at its Sri Lankan operations under Camso, putting a cost estimate of INR1-1.25 billion a year over the next two years.

The Camso acquisition, which is effective from Q2 FY26, is likely to significantly enhance CEAT's global presence. "Integration work has started in full acceleration," said Arnab Banerjee, Managing Director and CEO. “Initial focus will be on customer retention and business continuity, with consolidation expected to double Camso’s current capacity utilisation over the medium term.”

Despite international uncertainties, CEAT renewed its medium-term global growth forecast. Exports are expected to form 25–26 percent of the revenue post-Camso integration. Turbulence still exists in Latin America and North America due to tariff policies and exchange rate weakness. CEAT, however, has reported consistent performance in Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.

CEAT also indicated a likely raw material cost stabilisation in Q1 FY26, potentially softening by Q2, to support its margin growth initiatives. The gross margin was 37.5 percent in Q4 FY25, and the target was above 40 percent in the near term.

Banerjee signaled ongoing activity in electrification, premiumisation, and digitalisation. "With our technology outlays and new product introductions, we are hopeful of sustaining 20–25 percent market share in electric vehicle segments," he asserted.

The debt levels of the company are under control. The gross debt as of 31 March 2025 was INR 19.28 billion with a debt-to-EBITDA ratio of 1.3x and debt-to-equity ratio of 0.44x. Subbiah added that CEAT's strong cash generation will allow it to finance both organic and inorganic growth without materially diluting leverage metrics.

Black Swan Graphene Inc. (Black Swan) has appointed Jobin George as Technical Sales Manager for the Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) region with immediate effect. This significant move, which supports Black Swan's worldwide commercial team as it promotes adoption of its graphene-enhanced products, follows Dan Roadcap’s appointment as Head of Technical Sales and Business Development.

George has an MBA from ICFAI University in India, a Post Graduate Diploma from the Central Institute of Petrochemical Engineering and Technology in India and a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Mahatma Gandhi University, India. He brings with him more than 20 years of global expertise in project management, business development and technical sales. George has had positions at Sands International Plastics and Sojitz Corporation in the United Arab Emirates, as well as Aquapak Polymers and H-Pack Global Ltd.

Simon Marcotte, President and Chief Executive Officer, Black Swan Graphene, said, “The addition of Jobin to our commercial team marks another important milestone in our global expansion strategy. His international experience, particularly in the EMEA region, and his proven ability to translate technical capability into commercial success make him an ideal fit as we continue scaling our graphene business.”

George said, “Black Swan is positioned at the forefront of advanced materials innovation. The opportunity to contribute to the adoption of such a transformative technology across the EMEA region is tremendously exciting. I look forward to engaging with our existing customers and partners, along with exploring opportunities for new clients as well, to showcase the performance and value of Black Swan’s graphene solutions.”

The Tire Recycling Foundation (TRF), a joint initiative led by the U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association (USTMA) and the Tire Industry Association (TIA), has appointed Stephanie Mull as its Executive Director.

Mull will spearhead the organisation's initiatives to promote innovation and invest in the circular tyre economy, expand the market for end-of-life tyres and support studies to fill in the gaps in the sustainability and tyre recycling supply chain in her new role at TRF. Mull brings a wealth of experience in the sustainability field and a broad understanding of fleet management and decarbonisation, including converting fleets to electric and alternative fuel vehicles. In her role as PepsiCo's Sustainability Senior Manager, she oversaw major electrification projects, obtained grant money and spearheaded efforts to lower Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions throughout Pepsi and Frito-Lay's North American fleets. Mull oversaw the local government's efforts to upgrade municipal vehicles to greener technology and volunteered to help the Red Cross electrify its fleet.

Anne Forristall Luke, TRF Board President, said, “Stephanie Mull brings the passion, in-depth expertise and history of excellence that will drive TRF and its partners to achieve critical tyre recycling and reclamation milestones. We are thrilled to have her join the Foundation as we advance tyre sustainability while tackling the challenges and opportunities ahead.”

Mull said, “I’m honoured to join the Tire Recycling Foundation and support its sustainability mission to achieve 100 percent end-of-life tyre circularity. TRF is a vital nexus of expertise and leadership, and I look forward to working with all stakeholders in developing tyre recycling solutions that pave the way for a more sustainable future.” 

The Tire Recycling Foundation is dedicated to achieving 100 percent circularity for end-of-life tires by advancing innovation, building partnerships and supporting scalable recycling and reclamation solutions. Consisting of 15 global industry leaders with expertise in the manufacturing, recycling and transportation industries, TRF’s Board primarily focuses on the acceleration and adoption of emerging end-of-life tyre market technologies like rubber-modified asphalt (RMA).