In a significant move to revive its iconic legacy in India, Dunlop Tyres is accelerating expansion plans with a sharp focus on in-house manufacturing capacity for commercial vehicle tyres and strategic collaborations in the consumer segment.

Executive Director Sakchi Ruia outlines an ambitious roadmap that leverages the brand’s pioneering heritage, embraces electrification and targets value-driven growth across key segments amid a rapidly evolving Indian tyre market.

In the competitive landscape of the Indian tyre industry, few names carry the historical weight of Dunlop. As the pioneer of the pneumatic tyre globally and a foundational player in India since 1896, the brand is poised for a significant revival.

In an exclusive interaction with Tyre Trends, Sakchi Ruia, Executive Director of Dunlop Tyres, shared her vision for breathing new life into the iconic marque, focusing on capacity expansion, segment-specific growth and adaptation to emerging technologies such as electrification.

Ruia, an MBA from Columbia Business School who brings experience from McKinsey & Company, has been instrumental in steering Dunlop’s operations since joining in 2023. Her leadership emphasises leveraging the brand’s storied heritage while addressing modern market dynamics.

“Dunlop as we all know is the first tyre brand in the world, first pneumatic tyre brand and it has been very monumental in India as well. We have very big plans for the brand and are looking to really revive the brand here. We are exploring both greenfield and brownfield opportunities,” she reveals.

The company has already made inroads in the truck and bus radial (TBR) segment, with broader ambitions spanning multiple vehicle categories. This strategic revival comes at a time when India’s automotive sector is experiencing robust growth across consumer and commercial segments, driven by rising vehicle ownership and evolving consumer preferences.

NAVIGATING A COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

India’s tyre market is one of the most fiercely contested globally, with legacy domestic players, international entrants and new challengers vying for share.

When asked about competition, Ruia embraces it as a catalyst for progress. “I think competition is good, right? I think it takes the industry forward with the competition,” she notes.

“I think we see a lot of stakeholder development, ecosystem development. Like we see a lot of machine makers are now coming to India to manufacture. And that’s because of the whole pool of all the players combined,” she explains.

Dunlop, she emphasises, on the other hand, is no newcomer. “Dunlop is not a new player in the industry. It’s a legacy player, it’s seen the wave, it’s been there.” She highlights the ample room for growth in a market where demand has not yet outstripped supply.

“I think there’s a lot of space for a lot of players right now. It’s not a space where demand is far exceeding supply still. So I think there’s a lot of space for people to really make their mark,” she avers.

Ruia pointed to supportive policies favouring locally manufactured tyres as an opportunity for Indian players, including Dunlop, to flourish. The ecosystem, she believes, benefits the entire industry and enables established brands with heritage to differentiate themselves through quality and reliability.

ADDRESSING COST-CONSCIOUSNESS AND VALUE IN COMMERCIAL TYRES

On the other hand, coming to the commercial vehicle segment, which continues to remain highly cost-sensitive, Ruia argues that true value lies beyond upfront pricing.

Discussing the competitive nature of business and the acquisition cost for commercial vehicle customers, she observes, “I think what feeds drivers value in the commercial segment is cost per kilometre. So that really gives advantage to the value players. It’s about providing value-for-money; whoever’s manufacturing quality tyres really gets value.”

She notes that Indian customers in this segment are discerning. “India is a very quality-conscious market in that regard. Because they look at cost per kilometre, not just cost per tyre. They want tyres which run longer kilometres, give better mileage. I think there’s a lot of scope and space and the market itself filters out the players,” says Ruia.

On the concept of tyre-as-a-service or cost-per-kilometre models gaining traction among competitors, Ruia expresses keen interest.

“Cost per kilometre for sure, we work heavily in the commercial segment with the TBR. We really do see that the end-consumers are very supportive for this metric. And they really value the lifelong value of the tyre that they get, not just upfront cost. Tyre-as-a-service is very interesting; we haven’t explored it yet. But that’s something which I was also very interested to hear about today,” she says.

CAPACITY EXPANSION AND SEGMENT PRIORITIES

A cornerstone of Dunlop’s future strategy is establishing in-house manufacturing capacity, particularly for the commercial segment. Ruia confirms that plans are advancing, though details remain under wraps for now.

“I think once the announcement is there, everyone will know about it. It’s initial stages right now. We’re in discussions about really formalising and crystallising the plans,” she explains.

Furthermore, the company is already evaluating both greenfield and brownfield options, with timelines tied to ongoing discussions. In the interim, Dunlop maintains presence in two- and three-wheeler tyres through partners (Ludhiana-based Ralson India), a segment close to the brand’s heritage where it once held significant market share. “Two- and three-wheeler remains very close to Dunlop’s heart. We’ve always done well in this segment,” Ruia affirms.

Passenger car radial tyres (PCR) are on the longer-term horizon. “PCR tyres again is something which is in the pipeline, not in the foreseeable future. But eventually, yes, we’d want to get into that segment as well. It is growing. So, you know, let’s see how the plans evolve. Right now, our focus is the commercial segment,” the Dunlop executive says.

Ruia explains that collaboration opportunities in the consumer segment will complement in-house commercial production.

Outlining her top three priorities for the next 3–5 years, Ruia says, “I think the top thing that we’re looking for is to definitely have in-house capacity for commercial vehicle tyres. That’s one thing which is top of mind for us. We are also looking to explore good collaboration opportunities in the consumer segment. Because we’re going to be doing in-house manufacturing for the commercial segment. That’s going to be number two. And number three, I think we really, really want to focus on the new-age solutions.”

EMBRACING ELECTRIFICATION AND NEW-AGE TECHNOLOGIES

Electrification represents both a challenge and a major opportunity for the global automotive and allied industry. With trucks and buses increasingly shifting to electric powertrains, tyre requirements are evolving rapidly.

“I think, electrification is a very interesting and exciting opportunity for everyone across the board, consumer and commercial,” Ruia says.

“There are some unique requirements for tyres, such as lower rolling resistance, ability to handle higher instantaneous torque, reinformed sidewalls and lower noise due to the silent nature of EVs. Electric vehicles are going to be much heavier, less noisy and have high torque requirements. So tyres will also need to take shape accordingly,” Ruia says.

Key adaptations will include better sidewalls, enhanced load resistance and reduced noise levels. “I think the industry as a whole will develop tyres to meet those requirements. I don’t think it’s going to be an option for anyone (to not develop EV tyres). But we’ll all evolve to meet those requirements,” she says.

Ruia stressed that the tyre industry will align with government focus on EVs. “I think the government is also focusing a lot on EVs. And I think the tyre industry will flow with that demand,” she adds.

She mentions that new-age product development, particularly for EVs, forms a critical part of Dunlop’s forward-looking strategy.

As Dunlop moves to formalise its expansion plans, the focus remains on quality, heritage and innovation. Ruia’s pragmatic yet optimistic outlook underscores a brand ready to reclaim its position by combining legacy strengths with forward-thinking investments in capacity, partnerships and technology.

For the tyre industry, Dunlop’s revival signals not just renewed competition but also fresh momentum in expanding choices for consumers in India. With in-house manufacturing on the horizon and a clear emphasis on value-driven performance and electrification, the company is positioning itself for sustainable, long-term growth in one of the world’s most dynamic markets.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Tana Oy has announced the appointment of Allan Bartholin Jacobsen as its new Territory Business Manager, effective 1 September 2026. He will be responsible for advancing the company’s international sales efforts, specifically concentrating on enhancing partnerships with dealers, identifying new avenues for growth and providing dedicated support to customers within designated regions.

Bringing over three decades of expertise in international sales and business development, Jacobsen joins the Finnish company from Eggersmann GmbH, where he managed sales strategies for recycling equipment across Europe and international markets. His previous roles involved cultivating dealer networks, expanding into new territories and driving sales performance in regions spanning Scandinavia, UK, Ireland, Switzerland, Italy, Southeast Asia, Australia and New Zealand.

This strategic hire underscores Tana’s ongoing commitment to bolstering its commercial operations and global outreach. The company continues to rely on its international dealer network to ensure localised service, deep market understanding and sustained operational benefits for waste management and recycling clients worldwide.

Gerd Schreier, VP – Sales, Marketing & Channel Development, Tana Oy, said, “Allan’s extensive industry knowledge, international experience, and proven ability to develop strong dealer partnerships make him a valuable addition to Tana. His experience in building markets and supporting distributors fits well with our ambition to grow closer to customers and create long-term value through our global dealer network.”

Jacobsen said, “I am excited to join Tana and become part of a company with a strong reputation for robust, intelligent waste management solutions. I look forward to working with Tana’s customers and dealers to support their business and help turn waste into value.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Dunlop Tires North America (DTNA) has named Matt Futrelle as its new Associate Vice President for the Truck and Bus Radial (TBR) division, effective 1 August 2026. The executive will assume leadership over the company’s TBR operations, directing strategic planning and growth initiatives while reinforcing the organisation’s dedication to high-quality products and service across the North American market.

Futrelle joins the role with over two decades of experience within the automotive aftermarket sector, recognised for his capabilities in leadership, operational efficiency and commercial expansion. His professional history includes building effective teams, cultivating strong client partnerships and implementing strategic frameworks that produce consistent, long-term performance outcomes for the businesses he has served.

Darren Thomas, CEO and President, DTNA, said, “Matt's leadership experience, industry expertise and commitment to excellence make him an outstanding addition to our leadership team. We are confident that his vision and customer-focused approach will help accelerate our growth in the TBR business and strengthen our position in the marketplace.”

Futrelle said, "I couldn't be more excited to join the Dunlop Tires North America team. We see significant opportunities to increase our participation in the North American Commercial Truck Tyre market bringing even more value to our commercial tire dealer and fleet partners. I am also happy to be a part of expanding the iconic Dunlop brand across North America. The brand holds a special place for me because I have such great memories growing up racing on Dunlop motocross tyres."

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Myers Industries has agreed to sell its Myers Tire Supply North America business to Lion Equity Partners for USD 30 million, as the US manufacturer sharpens its focus on engineered materials and core industrial markets.

The transaction, which has been completed, is subject to customary post-closing adjustments for cash, debt, net working capital and transaction expenses. The definitive agreement will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

The divestment marks a step in Myers’ strategy to reposition itself as a manufacturer of engineered resin and composite products serving infrastructure, industrial, consumer, food and beverage, and vehicle markets.

Aaron Schapper, President and Chief Executive of Myers Industries, said: “The completion of this transaction is a defining step in our ongoing transformation. By sharpening our focus on our core specialty engineered products, we are better positioned to drive long-term growth and create value for our shareholders.

“We also want to recognise the important role Myers Tire Supply has played throughout our history,” he added. “We are grateful for the dedication of the MTS team and the trusted relationships they have built with customers and the rest of the Myers team over many decades. We believe the business is well positioned for its next phase of growth under Lion Equity Partners’ ownership.”

Jim Levitas, Managing Partner at Lion Equity, said: “Myers Tire Supply has built a highly trusted brand through decades of exceptional service and commitment to its customers. We are excited to partner with the team to carry this legacy forward and support the company in its next chapter of growth.”

KeyBanc acted as exclusive financial adviser to Myers, while Vorys, Sater, Seymour and Pease served as legal adviser.

Founded in 1933, Myers Tire Supply distributes tools, equipment and supplies for the tyre, wheel and under-vehicle service industry across North America. The business employs 233 people, including 77 at its headquarters in Akron, Ohio, with the remainder working in sales roles and at four distribution centres.

Lion Equity Partners, based in Denver, focuses on corporate divestitures and special situations, aiming to create value through operational improvements, organic growth and acquisitions.

Myers Industries, headquartered in Akron, Ohio, manufactures plastic and metal products for a range of end markets, including consumer, vehicle, food and beverage, industrial and infrastructure.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

PCBL Chemical Limited has appointed Rohit Maindwal as Chief & Executive Director – Specialty Blacks and designated him as a senior management personnel, effective 20 August, 2026.

Maindwal brings around 32 years of industry experience. He holds a BTech in chemical engineering from the National Institute of Technology, Warangal. His previous roles include positions at Reliance Industries Limited and JBF RAK LLC, where he most recently served as Senior Executive Vice-President at Reliance Industries Limited.

The company said the appointment is in a full-time capacity, with the term not separately specified.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!