The global heavy-duty tyre market is undergoing robust growth, spurred by rising demand across construction, mining, agriculture and logistics. As heavy machinery usage intensifies, the need for tyres that offer durability, efficiency and safety is at an all-time high reveals a report by Towards Automotive Consultants.

In fact, the report states that the heavy-duty tyre market will grow from the current USD 29.21 billion in CY2025 to USD 39.37 billion by 2034.

This has prompted manufacturers to invest in advanced tread patterns, high-performance rubber compounds and smart tyre technologies that monitor pressure, temperature and wear in real-time.

Sustainability is another key trend. Industry leaders are increasingly using recycled and bio-based materials, while retreading – giving tyres a second life – is gaining traction as an eco-friendly, cost-effective solution. These innovations are helping fleet operators cut costs and reduce downtime in tough environments.

On the other hand, there are challenges too. The industry faces hurdles such as volatile raw material prices, stringent environmental regulations and operational setbacks from tyre failures. This is a challenge for tyre manufacturers to balance performance with affordability and compliance.

Emerging markets, especially in Asia-Pacific, are driving the next wave of expansion. Countries like China, India and Japan are seeing a surge in construction and industrial activity, reinforcing their dominance in both production and consumption of heavy-duty tyres. Meanwhile, North America is poised for rapid growth, thanks to infrastructure spending, booming e-commerce and advances in tyre tech focused on longevity and fuel efficiency.

Furthermore, construction machinery continues to lead demand, while mining equipment is expected to post significant gains. On the end-user front, OEMs remain dominant, but aftermarket sales are rising as operators prioritise tyre upgrades and retreading for aging fleets.

Infographic courtesy: Towards Automotive Consultants

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Monolith has elevated Russ Webb to the role of Chief Executive Officer, signalling a major shift for the Nebraska-based advanced manufacturer. The company, which produces carbon black and hydrogen using its own hydrocarbon pyrolysis technology, is headquartered in Lincoln. This leadership change reflects Monolith’s transition from a focus on technology development to pursuing large-scale manufacturing and geographic expansion, with Webb expected to drive continued progress on the company’s growth plans within the state.

A veteran of the refining, petrochemicals, speciality chemicals, polymers and carbon black sectors, Webb brings more than 35 years of industry experience to the top job. He joined Monolith as Chief Operating Officer, where he managed manufacturing, environmental health and safety, capital projects and supply chain strategy while working alongside commercial and technical teams. His background includes running operations and engineering at multiple global facilities, overseeing greenfield and expansion efforts totalling over USD 750 million and leading major investments in emissions controls, technology upgrades and energy infrastructure across two decades in the carbon black field.

Rob Hanson, Monolith’s Co-Founder, who shepherded the company from an initial concept to a functioning commercial producer of American-made carbon black, will stay on as a senior advisor to ensure a seamless handover. The company remains firmly focused on its Nebraska expansion, with ongoing momentum aimed at securing long-term investment, creating jobs and bolstering domestic output of essential industrial materials.

Hanson said, “Monolith was founded to rethink how carbon black and hydrogen are produced, and I’m incredibly proud of what this team has built. As we enter our next phase, which is focused on execution, reliability and growth, Russ is the right leader for the moment. His depth of operational experience and proven ability to lead complex manufacturing expansions position Monolith well for what comes next.”

Webb said, “I’m honoured to step into the CEO role as Monolith advances towards large-scale manufacturing and expansion in Nebraska. We have a strong foundation, meaningful momentum and a clear mission to produce carbon black and hydrogen at scale. My focus is on safe, reliable execution, strengthening our operations and supporting the company’s long-term growth.”

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BKT, which operates under the BKT Tyres brand, has launched a social media-led campaign aimed at strengthening consumer recall as it expands into India’s on-highway tyre market.

The company said the campaign, titled “Sound of BKT”, forms part of its “Elevate Your Drive” brand platform and coincides with India’s men’s T20 cricket season.

The initiative centres on a brand anthem featuring 25 cricketers from eight T20 franchises, including Kolkata Knight Riders, Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Mumbai Indians. The campaign is designed to encourage participation from fans and digital creators through user-generated content and social media engagement.

BKT said the campaign also uses sonic branding to improve brand recognition during the cricket season, which remains one of India’s most competitive advertising periods. The company has introduced a simplified “BKT Hook Step”, intended as a participative gesture that can be replicated by supporters online.

Mahesh Koppad, Chief Marketing Officer at BKT Tyres, said the company was seeking to move beyond conventional sports sponsorship as it broadened its presence in the consumer mobility market.

“Our multi-season association with Indian T20 League has successfully established robust brand visibility. However, as BKT transitions into a comprehensive mobility provider in the consumer on-highway tyre market, our marketing must evolve from passive sponsorship to active emotional resonance,” Koppad said.

He added that cricket’s cultural significance in India provided an opportunity for the company to build stronger engagement with younger consumers as it expanded its product portfolio.

The campaign will be released in phases across digital platforms, including influencer collaborations, team-specific content and participative contests during the cricket season.

Founded in 1987, BKT manufactures off-highway tyres for sectors including agriculture, construction, mining and material handling. The company recently announced its entry into India’s two-wheeler, passenger car and commercial vehicle tyre segments.

Link to the campaign:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/DYPZLGmoDfh/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JyXOfsJ2zJo

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Anne Forristall Luke, President and Chief Executive Officer of the U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association (USTMA), will step down from her role at the end of 2026 following an 11‑year tenure. She originally joined the organisation in 2016 when it was still known as the Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA). Her leadership is credited with driving substantial growth, strategic change and a measurable rise in the domestic tyre manufacturing industry’s influence.

Under her direction, the association underwent a full transformation in operations and stakeholder engagement. She led the rebrand from the Rubber Manufacturers Association to the U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association to sharpen the industry’s identity. Forristall Luke also developed a global strategy for navigating complex tyre material issues, expanded membership and revenue, built a high‑performing team culture and forged trusted ties with regulators, researchers, non‑governmental organisations and policymakers at federal, state and tribal levels. The industry’s legislative, regulatory, media and public affairs profile rose markedly during her tenure.

The USTMA board of directors has launched a process to find the next leader, including a search committee operating under board oversight. The search will begin in spring and continue through summer, with a target of selecting a new CEO by October 2026. Heidrick & Struggles, a retained executive search firm, is conducting the search on the board’s behalf.

Forristall Luke will remain in place through the end of the year to work closely with her successor, ensuring a smooth transition. Her final day with the association is 31 December 2026.

Forristall Luke said, “Leading USTMA for the last 11 years has been a tremendous privilege, and I look back with enormous pride on what this Association has accomplished. Together, we raised the profile of an industry that impacts the daily lives of every American and is indispensable to our nation’s safety and long-term economic prosperity. We strengthened relationships that give the tyre industry a credible and trusted voice, and we confronted difficult challenges with transparency and a long-term view. That work belongs to USTMA’s members, Board, extraordinary staff and invaluable partners who brought their expertise and commitment to this mission. I am profoundly grateful to each of them and confident that the foundation we’ve built together will support USTMA’s progress for many years to come.”

Jeff Barna, President and CEO of Yokohama Corporation North America and Chair of the USTMA Board of Directors, said, “Anne’s leadership has been exceptional. At a time of increasing regulatory complexity and public scrutiny, she brought a clear strategic vision and a steady unifying approach, strengthening USTMA’s leadership on critical policy issues and aligning our industry around a common purpose. She leaves the Association well-positioned for continued impact, and the Board is deeply grateful for her lasting contributions to USTMA and the tire industry.”

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CAMSO Construction has appointed Krzysztof Polesiak as Lead Sales for Europe. Polesiak brings 26 years of industry experience, having worked previously with Solideal, CAMSO and Michelin. His background combines technical knowledge, commercial insight and a deep understanding of regional markets. The company believes his expertise and broad perspective will be instrumental in reinforcing its footprint and partnerships across Europe. CAMSO Construction looks forward to the positive impact Polesiak will make in his new role. His return to the organisation marks a strategic move to strengthen the company’s sales leadership and regional presence.

The company statement read: “With 26 years of experience across Solideal, CAMSO and Michelin, he brings a strong mix of technical expertise, commercial understanding and in-depth regional knowledge to the team. His experience and perspective will play an important role in strengthening our presence and partnerships across the region. We’re excited to have him on board and look forward to the impact he will make. Welcome to CAMSO Construction, Krzysztof!”

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