Goodyear buying German wholesaler Reifen Burkhardt

Goodyear is expanding its wholesale presence in southwest Germany with the acquisition of local player Reifen Burkhardt GmbH & Co. KG. The purchase of this family-owned tyre wholesaler brings into the Goodyear fold an operation with space to store 250,000 tyres and wheels in a 40,000 square metre warehouse facility. The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals and is expected to close in the third quarter of this year.

According to Goodyear, buying Reifen Burkhardt is a logical next step for its sustainable growth within the region as well as across Germany. The tyre maker expresses a commitment to further expanding its service to customers and end consumers: “The acquisition of Reifen Burkhardt in southwest Germany will make it easier for them to buy and recommend Goodyear tyres. In addition, a professional market cultivation will help us to cope with increasing complexity due to a growing tyre portfolio and diversity of tyre technologies,” explains Dr André Weisz, managing director of Goodyear’s DACH business.

Uwe Burkhardt, owner of the tyre wholesaler, adds: “We want to secure the long-term future of Reifen Burkhardt. Together with Goodyear we will improve our presence in the market. In doing so, we will maintain the philosophy and character of Reifen Burkhardt. Our service level will continue to improve. Philipp Burkhardt, the third generation of our family business, will further expand his area of responsibility. The Reifen Burkhardt name will be retained, as well as the services and support that Reifen Burkhardt is known for.”