Goodyear: Avon will remain in our portfolio both for passenger and motorcycle tyres

Following reports that Avon is set to become a two-wheel/motorcycle-only tyre brand in Germany in the future, Goodyear representatives have sought to clarify that the Avon brand will remain in the company’s product portfolio both for passenger and motorcycle tyres.

Jaap Van Wessum, general sales manager UK&I and Cooper EU commented: “We are continually working on enhancing our brand portfolio so that we get the most out of our brands. This includes clarifying the role of each brand and adapting their offer accordingly. We do not plan to exit any brands at this time. Both Cooper and Avon brand’s equity and value is part of the reason behind the strategic acquisition we made. The Cooper family of brands are complementary to our multi-brand portfolio and are meaningfully differentiated. The Avon brand will remain in our portfolio both for passenger and motorcycle tyres.”

Tyres & Accessories understands that Avon branded car and two-wheel tyres will continue to be manufactured at the company’s Krusevac, Serbia and Montlucon, France plants respectively. And that means that they will be available for distribution and sale across Goodyear’s Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) markets moving forward. When it comes to more specific details relating to individual markets, these brand positioning discussions – company officials told T&A – are part of the ongoing integration process and decisions will be made in partnership with the various local distribution partners. Therefore, the approach of one market may be different to another.