When Did BFGoodrich Exit the Automotive Tire Business?
BFGoodrich, specifically its automotive tire division, exited the business in 1988.
BFGoodrich's Strategic Shift from Tires
While the BFGoodrich name is intrinsically linked with tires, the Goodrich Corporation itself did not "go out of business." Instead, it made a significant strategic move in 1988 to divest its automotive tire manufacturing division. This decision marked a pivotal moment in the company's long history.
The key aspects of this transition include:
- Sale of Division: The Goodrich Corporation sold its entire automotive tire division to Michelin, the renowned French tire manufacturer. This transaction transferred the BFGoodrich tire brand and its associated operations to Michelin's portfolio.
- Focus on Other Sectors: Following the sale, the Goodrich Corporation pivoted its business strategy to concentrate on other burgeoning sectors, primarily aerospace and specialty chemicals. This move allowed the company to allocate resources and expertise to areas with high growth potential and strategic importance.
- Brand Continuity: Although the original Goodrich Corporation ceased to manufacture tires, the BFGoodrich tire brand continues to thrive today under Michelin's ownership, producing a wide range of tires for various vehicles.
This table summarizes the key event:
Year | Event | Impact on BFGoodrich (Tires) |
---|---|---|
1988 | Goodrich Corporation sells its automotive tire division to Michelin | Exited tire manufacturing and sales |
The Goodrich Corporation, which later became a part of Collins Aerospace, continued to evolve and operate in its new core businesses, demonstrating a strategic transformation rather than a complete closure of the company. More details about the Goodrich Corporation's history and its transformation can be found on its Wikipedia page.