Goodyear Tires to acquire Cooper for $2.8 billion

The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company and Cooper Tire & Rubber Company have entered a definitive transaction agreement under which Goodyear will acquire Cooper in a transaction with a total enterprise value of approximately $2.5 billion. 

The transaction will expand Goodyear's product offering by combining two portfolios of complementary brands. It will also create a stronger U.S.-based manufacturer with increased presence in distribution and retail channels while combining both companies' strengths in the highly profitable light truck and SUV product segments. The combined company will have approximately $17.5 billion in pro forma 2019 sales.

Founded in 1914, Cooper is the 5th-largest tire manufacturer in North America by revenue with approximately 10,000 employees working in 15 countries worldwide. Cooper products are manufactured in 10 facilities around the globe, including wholly-owned and joint venture plants. The company's portfolio of brands includes Cooper, Mastercraft, Roadmaster and Mickey Thompson.

"This is an exciting and transformational day for our companies," said Richard J. Kramer, Goodyear chairman, chief executive officer and president. "The addition of Cooper's complementary tire product portfolio and highly capable manufacturing assets, coupled with Goodyear's technology and industry leading distribution, provides the combined company with opportunities for improved cost efficiency and a broader offering for both companies' retailer networks. We are confident this combination will enable us to provide enhanced service for our customers and consumers while delivering value for shareholders."

Kramer added, "We have a great deal of respect for Cooper's team and share a commitment to integrity, quality, agility and teamwork. We look forward to welcoming Cooper to the Goodyear family."

With complementary business models, organizational structures and distribution channels, Goodyear and Cooper expect to execute a successful integration that captures the full benefits of the combination. The companies will prepare for integration focused on continuity of manufacturing, operations and customer service. After closing, the combined company will be headquartered in Akron, Ohio, but Goodyear expects to maintain a presence in Findlay, Ohio.