Bandag to build state-of-the-art retreading factory in Georgia with Tegeta Motors and Bridgestone

Business

Bandag to build state-of-the-art retreading factory in Georgia with Tegeta Motors and Bridgestone

Bandag has signed an agreement with Tegeta Motors to establish a state-of-the-art tyre retreading facility in Rustavi, marking the first Bandag factory in the Caucasus region. The project, supported by Bridgestone Middle East and Africa (MEA), represents an initial investment of USD 2 million and is aimed at expanding sustainable mobility and circular economy practices across the region.

The Tegeta Bandag Factory is designed to produce up to 5,000 retreaded tyres annually in its initial phase, with plans to double production capacity within five years. Construction of the facility is scheduled to begin in 2025, with completion targeted for late 2026.

Developed in collaboration with Tegeta Motors and backed by Bridgestone MEA, the plant will introduce internationally recognised retreading standards to the Caucasus market. The facility will initially focus on retreading tyres for buses and trucks, ensuring compliance with global safety and performance benchmarks while helping fleet operators reduce costs and environmental impact.

Jacques Fourie, President of Bridgestone Africa, Middle East Region, said the project represents a major step in expanding high-quality retreading solutions in the Caucasus, combining global expertise, shared vision, and a strong commitment to sustainable mobility.

The factory will be equipped with advanced Bandag machinery sourced from Europe and the United States. The retreading process reinforces used tyre casings with premium materials similar to those used in new tyre manufacturing, delivering cost savings of 30–40 per cent compared to new tyres, while offering performance and service life of up to five years.

Environmental benefits are central to the project, as retreading requires fewer raw materials and less energy, extends tyre lifecycles through multiple use phases, reduces waste, and lowers carbon emissions.

Ekaterine Kavtaradze, CEO of Tegeta Motors, said the project will help advance fleet solutions, strengthen the company’s regional presence, and deliver long-term value to customers and communities. Tegeta Motors will integrate the new retreading operations into its broader ecosystem of tyre, oil, battery, and recycling services.

The initiative underscores Bandag’s regional growth strategy and commitment to cleaner, more efficient mobility solutions through strategic partnerships and advanced technology.