Passenger car, 4×4, and light commercial vehicle tyre prices will rise by between 3% and 5%, while all other sectors will be subject to increases of between 5% and 10%. These price adjustments are scheduled to be implemented as of Feb. 1, 2008.

Explaining the factors contributing to Bridgestone’s decision, Michihiro Suzuki, Bridgestone Europe’s director of sales administration, said, “the increase in the cost in oil-based raw materials, natural rubber and energy has continued even beyond our expectations and stays at a historically high level. While we are doing our utmost in various aspects of our activities such as improving productivity and streamlining logistics, we have to recover some of those costs by this price increase." (Tyres & Accessories/Staffordshire, U.K.)