News

AB Tyres and Dunlop Tyres have established a strategic alliance in Portugal, marking the beginning of a new chapter for one of the world’s most recognised tyre brands.

The decision follows the acquisition by Sumitomo Rubber Industries of the Dunlop trademark rights for the European, North American and Oceanian markets. This move reflects the Japanese group’s ambition to accelerate Dunlop’s growth in the premium segment and strengthen the positioning of a brand historically associated with innovation, performance and safety.

The strategic alliance with AB Tyres demonstrates Sumitomo Rubber Industries’ confidence in the Portuguese company’s ability to increase the brand’s market share, strengthen its proximity to its partner network and develop a commercial strategy tailored to the specific characteristics of the Portuguese market.

One of the key symbols of this new chapter is the Dunlop Blue Response TG, a new premium tyre developed to meet the demands of today’s mobility landscape. Available in 99 sizes, ranging from 15 to 21 inches, the new tyre is designed for passenger cars and SUVs and is suitable for internal combustion engine, hybrid and electric vehicles.

The Blue Response TG combines a new rubber compound, developed to deliver increased durability, with a three-zone tread pattern that enhances stability, grip and safety across a wide range of driving conditions. Its structure has also been designed to provide greater driving comfort, reduce noise levels and ensure more consistent performance on both dry and wet roads.

The performance of the new tyre has already been recognised by the international specialist press. In the tyre test conducted by the German magazine Auto Motor und Sport, the Dunlop Blue Response TG achieved the highest rating among the models assessed, standing out in areas such as wet braking, handling on dry and wet roads, aquaplaning resistance and noise levels.

"This partnership is a source of immense pride for AB Tyres. The confidence placed in us by Sumitomo Rubber Industries is, above all, a recognition of the consistent work we have carried out over the past 27 years. The fact that a premium brand such as Dunlop has chosen AB Tyres as a strategic partner in Portugal is a clear indication of the strength of our structure, our proximity to the market and our ability to create value for both brands and customers, says Filipe Bandeira, Managing Director and Board Member of AB Tyres.

This new phase for Dunlop in Portugal will be supported by a strategy focused on increasing brand awareness, developing a strong partner network and providing an extensive range of high-performance solutions for the different market segments.

"We are delighted to strengthen our presence in Portugal through this strategic alliance with AB Tyres. Over the years, the company has demonstrated a deep understanding of the market, a strong ability to deliver and an ongoing commitment to excellence. Following the outstanding work carried out with the Falken brand, we are confident that this partnership will enable us to accelerate Dunlop’s growth in the country and bring the brand even closer to Portuguese professionals and consumers,” says Yuri Perez, Country Manager for Dunlop & Falken Tyres.

Through this strategic alliance, AB Tyres further strengthens its position as one of the leading independent operators in the Portuguese tyre sector, adding one of the industry’s most iconic brands to its portfolio and consolidating its commitment to the premium segment.