In light of the ongoing conflict and supply issues in Russia, Bridgestone announced it has initiated the process to find a local buyer for its Russian assets.

In March, the tiremaker made the decision to suspend all manufacturing activities in Russia, as well as freeze any new investments and suspend all exports to Russia. In light of this, the company said it carefully considered a long-term solution in the interest of its employees, customers and suppliers.

Bridgestone has been present in Russia since 1998 and has more than 1,000 employees in the country mainly in its tire manufacturing plant in Ulyanovsk and sales and marketing office in Moscow.

Since the announcement in March, the company has continued to support its Russian employees by paying their salaries and employee benefits in full. In line with the values promoted by the Bridgestone E8 Commitment and in recognition of its employees’ contribution over the years, the company will continue to provide the same support to its employees.

The process of finding a buyer and closing a deal is expected to take several months to complete.