Apollo Tyres in South Africa

Apollo Tyres’ Strategic Shift in South Africa: A Decade of Transformation

Durban, South Africa – August 10, 2025

Over the past decade, Apollo Tyres has undergone significant transformations in South Africa, marked by strategic divestments, plant closures, and a renewed focus on its core brands.

Sale to Sumitomo Rubber Industries

In 2013, Apollo Tyres sold its South African subsidiary, Apollo Tyres South Africa (ATSA), to Japan’s Sumitomo Rubber Industries for $60 million. This deal included the Ladysmith passenger car tyre plant and the rights to the Dunlop brand in 32 African countries. Apollo retained the Durban plant, which specializes in truck and bus radial tyres and off-highway tyres for mining and construction industries. (livemint.com)

Closure of Durban Plant

In 2015, Apollo Tyres closed its Durban plant, citing an uncompetitive cost structure and ongoing labour unrest. This decision affected approximately 600 workers and was part of a broader strategy to optimize operations. (tirebusiness.com)

Focus on Core Brands

Post-divestment, Apollo Tyres has concentrated on promoting its own brands—Apollo, Vredestein, and Regal—across Africa. The company has been strengthening its sales and distribution networks to enhance its presence in the continent’s growing markets. (auto.economictimes.indiatimes.com)

Current Operations

As of August 2025, Apollo Tyres continues to operate in South Africa, focusing on the sale and distribution of its core brands. The company remains committed to the African market, leveraging its global expertise to meet the evolving needs of customers.

Through these strategic decisions, Apollo Tyres has navigated a complex landscape, aligning its operations in South Africa with its long-term global objectives.