FINANCIALS

PU demand leads to strong quarter for Covestro

LEVERKUSEN, Germany—Covestro reported an increase in both earnings and sales for the second quarter of 2017 thanks to increasing demand for polymer materials.

AUTOMOTIVE

Expansions enhance Cooper Standard's global capabilities

NOVI, Mich.—Cooper Standard is drastically increasing its global technical capabilities and North American manufacturing presence with a variety of moves.

ACQUISITIONS

Fenner divests sales branches in South Africa

LONDON—Fenner is reorganizing its conveyor belt distribution system in Africa, and will sell its Engineered Conveyor Solutions service operations and related assets in South Africa as a result of those efforts.

INDUSTRY

Under 40 profile: Brandon Robards

As the senior executive of Ace Extrusion, Brandon Robards has helped the company expand its production footprint during the last five years.

CUSTOM MIXING

Under 40 profile: Casey Hedlund

Casey Hedlund, a senior scientist at Lord, has been instrumental in using her experience to help others transition into new roles with the firm. She also is a recipient of a 2017 STEP Award.

INTERNATIONAL

Yokohama expands partnership with Chelsea FC

LONDON—Yokohama Rubber has expanded its jersey sponsorship agreement with Chelsea FC, reaching a deal that will add the recently launched Alliance Tyres brand logo to the team's uniform sleeve.

INTERNATIONAL

Nexen tires earn IDEA nods

SEOUL, South Korea—Two of Nexen's tire designs have earned International Design Excellence Awards recognition for engineering and innovation.

INDUSTRY

Under 40: Rubber industry full of young, promising talent

There's no denying that the rubber industry needs to attract more young, qualified people. But look closely and you'll find plenty already embracing what it has to offer. Throughout the next two weeks, we'll introduce you to 28 of those up-and-...

AUTOMOTIVE

Conti to test driverless vehicle this year

HANOVER, Germany—Continental has advanced its driverless vehicle technology with the development of a demo vehicle it calls CUbE.

AUTOMOTIVE

Suppliers still wary of border tax

WASHINGTON—The border adjustment tax advocated by some Republican lawmakers has lost a lot of steam since it was floated last summer, with major industries such as automotive and retailing that heavily rely on imports pressing law makers to...

FINANCIALS

Smithers Rapra predicts steady OTR tire market growth

LEATHERHEAD, England—The global market for off-the-road tires will enjoy a five-year compound annual growth rate of 4 percent by volume and 5.2 percent by value, according to a new report from Smithers Rapra.