Continental A.G. is more than just a giant in the rubber industry. Along with other titans like Michelin and Bridgestone, the German auto parts maker has separated itself as one of the most prestigious tire brands in the world and a household name outside of the rubber industry.
Founded in 1871, the company was originally dedicated to soft rubber products like horse hoof buffers. Since shifting to producing tires and other rubber auto parts around the turn of the 20th century, Continental has achieved the worldwide name brand recognition that so many rubber companies spend decades working toward.
In the annual Rubber News Global Tire Report rankings, Continental kept its stranglehold on No. 4 in the world, just as the top three tire makers retained their respective spots. With an eye toward further expansion in 2025 and beyond, the German company made a series of splash moves this year to set itself up for the future.