Firestone Industrial Products Poland Plant Gets Stamp of Approval from Customers

Wolsztyn, Poland (Sept. 7, 2006) — Less than two years after it began production, Firestone Industrial Products (FSIP) Poland plant has received approval to begin shipping its product to an original equipment manufacturer. Weweler, a leading European suspension manufacturer, approved FSIP's product for shipment. Schmitz Cargobull, a major European trailer manufacturer and customer for Weweler suspensions, joined in the approval.

“We opened the Poland plant to serve the growing European market for top quality air springs,” said FSIP President Mike Cerio. “We have been producing parts in Poland for the European aftermarket since September 2005 and receiving OE approval confirms that our products are not only meeting the demand, but also the expectations of our customers.”

Reaching this latest milestone in May followed quickly on the heels of the plant being recommended for ISO 9001:2000 certification of their quality management system in April.

“This announcement confirms that Firestone’s operations and quality control procedures are up to the strict quality standards of the European original equipment manufacturers,” said Cerio.  

About Firestone Industrial Products (FSIP): Firestone Industrial Products Company, a business unit of BFS Diversified Products, LLC, specializes in air spring manufacturing and technology with a history of more than 60 years of research and development of technologically advanced air springs. BFS Diversified Products, LLC, based in Indianapolis, Ind., is a subsidiary of Bridgestone Americas Holding, Inc. (BSAH). BFDP is responsible for BSAH's non-tire businesses including building and industrial products, synthetic and natural rubber, and fiber and textile businesses.