Michelin has retained the title of the world’s most valuable and strongest tyre brand, according to the latest report by Brand Finance, the world’s leading brand valuation consultancy. Michelin’s brand value increased 11% to USD8.8 billion, marking its eighth consecutive year at the top. The brand also earned the highest Brand Strength Index (BSI) score in the sector, at 92.6 out of 100. Michelin is the 15th strongest brand in the world across all sectors according to the Brand Finance Global 500 2025 ranking.
According to Brand Finance research, the French giant achieves near-perfect scores for familiarity and recommendation across almost every geography, supported by its strong reputation for quality, innovation, and trust. While Michelin maintains premium pricing, this can present challenges in price-sensitive markets, where consumers may find it difficult to distinguish the added value of premium tyres. Nevertheless, the brand continues to lead on quality and reliability.
Bridgestone (up 8% to USD8.3 billion) remains in second place, supported by strong results in North America and continued investment in premium electric vehicle tyres. Continental Tires (down 16% to USD3.9 billion) holds third despite recording the sharpest brand value decline among the top 10, reflecting a combination of weaker revenue performance in 2024, persistently lower brand strength scores in the US, and a less optimistic outlook.
Overall, the combined brand value of the top 25 tyre brands increased by 5% to USD38.8 billion, amid broader stagnation across the wider automotive industry. Tyre brands are investing heavily in innovation to meet evolving demands, including the rise of green tyre technology, smart RFID-enabled tyres, and EV-specific products. Electrification is reshaping the sector, with EV tyre prices rising as manufacturers adapt to heavier vehicles and higher performance requirements.
Lorenzo Coruzzi, Director at Brand Finance, commented: “Tyre brands are driving growth by investing in innovation, digital integration, and EV readiness. Electrification is reshaping product demands, and international competition continues to intensify. Brands that adapt quickly to evolving technologies and shifting global markets are best positioned for future success.”
Nokian Tyres was the fastest-growing brand in the ranking, rising 31% to USD343 million. In the top 10, Yokohama achieved the fastest growth, up 23% to USD1.5 billion, fuelled by record profitability, strong consumer tyre sales, and effective pricing strategies.
China’s Sailun enters the top 10 for the first time after overtaking Toyo Tires (down 4% to $852.1 million).
Source: Tyretradenews