Michelin Polymer Composite Acquisitions Boost Growth Strategy
Michelin has announced significant polymer composite acquisitions as part of its strategic growth plan, marking a new phase for its high-value materials business. The French tyre giant said it has reached agreements to buy two North American companies, Cooley Group and Tex Tech Industries, both of which are specialists in engineered fabrics and polymer-based materials. Michelin
Cooley Group, based in Rhode Island and celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2026, is known for its high-performance polymer-coated industrial fabrics used in applications such as healthcare, chemical and water containment, and waterproofing systems. Tex Tech Industries, founded in 1904 in Maine, designs and manufactures specialty textiles and coatings for demanding sectors, including aerospace thermal protection systems, fire-retardant materials for aircraft, and other custom composite products.
These acquisitions are aligned with Michelin’s “Michelin in Motion 2030” strategy, which aims to expand the company’s presence in markets that offer high-value-added opportunities beyond its core tyre business. The materials and technologies from these two firms are expected to complement Michelin’s existing portfolio, including its European coated fabrics brands.
Michelin said the Polymer Composite Solutions division should see a revenue increase of around 20 percent, or roughly USD 280 million, once the acquisitions are fully integrated. To reflect the growing importance of this segment, Michelin plans to report it as a dedicated business unit beginning in fiscal 2026.
Both deals are expected to close in the first half of 2026, pending customary regulatory approvals and closing adjustments. Financial terms have not been publicly disclosed, but Michelin said the transactions will be funded with available cash and will not materially affect the company’s financial strength.
The move further diversifies Michelin’s materials expertise well into technical textiles and engineered composites, extending its reach into sectors such as aerospace, industrial infrastructure, and advanced environmental solutions.
Editor’s View
Michelin’s polymer composite acquisitions are a clear signal that tyre companies no longer see themselves only as rubber and tread makers. The line between traditional tyre manufacturing and advanced materials innovation is blurring. Cooley and Tex Tech bring technical depth that can feed into both mobility and industrial applications. For the tyre world, this means Michelin is positioning itself not just as a tyre supplier but as a materials technology leader. That could reshape collaborations with OEMs in electric vehicles, aerospace, and beyond. It also puts competitive pressure on other tyre makers to look beyond tread compounds and into integrated composite solutions if they want to stay relevant in the next decade.
