Gemspring Capital Successfully Acquires Goodyear's Polymer Chemicals Division

On November 3, 2025, Gemspring Capital Management, LLC, a private equity firm based in Westport, Connecticut, announced the completion of its acquisition of the polymer chemicals segment from The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company (NASDAQ: GT). This strategic acquisition is expected to enhance Gemspring's footprint in the chemicals sector.

Acquisition Details

The acquired business includes two manufacturing plants located in Houston and Beaumont, Texas, as well as a research and development facility situated in Akron, Ohio. Goodyear retains ownership of its facilities in Niagara Falls, New York, and Bayport, Texas, along with the rights to the products produced at those sites. The polymer chemicals business is recognized as a prominent producer of synthetic rubber, catering to a diverse array of customers throughout North America.

The Polymer Chemical Business offers an expansive product range that serves various industries, including food, medical, sporting goods, and packaging. By providing high-quality synthetic rubber components, the company plays a crucial role in the supply chains of leading tire manufacturers, illustrating its significant contribution to multiple end markets.

Future Growth and Innovation

Mathew Wallace, the Managing Director at Gemspring, expressed enthusiasm about the acquired business's potential. He stated, "We look forward to unlocking the Company's full potential as a standalone business and supporting its next chapter of growth and innovation." Gemspring's plans include enhancing the company's capabilities within the synthetic rubber market and exploring adjacent chemical categories. The management team aims to drive growth through strategic acquisitions and product line expansions, utilizing the existing strengths of employees and customer relations.

```json
{
"Key Quotes": {
"Mathew Wallace": "We look forward to unlocking the Company's full potential as a standalone business.",
"Tesham Gor": "Today marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for an organization poised to deliver tremendous value."
}
}
```

Tesham Gor, an Executive Advisor at Gemspring and the incoming Chief Executive Officer of the polymer chemicals division, also emphasized the firm’s commitment to investing in its workforce, product development, and sustainability practices. This commitment aims to foster operational excellence and drive innovation in polymers and materials science.

Role of Advisors

In facilitating this transaction, Piper Sandler & Co. served as the lead financial advisor, while Greenhill & Co. acted as the financial advisor, and Kirkland & Ellis LLP provided legal counsel to Gemspring. Their expertise helped navigate the complexities associated with such significant acquisitions.

About Gemspring Capital

Gemspring Capital manages around $5.1 billion in capital, providing flexible funding solutions designed for middle-market enterprises. The firm collaborates closely with capable management teams across sectors such as business services, healthcare, and technology, fostering growth and boosting competitive advantages. Their proactive investment strategy positions Gemspring as a key player in the evolving landscape of capital investment, focusing on companies that generate up to $2.0 billion in revenue.

For more information about the acquisition and Gemspring Capital’s operations, please visit www.gemspring.com.