Group 1 - Gemspring Capital Management has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company's polymer chemicals business, Goodyear Chemical, which includes two operating plants in Texas and a research facility in Ohio [1][2] - Goodyear Chemical is a leading producer of synthetic rubber in North America, serving a diverse range of industries beyond tires, including food, medical, and packaging [2] - The acquisition aims to unlock Goodyear Chemical's potential as a standalone business, enhancing its growth and innovation capabilities while maintaining strong customer relationships and a robust product portfolio [3] Group 2 - The transaction is subject to regulatory approval and is expected to close by late 2025 [3] - Gemspring Capital manages $3.8 billion in capital and focuses on providing flexible capital solutions to middle-market companies across various sectors [5]

Core Viewpoint - Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company has signed a definitive agreement to sell the majority of its Goodyear Chemical business to Gemspring Capital Management for approximately $650 million, as part of its strategic transformation plan [1][2][3]. Group 1: Transaction Details - The transaction involves the sale of Goodyear Chemical facilities located in Houston and Beaumont, Texas, along with a research office in Akron, Ohio [2]. - Goodyear will receive cash proceeds of approximately $650 million at closing, subject to post-closing adjustments [2]. - A long-term supply agreement is included in the transaction terms [2]. Group 2: Strategic Implications - The sale reflects Goodyear's commitment to optimizing its portfolio and enhancing shareholder value [3]. - Proceeds from the transaction will be used to reduce leverage and fund initiatives related to the Goodyear Forward transformation plan [3]. Group 3: Operational Impact - Goodyear will retain its Chemical facilities in Niagara Falls, New York, and Bayport, Texas, along with rights to the products produced at these locations [4]. - The transaction is subject to regulatory approval and other customary closing conditions, with an expected closing date by late 2025 [3]. Group 4: Advisory Support - Lazard is acting as the lead financial advisor, Deutsche Bank is serving as a financial advisor, and Squire Patton and Boggs is providing legal advice to Goodyear [5]. Group 5: Company Overview - Goodyear is one of the largest tire companies globally, employing about 68,000 people and operating 53 facilities in 20 countries [6]. - The company has two Innovation Centers located in Akron, Ohio, and Colmar-Berg, Luxembourg, focusing on developing advanced products and services [6].