Bridgestone New Zealand Limited was formed in September 1998. The formation of the company followed the merger of two of the world's premier tyre companies: Bridgestone and Firestone.In 1931, Shojiro Ishibashi (1885-1976) created Bridgestone Tire Company Ltd. (later renamed Bridgestone Corporation). He fashioned the company name by reversing the English translation of his own: "Ishibashi," which literally means "stone bridge" in Japanese.Today the Bridgestone Corporation is the world's leading tyre manufacturer, supplying quality tyres for cars, trucks, buses, construction and mining vehicles, industrial machinery, agricultural machinery, aircraft, motorcycles and others.In New Zealand, Bridgestone is the only tyre manufacturer. The Papanui plant provides a significant community contribution as one of the biggest employers in the Christchurch area. The factory opened in 1947 and produced the first tyre to be made in New Zealand.In 2006 the factory produced its 35 millionth tyre. Today it's proudly producing quality, New Zealand made Bridgestone, Firestone and Supercat branded tyres.Bridgestone New Zealand Limited also operates three retread factories throughout New Zealand, who produce quality commercial retreads for the New Zealand market.Bridgestone, Firestone and Supercat branded tyres are available throughout New Zealand at a number of retailers, including; Firestone, Bridgestone Pole Position, Tony's Tyre Service, Bridgestone Firestone Commercial, Bridgestone Truck Centre and other Bridgestone stockists. These retailers also provide a comprehensive range of tyre-related services.