MISSISSAUGA, Ont. — Bridgestone Firestone Canada and Bridgestone Firestone North American Tire (BFNT) have announced price increases on the company’s Bridgestone, Firestone, Fuzion and associate brand tire lines.

The announced increases, generally up to 5% on passenger and light truck, truck and bus, and agricultural and off-the-road tires, with possible specific in-line adjustments in excess of 5%, will affect the replacement, original equipment and export channels.

The price increases are scheduled to begin phasing in May 1, 2007.

“The continuing upward spiral of raw material costs makes this action necessary,” said Asahiko Nishiyama, vice-chairman and president of BFNT. “This unprecedented situation is simply not one that can be managed through the enhanced efficiencies and increased productivity that we are continually implementing at all levels of our company. As a result, we have no choice but to implement this price increase.”