The second half of 2013 for tire makers is starting to shape up as a repeat of the first half - mixed sales and earnings results. The most optimistic forecast, from Groupe Michelin, is for "modest growth" in market demand - led by more meaningful expansion in the emerging markets - along with continued benefits from lower raw materials costs. Bridgestone Corp. is projecting no-growth scenarios in Japan and North America, in terms of consumer replacement sales, with Europe dropping measurably and Asia/Pacific growing by double digits. The commercial scenario is a bit brighter, Bridgestone said, with growth in all areas except North America.
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