New Bridgestone Brand Campaign Uses All-Pro Athletes, Humor to Demonstrate Trusted Tire Performance

NASHVILLE, Tenn., Sept. 6, 2016 -- Bridgestone Americas (Bridgestone) today released its latest advertising campaign, leveraging its Official Tire status with the National Football League (NFL) and National Hockey League® (NHL®) and showcasing two of today's most popular athletes: NFL All-Pro receiver Larry Fitzgerald and NHL® All-Star defenseman P.K. Subban.

The pair of elite athletes stars in the brand's new television commercials, showcasing the specially-designed innovation and trusted performance delivered by Bridgestone tires. The campaign, which also includes a series of digital videos, is designed to engage and entertain the driving public, while also educating them about the safety and performance benefits of the Bridgestone Dueler H/L Alenza Plus tire and the Bridgestone Blizzak winter tire line.

"At Bridgestone, we're committed to changing the way drivers think about their tires, which is evident through our award-winning advertising and sports marketing efforts," said Philip Dobbs, chief marketing officer, Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations. "Tires are an important safety feature on every vehicle, and we are excited to have Larry and P.K. spotlight the trusted performance of our products in truly unique ways that only these two, world-class athletes can."

In a commercial titled "Go Long", Bridgestone leverages nine-time Pro Bowl wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald of the Arizona Cardinals to explain the benefits of the Bridgestone Dueler H/L Alenza Plus tire. Fitzgerald, who is recognized for his long hair and ability to stretch the field, "goes long" to show the long-lasting durability of the Bridgestone Dueler H/L Alenza Plus tire, which is backed by an industry-leading 80,000 mile limited treadwear warranty.*

"It was great being on set with these guys and to learn more about the company," said Fitzgerald. "I'm excited to be on board as they are such a quality brand and have been a long-time supporter of the NFL."

Designed for pickup trucks, crossovers and SUVs, the Bridgestone Dueler H/L Alenza Plus tire provides a quiet, comfortable ride and confident traction in both wet and dry conditions. The spot debuts in primetime during the NFL season-opening game between the Carolina Panthers and Denver Broncos on Thursday, September 8.

In a second commercial titled "Ice Cream", Nashville Predators defenseman, P.K. Subban, recipient of the 2013 Norris Trophy and a two-time NHL® All-Star, puts Bridgestone Blizzak WS80 winter tires to the test through a winter obstacle course with the help of Bridgestone engineers.

"Being involved with a brand that truly understands the needs of its customers is important to me, and I'm excited to help Bridgestone educate drivers on the safety benefits of Blizzak winter tires," said Subban. "Bridgestone is based in Nashville, has their name on my home barn and supports hockey and the local community. Working with them is a natural fit."

Known for his dynamic on-ice performance, Subban demonstrates the advanced engineering and technology built into Blizzak WS80 winter tires from Bridgestone. The Blizzak WS80 tire stops safely on ice; in fact, it stops 33 percent faster on ice when compared to an all season tire.** Bridgestone Blizzak winter tires are designed with special rubber and tread compounds that maintain grip in cold temperatures, giving the driver more control in winter driving conditions.

Watch the newest television commercials from Bridgestone, "Go Long" and "Ice Cream", as well as behind-the-scenes blooper reels featuring Fitzgerald and Subban. Additional short digital clips from the Fitzgerald commercial shoot also are available for viewing on the Bridgestone YouTube channel.

*80,000 mile limited treadwear warranty for H,T & V speed rated tires. 55,000 mile limited treadwear warranty for W speed rated tires. Certain limitations and restrictions apply. Ask a Bridgestone retailer for details

**Based on stopping distance in ice rink testing of Bridgestone Blizzak WS80 tires (235/55R17) versus Firestone FR710 tires (235/55R17). Actual results may vary based on proper tire maintenance, vehicle, driving style and road conditions.

NHL and the NHL Shield are registered trademarks of the National Hockey League. © NHL 2016.  All Rights Reserved.

About Bridgestone Americas, Inc.:

Nashville, Tennessee-based Bridgestone Americas, Inc. (BSAM) is the U.S. subsidiary of Bridgestone Corporation, the world's largest tire and rubber company. BSAM and its subsidiaries develop, manufacture and market a wide range of Bridgestone, Firestone and associate brand tires to address the needs of a broad range of customers, including consumers, automotive and commercial vehicle original equipment manufacturers, and those in the agricultural, forestry and mining industries. The companies are also engaged in retreading operations throughout the Western Hemisphere and produce air springs, roofing materials, and industrial fibers and textiles. The BSAM family of companies also operates the world's largest chain of automotive tire and service centers. Guided by its One Team, One Planet message, the company is dedicated to achieving a positive environmental impact in all of the communities it calls home.

Video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hBZEFNAtFkU
Video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0CnhRjqwiNI

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SOURCE Bridgestone Americas, Inc.

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