"The addition of these manufacturers to our North American distribution network is important in meeting the needs of fleets in construction, mining, logging, utility and marine port industries, which have been greatly impacted by the new tire shortage." Bandag launched Continuum OTR retread materials in 2005. The brand features serpentine tread designs, which the company says "advanced the precure application process." Continuum materials fit tire sizes 13.00-24 to 27.00-49. At a price somewhere between 40% to 70% of the cost of a new tire, a retread represents a tremendous value for fleets. On Dec. 5, 2006, Bandag announced that it had entered into a definitive merger agreement with Bridgestone Americas Holding Inc. The proposed merger remains subject to shareholder approval and other regulatory approvals, as well as the satisfaction of customary closing conditions. The transaction is expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2007.