Tokyo (January 12, 2006) - Bridgestone Corporation announced today that its Chairman of the Board, CEO and President, Shigeo Watanabe, will be stepping down and that his successor will be Shoshi Arakawa, presently Executive Vice President. The succession will become effective immediately after the general meeting of shareholders on March 30, 2006. Watanabe will continue to serve Bridgestone as the Board Member and Advisor to the Board.

Bridgestone Corporation, headquartered in Tokyo, is the world’s largest manufacturer of tires and other rubber products. Tires account for 80 percent of Bridgestone Group sales worldwide. The company also manufactures industrial rubber and chemical products, sporting goods, and other diversified products. It sells its tires and other products in more than 150 nations.