“In the United States, economic recovery from the recession has been gradual and signs of improvement have been inconsistent. A variety of factors have contributed to American consumers postponing many purchases and being more careful when they choose to spend. We felt the impact in the form of a relatively soft replacement demand in 2011.” 

The price of raw material – primarily oil – also hurt profitability. Kramer said Goodyear will focus on sustaining profits in North America and winning over the growing middle class in China.