NY -- Standard&Poor's CreditWire 7/26/96 -- Standard&Poor's today has assigned its `A-2' rating to The Goodyear Tire&Rubber Co.'s 3(a)3 commercial paper program. Additionally, the company's triple-`B'-plus corporate credit rating and senior debt rating have been affirmed. About $780 million of rated debt is affected. Ratings reflect Goodyear's solid business position, improving financial profile, and moderate financial policies. Goodyear is one of the three- largest tire manufacturers worldwide (North America's largest) and a leading manufacturer of automotive belts and hoses. For the past several years, the company has generated record sales due to strong North American automotive demand, increased demand elsewhere, and improved market penetration. A broad, well established distribution network and strong product-development expertise
