The parent company is Goodyear. The Avons and Dunlops are now also made in France, having closed the Birmingham factory. Due to the environmental factors in the French factory, the quality of the tyres is better than those made in the UK...apparently!
Having used and been impressed by Avon Storms, I have tried the Spirit, which I do not think is as good. I am looking at the mutant now as I only here good things about it, or I'll go back the trusty P5/6