TBC Corporation predicts 2004 growth

In the USA, the TBC Corporation has issued a bullish financial outlook for 2004, boosted by the contribution of 225 National Tire & Battery retail stores, acquired last month from Sears, Roebuck & Co. TBC expects earnings of around $1.80 to $1.

90 per share; a 25 per cent increase over last year’s figure. NTB’s contribution will be around 15 cents per share. Net sales are forecast to be in the region of $1.

7 to $1.8 billion. TBC has plans to add 20 company-operated tyre retailers and 25 franchised Big O stores next year, giving the company a total of 1,215 retail locations.