2006 NTDA Tyre & Fast Fit Awards

It’s time once again to vote for the winners of the NTDA Tyre and Fast Fit (TAFF) Awards. These were introduced last year and immediately became the awards that everyone wanted to win, as it is the customers who decided the outcome.

The format is the same as last year, with a number of companies being nominated in seven separate categories. Being nominated is an achievement in itself, but only one award can be given per category, so all votes count. Voting forms appear in the trade press (including this issue of Tyres & Accessories), the NTDA 2006 Directory and will be issued by the NTDA to members. The TAFF awards give those in the trade the chance to highlight those companies that go the extra mile in providing service and products. The winners will be announced at the NTDA’s Annual Dinner, which will be held at the Birmingham Metropole Hotel, at the NEC on the evening of 26th April.

Also the same as last year, the TAFF Awards are sponsored by Renault Vans, with whom the NTDA has negotiated attractive affinity deals for association members. The Industry Advertising Award is again sponsored by Tyres & Accessories magazine.

The seven categories are as follows: Tyre Manufacturer of the Year, National Wholesaler of the Year, Regional Wholesaler of the Year, Non-Tyre Aftermarket Supplier of the Year, Product Innovation, Environmental Award and the Industry Advertising Award.

As usual, all sectors of the tyre industry are represented, with many of the categories extremely wide in scope. For example, the Environmental category includes collectors, a retreader and disposal companies, while the Product Innovation is even wider in scope. Among the nominations in this category are lead-free weights, run-flat tyres, tyre shop machinery and equipment and a tyre that is unlike any other, having no air and no rubber.

The nominations came from NTDA members and reflect the way that the industry is changing. Nowhere is this more noticeable than in the distribution channels; customers are demanding more frequent deliveries of tyres, sometimes on what amounts to a just-in-time basis. To cope with this, many national wholesalers have re-appraised their business offering, sometimes opening regional hubs and warehouses, so that they can match the regional and local tyre suppliers. This phenomenon is illustrated by the nominees in the National Wholesaler and Regional Wholesaler categories, with national companies appearing in the latter category and two companies featuring in both. It could be argued that, for a company offering a nationwide delivery service to be regarded as offering the same service as a local company, is praise indeed and shows exceptional levels of service.

So, without further ado, let us look at the nominations for the 2006 NTDA Tyre and Fast Fit Awards.

Tyre Manufacturer of the Year

Bridgestone UK

Bridgestone is delighted to have been nominated for the 2005 NTDA Tyre Manufacturer of the Year award for the second year running.

In a year dominated by the increase in sales of run-flat tyres, Bridgestone’s Potenza RE050 RFT high-performance run-flat tyre impressed both the tyre trade and car manufacturers. It won the Product Innovation category in the inaugural TAFF awards, and attracted numerous OE contracts with top car manufacturers, including BMW, Ferrari, and VW.

The company also launched its comfort-oriented Turanza ER300 RFT, which is already a factory option on the new VW Passat and the BMW 1-Series.

Run-flat activity in the aftermarket was also high, with more than 200 UK dealerships now certified to replace Bridgestone RFT tyres after completing the company’s comprehensive Run-Flat Certificate Programme.

Bridgestone underlined its commitment to safety in 2005 with the launch of the Think Before You Drive campaign. Run in association with the FiA Foundation, its aim is to reduce the number of deaths on roads worldwide by encouraging people to regularly check the condition of their tyres. With the help of its First Stop dealers in the UK, the company offered free tyre checks at events up and down the country, and the message was reinforced by media coverage on television and in national and local newspapers.

Andy Lane, marketing manager at Bridgestone UK, said: “We achieved a lot in 2005 and it was another tremendously successful year for us, both globally and in the UK. We are very proud that our efforts have been recognised in being nominated for the Tyre Manufacturer of the Year award.”

Continental

In 2005 Continental Tyres continued to champion a number of industry-wide issues as part of its ongoing commitment to driving the tyre market forward and addressing key industry topics such as safety.

Following the BRMA research into the impact of tread depth on tyre performance, Continental took a proactive role alongside RoadSafe, National Tyres and the NTDA in developing and launching the 3mm tread depth campaign. Continental has also taken the lead to gain agreement on common policies for run flat tyres and will continue to find ways to improve communication to the tyre trade, road safety professionals and general public about tyre technical and safety related issues.

2005 also saw the launch of the new ContiPremiumContact 2 car tyre, specially designed for upper medium and luxury cars, setting new standards in braking on wet and dry roads, aquaplaning performance, steering precision, driving stability and noise levels.

Remarkable developments have also been made in Truck tyres with a new range of EcoPlus steer and drive-axle tyres designed help reduce costs for heavy trucks that cover high mileage on motorways and new construction tyres boasting a new tread compound making the tyres tougher and thereby increasing mileage performance and durability. Furthermore, the newly launched LifeCycle Concept promises to reduce tyre operating costs for fleets by up to 25% by offering a complete cradle to grave solution.

Brian Smith, Managing Director, commented, “Our aim is to establish Continental as the most professional supplier of quality tyres and customer service. This aim encompasses everything that we do, from the needs of our customers and dealers, to actively seeking solutions that will exceed their expectations.”

Goodyear/Dunlop

Goodyear Dunlop Tyres UK Limited grew market share in targeted segments, winning new business, not by chasing volume at any cost, but by targeting long term business partnerships that offer stability and profitability.
Goodyear Dunlop UK has successfully launched new products:

The acclaimed Goodyear RunOnFlat – supported by the RunOnFlat Dealer Charter.
Goodyear Excellence – The OE tyre for sports and family cars that doesn’t compromise on comfort. Dunlop Sportmax Qualifier – putting Dunlop back at the forefront of the motorcycle market. Fulda Exelero – A favourite in the tuning market, with sizes up to 23″. Fulda 4×4 Road – The 4×4 tyre for the new generation of road orientated SUVs.

Falken FP452 – Leading edge sports handling – ideal for modified cars. Goodyear Dunlop now has the freshest, youngest and most advanced range of tyres on the market, across a range of brands including Sava, Falken, Debica and Fulda.

Dunlop was incredibly successful in motorsport in 2005. In the British Superbike Championship, Dunlop eclipsed Michelin in a highly competitive tyre war. These tyres are developed and built in Birmingham.

Michelin

In 2005, Michelin proudly celebrated 100 years in the UK. During this time Michelin has worked very closely with the tyre trade and further evidence of this link is highlighted by the launch of the Michelin Accreditation Programme that directly supports distributors to help them achieve business growth.

In the autumn, the Company launched a campaign promoting the use of its cold weather tyres favoured by European motorists for safer driving when the temperature drops below seven degrees centigrade. Michelin introduced the Alpin and Pilot Alpin tyres for the British market with an intensive dealer programme. Consumers who purchase these tyres are likely to make at least two visits per year to their distributor, providing further sales opportunities.
The provision of premium quality tyres for almost all modes of transport helps build a sales partnership second to none. New product innovation is continuous. This can be seen in recent developments which include the Michelin Power Race motorcycle tyre which is the first road legal race tyre featuring the dual-compound technology found in MotoGP tyres; and Michelin Durable Technologies which is set to revolutionise truck tyres by using regenerating tread patterns and Infinicoil casing technology for longer life and increased carrying capacity.

Global success in motorsport during 2005 delivered the ultimate prizes including the F1 World Championship, the World Rally Championship, the MotoGP World Championship and an eighth consecutive triumph in the Le Mans 24 hours race. Michelin believes that the very best laboratory for tyre development is competition. Producing tyres that are winning on the race tracks today and are the road tyres of tomorrow is certainly a powerful strategy.

Vredestein

Designed by in collaboration with Giugiaro Design, Vredestein has a range of summer and winter tyres for cars in the high performance sector. Thanks to its successful cooperation with the Italian design house Giugiaro, Vredestein has established a unique position in this segment. Not only do these tyres look the part, they handle extremely well. Having won numerous awards and tyre tests, the Sportrac 2 won the 2004 Auto Express tyre test and was considered Britain’s safest tyre. The Hi-Trac again took top position in the 2005 tyre test. As a recent tyre test report concluded ‘The tyre to be on when that car pulls out of traffic or suddenly stops ahead of you is Vredestein’

Following on from the success of the Sportrac 2 and the Ultrac, and based on the company’s knowledge of winter tyre technology, once again, in collaboration with Giugiaro Design, the Wintrac Xtreme and Wintrac 4 Xtreme for SUVs were recently launched. Both tyres are enjoying enormous success and living up to their high performance reputation with V and W speed ratings.

Vredestein is a unique independent tyre manufacturer and as such prefers to distribute through independent tyre dealers & local wholesalers throughout the UK and Ireland.

National Wholesaler of the Year

BITS

There’s a very good reason why BITS have won the National Wholesaler of the Year award outright six times. It’s a single-minded philosophy that begins with winning the confidence of both our customers and our suppliers. As agents for all the major tyre brands we carry the widest range of stock, from ultra high performance to quality budget tyres for cars, commercial vehicles and 4×4.

Of course, you don’t get to be No.1 without a lot of hard work. Which is why the majority of our tyres are delivered within 24 hours – throughout the UK – or even sooner, thanks to its eight key regional centres.

Group Tyre (UK) Ltd.

Group Tyre, the UK’s largest independently-owned tyre wholesale organisation, is the national identity for excellence of service provided by 14 long established successful regional wholesalers who, through Group Tyre, have national strength and also provide exceptional service in their own local area.

With a combined turnover approaching £200 million, the regional members have built their individual businesses on personal, local and quality service and include: Oak Tyres, North Eastern Tyre & Exhausts, Broadway Tyres, Exhausts Tyres & Batteries, B A Bush, We Sell Tyres, Birmingham Motor Tyres, Cooper Bros, Elite Garages, King David Tyres, Kenway Tyres, W J Wood and Magowan Tyres.

To reinforce their local service, Group Tyre have 28 well stocked wholesale locations, holding over 800,000 tyres in total and their network of over 300 vans enable them to offer same day deliveries, several times daily throughout the UK including Northern Ireland. The changing market is demanding same day delivery service to back up next day or longer delivery times from the tyre manufacturer. This extends across all market sectors and is increasingly required as the diversity of tyre brands, sizes and specific tread patterns increase.
The supply of tyres is now a sophisticated logistical operation and in Group Tyre this is matched by a significant investment in IT to provide an on line ordering system, branded Group Link that is now web enabled and the Tyre Diary used by outlets to log tyre tread depths and identify when tyres require replacement.

Total Commitment, Total Support and Total Service remain the Group Tyre promises. Promises that are delivered nationwide, every working day.

Kings Road Tyres

KRT is extremely pleased to be nominated in the National Wholesaler of the Year award category for 2006. Having won the Regional Wholesaler award in 2005, this nomination reflects the great deal of hard work that has gone into improving KRT’s product line up and service in recent times. These efforts will shortly culminate in a new sales order system, which will increase customer service levels still further.

This nomination also reflects the truly national nature of KRT’s delivery coverage, as every corner of the UK mainland is reached by KRT’s own vans and trucks. All of Ireland is also covered, next day, from Dublin.

This is clearly no easy task, given the vast range of products in the KRT portfolio. All categories of tyres (car, van, 4X4, truck, agricultural, industrial, earthmover etc) are stocked, along with a full range of inner tubes. All major brands are available, along with well known KRT brands such as Cooper (4X4), Falken (truck), Firestone (agri), Kingstone (truck, industrial, construction, earthmover), Kumho (truck), Kormoran/Stomil (agri), Lassa (all products), Pirelli (agri), Taurus (agri), Tigar (car/van) and Vredestein (tractor front and free-rolling). For the comprehensive tyre stockist, distributor and retailer, regardless of location, KRT represents a real “one-stop shop” supplier.

Micheldever

The continued investment programme from Micheldever Tyre Services provides its customers with one of the most comprehensive stocks available within the industry. The network of warehouses across the whole of the United Kingdom ensures a minimum daily delivery service to all customers via its own fleet of delivery vehicles. It is our belief that if you haven’t got the product on the shelves then you can’t sell it, no matter how many times a day you offer to deliver.

Micheldever is a customer-focused company with tyre industry experienced telesales staff, able to provide assistance with fitment possibilities and recommendations. Southam Tyres’ (part of Micheldever Tyre Services Plc) specialist 4×4 staff are renowned throughout the industry for their knowledge in this particular industry sector and the 4-Site programme is successful in driving business to customer premises. This programme typifies Micheldever’s approach to customer support.

We also recognise that we cannot have our customers’ support if we try to take their business ourselves! The success of the Kumho Ecsta Performance Centre Programme, with its focus on high performance tyres, has generated additional business opportunities for Kumho Dealers, with a tyre range that rivals any major brand manufacturer.

Micheldever Tyre Services Customer Development philosophy assists our customers to grow their business profitability and with a unique marketing support package, including depot ‘makeovers’, sets us apart form the competition. If our customers are successful we can be successful: if our customers’ business grows, our business grows. We believe that success is to be shared.

Viking International

Viking International is the largest independent tyre, exhaust and battery wholesaler in the UK, with a heritage stretching back over 30 years.

With eight warehouses and a fleet of over 100 specialist delivery vehicles, Viking can provide a highly flexible and responsive daily delivery capability throughout the country.

Viking’s popular on-line ordering system provides customers with real time access to tyre stock, tyre pricing and account management information. The facility was further enhanced in 2005 with the addition of Viking’s entire exhaust range.

Viking offers a full product range to suit all requirements including premium and private branded tyres ranging from economy to ultra high performance. In response to customer demand, throughout 2005 Viking significantly increased the range of both premium high performance and 4×4 tyres.

Private brand development never stands still and in December, Viking introduced the new Millennium uhp range to its extensive portfolio. Designed to compete directly with the premium brand’s dominance of the sector and offering retailers a much greater profit potential, this new range consists of 36 sizes and is available in either asymmetric or directional tread patterns in V,W and Y speed ratings to fit the most popular 15” to 19” sizes.

Viking has also enhanced its customer support package for its Viking, Gislaved and Barum brands, which includes branded clothing, an increased range of point of sale materials, dealer and consumer incentives and dedicated brand websites.

Viking International is constantly striving to develop market-leading initiatives to add value to its business proposition, ensuring that its customers receive the very best levels of service and support available in the industry.

Also Nominated: Stapleton’s (Tyre Services) Ltd.

Regional Wholesaler of the Year

Cooper Brothers

Cooper Bros have been wholesaling tyres in central Scotland since 1968 and, since the inception of group tyre, they have been truly regional representing that organisation in the territory bounded by Kinross in the east down to Haddington south of Edinburgh across to Ayr on the west coast and up to Lochgilphead in Argyll.

Stocked brands include: Marangoni, Maxxis, Federal, Yokohama, Trayal, Avon, Vredestein and Hankook with daily deliveries across the region and up to four times per day in some areas. As well as tyres, Coopers sell batteries, weights, repair materials, exhausts and all types of car parts, a truly one stop shop.

Coopers employ 50 staff, many of whom have hands on fitting experience, allowing reliable technical advice to be offered to customers adding value to the efficient telesales operation and direct computer links offered to the customer base.

The company has a long term commitment to staff training as well as education/industry links and are strong supporters of the Princes Scottish Youth Business Trust.

They have always been in the forefront of new developments, dating as far back as being the first Denovo dealers in Lanarkshire to being amongst the first to carry extensive stocks of the latest generation of run flat tyres. A site has recently been acquired to allow a new warehouse facility to be built and they look forward to taking the service and stock holding to the next level.

Kings Road Tyres

KRT was absolutely delighted to be nominated in the Regional Wholesaler of the Year category in 2005, and to win such a prestigious award was simply fantastic. It was a great reward for the hard working staff at KRT’s seven regional warehouses for the effort they put in every day to satisfy their customers’ needs.

This year has seen significant change at KRT with major investment in warehousing, vehicles and systems. This will result in an even more efficient sales order processing system which will benefit customers by streamlining the storage, order taking and delivery capability. This means that KRT’s famous attention to local market conditions will improve even further with quicker response times, and an even better “one stop shop” for bona fide tyre distributors and retailers.

New products have also come into the range, and KRT are now major stockists of both Kumho and Falken truck tyres. Added to the Kormoran/Stomil Olsztyn, Pirelli and Taurus agricultural tyres, Tigar car tyres, Cooper 4X4, Firestone agricultural and Vredestein tractor front and free rolling ranges, KRT really does have something to suit every pocket. Of course, most major brands in all categories are also available from stock. In addition, KRT’s own Kingstone brand continues to develop, and now covers many sizes and types of industrial, implement, construction, earthmover as well as the excellent range of truck tyres.

All are available from KRT depots at Ilminster, London, Birmingham, Boston, Carlisle, Newcastle and Dublin.

Micheldever

Micheldever Tyre Services has a network of warehouses across the whole of the United Kingdom, allowing it to operate a minimum daily delivery service to all customers via its own delivery fleet. It is vital for customers to have quick access to the product if they are to make a sale.

Micheldever Tyre Services is about more than just delivering product; technical staff are able to provide assistance with fitment possibilities and recommendations. Southam Tyres’ specialist 4×4 staff are renowned throughout the industry for their knowledge in this particular industry sector and the 4-Site programme is successful in driving business to customer premises. This programme typifies Micheldever Tyre Services’ approach to customer support.

Micheldever Tyre Services believes its customer development philosophy assists customers’ growth with a unique marketing support package, including depot ‘makeovers’. “If our customers are successful we can be successful: if our customers’ business grows, our business grows. We believe that success is to be shared,” said company representatives.

North Eastern Tyre & Exhausts Ltd

The past year has been monumental for North Eastern Tyre and Exhausts, resulting in extensive developments to both its head office complex and its satellite storage locations. NETE is a family-owned company operating throughout Yorkshire, North East England, Cumbria and the Scottish borders. Along with the Middlesbrough head office the company has now developed significant wholesale distribution points in Leeds, York and Newcastle.

In 2005 NETE received various accolades ranging from being a finalist in the North East business awards to the highly esteemed Tyre Industry Council award, presented in recognition of NETE’s commitment to tyre safety campaigns throughout the North of England. General Sales Manager Robin Pluves comments, “Receiving the award was recognition of our continued commitment to tyre safety. We support the tyre safety week campaigns because we feel they provide a rare opportunity to raise tyre safety awareness through local TV, radio and press. Our endeavours in bringing the tyre safety issue to the fore also benefit our wholesale partners who tend to increase levels of tyre sales throughout the campaign. Ultimately, working to raise the issue of tyre safety in our area is all part of the added value service that we provide for our customers”.

To explain how NETE have established themselves as an exceptional service provider, Commercial Director Gavin Marshall explains, “Warehouse storage capacity is critical to our success. To offer the variety of choice and multiple same day deliveries requires space, structured storage and highly efficient operations. Our service is the best because we have invested in infrastructure and staff to ensure superior service levels are never compromised. We must never forget that customers have a choice: it is their demands that drive NETE forward.”

Also nominated: Bond International, Southern Tyre Wholesalers

Industry Advertiser’s Award

BITS

!At BITS we’re proud of our service. And we want everyone to know about it. Which is why we developed a series of advertisements showing just how far we go for our customers. The ads show BITS’ vehicles in recognisable landmark locations throughout the country, under headlines such as ‘You’d have to go a long, long way to find a better tyre wholesaler’,” company representatives told T&A.

The ads go on to talk about our customer commitment to providing the best choice, best prices and the best service. Key facts such as our 24 hour daily deliveries and huge range of stock are also highlighted.

Produced in close partnership with leading Midlands design agency, PMA, the campaign has been running for over 12 months in key tyre wholesale publications and has already proved a big success with our customers.

Commenting on the nomination, Roger Beech, Media & Account Director of PMA, said “we’re obviously delighted that the campaign has been recognised. Winning new business for BITS is always our first priority, but winning awards is more than welcome too.”

Goodyear – RunOnFlat

A Hollywood blockbuster director and a UK gross media spend in excess of £2 million are two ingredients that the world’s leading tyre manufacturer mixed into its first print and television advertising campaign for ten years. Goodyear’s 2005 campaign introduced the company’s latest innovation, RunOnFlat, tyres which allow motorists to continue driving even after a puncture.

The TV commercial was created by Leagas Delaney, London and shot in Australia by Alex Proyas, director of last year’s Hollywood blockbuster I Robot. The campaign ran in 16 European countries and kicked off an extensive through-the-line campaign fully integrating TV and print advertising, public relations, web and in-store activities in Goodyear’s 500 nation-wide Hi-Q fitting centres.

Using Goodyear’s pioneering brand heritage as a backdrop to announcing the launch of break-through technology, the ad features the first tyre on the moon, the first tyre to travel at 600mph and RunOnFlat, the tyre that a puncture can’t stop. Shot running through urban streets, the tyre is punctured by a large nail yet keeps going, negotiating traffic and pedestrians safely and under perfect control.

Kumho Tyre (UK)

When promoting its consumer tyre products, Kumho aims to make the link between road and track and this is demonstrated in its current advertising campaign.

Using the copylines Driving ECSTAsy and Formula ECSTAsy, the ads use both visual and textual means to illustrate the proposition that Kumho’s know-how and expertise as a leading manufacturer of Formula 3 tyres has been harnessed to create the ‘racing-inspired’ ECSTA range of ultra-high performance car tyres.

To achieve maximum consistency of message, Kumho has used a similar ad template in both trade and consumer media, subtly adapted to carry the specific information and calls to action required in the particular context.

Thus, in the trade context, the basic theme of the ad does not vary but the call to action invites independent tyre retailers to find out about selling Kumho tyres through the ECSTA Performance Centre (EPC) programme and reflects this in the branding which includes the logo of Kumho’s national distributor, Micheldever Tyre Services, who operate the programme in conjunction with Kumho Tyre (UK).

Kumho’s consumer press advertising, which ran throughout 2005 in magazines such as EVO, Auto Express, MAX POWER and Fast Car, used an identical template but focused on inviting readers to find their nearest EPC by logging on to the Kumho dealer locator.

In both cases the campaign objectives have been successfully achieved: the EPC network reached its target size of 300 outlets by the end of 2005 and there are now twice as many visits to the locator page on the web site as there were when the campaign began in June 2004.

Sapphire Energy Recovery Ltd

Unlike many of the short-listed companies, Sapphire had only dipped its toe in the water in terms of advertising prior to 2005. As such, the company says it is delighted to be nominated for an Industry Advertiser’s Award.

2005 was an important year for Sapphire, as it had just eighteen months to generate awareness of our solution to tyre recycling prior to the introduction of the EU Landfill Directive in July 2006. To help in the task, staff undertook a comprehensive search for an advertising agency that would help us to build the right image and boost the profile of a previously little-known brand. Stoke-on-Trent based Agency Ad One offered the best combination of creativity and understanding of how to take the business forward.

As the topic of tyre recycling is seen as less glamorous than the sale of new tyres, the company had to work hard to achieve standout. Ad One therefore developed an impactful series of ads featuring our brand icon – a heavy-set guy with a real spare tyre, and featured him in a series of executions. The first showed Sapphire’s hero revealing his overhanging gut with the line “It’s not attractive to throw your spare tyres around”.

The second execution showed his considerable behind, with the line “Why do people with spare tyres keep needing a dump?” and the third featured the line “Don’t you think it’s time you sorted your wasteline?” The ads achieved considerable impact within the trade press and generated additional column inches in PR. Sapphire is now widely known within the industry, and the brand icon has a powerful association with Sapphire and its values.

Viking International

The ‘Viking Brilliant’ campaign was conceived and designed with one simple objective in mind – to stand out amongst the crowd.

A combination of eye-catching visuals and a bold use of colour helped to establish an advertising theme that not only grabbed attention but still managed to signify Viking’s core values of low prices, extensive product range and excellent service.

This more aggressive style of advertising was unusual in the tyre trade press and provided excellent stand-out against other campaigns. It was followed through both above and below-the-line. From full colour advertisements to direct mail campaigns.

Once created, the style of advertising allowed it to develop messages in key areas and was used to communicate the launch of our new customer contact number (a single call number automatically connecting the caller to their nearest telesales centre); our new online ordering facility; our vastly expanded range of premium branded high performance tyres; a highly successful winter battery promotion and our extensive range of exhausts components, catalytic converters and ancillaries.

The results speak for themselves. In a static market, Viking’s sales in key product areas have surpassed all expectations. But this is only part of the story. More activity is planned in 2006 to support new product and service initiatives – watch this space!

Vipal

Vipal is delighted to have been nominated in the Industry Advertisers Award category of this year’s TAFF Awards.

The company is based in Brazil and produces a range of products for the retreader, including Vipamold precured treads, camelback and Orbitread strip, as well as a range of consumables such as vulcanising cement and patches.

Building on successful domestic sales (Vipal has 43 per cent of the Brazilian market for retreading products) Vipal has launched a concentrated export campaign, aimed at Europe and further afield, backed up by an extensive advertising and marketing programme. This has included having a presence at trade exhibitions worldwide, including the Reifen show, Brityrex International and Tyrexpo Asia, among others, as well as advertising in leading trade publications, focusing on our wide variety of products and their quality.

This strategy has led to considerable export growth and Vipal is now represented in over 90 countries worldwide. The company has two manufacturing plants, producing 12,000 tons of materials a month and customers in Europe are served by our two warehouses on the continent, in Spain and Slovenia.

Vipal is a member of the Retread Manufacturers Association in the UK.

Non-Tyre Aftermarket Supplier of the Year

Apaseal Ltd

Apaseal continues to provide the tyre industry with qaulity service in tyre maintenance products and equipment. Apaseal has for over 50 years touched on some aspect or other of almost every business in this sector. Apaseal remains focused on its long established philosophy of providing the tyre and wheel aftermarket with a complete programme.

In addition to its own manufacturing range of tyre maintenance products, it works closely with its supply partners Corghi equipment, Dionys Hofmann UK Limited wheel weights, Schrader valves and Tech repair products in a continuous program of innovation and ideas to enhance the profitability of the tyre and fast fit market, both in the UK and overseas.

Apaseal continues to play a leading role in the changes that have affected our industry in terms of the introduction of lead free balance weights, valve pressure monitoring systems and the big changes that have taken place with the introduction of new tyre wheel sizes and run-flat technology.
By working in partnership with customers, suppliers and the various representative bodies Apaseal remains committed to provide high quality product, service and competitive prices that will enhance the performance of everyone connected with the tyre and fast fit marketplace.

Apaseal was delighted not only to be nominated by its customers but to win the Award for 2005 Non-Tyre Supplier of the Year and they remain committed to pursuing this achievement in 2006.

Hoffman Megaplan

The late 90s saw a number of changes at the original German Hofmann Balancing company, one of which was the emergence of Hofmann Megaplan, an off-shoot from the Hofmann Industrial Division acquired by Cemb.

Hofmann Megaplan set out to establish a line of products with premium specification and build quality.

In the UK, Hofmann Megaplan (UK) Ltd was set up by equipment specialist James Boon, specialising in high performance tyre changers & balancers and concentrating on providing a level of service and support that James felt had never been achieved by any equipment company before.

The rapid growth and glowing reputation now associated with Hofmann Megaplan suggests James has achieved that goal, with respected names such as Elite Direct and Performance Tyre Group moving over to Hofmann Megaplan equipment exclusively.

2006 sees the completion of the company’s purpose-built premises in Cambridgeshire with state of the art training facility, and the launch of the new concept tyre changer, The Boss, typifies Hofmann Megaplan’s ambition to lead the way forward in technology.

“At a time when a large part of the industry is looking towards China in an effort to reduce costs, we are remaining firmly sighted towards building a product that will do a job well, and providing a service that encourages customers to stay with us for future equipment purchases,” comments James. “It’s not rocket science; it’s just a good old-fashioned approach to business that many customers still like to see”.

Rema Tip Top UK

Rema Tip Top UK is delighted once again to be among the nominees for this award, as well as being nominated in the “Product Innovation” category too, for the outstanding Butler Aircombi30. The company took great satisfaction from receiving the former industry award ‘Non Tyre Supplier of the Year’ in 2001, followed by successive achievements in 2003 and 2004.

This year the company assures customers that our strategic thoughts continue to focus towards the successful development of the business and ultimately ways in which we can improve our overall support and service. Fundamentally it has been our goal to reduce the complexity within the supply chain and improve the competences of our business with effective service and technology. Appended to a highly effective team of telesales and field representatives, ‘Online ordering’ or ‘B2B’ will therefore become a fundamental tool in the way that we improve our business over the coming year.

2006 will also see the launch a new comprehensive product catalogue – ‘Everything for Tyres and Wheels’, which will provide customers with greater choice of quality products than ever before. Hundreds of exciting and innovative products pack this new catalogue edition which also contains loads of useful charts, product information and easy referencing – which customers will find really useful.

Unipart Automotive

Unipart Automotive, the UK’s largest independent parts and supplier network supplier, is delighted to be nominated for the ‘non tyre aftermarket supplier’ category in this year’s TAFF (Tyre and Fast Fit) Awards.

Unipart Automotive provides a consistent national service, fully supported by comprehensive product ranges and high levels of branch availability. The nationwide network of Unipart Automotive branches provide high service levels by focusing on the core values of range, availability, innovation, knowledge and value for money.

Focusing on the different needs of its customers ensures Unipart Automotive’s position as first choice supplier in the UK automotive aftermarket. Customers, who include Nationwide Auto Centres and Kwik-Fit, as well as independent garages, receive a service level of delivery within 30 minutes across an extensive product range.

Unipart Automotive provides a full range of car and light van components, commercial vehicles, garage equipment, workshop and bodyshop planning and design services as well as bodyshop consumables and retail supplies.
Unipart Automotive also directly supports 1,400, independent, owner-operated garages through its Unipart Car Care Centre programme. Each Car Care Centre trades under the owner’s name but benefits from business and marketing support and from Unipart’s UK-leading parts service.

Also nominated: RL Automotive

Environmental Award

Credential Environmental

Credential Environmental is one of the UK’s leading providers of waste management solutions to the automotive industry and hazardous waste management, having the experience, capability and technology to recycle or safely dispose of a wide range of waste materials.

Credential operates two of the UK’s most established automotive waste businesses, Automotive Waste Solutions, and Waste Tyre Solutions, as well as handling and processing hazardous waste through its sister businesses, including recently-acquired Betta Special Waste.

The £16 million turnover group is a UK market leader in the collection and recycling of automotive waste, including tyres, brake and battery fluids, oils and catalytic converters, and the treatment and transfer of other hazardous waste.

Operating sites across the UK, including Selby, Hinckley, London, Worcester and Durham, Credential employs over 120 staff, and has been integrating its several new businesses, including WTS and AWS, since their acquisition last year.

Waste Tyre Solutions has enjoyed a period of strong trading over the last quarter of 2005 and is already seeing some business boost as a result of forthcoming legislative changes.

Recent contract wins have boosted turnover, and the business is experiencing a sharp increase in demand from independent tyre retailers and dealerships nationally.

C-Tyres

There will always be a place in the market for a quality retread, believes C-Tyres, who manufactures tyres under the well-established Colway brand name; a name synonymous with quality for over three decades.

Not only do retreads offer a value-for-money alternative in such niche markets as taxi tyres and 4×4 tyres, but they are truly the environmentally-friendly option, typically saving up to 20 litres of oil per tyre, compared with new tyres.

C-Tyres produces a wide range of retreads for cars, taxis, 4×4, light and heavy trucks and for specific applications such as waste collection vehicles.

If proof of performance is required, then look no further than Colway’s proud record in the demanding arena of motorsports – time and time again Colway tyres have proved winners, both in gruelling rallies and on the track, and, for 2006, Colway is the control tyre for the Lodge Sports Porsche 924 Racing Championship and the Mazda Max 5 Championship.

The problem of scrap tyres is one that affects us all and it is worth noting that independent research conducted by such auspicious bodies as the Environment Agency and the DTI has found that retreading should be regarded as the best practical environmental option when recycling tyres. Retreading conserves valuable raw materials by re-using casings which would otherwise be thrown away.

Quality is of paramount importance to C-Tyres, with every stage of the manufacturing process subject to rigorous testing and scrutiny, from initial casing inspection to final examination of the newly-recycled tyre. And those casings which don’t meet C-Tyres’ exacting standards are disposed of responsibly, being shredded on site as the raw material for carpet underlay.

Sapphire Energy Recovery Ltd

2005 was a busy year for Sapphire. Growth was seen in all areas of the country as more and more collectors and retailers took advantage of Sapphire’s unique offering.

The main reasons for Sapphire’s success and growth are: sustainable disposal, our passion for customer service and investment in recycling locations, giving national coverage. All of these elements combine to give confidence to all of our customers, giving both tyre collectors and tyre retailers a facility for secure and environmentally-friendly tyre disposal.

Expansion plans for 2006 are now well under way with a new plant serving Manchester due to open. The depot is capable of processing 45,000 tonnes per year and is being located to support the North West tyre retail network. Sapphire also has a transfer site near Bristol, serving the South-West, and a chipping location close to Edinburgh for the Scottish market.

Sapphire’s operations have the support of the UK cement industry, with ten kilns now having permission to take waste as fuel. The cement industry has invested millions of Pounds to achieve the environmental targets set by the EU “Waste Incineration Directive”, which was implemented on 28th December last year. Without these investments, the problem of waste disposal in the UK would be even greater than at present.

All of our processing centres in the UK are certified to ISO 14001 and registered to the Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS) and regularly monitored by Environment Agency. We are also a member of the Responsible Recycler Scheme and Tyre Industry Council.

Vellco Tyre Control

Having enjoyed a very successful trading year in 2005, Vellco Tyre Control is delighted to have been nominated as a contender for the Environmental Award in the NTDA annual TAFF awards.

It has been a year of progress and recognition. A busy year commenced with the acquisition of REG (UK) from Continental Tyre UK which saw John Campbell join the Vellco management board as Business Development Director and during the course of the year Vellco has progressively expanded its highly successful operation including automotive waste material. This directly resulted in the company taking delivery of a number of state-of-the-art Renault trucks and trailers including the acclaimed Magnum 440 Double Sleeper to accommodate the ongoing increase in business. Vellco now has in excess of twenty vehicles and twenty five trailers in its collection fleet.

As a fitting finale to the year, Vellco were honoured with the prestigious business accolade of being included in the York Evening Press Newspaper Business Awards as a finalist in the ‘Best Environmental Company of the Year 2005’ category.

Commenting on being nominated in the forthcoming NTDA awards, John Campbell states, “Vellco fully appreciates and supports the excellent work carried out by the NTDA within the UK tyre industry. Therefore to be nominated is a great honour and a perfect springboard for another successful trading year.”

Product Innovation

Apaseal – Lead-free Weights

Apaseal is very pleased to be nominated for the Product Innovation Award and that the introduction of lead free weights has received the recognition from the Members in respect of the task involved.

In conjunction with Dionys Hofmann UK Limited and Airvert, Apaseal has been involved in this process for over three years prior to the introduction of the End of Vehicle Life EEC Directive, which was introduced firstly on OE in 2003 and in the aftermarket in July 2005.

Whilst the objective to remove all lead product from the vehicle might appear a simple process, this challenging task to firstly find the correct replacement material and develop all the various fitments required and effectively conduct a smooth transition has been a major exercise in innovation, design and organisation.

The further task was in convincing the market that changes in attitude to fitment, training and the full commercial implications were understood. Apaseal has worked exhaustively to provide information, training, guidance and to assist the aftermarket in a planned and profitable transition that has enabled the manufacturer, distributor and the user to meet their needs and in doing so has met the needs of the environment and the commercial desire of the market.

Goodyear – RunOnFlat

The hard shoulder on a dark night; stranded in the rain with young children; missing a meeting because your car lets you down. Many of the things that drivers dread most are now a thing of the past thanks to RunOnFlat.

RunOnFlat is available in numerous different sizes and designs across the Goodyear and Dunlop ranges and build on the two companies’ unrivalled past experience with tyres such as EMT and DSST respectively. More and more cars being fitted with RunOnFlat tyres, ranging from Minis to Ferraris.

Research from leading researcher JD Power, revealed that 84 per cent of motorists would be more interested in fitting their cars with RunOnFlat type tyres than with any other available features – such as ESP (Electronic Stability Program), Satellite Navigation Systems or Rear Parking Assist

84 per cent of people would like RunOnFlat tyres on their next car and 82 per cent prefer the concept of RunOnFlat over having a heavy spare tyre in the boot of the car which takes up much-needed space.

Independent tests in magazines such as BMW Car praised Goodyear’s newest technology for overcoming many of the shortcomings of other run-flat tyres. According to the article, “there is no doubt that the Excellence RunOnFlats are a significant leap forward over previous run-flats… This car rode noticeably smoother than a previous car we have tested on the older runflat tyres. Ruts and bumps were simply soaked up”

Michelin – Tweel

Michelin revolutionised the world of mobility with the introduction of the pneumatic tyre in 1895 and then in 1946 changed forever the automotive world with the invention of the radial tyre.

Now in the position of world leader, Michelin continues this quest for innovation and technological excellence. A commitment to research and development, the annual investment of 4.5 per cent of global turnover in R&D is certainly a commitment, delivers continuous improvements in product performance.

The Michelin Tweel is the fusion of the tyre and the wheel with the potential to transform mobility. It has been tested on low-speed, lower-weight carrying vehicles such as skid-steers and the Segway Hi-Line, and Tweel is now in the prototype stage for passenger car applications. Tweel delivers the benefits of pneumatic radial tyre performance while dramatically increasing lateral stiffness, which positively enhances handling and cornering response. Additionally, Tweel has suspension-like characteristics that can simplify and in some applications eliminate the need for separate vehicle suspension systems.

Having been the Company to introduce air-filled tyres to the world, it is with a certain pleasurable sense of irony that the same engineering talents have produced the Tweel, an airless tyre that will never puncture, cannot be dangerously over inflated and eliminates the need to check tyre pressures. The Tweel concept uses fewer raw materials and actually extends the practical application of the wheel by including integral suspension movement. The ultimate reliability of the Tweel is the aspect that is attracting vehicle designers from around the world.

Pro Align – GSP 9700

Most new cars have the wheel and tyre assemblies ‘matched’ as well as balanced. Vibration can come from the change in rolling stiffness of the wheel/tyre and from imbalance. The GSP9700 is designed to give that ‘as new’ driving experience when the aftermarket fits replacement tyres.

‘Matching’ is placing the stiff spot of the tyre in line with the wheel rim low spot, thus giving the smoothest rolling ride. But what happens when the tyres are replaced? Each tyre and rim combination is individual and has variations, but put them together and the error can be magnified and can cause rolling vibration. Balancing alone will not resolve the problem.

At first sight, the GSP 9700 looks like a top-of-the-range wheel balancer, with automatic size and data input. Indeed, it is used to balance wheels, but that’s where the comparison stops.

The unit takes the wheel and tyre assembly on a ‘road test’ using the integral load roller (capable of applying road force up to 700kg) and tells you whether the assembly has high force variation present in the assembly. If so, the unit will diagnose and split the amount of the problem into the tyres’ and wheel rims’ contribution.

In most cases repositioning the tyre on the rim will reduce or eliminate these vibration inputs, thus reducing vibration comebacks. The application of balance weights is then done to balance the spinning assembly.

Additionally the GSP will measure tyre lateral force difference (or pull) between 2 or more tyres, and will diagnose tyre related pull problems. The GSP will suggest which tyres should go together on an axle to reduce the net pull.

Combined with Hunter’s four wheel alignment equipment it offers the ultimate in ‘Complete Tyre Service’.

Rema Tip Top – Butler AirCombi 30

The Butler AirCombi 30 has the same stunning features as the AirCombi EVO with some equally significant new developments. During its launch at the 2005 AT Show, the Butler AirCombi 30 stunned the crowds in Birmingham, demonstrating its effortless ability to change some of the world’s toughest and largest new performance tyres and wheels.

With the specially patented ‘LiftOne’ device, the AirCombi 30 takes care of the lifting work whilst you watch on in amazement. Basically, it vertically raises the wheel, and then turns it over into a horizontal position, perfectly aligning with the self-centring device. All parts that are in contact with the rim and the tyre are made of plastic or plastic-coated, ensuring that the customer never has to worry about expensive rims getting damaged. The shape of the ‘LiftOne’ also allows you to work using minimal space. No electrical connections are necessary, as it is powered solely by compressed air.

The exclusive ‘Tulip’ Wheel Clamping System allows the wheel to move in unison with ‘hydraulic roller forces’ without risk of bending or damaging the rim and it is naturally safer than steel-jaw clamping, which can often damage the surface of sophisticated wheels.

The side shovel bead loosener is extremely fast when servicing standard tyres and supports the operation of niche applications such as motorcycle and light truck tyres.