More Dealers Undertaking RFT Training – Bridgestone

Bridgestone’s training programme educating tyre dealers and fitters about its RFT run-flat tyre technology has now seen more than 320 dealerships certified to replace run-flat. This marks a 25 per cent increase in the number of dealerships taking the free course compared with the same period last year.

Bridgestone acknowledges that the growing success of the programme reflects the buoyancy of the run-flat sector. The company reports that unit sales of Bridgestone RFT tyres more than doubled last year, with Europool data indicating the market is now more than 13 times the size it was just three years ago.

“As a growing number of manufacturers fit run-flat tyres as original equipment, its vital tyre technicians are up to speed with the technology,” said Paul Turner, technical training manager at Bridgestone UK.

“What makes our training stand out from the rest is the fact we organised practical, hands-on sessions that enable participants to get a better understanding of the technology. It goes beyond reading leaflets or watching a training DVD. And this means that every time a run-flat tyre is requested by a customer the best advice is given and the correct fitting procedure is followed.”

As part of the Run-Flat Certificate Programme specialist trainers from Bridgestone visit the delegates’ site in addition to leading training sessions at the individual depot or dealership. Sessions include demonstrations and tests to ensure proficiency, and an assessment of equipment to gauge its suitability for fitting run-flat tyres. Technicians are also given theoretical advice on run-flat technology itself.

More information regarding the programme can be obtained at http://www.firststoppartners.co.uk/training.htm