Ryder Re-ups With BFNAT, Bandag

(Akron/Tire Review) Bridgestone/Firestone North American Tire and Ryder Systems Inc. have renewed their tyre supply contract – with a slight twist. Under the new deal, Bandag Inc. will provide Ryder with retreading services, while BFNAT will provide new tyres and related services such as just-in-time delivery, tyre and wheel maintenance and emergency road services.

BFNAT and Bandag will service Ryder through their respective dealer networks. BFNAT has had a tyre supply contract with Ryder since 1990.

Bridgestone Americas Holding, parent of BFNAT, is in the process of purchasing Bandag in a $1 billion deal. Until that purchase is completed, which is expected by mid-year, the two have to operate separately.

“We are pleased to announce this long-term pact,” said Singh Ahluwalia, BFNAT president of commercial products/truck and bus tyres. “As our companies strengthen and evolve, we look forward to establishing even greater standards of quality service and innovation.”