Michelin Wins Frost & Sullivan Consumer Choice Award

Europe has overwhelmingly cast its vote in favour of the tyre brand it regards as the safest and most durable, Michelin, putting the company miles ahead of the competition. The French tyre supplier emerged as Europe’s preference during a recent survey of consumer perceptions of chassis technologies conducted by Frost & Sullivan. Its dominance in Europe’s tyre market saw Michelin roll away with the 2007 Frost & Sullivan Customer Choice Award for Brand Offering in the categories of “safe and durable tyres” and “best overall tyre brand” in Europe.

Michelin was selected as the recipient of Frost & Sullivan’s prestigious award based on a recent study entitled, “Customer Attitudes and Perceptions Towards Driving Dynamics” covering over 2,000 respondents across five regions (France, Germany, Spain, Italy and the United Kingdom) and all vehicle segments (A&B, C, D&E, SUV and MPV).

Frost & Sullivan’s findings state that European customers single out Michelin as the leading of innovative forces amongst tyre manufacturers in Europe. Respondents also identified Michelin tyres as being the most durable among competing offerings across Europe. Indeed, the company was ranked as the number one tyre brand in each of the three award categories under review in Frost & Sullivan’s survey – safety, durability and overall excellence – and consistently emerged as the preferred choice across the five national markets and out of the twenty different tyre brands analysed, even superseding the stature of national brands on their home turf.

“An established presence in the European market has helped Michelin create a powerful brand name,” observes Frost & Sullivan Industry Analyst Krishnasami Rajagopalan.

“Coupled with tools such as digital mapping services ViaMichelin, high recognition rates (not least on the strength of the Bibendum mascot), as well as advanced tyre technologies inspired from its experience in various motor racing events, Michelin has progressively captured customer loyalty,” Mr Rajagopalan continues.

The Frost & Sullivan Customer Choice Award for brand offering safe and durable tyres and best overall tyre brand in Europe is based on consumer perceptions. Frost & Sullivan has identified industry participants that excel in offering consumers safe and durable tyres and are perceived by consumers to be the best overall tyre brand.