CarbonBlack Introduces Australian Tyre Quoting Marketplace

CarbonBlack TyreXchange (CarbonBlack), Australia’s first independent online quoting marketplace for new passenger tyres and related services, outlined on November 12 its plans for a national rollout. Currently operating in New South Wales, Victoria and the Australian Capital Territory, the company intends to continue its expansion within Australia and further integrate value-added services including consumer and industry data, vehicle servicing, insurance, general car safety and maintenance, driver education and car detailing and accessories to its site. CarbonBlack managing director, Jodi Stanton, said that the launch of Australia’s first independent online quoting marketplace for tyres was a breakthrough for both industry and consumers.

“We only deal in new stock and can compare a vast range of tyres across multiple dealers and manufacturers for our registered users. A major benefit is the seller actually does all the work for consumers,” said Ms. Stanton. “For the passenger tyre industry this is an efficient leverage of existing Internet technology which also solves the issues surrounding traditional ways of marketing.

“Over twelve million passenger tyres are sold every year within Australia and this initiative offers manufacturers and tyre dealers with the capability to transparently and cost-effectively market their product to consumers and create greater awareness of brand.”

Stanton believes that traditional customer acquisition channels for tyre dealers have posed problems with cost and measurability. “We will be able to provide sophisticated market intelligence for industry and investigate the tyre buying habits of Australians. Dealers will be able to develop a better knowledge of customer needs, requirements and profiles inevitably leading to greater influence in purchase decisions and brand loyalty.”

Stanton believes this will bring measurable benefits for the Australian consumer. “This is a single independent channel that provides competitive pricing, control over the purchase process – with around the clock convenience. Product and dealer reviews, tyre safety and service information will be introduced to consumers for the first time in one location. With no cost to the consumer to improve the way that they buy passenger tyres, this has to be a major leap forward for consumer choice and education,” Stanton concluded.

CarbonBlack has established an advisory board as part of its long-term strategic growth plans. The company recently announced the inclusion of Cliff Rosenberg as part of this strategic team. Rosenberg is the current chairman of Clear Light Digital, a digital strategy agency, and was previously the managing director of Yahoo! Australia & New Zealand. With the establishment of its operations and a strategic review board, CarbonBlack will focus on expansion in the remaining states and territories of Australia. The company is also currently in discussion with strategic partners to seek funding for Australian and United States marketing programs and resources.