Karl Naylor New Grouptyre MD

Grouptyre has appointed Karl Naylor as Managing Director following the departure of Peter Harries, who has left to take up a key opportunity elsewhere within the tyre industry. During 14 months with Grouptyre, Harries has worked on processes designed to build upon the company’s leading role in the tyre wholesaling industry. In this period Grouptyre has enjoyed sales growth of over 15 per cent.

Karl Naylor has a BSc honours degree and has worked in the tyre industry for 14 years. After 10 years with Michelin, he joined Grouptyre in 2004 as Sales Manager for National Accounts and a year later was promoted to Director of Commercial Operations. Mr Naylor is a Member of the Institute of Professional Sales and has held the post of vice chairman of the Tyre Wholesale Group of the NTDA since November 2007. He will now assume responsibility for implementing Grouptyre’s business development strategy, which is centred on adding value throughout the supply chain.

“Having worked closely with Peter and the Directors in shaping Grouptyre’s long-term business plan, I am delighted to have the opportunity to guide the company to the next stage of its evolution,” says Karl Naylor. “We wish Peter every success in his new role with one of our major customers, and look forward to building on our respective relationships for mutual benefit.”

Operating in three-way partnership agreements, Grouptyre supports manufacturers by providing the buffer stock needed to ensure consistent availability and by helping develop their brand goals. At the same time, it supports independent tyre retailers, national account customers and franchised dealerships by delivering the increased service levels that will ensure they have access to the products they need to achieve their operational targets.

The announcement of Mr Naylor’s appointment has been widely welcomed, both within Grouptyre and by its suppliers and customers.

“Karl’s understanding of our business and support for the member companies, coupled with his drive, enthusiasm and vision for the future of tyre distribution in the UK, made him the obvious choice as Peter’s successor,” says Larry Cross, managing director of Oak Tyres (UK) Ltd.