Linglong, Nexen join ITMA

The Imported Tyre Manufacturers’ Association (ITMA) has announced that Shandong Linglong and Nexen Tire have become its newest members, increasing the total number to 15, and effectively more than 30 tyre brands. Five of these have joined within the last 12 months, showing the Association’s growing popularity. ITMA represents the interests of non-EU based tyre manufacturers having been established more than 30 years ago when imported tyre brands started to gain a significant share of UK and mainland European replacement market.

“We are delighted to welcome our two newest members on-board,” comments David Seward, president of ITMA. “As we have been predicting for some time now, the growing number of laws and technical requirements that tyre importers and manufacturers must adhere to can be quite daunting, so it is important for everyone to fully understand their responsibilities. By joining ITMA independent manufacturers and importers can be sure that they receive this knowledge in a timely manner and can therefore compete on a level playing field.”

Established in 1975, Shangdong Linglong has an annual production capacity of 30 million tyres, sold in more than 180 countries and regions. The company’s products are distributed by Eskay Tyres in Europe.

Nexen Tire was South Korea’s first tyre company when it was established 70 years ago, adopting its current name in 2000. It has a 20 per cent share of its domestic market and exports to more than 120 countries with annual sales of more than $600 million. Its products are distributed across the UK by Stapleton’s Tyre Services.

According to recent figures released by the Tyre Industry Federation, non-EU sourced tyres now account for more than 50 per cent of all UK replacement tyre sales and 30 per cent across Europe as a whole. Over 300 brands of tyres are on sale in European markets sourced from more than 45 countries around the world.

“Europe remains a very attractive market-place for many non-EU based manufacturers, but in order to realise the full potential from operating in the region, it is critical that all legal requirements are met,” continues Seward. “The sheer scale and rate of change of these requirements can be a significant drain on resources. However, with ITMA’s assistance we will provide the insight needed to help all of our members fully understand their responsibilities in a quick and easy manner.”

The Association also has a technical working group, which advises and assists all members with regular technical and legislative updates. ITMA’s members also meet regularly to discuss points of common interest. ITMA is also a founder member of the UK’s Tyre Industry Federation.

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