TAFF Awards 2013 final line-up
The voting process for the 2013 NTDA Tyre & Fast Fit Awards has already begun and ends on 27th September. The big difference this year is that voting is only via the NTDA website (ntda.co.uk/TAFF) and not by post, as in previous years. For the second year running, the TAFF Awards are sponsored by speciality chemicals company Lanxess.
Apart from that, the format is broadly similar to before, with NTDA members nominating suppliers in a number of categories. The five most popular in each category make up the short lists and it is on these that the tyre industry votes. Voting is open to NTDA members and non-members alike. As well as these categories, companies can nominate one of their products or services for the “Innovation Award” – entries are whittled down to a short list and a panel of industry pundits makes the final choice.
A recent addition (now in its third year) is the Tyre Centre of the Year award, in which retailers can nominate one centre (or one centre per NTDA region for national companies) as an example of retail excellence. The winner is chosen after a programme of mystery shopping and the process is conducted by Market Research specialists Encircle Marketing and overseen by the NTDA’s Aftermarket Supplier’s Group. All this comes to a head at the NTDA’s Annual Dinner on Wednesday 16th October, which this year is being held at the Hilton Metropole Hotel, at the NEC, Birmingham. To help you make up your minds, here are brief descriptions of each of the finalists and we wish them all good luck.
Tyre Manufacturer of the Year
Four of this year’s nominees are regulars in this category’s shortlist and they are joined by a first-time nominee in Apollo Vredestein – a company that has been prominent in the news recently, with its purchase of Cooper Tire. Will we see a new name on the honours board?
- Apollo Vredestein (UK) Ltd
Apollo Vredestein continues to introduce exciting and innovative products across its range. For passenger car tyres, the latest to be launched is the Wintrac xtreme S, a high-performance (Y-speed rated) winter tyre – the most recent product to be designed in conjunction with Italian style house Giugiaro – a partnership that goes back 16 years and was responsible for such tyres as the award winning Ultrac Sessanta and the Ultrac Vorti. This latter, along with Vredestein’s Sportrac 5, scored consistently well in a series of tyre tests run by motoring publications earlier this year.
Although Apollo Vredestein has developed a number of stylish-looking high performance car tyres, there is much more to the company’s product offering, with an extensive range of tyres for bicycles; tyres designed for all sorts of applications, among which are racing, touring and the uniquely styled ‘all season’ product.
Apollo Vredestein also has an enviable reputation in the field of agricultural tyres and last year made a substantial investment in its factory at Enschede, in order to increase production by 50 per cent, mostly of radial implement tyres, low profile high performance tractor tyres and the new to market ‘GreenTrax’ lawn-care range.
Enschede was also chosen as the site of Apollo Vredestein’s Global R&D Centre, opened earlier this year, which will serve as the hub for development and testing of all car and van tyres across the Apollo Vredestein group. In April this year, Apollo Vredestein UK took up residence in their new, individually styled, UK head office; confirming their commitment to the long term position and development of the group brands.
- Bridgestone UK Ltd
Referring to Bridgestone’s nomination, John McNaught, managing director, Bridgestone Europe, North Region, says: “From our off-the-road products right through to our advanced range of passenger car tyres, Bridgestone prides itself on being a true premium player with a diverse portfolio to match. We are delighted to be nominated as a finalist in the Tyre Manufacturer of the Year category of the TAFF Awards, which goes a long way in validating our enduring company philosophy.
“To quote the Bridgestone mission statement delivered by our founder Shojiro Ishibashi, we aim to ‘serve society with superior quality’. It is uplifting to know that this motto is just as relevant and appropriate today, as we celebrate being shortlisted for an award that we hold in great regard. Bridgestone prides itself on creating innovative products that respond to customer needs, while at the same time using true industry observations to produce superior solutions for motorists.
“We really do pride ourselves on leading the way in quality, technologically innovative goods and services, using our industry respected brand to go from strength to strength. If the TAFF Awards climax with some recognition of our products and services, then you won’t find a prouder man in the room than me. To everyone involved in this year’s awards, we hope the evening is a memorable one!”
- Continental Tyre Group
Whether developing innovative products or offering unique business support to customers, Continental strives to lead the way in the industry. From working to improve wet grip on the road to wet grip on the sole of your adidas shoe, Continental is constantly challenging the boundaries of research and development to push technology forward.
Continental aims to lead the way with winter products, making further advancements in winter tyre technology with the ContiWinterContact TS850. This is backed by consistently high performance in leading independent tests. Continental currently has a broad range of accolades from leading motoring publications, such as ‘Best Winter Tyre’ in the 2013 Auto Express product awards and Best Buy accolades with Which? magazine for the latest ContiPremiumContact 5 in 205/55 R16W, and for the ContiEcoContact 5 in tyre size 165/70 R14T.
This same high quality tyre development is true across all business units with the innovative CSEasy industrial solid tyre, which can be fitted in minutes without the need for a mounting press, to the latest introduction of Generation 3 tyres specifically designed for buses and coaches combining highest safety levels with class-leading fuel efficiency.
Continental is one of the leading manufacturers of passenger and light truck tyres in Europe, and the world’s fourth largest passenger tyre manufacturer. Its Commercial Vehicle tyre business is one of the largest manufacturers of truck, bus and industrial tyres worldwide. The product development focus of the Continental brand is to optimise all safety-relevant characteristics, while simultaneously minimising rolling resistance.
Continental also prides itself on its supply chain performance and working closely with retailers to understand and help improve processes.
- Goodyear Dunlop Tyres UK
Goodyear Dunlop has had quite a year so far – in this year’s published summer tyre tests across Europe, its tyres received 39 recommendations, and out of 37 of these tests by the most respected automotive magazines, Goodyear Dunlop tyres have won 24 of them.
The Dunlop Sport BluResponse had a phenomenal start to the year – winning 5/5 of its first tyre tests. Goodyear followed this up with the EfficientGrip Performance and Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 being awarded Which? Best Buys and the EfficientGrip winning the AutoExpress Summer Tyre Award. In the AutoBild fuel saving tyre test, the Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance and the Dunlop Sport BluResponse shared the top spot.
As well as winning awards, Goodyear Dunlop’s new products have performed well against the EU Tyre Label criteria – in its Ultra-High performance summer tyre segment, 25 per cent of the sizes are rated a B in rolling resistance and A in wet grip. Across its current summer tyre portfolio, two thirds of Europe passenger car summer tyre sizes are covered with tyres labelled CC or above.
Away from its products, the manufacturer has also been recognised with a Top Employers Europe award by the CRF Institute for exemplary Human Resources practices and policies, and was rated top in its annual Tyre Dealer Satisfaction Survey against its competitors.
- Michelin Tyre Plc
With more than 113,000 employees, sales organisations in more than 170 countries and an annual R&D budget of 600 million euros, Michelin is a worldwide leader in tyre development and manufacture.
New products launched in the past year include six new motorcycle tyres catering for a range of bikes from commuters to round-the-world adventure bikes. The Michelin Energy Saver+ car tyre and Agilis+ van tyre deliver an optimal combination of safety, longevity and fuel efficiency. In the truck tyre sector Michelin’s new X-Line Energy offering consists of a range of tyres incorporating Michelin Durable Technologies, which offer long-distance operators excellent performance in all areas including tyre life, rolling resistance and safety.
A major innovation in 2012 was the launch of Michelin’s ‘talking tyres’, which took place in a Stagecoach bus depot in London and showcased Michelin’s RFID-equipped tyres to journalists from around Europe.
Michelin’s commitment to offering products which provide the best overall performance was reinforced by the announcement of its ‘Michelin Total Performance’ approach to tyre design. With any Michelin tyre, drivers can be confident they will get high levels of grip and handling, as well as excellent environmental performance, while not sacrificing safety.
Environmental performance, workplace ergonomics and efficiency were at the forefront of developments at Michelin’s Ballymena and Stoke-on-Trent plants. Two new wind turbines were installed at the Northern Ireland facility while two completely new production lines were installed in Stoke to enable the operation to run at optimum efficiency and remanufacture the latest generation of Michelin truck tyres.
On the motorsport front Michelin again took all three places on the podium in the premier LMP1 class at the 24 hours of Le Mans, one of the few international race series open to competition between rival tyre manufacturers and an extreme laboratory to develop the next generation of high performance car tyres.
This link between the track and the road will be highlighted by Michelin’s involvement in the Goodwood Festival of Speed where, in addition to having a main stand, the Company will again sponsor the Supercar Paddock and Supercar Run.
Tyre Wholesaler of the Year
Last year’s finalists have all made it through to this year’s shortlist and we are anticipating the usual, fiercely-contested battle that has characterised this category in the past. It has been a year of ups and downs for some in the wholesale business, so who will come out on top this year?
- B.I.T.S.
B.I.T.S. has built its reputation as a provider of tyres nationwide on a daily delivery basis, efficiently and at attractive prices. This is achieved through a network of wholesale centres at key locations across the country and a fleet of dedicated delivery vehicles.
All types of tyres are stocked, including car, van and 4×4/SUV tyres and a vast range of brands, from premium products, through mid range and budget tyres, so whatever your customers may require, B.I.T.S. has a tyre to fit the bill at a price to suit all budgets.
The company has a number of exclusive UK agencies for brands such as Vee Rubber and Roadstone and has invested considerable time and effort in establishing these brands among UK motorists.
In addition to offering a wide range of products, B.I.T.S. recognises that customers are demanding a high quality of service, with reliability of supply taken for granted.
- Bond International
Bond International has specialised in wholesale tyres for over 45 years. Pocklington near York is the location of the HQ and first distribution centre, with three other tyre distribution centres located in Stevenage, Redditch and Chepstow. Bond has grown and maintained its position as one of the UK’s leading tyre wholesalers. Last year the company supplied nearly 2.5 million tyres to the trade, serviced by its own fleet of more than 90 delivery vehicles.
As well as stocking the full range of premium brands such as Goodyear, Dunlop, Michelin, Pirelli, Continental etc Bond International is the sole UK supplier of several mid-range and budget brands.
Since 1990 Bond has been the exclusive supplier of Marshal tyres the leading mid-range tyre. The company’s budget and value ranges includes, Sailun, Infinity, Jinyu, Rotalla and Admiral and there are key dealer programmes for Marshal and Infinity, offering a range of superb rewards for members.
Bond International has an online ordering system, called Fastrac, which gives customers the option to instantly generate printable tyre labels to meet the recently-introduced EU legislation in this area.
- Grouptyre (UK) Ltd
Grouptyre are once again delighted to have been nominated in the category of Tyre Wholesaler of the Year.
Grouptyre has been at the forefront of tyre wholesaling in the UK since its inception in 1995, when the group of like-minded regional wholesalers came together to form a national presence, offering excellent levels of service and support to tyre retailers throughout the UK. Whilst Grouptyre has evolved over the last few years – it now consists of 10 strong regional wholesalers – the values of supporting the businesses of retailers still hold true, offering levels of service that only a local supplier can, but with the additional benefits of being part of a large national organisation.
The figures speak for themselves: over one million tyres held in stock at any one time, 37 strategically located wholesale locations, 19 customer contact centres and more than 400 delivery vehicles on the road, offering a same day, multiple and rapid response delivery service. This level of service, combined with a highly skilled team of Business Development Managers on the ground, offering a wealth of experience in the tyre industry, means that tyre retailers can be sure of exceptional levels of support to help them grow their business and compete in their local market. Its stable of dependable brands covers everything from premium high performance to margin-boosting exclusive lines, such as Evergreen, Federal, Goodride and Landsail.
With the tyre industry having experienced some difficult trading conditions over the last couple of years, Grouptyre has demonstrated commitment and dedication to its customer base, by staying true to its values and providing exceptional levels of service and support. Grouptyre believe that a customer’s success is crucial to their own and that is why they are committed to continually giving customers healthy margins based on quality tyres, plus the proven back up and service of the UK’s leading wholesaler.
- Micheldever Tyre Services
Micheldever has established a national wholesale distribution network of 15 locations around the UK, supplying more than 4,500 independent tyre retailers. This, coupled with the 225-strong fleet of wholesale delivery vehicles, ensures superb product availability, with deliveries on a next day or same day basis.
The Micheldever offering is about much more than just products – although a comprehensive range of tyres is available, from premium brands, through value and budget tyres – as the company offers its customers support programmes designed to enhance business prospects by generating increased footfall at their depots. Micheldever also has a number of exclusive tyre brands in its portfolio, offering its customers a great opportunity to build their relationships with their customers.
Micheldever has always worked closely with the independent sector and its programmes are designed to support independent retailers in an increasingly-competitive marketplace.
- Stapleton’s (Tyre Services) Ltd
For many years now, Stapleton’s has pursued its ‘working for the customer’ philosophy, which has been the driving force behind countless innovations and a genuine partnership ethos that permeates every facet of an operation constantly modified to provide retail customers with what they’ve asked for. That includes the ever-evolving ProfitLink online ordering system, which has recently been reinvented to give retailers even more flexibility and control over their buying strategies. Combined with an augmented fleet of over 300, delivering up to three times daily from 14 locations nationwide from a total stock of more than a million tyres, Stapleton’s has a solid platform from which to support, and work in partnership with, all tyre retailers.
Nevertheless, the company will continue to work tirelessly on further refinement: “We’ve been revisiting our ‘working for the customer’ philosophy over the last year and asking our retailers what more we can do to help them compete and succeed. As a result we’re working harder than ever on their behalf to develop service improvements that benefit every level of their business from initial order to sell out. Of course, that sense of partnership is its own reward – nevertheless, we’re very proud indeed to have been nominated again for a TAFF award”, says Stapleton’s Managing Director Yutaka Kimbara. “I’d like to express our gratitude on behalf of everyone across the Stapleton’s nationwide network for this nomination. It really is an inspiration to us all.”
Industry Advertising Campaign
As in previous years, this category is sponsored by Tyres & Accessories and the five finalists’ entries have upheld the high level of advertising that we have seen in previous years. Whether trying to appeal to the public or to tyre retailers, a tyre is not the most glamorous or exciting product, but these five campaigns have certainly brought out the best in their advertising agencies. Added spice for Goodyear Dunlop is that the company’s two main brands go head-to-head in this category.
- Dunlop – 125 Years of Race to Road Technology
The objectives of the campaign were to cement the connection between Dunlop’s motorsport credentials and road tyres, to leverage Dunlop’s 125 year history and commitment to innovation and to bring the future to life through Dunlop’s latest creations on the track and road. It was a multi-media campaign, encompassing consumer automotive titles, tyre trade media, social media and channel websites.
The campaign took advantage of Dunlop’s enviable track record in motorsport. In the past 12 months drivers and riders on its tyres have won at championships including the Isle of Man TT, Moto2, Moto3, European Le Mans Series and the Nurburgring 24 Hour. Its Race to Road message is at the heart of the brand and its product development – harnessing the technology needed to give motorsport competitors the confidence to shave tenths of a second from a lap time – to create high and ultra high performance road tyres.
However it has also shown its future-fit credentials – developing tyres specifically for the first hydrogen fuel cell race car – GreenGT. Commenting, Andy Marfleet, Dunlop brand manager says: “Celebrating 125 years at the forefront of product innovation is an incredible achievement, but this year for us is all about showing we’re just as committed to retaining that position for the next 125. Our new products like the award winning Sport BluResponse are showing that we can deliver more environmentally friendly products that don’t compromise on performance.”
- Goodyear – Award Wins and EU Tyre Label Success
The campaign maximise awareness of Goodyear’s triumphs in the Auto Express Summer Tyre Awards and Which? Best Buys and to continue to educate customers about the EU Tyre Label and 3-15-50 message, leveraging product performance against EU Label criteria and more comprehensive independent tests.
Media used in the campaign included key industry tyre trade titles (print and online), consumer and consumer automotive (Which? and Auto Express), social media channels and channel websites.
Goodyear made the most of its award wins over the past year – winning the Auto Express Summer Tyre Award two years running with the Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 and EfficientGrip respectively, and then launching the EfficientGrip Performance in March this year with a BA EU-tyre label rating in 21 of the 23 sizes available. The Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 and EfficientGrip Performance have also each clinched a coveted Which? Best Buy award over the past 12 months.
The brand spread the word through both consumer automotive and tyre trade media and used the award wins to cement its 3-15-50 message around the EU Tyre Label. Commenting, Goodyear brand manager Michelle Fisher said: “We have embraced the Tyre Label from day one at Goodyear, but we have stayed true to our performance criteria – stressing that three attributes alone aren’t sufficient for a consumer to absolutely judge whether a tyre is right for them or not. Magazine and independent tests look at up to 15 and we analyse against more than 50 criteria when developing a tyre.
“All round high performance remains at the heart of what we do with no compromise on safety. The Goodyear EfficientGrip Performance is a primary example of this commitment – with an exceptional EU label rating of BA, while also winning awards for its all round performance.”
- Infinity Tyres – “Not All Tyres Are Created Equal”
Infinity Tyres is fast becoming an established tyre name in the United Kingdom, in large part due to its extensive and innovative brand marketing. Unlike many others in the growing ‘economy’ segment of the tyre business, Infinity is committed to developing recognition and communicating its brand benefits, especially to the discerning tyre trade members.
In 2013, Infinity is launching a remarkable 79 dimensions across 5 different product groups and has evolved its brand message that ‘Not All Tyres are Created Equal’ by associating its superb new range line-up with iconic images from across the continent. In the UK, the new Infinity Ecomax is transposed on the London Eye to offer a really eye-catching visual. Other markets use carefully selected national symbols (e.g. L’Arc de Triomphe in France) to highlight the brand’s commitment to the local tyre dealer (rather than creating a campaign that uses the same standard imagery across several markets).
Such widespread tyre trade promotion is supported by Infinity’s commitment to individual markets and local tyre associations and, in the last few months, the brand has exhibited at Brityrex (UK), Pneu Expo (Lyon), Motortec (Madrid) and most recently Autopromotec (Bologna). Infinity was the only tyre brand supporting all these national trade shows.
To further develop the brand’s identity, a quarterly newsletter is widely distributed across the UK and Europe, highlighting the developments and new partnerships for Infinity Tyres. Infinity is now a truly global concern, backed by the Al Dobowi Group, with distribution in over 70 countries and this is an exciting way to feature and enhance the brand’s progress. In addition, a bi-annual ‘Infinity Lifestyle’ magazine is also published to highlight cutting-edge designs and latest trends from across the globe, thus associating Infinity with a vibrant and changing global landscape. Infinity has not forgotten more traditional marketing themes – the successful ‘Infinity Club’ run in association with Bond International rewards UK Infinity dealers with a range of point of sale material and merchandise.
Finally, Infinity is also focussing its brand message towards end-user marketing through increasing brand association within UK sport sponsorship – with motorsport drifting events and major horse racing events currently heavily featured. Timely consumer promotions, such as the ‘Win a Bentley’ campaign are also designed to attract discerning drivers to the Infinity brand and assist Infinity dealers in offering a complete package of an impressive new range at attractive pricing with the backing of a complete range of carefully crafted marketing tools.
- Michelin Tyre Plc – Michelin Total Performance
Michelin’s advertising in the UK in 2013 focussed on the theme of ‘Michelin Total Performance’.
This included campaigns on outdoor billboards, on the Internet and also substantial trade and POS coverage. Distinctive computer animation and imaging continues to make the Michelin Man highly visible and has greatly improved recall of Michelin’s messages.
All advertising campaigns highlight Michelin’s Total Performance approach to tyre design and inform consumers how the Company concentrates on innovations that improve tyre longevity and fuel saving without compromising on safety.
In addition there is an increased focus on showcasing the high performance credentials of Michelin’s tyres through targeted media partnerships. These initiatives go into depth about Michelin’s motorsport achievements at Le Mans and the WRC and highlight the company’s strong R&D approach and OE partnerships.
Furthermore Michelin is the headline sponsor of the Supercar Paddock and Supercar Run at the Goodwood Festival of Speed for the second year running. Advertorials with the Telegraph and various automotive magazines have been used to activate the sponsorship and offer generous competition prizes.
Michelin’s advertising features strong and clear messages combined with eye-catching graphics. Backed-up with strategic media placement, this has resulted in greater brand recognition with the brand’s target audiences.
These themes are also evident in Michelin’s extensive social media presence where Facebook and Twitter are used effectively to interact with B2B and B2C customers.
- Pirelli Tyres UK – “Engineered to Excite”
Pirelli is the world’s fifth largest tyre manufacturer based on revenues. With a presence in over 160 countries, the company now has 22 tyre manufacturing facilities on five continents. Pirelli is a leader in the high end and high technology segments of the tyre market.
For over a century Pirelli has developed as a truly inspirational enterprise, deeply rooted in the diverse national markets. Its competitive strength is founded on technological and research capabilities and the professional skills of its human resources. Pirelli attributes significant priority to the improvement of performance and minimising environmental impact.
For several years, Pirelli has been the leading European provider of premium original equipment, with marked tyres developed in partnership with the most prestigious car manufacturers in the world. The Iris campaign with its promise “Engineered to Excite” communicates how car drivers benefit from tyres which are specifically designed to enhance their vehicle’s performance through technological partnerships with the world’s best car manufacturers. The advertisement will be rolled out both online and in print.
Tyre & Aftermarket Equipment Supplier of the Year
There are some familiar names in this category, many of whom are winners from previous years. Who will get the bragging rights for 2013?
- Apaseal
Apaseal has been supplying a wide variety of tools, consumables and equipment for the tyre shop since the mid-1950s and is delighted and proud to be nominated for this award once again.
The company’s product portfolio is formidable, from such everyday products as balance weights and tyre valves through to a range of sophisticated workshop machinery from Italian manufacturer Corghi, providing the tyre technician with state of the art technology in the fields of tyre changing, wheel balancing and alignment.
As well as the staples for day-to-day running of a tyre depot, Apaseal provides a number of products that allow the tyre specialist to develop additional revenue streams, such as servicing TPMS for example.
In addition to a matchless range of products, Apaseal prides itself on the quality of its service, with next day or same day deliveries and a fleet of mobile technical sales representatives on the road. An online ordering service is also available and orders can also be placed by telephone.
The company offers a full training programme on a variety of topics and offers technical back-up to ensure that customers’ businesses are kept running smoothly. Apaseal describes its attitude towards its customers thus: “We have a commitment to develop our service, products and technical support to provide everything you need to promote your business, keeping it healthy and profitable.” It is an attitude that has served the company – and its customers – well for six decades.
- Auto4 Ltd
Auto4 would like to thank the members of the NTDA for their nomination for the Tyre & Aftermarket Equipment Supplier of the Year, NTDA 2013 TAFF Awards.
Jonathan Formon, managing director, Auto4 Limited commented, “Auto4 is very proud to be nominated. At Auto4 we focus on getting the basics right and keeping them that way. For us it is about consistency of service, quality and availability of products and competitiveness of pricing. It is about being honest and open with our customers and always doing what we say we will do.”
Auto4 has been supplying the tyre industry for over thirty years, working with some of the largest and some of the most respected tyre companies in the industry. Auto4 is a company that is easy to do business with, developing flexible supply options including a national field sales team, a telesales team, an ecommerce website and a bespoke B2B ordering and order management system which is used and favoured by a number of large UK tyre retailers.
Auto4 supplies an extensive range of tyre related products, including tyre pressure monitoring systems, capital equipment, tyre consumables, tyre repair materials and workshop tools. Increasingly however Auto4 is also supplying more general automotive products including fasteners, janitorial items and health and safety products. Auto4 is truly becoming a one stop shop for many of its customers.
Over the last few years Auto4 has introduced many new initiatives, including its reward programme, equipment buy back and part exchange schemes and the B2B order management system, amongst many others. What hasn’t changed however is our desire to constantly improve our business and market proposition and create lasting value for our customers. So if your organisation wants to benefit from the very real competitive advantage that comes from working with a dynamic partner then please get in touch with us.
The company thanked members of the NTDA for their nomination, “but most importantly thank you to our customers for their ongoing loyalty and support and our dedicated Auto4 team who make it all possible.”
- Autogem Motor Concepts LLP
“We are delighted to be nominated for this award for the third consecutive year. 2013 has been an exciting year for Autogem with the launch of i-sensor, our universal TPMS solution, our new consumables catalogue and a heavily revised website with even more TPMS videos and training material. TPMS continues to be an area of growth with many more tyre dealers now recognising the revenue opportunities & our latest developments in product, training and support not only offer a cost effective, comprehensive introduction to this area, but also offer an unrivalled after sales experience.
“Our wide range of workshop, tyre, exhaust consumables and training programmes have penetrated deeper across various sectors of our industry and we have recently added another vehicle manufacturer to our prestigious customer stable. To support our increased efforts and more demand for our products and services, we have added to our enthusiastic team with key appointments including a new business manager and field sales manager.
“We would like to thank those who nominated us and can assure we have many more innovative developments and products in the pipeline for the remainder of the year,” company representatives said following news of the nomination. They also invited readers to follow Autogem on twitter @Autogem_UK.
- Harvie Tyres Ltd
The nomination awarded to Harvie Tyre for the NTDA – Tyre & Aftermarket Equipment Supplier of the Year award is being received as “a great achievement” that represents a milestone in Harvie Tyre’s desire to become a regular contender amongst the UK’s leading garage equipment and consumable suppliers.
Stuart John, UK sales director, stated, “Harvie are delighted to be nominated by the NTDA in this particular category for the past five years. We acknowledge the nomination as an indication that our commitment towards first class support and service to independent companies across the UK continues to be recognised by this important customer segment. We continue to work closely with customers, focusing on their needs and delivering a diverse product range with a direct service tailored to all of their requirements”. Stuart also expressed the company’s firm ambition to further expand market share of capital equipment in the UK during the course of 2013, pointing to the fantastic impact already generated by introduction of the Mondolfo Ferro range of workshop equipment.
“Harvie Tyre is working tirelessly to provide you with the big brands at quality prices. Its long-standing association with Prema also continues at the forefront of its range of tyre repair materials. The comprehensive range is supported by an excellent portfolio of premium and economy balance weights, valves and valve hardware, lubricants, chemicals, tools, air-line accessories and inflation systems, workshop tools and capital equipment.
“Our friendly and efficient service operates from our head office in Lytham St Annes. The knowledgeable Harvie sales team are ably supported by industry experts who drive a fleet of vans fully equipped with a range of products to meet all of your service requirements.”
- Rema Tip Top Automotive UK Ltd
Rema Tip Top Automotive UK Limited were delighted to be among the nominees for the NTDA Tyre and Fast Fit (TAFF) Awards 2013. The company has built on a successful year in 2012, which culminated in the Brityrex show in Manchester.
“The innovations and product launches which formed a key aspect and backdrop to the last twelve months have provided and forged many of the new business links and relationships that continue to grow a year on.
“The inclusion of Rema Tip Top as a nominee for the TAFF awards demonstrates what can be achieved by a team that is committed to provide an unparalleled service to its customers whilst continuing to innovate and develop products that complement and enhance an impressive portfolio of workshop equipment and tyre maintenance consumables.
“In the early part of 2013 the New Rema Tip Top Automotive catalogue was fresh off the press and immediately provided a clear illustration of where the company is heading in terms of its diversity of product, environmental product design and strict quality standards.
“TPMS Tyre Pressure Monitoring Systems represent just one area that takes elevated prominence. Rema Tip Top has established itself at the forefront in the provision of this technology with its ability to offer the most comprehensive, economical and environmentally friendly solutions for its customers. One of the main components of this range includes the new ‘Sensor Intelligent Technology’ TPMS program from Alligator. The new sens.it TPMS sensor provides a complete solution for the replacement of OE TPMS sensors for both small and large tyre shop chains.
“Supported by the Profiler II diagnostic kit and a range of OEM valves on request, Rema Tip Top really do have every angle covered.”
Environment Award
There are three of last year’s finalists in the 2013 short list; Murfitts industries, Sapphire Energy Recovery and Vellco Tyre Control. These are joined by retreader Kingpin and tyre manufacturer Dunlop.
- Dunlop
2013 is a very important year for Dunlop with an anniversary celebrating 125 years of wins, innovations and records, but also marking the beginnings of a reshaped future of motorsport power. Dunlop is a GreenGT partner and is developing tyres for the GreenGT H2, the world’s first hydrogen fuel cell Le Mans prototype
The car, which features electric powertrain technology, completed its initial tests on racing tyres inspired by the latest Dunlop Sport BluResponse tyres. Dunlop’s involvement with the programme initiated the design of specific race tyres for enhancing the performance and handling of electric cars, enabling them to drive further with less energy consumed whilst maximising the grip and performance.
Electric cars present challenges for tyre designers; to handle the extra weight of the vehicle, the load capacity of the tyre needs to increase and the drive for energy efficiency means the tyre design includes two features to lower rolling resistance:
• A low heat generation bottom compound improves molecular cohesion to reduce heat build-up thanks to less friction.
• The optimised shape and construction of the tyre provides ncreased longitudinal stiffness, limit the deformation of the tyre carcass and reduce tyre weight, which in turn improves rolling resistance performance.
After the initial testing, a new generation of Dunlop Sport BluResponse race tyres will be developed with a focus on the torque vectoring properties and implications of electric powertrain technology for cars such as the the GreenGT H2.
The hydrogen fuel cell holds potential in powering future motorsport and road cars. In order to maximise the grip and energy efficiency of the car, Dunlop are working hand in hand with designers of the new generation vehicles to create new tyre products that work efficiently too. Rolling resistance, where the energy is lost when the tyre is rolling, is where a tyre manufacturer can make a big difference to a project such as GreenGT. The car designers can make huge improvements to efficiency for the chassis and powertrain but all the energy is transmitted through the tyres so it is important that the tyres continue the energy efficient processes.
- Kingpin Tyres Ltd
With 40 years’ experience Kingpin Tyres is the only UK passenger tyre retreader. The company manufactures a comprehensive range of high quality retreads; Car, Van, 4 x 4 and Commercial Van and has recently introduced Run Flat tyres into the product range. Kingpin also offers a used tyre collection service, along with the supply of Equestrian Rubber and Rubber crumb, produced on site through the company’s shredding plant.
Kingpin understands the needs of the fast moving tyre market and has recently invested in ‘state of the art’ machinery in its factory at Wem. The strength of Kingpin lies in environmental success, offering a 100 per cent recycling service, and of course, British made. Safety and quality are the priority and all Kingpin’s retreads are manufactured to a strict European standard (ECE 108 for cars and ECE 109 for Commercial vehicles) and undergo the same stringent drum testing regime as new tyres; in line with this the company works to ISO:9001.
- Murfitts Industries Ltd
Murfitts Industries Limited is an innovative British company leading the way in the manufacture of high quality rubber granules from post consumer tyres. The products, which are exported globally, are used in a huge variety of applications ranging from sports surfaces to carpet underlay. Murfitts Industries have achieved a 100 per cent recycling method for all the components in the tyres it uses and the company believes it is currently the only company in the world who can make this claim.
The company was formed in late 2001 as the intended implementation of the EC Landfill Directive and the End of Life Vehicle Directive meant that some 450,000 tonnes of tyres a year needed to find a home. Landfill was not an option.
The desire to give some form of environmental benefit coupled with these new legislative drivers opened up the opportunity for Murfitts Industries to enter the tyre recycling field.
Two years researching available technologies world wide resulted in a bespoke built plant, giving the versatility to produce a range of products from all types of tyres. Murfitts Industries can now recycle 100 per cent of all the elements which form part of that tyre including the rubber, steel and fibre.
Murfitts Industries recycle 11 million tyres a year and work with many companies and sports associations around the world. It is also trusted by its tyre supplying clients to process their industry by-product with the least impact possible to the environment, so helping them fulfil their own Corporate Social Responsibilities.
- Sapphire Energy Recovery
Sapphire Energy Recovery is delighted to be nominated once again in the Environment category of the TAFF Awards.
Sapphire’s waste disposal solutions not only give the producers of waste a cost-effective answer to their waste disposal problem, but they are environmentally sustainable and allow the cement production industry to reduce its CO2 emissions.
The company offers an alternative to landfill and other disposal routes for the producer of the waste and at the same time provides cement producers with an alternative fuel source – not only does the process facilitate the safe and efficient disposal of waste tyres, but, as an alternative source of energy, it reduces the industry’s dependence on, and consumption of, fossil fuels.
- Vellco Tyre Control
Once again, Vellco Limited is absolutely delighted to have been nominated (for the ninth time), in the Environmental Category of the NTDA TAFF Awards.
Vellco has actually won this award on four separate occasions, the last time being 2011 and it goes without saying that it is the hard work which is carried out by the dedicated Vellco team from all aspects of the Company’s activities, which lies at the heart of this success.
Over the last few years Vellco has been very pro-active in promoting “carbon-neutrality” throughout all of the company’s operations, and has actually achieved “negative” carbon status for both 2011 and 2012 years, with an expectation that this will also be achieved in 2013.
Vellco is also very proud to have had its Environmental Accreditation Standard 14001 independently renewed, once again, at the beginning of 2013. This flagship environmental standard, along with Full Membership of the Tyre Recovery Association (TRA), and its Responsible Recycler Scheme, further assures its customers of a completely transparent, auditable, and environmental recycling process for all waste collections.
During 2013, Vellco has also been investing in purchasing state-of-the-art “Euro 5” specification articulated truck units, as well as more than a dozen new specification high cube trailers which are all currently utilised on several logistics contract activities.
Tyres – from car to earthmover – are only part of Vellco’s environmental picture, as the Group manages Automotive Waste on behalf of many of its customers including Oil, Oil Filters, Antifreeze, Metal Waste, Catalytic Converters, Confidential Paper and General Dry Trade Waste. These are some of the reasons which have helped Vellco win the TAFF Awards Environmental Category in the past.
John Campbell, business development director for the Vellco Group commented, “I am very proud and pleased that we have been nominated once again for this prestigious TAFF Environmental Award. This nomination vindicates our continuing persistence on maintaining professional, environmental and quality processes with all our customers.”
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