Nokian acquires long-time North American partner

Nokian Tyres’ US-based operation, Nokian Tyres North America, has purchased the tyre distribution business run by Import Tire Inc. With this acquisition, Nokian takes on a business with an annual turnover in the vicinity of US$10 million. The distribution unit is headquartered in Glastonbury, Connecticut.

“New England is an important winter tyre market for Nokian Tyres, and with this deal we are able to improve our service level substantially and get closer to our customers,” comments Tommi Heinonen, general manager of Nokian Tyres North America. “Nokian Tyres North America takes the control of the warehouse for 50,000 tyres, acquires the customer base as well as the machinery and equipment from Import Tire Inc. The deal complements the distribution network of Nokian Tyres in New England.

“Our partnership with Import Tire goes back over 20 years,” Heinonen adds. “Now the time was right for both companies to take the next step and transfer the business under Nokian Tyres’ brand. We will cherish the relationship with the current customers and develop the business further together with them.”

Nokian Tyres’ North American operations are headquartered in Colchester, Vermont, and have an annual turnover of approximately $150 million.