First Stop network set to triple in size

Bridgestone’s First Stop network is currently made up of 53 independent member partners, an increase of around 14 in the last 14 months. When you consider that there are a further 16 Kingsway-branded Bridgestone equity-owned branches, this brings the total to 69 and together these two facts suggest that First Stop is currently enjoying a period of growth. Put this figure in the context of the last five years, which weren’t always plain sailing for the retail chain, and you could even describe this growth as a resurgence. With this in mind, Tyres & Accessories spoke with Bridgestone Europe retail business development manager Stuart Eagland.