BFGoodrich launches Off-Road Centre network in Ireland

BFGoodrich is expanding its pan-European Off-Road Centre network into Ireland, initially working with 13 dealer partners in this market. Representatives from the dealerships – which BFGoodrich chose on the basis of their off-road tyre expertise – recently attended a launch event for the network in County Kildare.

Martin Thompson, BFGoodrich Go-To Market Manager, welcomed the dealers’ representatives at Kilkea Castle for a two-day launch event and briefing. Thompson shared information about BFGoodrich’s plans for the coming 12 months; these include measures to increase the visibility of each BFGoodrich Off-Road Centre as a manufacturer-approved 4×4 expert. Dealers will also be offered advanced training for both customer-facing staff and workshop technicians.

The event also gave dealers the opportunity to brush up on their off-road driving techniques at a nearby 4×4 school, using a fleet of vehicles fitted with BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 tyres and the newly launched Mud-Terrain T/A KM3.

“It was a fantastic opportunity to bring our launch partners together for a taste of the staff training and product support we will be making available to them,” says Thompson. “Plus, it gave us an opportunity to allow dealers to see for themselves why BFGoodrich tyres are recognised the world over for their go-anywhere capability. Our first 13 members in Ireland join a growing network of more than 160 dealers from across Europe in benefiting from direct manufacturer support to ensure they can deliver the highest standards of service to customers.”

The launch dealers are: A One Tyres, Ballinasloe Tyre Centre, Condron Tyres, Discount Tyre and Auto Services, Global Tyres, JB Tyres, John Banks Tyres, McManus Tyres, Nass Road Tyres, O’Hanlon Tyres, Safeway Tyres, TC Tyres and Wesley James Tyres.

Commenting on his decision to join the network, Thom Fox, owner of Ballinasloe Tyre Centre in County Galway, explains: “We’ve had BFGoodrich in our brand portfolio for a long time. It’s always been popular for both multi-purpose vehicles and dedicated off-roaders, particularly in the farming sector. Joining the network makes total business sense for us.”

Mike McGrath, owner of Safeway Tyres in Ennis, County Clare, comments: “BFGoodrich is a premium professional 4×4 brand and as a dealer, it’s the one you want to be associated with. We recommend BFGoodrich in the full knowledge the customer will come back to us for the same tyres again in the future, but only after they have delivered a long life in service. The launch of the network is great news for Ireland and aligns perfectly with how we run our business; offering the best advice, products and backup to our customers.”

Plans already exist to expand the network further. Dealers interested in joining must have existing off-road expertise, participate in local 4×4 events and record strong 4×4 tyre sales. Potential members must also take part in official BFGoodrich training to ensure they can continue to provide expert advice to customers.