Continental takes over Netherlands tyre distribution from Pon

As of 1 July, Brussels-based Continental subsidiary Continental Benelux has taken over exclusive distribution of Continental car, van and industrial tyres in the Netherlands from Continental Banden Groep (CBG). Continental Benelux is already responsible for the Continental commercial vehicle tyre range in this market, having taken on direct distribution five years ago.

CBG is a subsidiary of Pon Holdings, a company with a long relationship with Continental; predecessor company Pon’s Automobielhandel first imported Continental tyres into the Netherlands in 1936. In more recent times Pon, as exclusive Dutch importer for the Volkswagen Group brands Audi, Seat, Skoda and VW, converted all new cars to Continental tyres prior to delivery. It sold the demounted tyres as demo tyres via its subsidiary Summa tyres.

The import contract with CBG was replaced by a “long-term cooperation agreement” as of 1 July. Continental hasn’t explained how this new cooperation framework will function, however states that it “is better adapted” to an automotive and tyre market that “has been subject to important changes for a number of years.” Continental adds that both it and CBG are “convinced” this new approach will strengthen both parties in their efforts to “realise their future plans.”

To reflect the new arrangement, CGB has been renamed Pon Banden Groep (PBG).