Falken ‘increases foothold’ in UK truck tyre market as distributor reports increase in sales

Falken RI 151 steer/trailer tyre (Photo: Falken)

UK truck tyre sales for Falken Tyres have increased significantly during the past 12 months, according to the Sumitomo Rubber Industries brand and its distributor Micheldever Tyre Services. In 2022, Falken sold more than 8,000 more tyres in the UK market than it did during 2021. During 2022, Falken’s RI 151, BI 856 and GI 368 proved to be the bestsellers among its portfolio of customers, managed by MTS retail chain Protyre. The 2022 increase has also supported Micheldever and Protyre’s UK truck tyre sales, with “significant” year-on-year growth since 2020 and an overall increase of 350 per cent since 2018.

“The increase in sales in the UK over the past 12 months is extremely encouraging for Falken and its truck tyre range,” says Malc Firkins, Protyre’s head of truck and agri, commenting on the growth in sales to Tyres & Accessories. “Each year we continue to increase the number of customers we work with and supply with Falken tyres and have maintained relationships with many customers who have chosen the Falken brand for their fleet and stayed loyal.

“There is a clear upward trend for Falken. Many organisations we speak with who are looking to make a switch in tyre brand recognise that Falken produces tyres are good value for money and provide strong performance and durability on the road. For that reason, we expect to see a further growth in sales in 2023.”

The range of tyres from Falken available for companies involved in long-distance transportation and construction work contains patterns designed to ensure grip, durability and stability behind the wheel. The aforementioned trio of top-selling tyres represent the best Falken has to offer in its truck tyre range. The RI 151, which is a steer axle and trailer tyre, has been designed to withstand the challenges for tyres in the harshest of weather conditions. Its pattern includes smart stone ejectors, and raised elements that prevent stones from lodging in the tyres.

Falken BI 856 drive tyre (Photo: Falken)

The BI 856 meanwhile, is the latest in Falken’s drive axle tyres, which provides superior levels of traction in all conditions. It features a new robust casing and benefits from 3D sipes on its tread blocks that increase its mileage performance and safety.

The third tyre is the GI 368 for steer and trailer applications in industry sectors with high wear and tear such as construction. It is suited for extended use on roads as well as heavy-duty use on building sites. It features a cut-proof compound and reinforced shoulders that minimise the risk of damage.