Kerr’s Tyres aiding MTS distribution in Northern Ireland

With the opening of a new distribution centre in Ballymena, Micheldever Tyre Services (MTS) anticipates much swifter tyre deliveries to garages in Northern Ireland. The facility is located at the site of the former Michelin tyre plant, which closed in 2018, and will create up to 16 new jobs by the end of the year.

“This is an exciting day for garage owners and tyre dealers in Northern Ireland, drivers across the province, and for MTS,” says Sally Fyffe, head of wholesale for MTS. “Until now, MTS were only able to provide a twice-weekly service; garages can now benefit from same day or next day delivery.

“It’s not just about availability though. We see our presence in NI as a fantastic opportunity to give people in the region the same service and benefits as we offer to other parts of the UK. Supported by a sales manager on the ground, we can ensure consumers also benefit from our full range of added value services including exclusive access to our mid-range brands and the business support provided by our consumer e-commerce solutions, training, and local marketing materials.”

Consistent service & greater range

The distribution centre will operate from Kerr’s Tyres & Auto’s 40,000-square-foot warehouse. Kerr’s Tyres will manage the warehouse and provide logistics service to support MTS’ sales proposition. MTS says it selected this Antrim-headquartered local provider because of the company’s “heritage, reputation, and commitment to Northern Ireland.

Tim Peacock, general manager of the VMA franchised dealer division at MTS, comments that he is “delighted” with the partnership with Kerr’s Tyres. “We are looking forward to a new chapter where we can provide a consistent service to our dealer partners, supplying them with a greater range of tyres, supported by the potential for bespoke programme tailoring. We look forward to the opportunities for growth in the future.”

Norman Kerr, managing director of Kerr’s, adds that the new distribution centre is a game-changer for the industry in the country. “The new distribution centre in County Antrim is ideally located and will provide greater choice and enhanced availability to consumers across Northern Ireland.”