Point S aims to ‘level the playing field’

Point S Tyre & Autocare is on a mission to level the playing field in the tyre sector and give independent businesses the buying power of their larger competitors. But how is the network set up to achieve that? Wayne Daniel, Point S UK Operations Manager, explained.

“Since setting up shop in the UK in 2011, Point S Tyre & Autocare has made significant strides in growing its network and we can now lay claim to being the leading independent tyre dealer and car maintenance network in the country.

“With a mission statement to futureproof the businesses of the 300 independent members within its vast network, Point S focuses on helping members compete on a level playing field with larger, franchised companies. And that is one of our strongest USPs – offering members tangible buying power that they simply wouldn’t achieve on their own.”

For independent businesses operating in an increasingly competitive sector, this can only be a good thing. But what is meant by buying power?

“To lay out the context, upon joining the network, Point S members join an international family and a globally recognised brand with over 50 years of history. The Point S business model has been implemented in 50 countries across five continents, with over 6,000 points of sale to its name.

“With this heritage comes brand recognition on a global scale, both in terms of consumer awareness and that of industry stakeholders. Building an international reputation over the last five decades means that Point S’ team has developed strong relationships with tyre manufacturers all over the world. In the UK, this gives my team and I the opportunity to negotiate deals for members on home soil, providing them with access to excellent products at an affordable price. That’s the buying power.”

As independent businesses, members are not led towards buying from any specific manufacturer. Instead, they are given guidance from the Point S team on which manufacturers will provide them with the right opportunity for their business. With new deals being brokered all the time, members are provided with options to stock at their points of sale.

Wayne Daniel continued:

“What’s more, members are granted a rebate on the products that they purchase from manufacturers via the Point S channel. This financial incentive is delivered once a year and is based on how many products are sold by each individual member. We are committed to offering members genuine opportunities like this that really help to boost profitability.

“What makes Point S truly unique, however, are the independent businesses under our wing. With a passion to offer drivers and fleet operators first-class servicing, the network has high standards. This helps to ensure a quality service across the membership, and coupled with the financial support framework that is in place, enables Point S to fill its network with local experts with global backing.”