Micheldever renews GT Radial, Runway tyre brand exclusive distribution agreement

Giti Tire, the manufacturer of the GT Radial and Runway tyre brands has signed another exclusive distribution agreement with UK wholesaler Micheldever Tyre Services (MTS). The new four-year deal, which covers passenger car, SUV, 4×4 and light truck tyre segments in the UK and Republic of Ireland replacement markets, will run until 2026. The partnership commenced in 2010, meaning the latest EDA will take the relationship between the companies to 16 years. MTS has agreed to continue the expansion of the GT Radial Performance Centres (GTPCs) dealer programme, while jointly promoting Runway across its larger independent network. The distributor will also remain closely involved in product development.

Chris Bloor, executive director – international sales and marketing for Giti Tire said: “Trading conditions during the last four years have been the most challenging ever faced by the tyre industry, yet through global adversity our relationship with Micheldever has become stronger and more resilient than ever.

“The new contract marks the next chapter in our progressive long-term partnership, and over the course of the deal we will see GT Radial and Runway forge an even greater prominence in the UK market.”

Jon Cowles, chief executive officer of Micheldever Tyre Services added: “To maintain a long-term partnership like this, we have both shown a great level of trust and understanding in each other’s brand.  We have honest conversations about what we are looking to deliver for our customers and then collaborate closely to make it happen.

“We are very excited about the future with Giti, with further opportunities to further strengthen our partnership and in turn our respective brands.”

Brian McDermott, country manager UK for Giti Tire concluded: “We enter the latest EDA with our strongest tyre portfolio ever. The GT Radial SportActive 2 and GT Radial FE2 tyres are already well established, respected and selling in excellent numbers, while the new EV and EV Ready tyres meet future demand.

“Add our CUV, SUV, all-season, winter and light truck products and there is a comprehensive mid-market offering which can form the bedrock of any successful independent tyre dealer, and that’s why with Micheldever we will ever improve and expand our GT Radial Performance Centre (GTPC) network.”