Technology, sustainability and stewardship – the NTDA Tyre Industry Conference 2023

The 2023 NTDA Tyre Industry Conference was held at the Hilton DoubleTree conference centre with the Stadium MK complex in Milton Keynes ahead of the Tyre Industry Awards on the evening of 19^th October 2023. A number in the hundreds gathered for a conference that focused largely on themes of sustainability and stewardship, but also touched on the increasingly important topic of recruitment and retention.

NTDA chief executive, Stefan Hay opened proceedings by welcoming a healthy turnout to the 2023 event. Summarising the challenge business environment provided by relatively low GDP and relatively high inflation, Hay noted how government has shifted policy goal posts this year – not least the target for EV transition and HS2.

GB Tyres commercial director Graham Hutchison shared details of how the company’s founder – and once again event sponsor – has grown the business from a background in the haulage industry.

Hutchison also confirmed that GB Tyres is now the third biggest tyre wholesaler in the agricultural market following the completion of the previously-announced acquisition of Nordic Tyres last week.

For his part, Simon Wright, in his second and final year as national chairman, shared the latest developments in this association.

Throughout its history till now, the NTDA has been an unincorporated not-for-profit. Now, following a democratic process, the organisation has opted to become incorporated.

As a result, NTDA is now technically National Tyre Distributions Association Ltd. Still not for profit. Ultimately, the NTDA name. Still same services.

Particular highlights include continued growth in the number of REACT-accredited dealers. In addition, the first licensed mobile tyre technician courses have been run. Critical shortage of apprentices in the tyre, body repair and painting sub-sectors of automotive remains a pressing issue.

Other sessions included: John Howe, managing director, Michelin Tyre Plc speaking on “A winning approach to sustainable tyre manufacturing”, Rema Tip Top’s Gavin Hughes speaking on responsible tyre repair standards, Phil Robinson, senior country manager for UK, ROI and UAE speaking on “The importance of retreading to sustainability”, an afternoon session on tyre stewardship from ETEL as well as Mark Styles director of CAM presenting on “The impact of market acquisition and the consumer shift to digital first consumer practices.

Look out for further coverage in the November edition of Tyres & Accessories magazine.