Pirelli staff raise money for charity
Hats off to Pirelli for putting their hats on this December and raising money for charity. According to the company, Burton-based employees pulled on festive headwear to support “Blind Children UK”. Marg Mcfarlane, from the security department at Pirelli, helped to coordinate the activity at the company. She said: “It was great to see colleagues get into the Christmas spirit and wear quirky hats to work – there were some sights! Everyone donated £2, which will help contribute to changing a life for a blind child.”
Continue ReadingTransense deputy chairman David Kleeman to retire
Transense Technologies PLC deputy chairman David Kleeman is to retire from the board of the company on 31 December 2014. Kleeman is the former non-executive chairman and stepped down from that role in October 2013 to become deputy chairman. He was replaced as chairman by David Ford. Transense shares fell 14 per cent in response to the news.
Continue ReadingAutosport prepares for ‘international invasion’
Between 8-11 January Autosport International reports that it is preparing for something on an “international invasion” during the 2015 show. Roughly 15 per cent of the expected 700 exhibitors are based outside of the UK, including market leaders such as Brembo, Bosch, Capricorn Automotive, Öhlins Racing and Sadev. The winner of the 2014 FIA World Rallycross Championship teams’ title, Olsberg MSE from Sweden is amongst the first-time exhibitors.
Continue ReadingTech TPMS offer ‘the most comprehensive in Europe’
Tech Europe says it is “delighted to be able to offer the most comprehensive TPMS solution available in Europe today.” Key components of Tech Europe’s programme, which is run in partnership with Tyresure, include a complete range of OE and aftermarket sensors, ATEQ diagnostic tools, and a comprehensive TPMS website and online ordering system (www.techtpms.com).
Continue ReadingLooking up? Why there’s more room for tyre demand improvements
Our review of the year at the end of last year, pointed out how many sources had expected better times for the tyre retail market in 2014. Now as we move forward into 2015, Tyres & Accessories examines the current case for the demand recovery in the market. Many of the wider economic indicators point to broad economic recovery. At the same time pay is rising and inflation is levelling off at around 1 per cent, meaning household incomes should be rising. Furthermore fuel prices are lower than they have been for years. And of course, all this should lead to greater tyre sales volumes and even improved product mix. It is customary to be positive and even optimistic at this time of year, wishing everyone a happy new year etc, but the question remains with regard to our tyre market predictions - will it?
Continue ReadingValeo wins IAAF CV Supplier of the Year award
Valeo Service UK has won the IAAF Commercial Vehicle Supplier of the Year award at the IAAF (Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation) Annual Awards Ceremony, held recently at the ICC (International Convention Centre) Birmingham. For the IAAF Excellence Awards, nominees have to provide entries to IAAF, which are then assessed by a panel of expert judges, selected by the IAAF for their experience in the independent aftermarket. Valeo collected the award from IAAF chief executive Wendy Williamson and sports broadcaster, Garry Richardson.
Continue ReadingDon’t let Christmas drive you crazy
As 13 million of the UK’s drivers take to the roads this Christmas, leading used car website Trusted Dealers, in partnership with the NFDA (National Franchised Dealers Association) has revealed the annual Christmas getaway is one of the biggest cause of stress for families over the festive period. Forget ‘turkey tension’ and ‘panic presents’, the […]
Continue ReadingNow RAC calls for fuel price cut
The RAC is urgently calling on fuel retailers to pass on further savings in the wholesale price brought about by the continued fall in world oil prices. This overdue cut would reduce the biggest cost of motoring just in time for Christmas, says the organisation. The RAC’s monitoring of fuel prices shows there is scope […]
Continue ReadingNew look IMI Professional Register
The IMI Professional Register (www.imiregister.org.uk) has received a fresh new look to accompany the launch of a new consumer and trade campaign. The refreshed Register includes improvements based on feedback received since its public facing launch last year. This includes improved search functionality, page design and interactive advice for vehicle owners. Over 40,000 automotive professionals, including IMI Accreditation (ATA) holders and IMI Members, are set to benefit.
Continue ReadingFirst graduates from Michelin’s Tyre Academy
Nine tyre fitters from dealers across the UK and Ireland have become the first to graduate from Michelin’s Tyre Academy after a year of theoretical and practical learning. The fitters, who each work in a different Michelin Certified Centre (MCC), were chosen for the course as they have the potential to become an expert technician or take on management positions in the future.
Continue ReadingPaul Malin confirmed for Bridgestone Apex Motocross event
Bridgestone says it is “ramping up its plans to make 2015 a year to remember in the world of motocross” after securing the services of a multiple British champion to promote its tyre range. Paul Malin will add his presence to Bridgestone’s day of riding at Apex Motocross in Worcester on 19 February, which will showcase the brand’s X30 and X40 motocross tyres. Seven-time Dakar Rally competitor Mick Extance will also get to grips with the tyres during a day that promises to be one of the biggest and most comprehensive motocross events ever organised by Bridgestone.
Continue ReadingRobin Shaw joins Bridgestone
At the end of October 2014, Robin Shaw took over as the managing director of Bridgestone’s North Europe region, which includes the UK as well as the Nordic markets. Shaw replaced John McNaught who had been with the company for 12 years. He joined at a time when reorganisation is taking place within the wider European business and when a number of key UK and North region managers have either retired or gone off to pastures new. Tyres & Accessories caught up with Robin Shaw as he was en route to Brussels for one of many meetings he has had with European executives during the beginning of his tenure.
Continue ReadingFestive tyre tips from TyreSafe
This Christmas, treat your tyres to some extra air, and in return they may give you the gift of not being stranded on the roadside – follow the simple tips from the UK’s dedicated tyre safety organisation, and in addition to reducing fuel bills and tyre wear, you may well prevent a blowout that will ruin your journey, and perhaps a lot more.
Continue ReadingIAM adds to calls for winter safety
Kiran Devgun from the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) shared her advice with motorists travelling in “frosty, icy weather”. While avoiding snow references, the IAM focused on “near freezing” temperatures and how drivers can ensure they drive safely on icy roads.
Continue ReadingRHA reports 2% rise in HGV operating cost in 2014
The overall cost of operating a truck, net of fuel costs, has risen by 2 per cent in 12 months, according to the Road Haulage Association (RHA) in its 2014 Cost Movement Survey. The reason for the increase is twofold: The introduction of the Euro 6 tailpipe emissions standard driving up the cost of new trucks by 10 per cent and the increase in driver wages responding to dwindling driver numbers. The survey revealed that the Euro 6 emissions standard, introduced in 2013, has meant operators have had to invest in expensive new technology the cost of which they have had to pass on to the customer.
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