Maxxis previews label finding solution
During the recent Reifen 2012 show in Essen Maxxis shared details of how the company is preparing for the rolling out of tyre labelling in Europe, including the launch of its own label finder software.
News articles on the tyre retail business
During the recent Reifen 2012 show in Essen Maxxis shared details of how the company is preparing for the rolling out of tyre labelling in Europe, including the launch of its own label finder software.
HiQ has launched its latest safety project for motorists: a bespoke new safety guide pack. The fast-fit network says it has invested £30,000 into the guides, which include a suite of information bulletins in one ‘handy’ pack. The network says the guides have been produced based on motorists’ feedback. It aims to cover drivers’ needs, explaining everything there is to know about keeping tyres and cars in the best possible condition comprehensively. Covering everything from the hazards associated with buying part worn tyres and winter driving tips to fuel efficiency and battery care, the guides simplify tyre and car care, as well as providing useful motoring reference material.
Media reports from New Zealand indicate Goodyear Dunlop intends to close 24 fast fit outlets in the country – almost a third of its national ‘Beaurepaires’ commercial network. According to Marty Dinniss, a public relations consultant who acts as the tyre company’s spokesman in New Zealand, the closures will be focused on the commercial vehicle sector, and Beaurepaires' consumer and agricultural-focused businesses will not be affected. Up to 219 employees may lose their jobs, however Dinniss comments that the company is currently engaged in a consultancy period with workers and their representative union.
As of 1 July, George Rietbergen, current managing director of Goodyear Dunlop Tyres UK Ltd, will take on the role of vice-president at Goodyear Dunlop’s Commercial Product Business Unit EMEA. Rietbergen, who took over from Mark Brickhill as UK and Ireland managing director in early 2010, has been employed by the tyre maker since 2001, starting in e-business and retail-related roles and progressing to the position of general manager for the Benelux region in 2005.
Slovenian tyre maker Sava has reported a 19 per cent growth in local net sales for 2011. The Goodyear subsidiary earned 132 million euros in local markets last year; in total, the company achieved net sales of 264.7 million euros and made a 6.83 million euro net profit.
Bridgestone has called for context to be taken into consideration in response to Michelin’s decision to release fleet car tyre wear data that pointed to its tyres lasting the longest. For its part Bridgestone has added further detail, which the company believes shows that its tyres offer the best pence per mile. The tyre manufacturer came to this conclusion by taking Michelin’s own mileage figures and factoring in third party sell-out pricing data produced by Encircle marketing. According to this calculation, when mileages are divided by the initial purchase cost Bridgestone tyres come out on top.
UK automotive manufacturers have set their sights on breaking all-time manufacturing records by the end of 2015. The confidence is fuelled by multi-billion pound investments committed to the country over the past 18 months that will see production expanded, new models introduced and thousands more people employed.
Pirelli has acquired 100 per cent of Däckia Holding AB, one of the main multi-brand tyre distribution chains in Sweden from private equity group Procuritas Capital Investors IV LP (and minority shareholders) for 625 million kronor (approximately 70 million euros). Reporting the news, Pirelli explained that the move is in line with its strategy of reinforcement on markets with strong growth in high-end, high margin segments. In this case this is likely to mean the sale of winter tyres.
Farrell Dolan has replaced Peter Tye as retail director UK at Goodyear Dunlop. Dolan, who has over 20 years’ experience in the automotive industry, and more than six with Goodyear Dunlop, will be responsible for the business’ retail operations across its HiQ franchise brand and network of retail partners. Former retail director Tye resigned from the company to pursue other opportunities, according to Goodyear Dunlop. Commenting on Tye’s departure George Rietbergen, Goodyear Dunlop UK & Ireland general manager, says: “Peter made a great contribution to our retail business and he leaves with our best wishes. Together with Farrell and the team, we are now focused on the exciting future ahead for our retail division.”
Micheldever Tyre Services has formalised a policy of drilling removed tyres with a view to preventing used tyres entering illegal or dangerous secondary markets. According to Mark Harley, retail operations director, at Micheldever Tyre Services: “Tyres removed from vehicles are usually taken off for a reason…they may have hidden damage which is only likely to be revealed when the car is driven down the road. The reality is that they pose a real road safety danger, are not fit for purpose and in fact offer very poor value for money”. According to a recent Auto Express survey, arranged in conjunction with TyreSafe, the cost per millimetre of part worn versus new tyres was almost double.
Well known retail chain and buying cooperative Point S has partnered with Däckarna in Sweden to complete its collection of Scandinavian tyre operations. Founded in the 1970s Däckarna is believed to be the first purchasing group aimed at unifying the strength of independent dealers. More than 40 years later the group has 39 branches in its partnership, collectively occupying a 5 per cent market share.
In total Lassa will be showcasing 18 different types of its tyres at the Essen show next week. Phenoma, the latest in Lassa’s ultra high performance summer tyre line up, will be in the spotlight at Lassa’s booth (3-225). Available in all Lassa’s export markets and in 11 popular sizes ranging from 16 to 18 inches in diameter, Phenoma is aimed at the sport and prestige segment. According to the company it has a 2.9m shorter braking distance, 5 per cent better wet handling and 2 per cent better dry handling than its competitors.
Following the publication of our recent overview of developments in the UK tyre retail landscape (Retail: Hold it steady), Tyres & Accessories has now published the accompanying data in table format. This is now available to view 24 hours a day through our tyrepress.com website. Subscribers need only click more to view the details.
Earlier this year Point S appointed Dean Dyoss as network development manager. The move was the first of a run investments Point S has begun making into its UK chain and its investment in people. Just over a year since John Cowderoy joined the growing independent retail chain as managing director, he began making strategic appointments designed to help the network flourish in the years to come.
Shell UK has announced plans to bring back forecourt attendants at more than 300 of its petrol stations by the end of the summer, rising to 600 locations by mid-2013. As well as dispensing fuel, the AA-trained staff will also offer basic car maintenance, such as checking tyres.
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