SA Treads Sept 2013 by SA Treads Tyre Magazine

Back to basics with Trentyre’s Nigel Sowerby Tyres & More, Fit & Go enter the market Tyre importers establish TIASA

Focus on RETREADING

Michelin launches new X-Super Terrain + tyre

Vol 19 • September 2013

Retreading – dying technology or cost-saving solution?

a set of 4 Sailun tyres to the value of R5,000 courtesy of CFP Tyres

Sync - 10715 - Tread S.A

RETREADING DOWN TO AN ART Bandag’s exclusive Application Specific tread range has placed them firmly at the top of the retreading food chain. As kings of the retreading jungle, we’ve become accustomed to pretenders to the throne who try to copy our designs. What can’t be copied however is the superior tread quality that provides fleets in the Bandag pride, best in class performance and Bandag’s unrelenting commitment to premium quality and better CPK! That’s what we do. Tel: +27 11 439 6000, Fax: +27 86 682 7027, e-mail: info@bandag.co.za or visit www.bandag.co.za

I n t r o d u c t i o n • 1

Contents

the

One-on-One with Trentyre’s Nigel Sowerby................................................................

Focus on Retreading.............................................................................................. Tyre Management in the UK – does the Retreader play a role?..............

7 14

Manufacturing Michelin launches the new X-SUPER TERRAIN + tyre...........................

Distribution New Auto Fitment Centres Promise “Tyres & More”.............................. ContiTradeAfrica strengthens distribution network................................

18 19

Industry News Bandag launches ProWheel at BTS Conference..................................... Join the Tubestone Loyalty Club (TLC).................................................... Tyre Importers establish Association...................................................... Dunlop gives a stylish twist to Tyre Care Tips.........................................

23 23 33 33

Talking Tyres Put to the Test – Tough enough..............................................................

JHB Motor Show Commercial Vehicle Sector in the spotlight............................................

Hi-Q cements its iconic status as SA’s best loved tyre retailer...............

Low cost tyres in particular, that are entering South Africa on a growing scale, are often cheaper to purchase than retreads and this has led to a direct market shift with smaller transport operators opting to fit imports ahead of retreaded tyres. In light of this market trend, which is being described by the retreading community as alarming, we asked the nation’s leading players to tell us their views on whether retreading in the commercial sector had a long-term future. Is retreading a dying technology, or does it remain a cost-saving solution for end users? This topic comes under scrutiny on page 7. And what about retreading in other parts of the world? An excerpt from the UK publication “Retreading Business” on page 12 makes for further interesting reading, outlining the developments pertaining to Tyre Management and Retreading in the United Kingdom.

Other stories making the rounds include the launch of Michelin’s new X-Super Terrain + tyre as well as the launch of Bandag’s new ProWheel system which was launched to Bandag’s BTS franchisees at their recent annual conference.

Sailun Outshines Local Canadian Tyre Brand......................................... Apollo Tyres announces three year partnership with Manchester United.......................................................................... New Agricultural tyre website from Firestone ....................................... Bridgestone serves as title sponsor for World Solar Challenge 2013.... A new wet weather Rallycross tyre from Cooper.................................... Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co.’s New Zealand unit is selling off its chain of retail tyre and auto service centers..................

38 38 39 39

Competition, Subscription, Website . .......................................

Front Cover: www.istockphoto.com Editor

Liana Shaw

Technical Consultant

Wray Shaw

Reproduction

Diane van Noort

Printing

Tel: (011) 658 0011 TYPO (011) 658 0010 – Colour Printing Specialists Fax: Cell: 082 851 6777 Prestige Bulk Mailers E-mail: satreads@mweb.co.za Liana Shaw Website: www.satreads.co.za

Advertising

With imported tyres still very much on our minds following our feature story in June, in this issue, we examine whether or not imports are having an effect on another, vastly important market segment – the retreading sector.

World News

Publishers

editor

This last quarter has also seen a great deal of movement in the Distribution sector with two exciting new tyre companies making their entrance – the new Tyres & More Franchise as well as Continental’s Fit & Go Concept stores, stories which you can read on pages 18 & 19.

Goodyear News

Distribution

note from

Sky Publications cc PO Box 702 Douglasdale, 2165

Our exciting line-up for this issue would not be complete without our regular Oneon-One Interview section, which in September, features a man who has begun to transform the face of one of South Africa’s leading commercial tyre provision companies. Nigel Sowerby assumed responsibility for Trentyre 18 months ago. In the months that followed, he, together with his team, embarked on an extensive drive to restore company pride and image, with the ultimate aim being to boost the company’s service offering to the end user. In this exclusive interview, Sowerby outlines their achievements to date and lets us in on his vision for Trentyre in the months to come. Last but certainly not least, one lucky reader stands the chance to win a set of Sailun tyres, which out-performed a local Canadian tyre brand recently (see story on page 37) to the value of R5000,00. So hurry, answer the simple competition question on page 40 and enter either online on www.satreads.co.za or via fax (011) 658-0010!

O n e - o n - O n e • 3

Back to Basics Reaps Dividends! ONE-ON-ONE WITH TRENTYRE’S NIGEL SOWERBY Nigel Sowerby assumed responsibility for Trentyre some 18 months ago, at a time when company owned businesses in the commercial tyre sector had begun to recognise the need to reinvent themselves in the interests of sustainability. Evidently, Nigel was the man for the job. In the months that ensued, Trentyre has allegedly made significant strides in this area in a quest to re-energise its staff and ultimately improve its service levels to the end user. We met up with Nigel who explained how he, together with senior management, went about introducing a much-needed cultural shift in the company. Nigel, what were some of the issues first identified as needing immediate attention? Our primary task focused on re-energising our people and the organisation as a whole in the interests of restoring company pride. Trentyres’ image was in need of a revamp and this could only be achieved through the efforts of an enthusiastic, motivated staff force. I spent a considerable amount of time personally visiting every branch around the country in an endeavour to engage with all senior personnel. Quarterly Roadshows with all our branch and regional managers offered further opportunities for me to engage with them face to face, as well as to introduce the Group’s Model Branch Concept which has been expressly designed to assist them in enhancing performance and striving towards elevated standards. What does the Model Branch Concept entail? We have introduced an accolades system consisting of Gold, Silver or Bronze status so as to arrive at a collective benchmark within the

4 • O n e - o n - O n e

organisation. By the end of 2012 several branches had attained Gold,

Centre operates 24/7, 365 days a week and provides much needed

Silver or Bronze status and our goal for 2013 is for all Trentyre branches

breakdown assistance to our customers.

to achieve Silver status (if not already there), so that customers across the country can come to rely on consistent service levels irrespective of geographic location.

Do you believe that a company-owned company is able to react to the needs of the market in a swift and efficient manner? The only way for an organisation of our size to achieve this is by

How is this going?

furnishing our people with more autonomy than is traditionally common

We employ 1 800 people so suffice to say, our objectives are a work in

in company-owned companies. They are the ones at the coalface and we

progress. That being said, associate engagement survey results for 2013

need to begin relying on their intuition and ability to make the correct

thus far are positive, indicating that we are well on the road to achieving

decision for the customer. This requires a significant mindshift, but it is

our ultimate goals.

an important part of the culture change that we are bringing about within

And are your efforts beginning to translate to market?

Trentyre.

This is not always easy to judge, but ultimately, this is precisely why we

My philosophy is this: I can’t tell my people how to drive. All I can do is

went about introducing these new initiatives.

show them the road.

Currently, let’s just say that the positive and neutral feedback from

In short, we have an overall plan but the fundamental difference between

our customers outweighs the negative, which is a huge leap forward

Trentyre today and Trentyre of yester-year is that other than providing the

compared to 12 months ago.

necessary guidance, we do not dictate to our people. Instead we allow

More exciting still, our staff appear to be more motivated with many busy

them to run their regions and provide for their customers’ specific needs

repainting their building exteriors and branch managers now asking for us

as they see fit within our company policies.

to judge them as they aspire to reaching the required criteria to qualify

So when it comes to company-owned companies, do you see a long-

for an accolade.

term future for them in SA?

In short, all indicators point to a far more favourable scenario than was

We are at a time when company owned businesses in the commercial tyre

being experienced when I first arrived.

sector have begun to recognise the need to reinvent themselves in the

How would you sum up your efforts over the past 18 months?

interests of sustainability.

A lot of hard work but it’s been well worth it as we are now heading in the

However, the South African market is complex. Manufacturer-owned

right direction. Moreover, we have managed to achieve this in a relatively

distribution chains are commonplace and as this is something we’ve

short space of time.

inherited, we need to find the best way to work with the situation.

Did you introduce any initiatives that helped you generate such

What do you see as the biggest challenge to the commercial sector in SA?

favourable results so quickly?

Definitely labour issues and the ultimate impact continuous unrest will

I don’t believe you need new initiatives as such…getting back to basics

have on the South African economy. Last year alone, strikes hit the Mining,

is what it’s all about!

Freight and Bus sectors with more strikes expected this year.

However, we have implemented a Rewards culture that rewards people

Also of growing concern are general economic factors such as inflation, low

for excellence.

growth, crime, infrastructure and the like.

We are also investing in data reporting in order to be able to provide our

Speaking of infrastructure, the declining state of roads in this country are

customers with more accurate, faster reporting. This is essential, not only

of equal concern as tyres do not reach their optimum life, thereby opening

for the operator to execute his job more thoroughly but more importantly,

the door to low cost competitors.

in assisting our customers to reduce their running costs.

What is more, from a customer perspective, they will continue feeling

What do you believe are Trentyre’s strengths in the marketplace?

pressure to reduce their costs which will ultimately place greater pressure

Definitely our footprint which I believe is notably the strongest currently

on the tyre sector. This is why adding value to our customers has never

in the commercial sector, together with our ongoing quest to strive

been more important!

towards excellence.

We certainly live in interesting times, but at least where Trentyre is

We also operate a very sophisticated Call Centre – servicing both Trentyre

concerned, the renewed energy and enthusiasm to strive for excellence

and Goodyear customers – which recently relocated to Uitenhage. The

within our organisation is positive and bodes well for the future.

WITH MORE THAN 22 000 ROLLING WHEELS ON THE ROAD AT ANY GIVEN TIME, KNOWING THAT YOUR FLEET’S TYRES ARE IN GOOD HANDS

Total Tyre Management is the new system designed to make your fleet operate at peak efficiency at all times. From calculating cost per kilometre to alerting you when a vehicle’s tyres need a re-cap or a re-fit. With a host of other features including financial options for the leasing of your fleet’s tyre requirements, and 24-hour roadside assistance. Total Tyre Management, exclusively from Max T Solutions.

Visit www.maxtsolutions.com for more info, or email info@maxtsolutions.com. Call: 011 387 2000. 24 Hours: 086 162 9424

DWFCOLL MX/516834

THAT’S TOTAL TYRE MANAGEMENT

F o c u s o n R e t r e a d i n g • 7

RETREADING – Dying Technology or Viable Cost Saving Solution?

Imported tyres are making massive

South Africa traditionally boasts a highly sophisticated retreading industry. At one time in the commercial sector, retreads accounted for close on 50% of an operator’s

inroads in our market, now accounting

total volume of tyre purchases. Whether this ratio has shifted is not clear, but

for more than 50% of South Africa’s

continue to play an important role within the transport sector.

total market share. The impact to the local new tyre manufacturing sector is substantial, with the new tyre

according to some of South Africa’s leading players in this segment, retreaded tyres

For the most part, retread demand and volumes appear stable at this stage, but some profess to be adopting new measures in order for their businesses to remain competitive.

companies constantly being compelled

Said Dries Lottering, Operations Director for Bridgestone SA: “Imports have

to combat their effect by way of new

approaches being developed in an attempt to educate the operators on the cpk value

initiatives, both at plant level and with regard to the sale and marketing of their products. Which begs the question, ‘what impact, if any, are the rising volumes of imports having on the commercial retreading sector, especially with respect to low cost products which in some cases, are now selling cheaper than retreaded tyres’?

had a significant impact on the retreading sector and have led to significant new of premium retreaded products. “The rands and cents aspect of procurement is important to an operator,” he added, “but thankfully, professionals who take the time to test analyse actual cost versus performance, are continuing to support retreads. There was an initial frenzy of import purchase which was underestimated by many retreaders, but this seems to have slowed with operators starting to realise that in many cases, their retreadable casings are on the decline, which has a negative effect on their cpk in the medium to long term. “The smaller operators are mostly the ones switching from retreads to new foreign tyres, mostly due to price and the lack of the relevant data to suggest that switching from a retread to a new ‘cheapie’ may not be the best way to achieve a favourable cpk.” Wayne Nicholson, Product Business Unit Director Commercial Tyre Sales for Goodyear agreed: ““In the medium to longer term it is clear that the lowest achievable cpk is achieved through benefiting from the extended life of a tyre. Hence, a premium

REMO REVOLUTION TOUCHLESS WHEEL ALIGNMENT

It’s com ing... Launch ing March 2013

CLAMPLESS A REVOLUTION from

w w w . r e m o r e v o l u t i o n . c o m

EXACT BLACKTECH X

WHEEL ALIGNERS

WHEEL BALANCERS

TYRE CHANGERS A 2025 “DV” ARTIGLIO MASTER

EM 9380

EM 7240 DD

LIFTS

TRUCK EQUIPMENT HD1400

CONSUMABLES PNEUSEAL TUBE REPAIRS 021 5566798

ERCO 4004B

ERCO TP LIFT

ET66

ERCO 321

WHEEL SERVICE & GARAGE EQUIPMENT ¥ TYRE RELATED ACCESSORIES

Johannesburg 011 390 7160 Windhoek 00264 61 301161 Port Elizabeth 082 553 9987

Cape Town 021 949 0010 Durban 031 705 9505 Welkom 082 921 5450

STICK-ON WHEEL WEIGHT

RUBBER SNAP-IN VALVE

F o c u s o n R e t r e a d i n g • 9

tyre with better durability and retreadability will always be competitive, in my view. “As such, the end user should evaluate his operation based on cpk results, from the new tyre, right through to the retreaded life process. Depending on the operation and results from ongoing cpk evaluations, one would then determine whether to retread, use new only or utilise stock retreads on first purchase.” Sentiments that are further being echoed by Monal Naik, Marketing Manager for Bandag SA: “Astute fleet end users have retreading programmes in place whereby their own casings are being generated for retreading purposes and this allows them to achieve optimal return on their tyre budget.

reduced operating costs features highly at the top of the list. Plus, I

He added: “The rising number of imports has had a direct effect on the

believe that retreaders, and Bandag in particular, deliver the most value to end users by means of service oriented solutions

truck tyre replacement market, however, as Bandag

and continuous benchmarking.

has grown its sales volume over the past five to six years, we can but conclude that the impact is mostly being felt on the new tyre replacement front.”

That being said, the retreading industry cannot rest

❝

on its laurels and must actively strive to promote its existence in the market in a number of ways.

When asked whether they believed the South

Saving the user on

African retreading sector could possibly come

total cpk by utilising

around the use of retreads and the savings realised,

premier new tyres and

must remain a constant,” suggested Lottering.

under threat in the short to medium term, the nation’s leading players vehemently denied this. “Under threat, no,” claimed Bridgestone’s Lottering, “but retreaders are certainly under pressure to

“Innovation and persistence in the delivery of facts

“Secondly, and increasingly important, there has to

a retread policy will

be acceptance by all parties that retreading is good

ensure sustainability

for the environment, and just as there are company

come up with new approaches as well as to provide their customers with constant education as to how retreading can contribute towards achieving optimum tyre life and more important, a desirable cost per kilometre.” “Retreading is a well-accepted discipline in South Africa,” concurred Bandag’s Naik. “There are numerous benefits to this practice, but

❞

initiatives to track Carbon Footprints on aspects such as Air Travel, so too companies need to focus on their environmental impact of tyre use and the benefits derived from retreading.”

Nicholson added: “Saving the user on total cpk by utilising premier new tyres and a retread policy will ensure sustainability. And of course, service and turnaround time are paramount.” Naik agreed: “Service, service and more service – in the end this is what will define us and ensure our longevity. End users demand a high level of professionalism in after sales service as well as continuous benchmarking. Gone are the days of cracking a deal over a beer. While relationships remain important, the longevity of this industry lies in its ability to offer value that has a positive impact on the customer’s bottom line.” Retreading plants gear up for competitiveness In an effort to remain competitive, retreaders around the country appear to be taking the necessary measures to improve the productivity and output of their factories.

1 0 • F o c u s o n R e t r e a d i n g

“At plant level every effort is being made to ensure that product consistency takes place with zero tolerance for compromise on quality,” explained Naik. “ISO standards are further being implemented to ensure South African end users receive a proudly South African product that meets world class standards when they purchase a Bandag product.” Added Lottering: “The improvement in processes and materials is constant and is being pursued aggressively, as is focus on productivity per work station and factory.” “We are continuously assessing our product line-up, service levels and competitive standing in the market,” echoed Nicholson. “For the majority of end users retreading remains a viable option. Cpk based data and calculations prove the necessity of retreading throughout the industry. In certain fleets a breakeven point is determined where the end user creates the most value, either by continuing to retread, selling the casing or scrapping. As such, it is vital that the retreading community in South Africa continues to advance and develop so as to be able to provide this much needed service to the end user.” Lottering agreed: “The cradle to grave concept in tyre use is generally accepted as the proven way to reduce and control tyre costs. The challenge is to avoid the mentality that because our roads are not good, the drivers are not as careful as they could be, and in that sense, it is more convenient to simply buy a cheaper new tyre, as opposed to continuing to manage this substantial cost within a fleet. However, retreaders are serious about their business and the quality and performance of their product, so it is essential that partnerships are formed with cost optimisation as the key focus.” Similarly, when asked to provide a suitable comment along these lines, Naik claimed that cost-cutting is an ageing term. “We prefer value adding! Bandag is about achieving optimum tyre

“For every retreaded tyre there is one less tyre

operating returns. By retreading, a casing that has already been expensed, is given multiple lives. This is not cost-cutting. It is maximising on your

that needs to be scrapped and one less new tyre to

❝

produce,” concurred Naik. “The environmental benefits

investment. Coupled with this, we believe that the

The cradle to grave

mileage performance of Bandag retreads adds even

concept in tyre use

greater value,” he said. And then there’s the question of the environment and the responsibility that retreaders (as well as new tyre manufacturers) to fulfil their obligations in this regard.

obvious benefit to the operators, and if the initiative is truly an Environmental Drive then retreading is inseparable from the plan.”

resources such as oil and rubber. Coupled to this, every new tyre and imported casing attracts a green fee. A

is generally accepted as the proven way to

retreading programme offers a way to maximise on this additional ‘tyre related’ cost by implementing Bandag’s Retreading Programme and Saving!

reduce and control tyre “Retreaders are often the ones delivering after

costs Argued Lottering: “The retreading of casings has an

are many but so is the positive impact on natural

❞

sales service to fleet end users, even if tyre deals are struck in corporate boardrooms. As such, they are crucial in the effective disposal of commercial tyres, thereby complying with REDISA.”

3D - Special Offers 3D LAWRENCE - Special Offers 3D ALIGNER LAWRENCE 3D ALIGNER + NEW EUROPA + 3D ALIGNER RELEASE! NEW EUROPA 3D ALIGNER RELEASE! + + USA Technology - Built tough for Africa Free Automatic tyre changer USA Technology - Built tough for Africa Free Automatic tyre changer Free Nitrogen Machine Free Nitrogen Machine

Eurotek High Rise Lift

Available in the following colours: Red, Yellow or Blue. Available in the following colours: Red, Yellow or Blue.

Full range of Balancers and Lifts for all applications Full range of Balancers and Lifts for all applications receive a FREE 3 ton Wintec Magic Lift jack with any purchase of a wheel balancer and tyre changer.

CALL FOR A DEMO ON OUR LEVERLESS CHANGERS CALL FOR A DEMO ON OUR LAWRENCE / BRIGHT / M&B / EUROPA / PRIMAN AND more! LEVERLESS CHANGERS LAWRENCE / BRIGHT / M&B / EUROPA / PRIMAN AND more! www.equipmentafrica.net

Telephone: 012 653 0364 / 082 413 2629

www.equipmentafrica.net

Telephone: 012 653 0364 / 082 413 2629

WHY PAY MORE?

Unit 9 Edison Park, 183 Edison Crescent, Hennops Park, Centurion, 0157

1 2 • F o c u s o n R e t r e a d i n g

It appears that with the exception of stock retreads, which are becoming increasingly difficult to source

❝

A second challenge to the industry, according to Naik, is that the new tyre industry views its core

and are therefore often as pricey as some imported

The key to cost

tyres, retreading in the commercial sector is not

effective retreading

only alive and well, but more important, remains an integral cog in the ‘cradle-to-grave’ wheel. Said Lottering: “The key to cost effective retreading is the use of ‘good’ casings which can be retreaded

business as being the new tyre, with little or no regard to the benefits of retreading.

is the use of ‘good’

Added to this, retreaders also raised the need

casings which can

for a continuous education drive to the end user.

be retreaded multiple

Explained Lottering: “Education of fleet operators and achieving the balance of where the fleet spend

multiple times in order to achieve the best cpk.

times in order to

is allocated, remains crucial. Fuel price hikes are

The increased purchase of lesser quality new tyres

achieve the best cpk

damaging to the overall costs, and retreaders

means that there are fewer ‘good’ casings in the market. There is some supplementation of casings

❞

in South Africa by importing, but this is heavily

have to guard against becoming casualties in ‘cost cutting’ endeavours on the part of the transport operator.”

influenced by the Rand exchange rate and the availability of quality casings, and the integrity of the exporter. In short,

Nicholson was in complete agreement with these sentiments,

there is a casing shortage.

concluding that the biggest challenge for retreaders is end users not

“This is one of the reasons that innovations like the CCP (Casing

for cheaper alternatives initially, which could in the long run, prove

Confidence Pledge) has been introduced by Max T Solutions on both

more expensive.”

fully understanding their cpk equation.” As a result,” he said, “they opt

Bridgestone and Firestone casings, where there is an incentive for the fleet operator to support the Max T retreading process, thereby further reducing his costs and overall risk,” he offered. He added: “The fleet operator should be asking his suppliers of new tyres for the retreadability index (the number of times a casing can be retreaded), of the casings as part of the company’s procurement policy decision. Rising to meet the challenges Notwithstanding the importance of the retreading sector, it is not without its challenges. According to Naik, the biggest challenge for the retreading community is commoditisation. He claimed: “By competing solely on price and ignoring the service component, the industry is at risk of becoming commoditised. Margins are already low and without profit, any industry stands the risk of being deemed ‘unfeasible’.”

O n e - o n - O n e • 1 3

• • • • •

Excellent mileage and retreadability Delivers competitive cpk Tread design for your application DOT and E-Mark approved Approved by DTI SA

Head Office: 011 975 9525 | sales@tirepoint.co.za www.tirepoint.co.za Official SA Distributor of Hanksugi Tires

1 4 â&#x20AC;˘ F o c u s o n R e t r e a d i n g

Tyre Management in the UK â&#x20AC;&#x201C; does the Retreader play a role?

Until relatively recent times, retreading has not really been a sector of the

tyre management offer, with all their services coming from one source with

truck tyre market that has been the centre of attention for most new tyre

one invoice point. This played into the hands of the big manufacturers and,

manufacturers in Europe. Michelin, of course, is an exception, being the

with the gradual demise of the manufacturer owned equity networks, a new

only one of the key manufacturers to have had a long term retreading policy

breed of specialist fleet management companies.

as well as being a pioneer of the whole life costs approach to tyre sales and management. Goodyear had retread operations but they were not really a focus of the business. Others dabbled, Bridgestone had its Qualitread operation, and Conti had agreements with retreaders to produce retreads for them where they had dialled retreading into a tyre contract. Pirelli did have a retread operation in the UK, but they chose to sub contract retreading back in 2004. However, Michelin aside, the field had always been open for independent retreaders to sell to independent truckers and local fleets alike, but the market has been changing and in recent years the likes of Bridgestone, Goodyear and Conti have taken steps to secure their retread market.

The long term future of the independent retreader is increasingly linked to the ability to not only serve the retread needs of the larger fleets, but also to be able to offer whole life tyre management services. This fact of business was indelibly stamped on the tyre industry when Bridgestone acquired Bandag at the end of 2008 and increasingly when a company launches a new tyre it includes in the design, features that enhance the retreadability of the casing and enable the sales teams to offer whole life tyre packages to the market. So, today, Michelin, Bridgestone, Goodyear and now Continental all offer whole life packages to the market, in house, whilst Pirelli, Hankook and others offer sub contracted services to complete their whole life package. This has the potential to close the market to

The truck market in the UK, Germany and France, at least, had been going

smaller companies who do not have the economies of scale or the finance

through a transformation, fleets were becoming larger and the number of

to exploit the market. However, those with the capacity are linking up with

operators fewer. Large fleets tended to follow a central buying policy. This led

the secondary tyre manufacturers in a symbiotic relationship where both

to a shift in the market that supported those retreaders capable of supplying

parties can benefit.

high volumes of consistently high quality product. In the UK that played into the hands of Michelin as the key retread manufacturer in the market, plus two independents, Bandvulc and Vacu-Lug, plus of course, Bandag. Goodyear seemed to be slow off the mark, but a revamp of their operation at Wolverhampton put them back on the map and Treadmax retreads are now an integral part of their sales package to fleets. Bridgestone acquired Bulldog, the third largest retreader in the UK and followed that up with the acquisition of Bandag. Pirelli had already sub contracted to Vacu-Lug. Conti had an agreement with Bandvulc to produce Conti-Re mould cure retreads and with Marangoni for pre-cure retreads. Increasingly, the fleets wanted a one stop package. They wanted a total

A knock-on effect of these contracts is that there is the potential for the retread suppliers to also link in to these partnerships. A new tyre manufacturer who wants consistency may not only do a deal with the retreader, but include its preferred retread materials supplier in the deal too. So, this development of the fleet tyre management sector could have a deep impact upon the whole retread supply chain. It may become critical for a supplier to be approved not only by the retreaders but by the retreaderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new tyre partner. In turn, if a new tyre manufacturer wanted global consistency, they could enter the tread supply market too, or buy a tread supplier, it is the next logical step, perhaps. (courtesy Retreading Business, UK)

Quality

Service

Value

In tough economic times, it’s important to choose your business partners wisely. At Hankook, we understand your need for proven quality and long-lasting performance from a tyre. That’s what Hankook delivers. Combine that with our proactive service and you now have a formula for unbeatable value. Hankook, better tyres from a better tyre company; that’s what drives our confidence in our work.

Experience unrivaled comfort during high-speed driving HANKOOK TYRE CO. LTD SOUTH AFRICA Tel: 011-256 4079

Experience relaxing drive under any road conditions

Premium aggressive all-terrain for light truck, van & sport utility vehicle

M a n u f a c t u r i n g • 1 7

Michelin launches the new X-SUPER TERRAIN + tyre Michelin has launched the new X-Super Terrain + tyre designed specifically for articulated dump trucks that operate in difficult conditions, where

tyres

must

deliver

excellent performance in terms of traction, robustness and reliability. Allegedly, the new MICHELIN X-SUPER TERRAIN + reuses the most outstanding feature of the MICHELIN X-SUPER: its exceptional traction. To further enhance performance, the new tyre also integrates Michelin’s latest technological innovations: additional reinforcements and the latest-generation C2 casing. Furthermore, Michelin claims that the use of new, more wearresistant rubber compounds has increased tyre life by up to 15%. The company further claims that articulated dump trucks, which can carry payloads that vary from 20 to 50 tonnes, need to be extremely

the new-generation MICHELIN X-SUPER TERRAIN +. Tyre pressure has

adaptable, versatile and able to carry materials on sometimes difficult

been increased by 0.5 bar to limit the impact of abrasion. The new

terrain, regardless of weather conditions.

MICHELIN X-SUPER TERRAIN + also integrates C2 technology, which consists of a new-generation casing that reduces heat build-up on the

The new MICHELIN X-SUPER TERRAIN + tyre, is said to integrate the

shoulders when the tyre is in use, thereby increasing tyre life, thanks to

full range of technological solutions that Michelin provides to operators

the use of thicker, corrosion-resistant cables.

working in quarries and on large-scale infrastructure projects. • More respect for the environment. The new MICHELIN X-SUPER According to Michelin, the MICHELIN X-SUPER TERRAIN + offers three

TERRAIN + was designed to optimize the amount of material needed

significant gains across the board:

in its manufacture, which takes place in ISO1400-certified plants

• Enhanced safety. The new MICHELIN X-SUPER TERRAIN + delivers

whose environmental impact has been reduced by 16% since 2005.

enhanced safety performance thanks to its reinforced sidewalls. Unlike

Respecting the environment also meets extending tyre life. That’s why

the previous-generation tyre, the tyre features a lateral scuff rib.

Michelin designed the new MICHELIN X-SUPER TERRAIN + to be fully and easily reparable and retreadable.

• Improved profitability. The new MICHELIN X-SUPER TERRAIN + provides more profitability thanks to its improved resistance to cuts

The new MICHELIN X-SUPER TERRAIN + is currently available in the

and scrapes and its more durable casing that, combined with a more

market’s most popular size, 29.5 R25, as a direct replacement for the

resistant tread compound, increases the tyre’s longevity. The tread of

MICHELIN X-SUPER TERRAIN, and Michelin teams are already working

the previous-generation tyre, seen as a benchmark, was maintained in

to develop other tyre sizes.

1 8 • D i s t r i b u t i o n

New Auto Fitment Centres Promise “Tyres & More”

TiAuto, a leading player in the automotive retail and wholesale industry,

the economy has been slow to recover and people are now more value-

today announced the launch of Tyres & More, this new chain of,

conscious than ever. While we all need to save money, you should not

franchised and company owned automotive fitment centres will be

have to compromise on quality or on safety. At Tyres & More they’ll get

developed nationally in conjunction with the Groups growth strategy.

‘more for less’ – more big-brand products, more value, more service for

This news comes as the Group opens the doors to its first store today in

less cost, less hassle and less stress.”

Woodmead at 14a Waterval Crescent opposite Woodmead Value Mart. Chief Operating Officer of TiAuto, Alex Taplin explains, “Tyres & More

Tyres & More centres will stock a wide range of tyres, including top brands like Michelin; Pirelli; BFGoodrich; Continental; Yokohama;

is a fresh, fun brand whose core business is focussed on among other

Hankook, Dunlop as well as the affordable tyre ranges of Unigrip;

offerings, the sale and fitment of top quality tyres, shocks, brakes and

Gripmax; Achilles and more. Among the shock absorber brands in stock

batteries as well as wheel balancing and alignment, all at appealing prices.”

will be Gabriel, Femo and more, while brake brands will include Safeline,

“Our business philosophy is first and foremost to offer our customers

Ferodo and more.

choice of best loved brands at affordable prices with a keen focus on

Customers will no doubt also benefit from TiAuto’s requirement that

great service and on ensuring our customers’ continued safety on the

all Tyres & More franchised stores be owner-operated and managed.

road. We achieve our goal of giving value - conscious customers access

With the owner on site, engaging with customers and staff, and running

to brands and quality service through the smart use of technology,

the day-to-day business operations, standards will remain constant and

efficient training and by cutting any excess out of the value chain.”

staff perpetually motivated to deliver.

South African motorists should have no trouble at all getting behind a

Apart from all the more that this new venture offers motorists, there’s

fitment centre that promises a no-nonsense, price-is-right, service is key approach, with highly trained and skilled staff working flat out to get it right the first time. Given parent company TiAuto’s 40-plus years’experience in the automotive and retail industries, you can bank on it that by the time Tyres & More staff are trained asking “how can I help you”, that they are ready and able to act upon your every need. Adds Taplin, “The recession is unlikely to be over any time soon, and

also the more of the opportunities available to entrepreneurs to own a Tyres & More franchise anywhere in South Africa. Taplin says potential franchisees should contact Fred Scheepers on 011 256 4114 or Mike O’Shea on 011 256 4095 to discuss these opportunities. If you live in Johannesburg, go see for yourself what the fuss is all about at Tyres & More at 14a Waterval Crescent, Woodmead, Sandton 011 802 0304. Otherwise, hang in there just a little longer. More Tyres & More fitment centres will be opening nationwide in the near future.

D i s t r i b u t i o n â&#x20AC;˘ 1 9

ContiTradeAfrica strengthens distribution network

Â Â?Â?

The franchise network of ContiTrade Africa has grown significantly

over the last few months in South Africa with the retail chain of

FIT&GO stores increasing to nine stores within eight months.

Â?Â?Â Â Â

ContiTrade Africa is the local trade organisation of Continental AG responsible for franchise and retail operations. The most recent store opened in Kimberley, just seven months after the first FIT&GO opened its doors in Welkom in December last year. Three more stores are planned to open across the country soon.

FIT&GO is a new fitment centre franchise that offers a range of tyre fitment and related vehicle services. It offers affordable, quality products and services while being honest and dependable to the customer. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our aim is to enhance the traditional offering of the tyre fitment store and assist in improving service levels,â&#x20AC;? said Kevin Slabbert, Head of Franchising for ContiTrade Africa.

FIT&GO Kimberley is a partnership between Cassie and Liza Steynberg and Hennie Brits who jointly have 50 years experience in the industry. They converted and old exhaust fitment centre into a FIT&GO.

According to Brits, it was time to convert the exhaust business to something more commercially viable. â&#x20AC;&#x153;To survive the difficult

Â? Â?Â Â Â&#x20AC;Â?Â?Â&#x201A;Â&#x192; Â&#x201E;

Â&#x160; Â&#x2C6; Â&#x2026; Â Â? Â&#x2039; Â?Â&#x152; Â&#x160; Â&#x2C6; Â Â?Â&#x2C6; Â? Â Â&#x2039; Â&#x192; Â? Â&#x17D; Â Â&#x2026; Â? Â&#x2026; Â?Â&#x2018; Â&#x2039;

Â Â? Â? Â? Â?Â?Â Â Â Â?Â&#x20AC;Â&#x201A; Â?Â&#x192; Â Â Â&#x2026;Â Â? Â&#x2020;Â Â Â? Â&#x2021;Â&#x2020; Â&#x2C6; Â Â&#x2026; Â&#x2C6; Â&#x2030;Â&#x2030;Â&#x2030;

automotive market needs and challenges the only way is to diversify your service offering. As the saying goes, diversify or die,â&#x20AC;? he said. He added that the new Continental FIT&GO franchise offered the opportunity to diversify their business with a full range of products and services. The new store will now offer tyres, batteries, shocks, exhausts, brakes, suspension repairs, tow bars and trailers with wheel balancing tyre repair and wheel alignment. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Backed by a big global company like Continental, we can now offer quality products,

respond quickly to market changes and have access to research and development,â&#x20AC;? said Brits. FIT&GO Kimberley is now the main supplier of Continental passenger, bakkie, SUV/4x4, agricultural and truck tyres in Kimberley. In line with the business goals of FIT&GO where

Â Â?Â?

franchise owners are directly involved, this store will be managed by Steynberg and his wife.

Performance

for Profe

For more information visit www.ty

tyrecor (Pty) ltd, 771 Cincaut Crescent, Saxenburg Bus Blackheath, Cape Town Tel: 0861 TYRECOR Fax: 086 530 2118

e & reliability

essionals

yrecor.co.za

siness Park

YTS YTS TYRE SALES

Johannesburg tel: +27 11 974 7732 | email: yts.sales@telkomsa.net Cape Town tel: +27 82 337 8699 | email: aeolus.cape@netactive.co.za

I n d u s t r y N e w s • 2 3

Bandag launches ProWheel at BTS Conference At this year’s annual conference, held on 24 July at Emperor’s Palace in

Tyre Assistance (ETA), an extensive network of more than 30 BTS centres

Johannesburg, Bandag launched its latest innovation – ProWheel – to an

covering all major transport hubs, as well as industry leading management

excited group of BTS franchisees.

information in the form of their ProTurbo Fleet Surveys, ProOosta Scrap

An integrated tyre asset management software which forms part of Bandag’s online tyre management solution, ProWheel is said to provide a fully integrated solution with the existing tyre surveying and scrapping

Tyre Analysis, the Profleet Tyre Management System, and now, ProWheel Tyre Asset Management. The Conference was held to reinforce the BTS Franchise model so BTS’s

modules. Bandag further claims that ProWheel now allows fleet end users to

may continue delivering on their unique value proposition but also to

track tyre movements and record tyre locations with ease. BTS franchisees

provide some new innovation for this thriving network of tyre professionals.

can now offer this value proposition to fleet end users so that the round black assest fleet end users spend thousands on are not only maintained to deliver the best possible mileage, but through tyre tracking, these assets can now be optimally managed in a user friendly system. They further allege that BTS franchisees are service oriented tyre service providers that provide fleet customers a unique offering by way of premium Bandag retreads, professional on-site services, unbeatable Emergency

Emperor’s Palace provided the perfect setting where a very talented magician, Ilan Smith, provided entertainment... of a magical nature of course. While guests continued being wowed by Ilan’s magic, dinner and drinks ended an absolutely successful conference, one which according to Bandag SA, promises to bring some magic to South African fleet end users as well.

New Product

JOIN THE TUBESTONE LOYALTY CLUB (TLC) Tubestone is extremely proud to introduce its new TUBESTONE LOYALTY

your TLC card number, which can either be sent

CLUB (TLC) programme – launched earlier this year at NAMPO. A rewards

by email or fax) and Tubestone will do the rest.

programme specially designed with the company’s loyal and valued

What is more, should a member purchase BKT

supporters in mind, the TLC has already met with a pleasing response

products in their birthday month, they will earn

with close to 300 TLC dealers currently participating and nearly 400 TLC

DOUBLE TLC points!

members.

HOW TO REDEEM TLC POINTS?

The concept is easy. Collect TLC points when purchasing any BKT product

When redeeming TLC points, they can be

from a participating TLC dealer which will serve as a future discount when

redeemed on either BKT and/or Nankang purchases from any participating

you purchase any BKT and/or Nankang products.

TLC dealers by simply printing their voucher and presenting it to the TLC

In short, points equal money, money back in your pocket. HOW TO JOIN THE TLC PROGRAMME? Joining the programme is simple. Merely complete a TLC registration form available at any participating TLC dealers or go to www.tubestone.co.za/ myrewards, to register online. Registration will automatically qualify for 20 free points free, worth R100.00 with each point currently worth R5.00 (VAT inclusive). An email confirming the registration will also contain the customer’s unique TLC card number, username and password and this will be duly followed by a welcome pack by post, containing the TLC member card, ‘welcome’ letter and brochure. EARNING TLC POINTS

dealer. Should a customer not have access to the internet or a printer, they can present their TLC card to the participating dealer who will assist. Alternatively, they can contact Tubestone directly for help. This TLC voucher amount will then be deducted from the total invoice; which means the customer will only be responsible for the outstanding amount. And, should a member purchase BKT points while redeeming a voucher, they will still earn TLC points on that purchase. PARTICIPATING TLC DEALERS Tubestone dealers are invited to learn more about the TLC programme, and the benefits it offers by contacting a Tubestone representative or visiting the Tubestone website for more information at www.tubestone.co.za/ myrewards. Tubestone is a Tyre and Tube Distribution company, with its product range

When purchasing BKT products from a participating TLC dealer, a member

including OTR, Industrial, Agricultural, Implement, Truck and Passenger

will earn TLC points, (Tubestone will require a copy of the invoice containing

tyres as well as Jantsa rims.

B a n d a g N e w s • 2 5

Integrated Tyre Asset Management A very broad definition of an asset is something that has value. But an asset is more than just this… it is something that can be used to generate further value. In the transport business one such asset is tyres!

Tyre Supply

Tyre Maintenance

Tyre Management

Yes, tyres have a stock value but their use converts a truck into a

From humble beginnings as a supplier of premium retread products, the

payload. So why are these assets often neglected? Why is this asset,

Bandag offering gradually incorporated tyre maintenance and now offers

often described as a fleet operators second largest variable operating cost

ProTurbo and ProOosta for fleet inspection and tyre scrapping reports.

reduced to a commodity? We may not have the answers to these questions

The latest innovation comes with the launch of ProWheel which is an

but Bandag’s latest innovation will certainly provide a solution…

Integrated Tyre Asset Management module that forms part of Bandag’s online tyre management system. Integrated because ProTurbo, ProWheel

The solution comes through years of experience, during which time

and ProOosta together provide the means to offer a solution geared

Bandag have developed a multitude of tools all aimed at delivering better

towards empowering fleet end users to take control of their tyre assets

tyre management. This has coincided perfectly with the evolution of

and embrace Tyre Management. Every effort has been made to ensure

the needs of fleet end users, where Bandag have themselves evolved to

the system(s) works seamlessly to provide an output that can offer greater

provide Tyre Management Solutions.

control for fleet operators when dealing with their tyre assets. ProWheel is only available from your nearest Bandag or BTS Franchisee. Now that’s what you call Tyre Management DOWN TO AN ART…

With Bandag, you don’t have to be a tyre expert. You just have to know one! For more information on how you can benefit contact Bandag today on +27 11 439 6000 or visit www.bandag.co.za.

With the reliability you get from Bandag, your ﬂeet can take on anything. 8182 Bandag Strip Ad.indd 3

www.bandag.co.za 5/15/08 4:39:38 PM

T a l k i n g T y r e s • 2 7

PUT TO THE TEST

Tough enough!

Tyre development has come so far that modern off-road tyres are exceptionally well equipped to tackle even the most arduous off-road conditions in their stride. But a touch of care will get you a very long way … By Colin Mileman It wasn’t that long ago that bundu bashing and driving off-road meant

off the beaten track than ever before. Indeed, some of the new-generation

carrying a hefty load of spare tyres. Venturing up into Africa was a

heavy-duty mud-terrain tyres are superb on-road, while general purpose

major logistical exercise with a very real chance of being stranded.

all-terrainers have excelled in the most extreme off-road terrain.

You could lean towards a hard-core 4x4 tyre that would be less prone

No doubt the raft of vehicle suspension, traction and stability control

to damage, but endure an ear-piercing drone that proved intolerable

systems that permeate the segment have raised this level of competence

for more than a day matched to an impossibly hard ride that would

to new heights. After all, when last did you get out of a 4x4 to manually

pummel your spine and kidneys into submission on all but the

lock the hubs, pull a lever rather than flip a switch or plan the route ahead

smoothest of roads.

instead of charging ahead and simply relying on the vehicle’s intricate but

If you opted for a quieter, more refined tyre it would likely succumb to

brilliantly effective electronic brain?

the very first obstacle you came across, turn into a slick at the first hint of mud or land up being completely out of its depth in sand and rocks.

Accordingly, you’re less likely to get into serious trouble than ever before. And when you do, it’s far easier to call on the electronic safety net to get

But the latest designs and advanced new technologies have produced

you out. Equally, with all the high-tech gadgets doing a lot of the work for

off-road tyres with a far broader breath of abilities – as well as tyres

you, and interacting millions of times per second, identifying the conditions

with an on-road bias that are capable of heading further and deeper

and pre-empting the vehicle parameters, the workload on the driver, the

2 8 • T a l k i n g T y r e s

vehicle and the tyres are in fact being dramatically reduced. This certainly doesn’t apply on all 4x4s, but the gadgets and gizmos built into some of the latest off-roaders are simply bewildering. For example, forward-facing cameras (and yes, there’s a panoramic bevy of them all around some of these vehicles) constantly scan the road ahead, and in turn

African countries on separate 4x4 trips – and it’s been simply astonishing

identify the appropriate parameters required in terms of diff lock, traction

to emerge from some genuinely tough expeditions without a punctured or

and stability control, steering and throttle sensitivity … and so much more.

damaged tyre in sight! This used to be the exception, but is now becoming

Even the inclusion of traction and stability control has shifted the goalposts.

the norm!

Previously the driver had to be exceptionally careful to find that ideal

However, it doesn’t eliminate the need to understand the fundamental

balance between using the power and exceeding the available traction.

basics of off-roading though, as demonstrated by one lonely and weary

Now, in some situations, you simply plant your right foot on the accelerator

family on their way back up a remote trail between Botswana and Zimbabwe

and let the electronics work it all out for you.

after getting their fancy 4x4 SUV and off-road trailer comprehensively stuck.

It remains clear, though, that proper driving techniques and understanding

Aside from making the mistake of travelling alone, it was clear that tyre

the basics of tyres is the cornerstone of any off-road expedition.

pressures had received little, if any, attention. Hence besides the frustration

In the past 18 months I’ve been fortunate to travel through 10 different

of losing several hours, it was likely to be the tyres and the vehicle that would have received the blame, not the driver. If there’s anything I’ve learnt from many years of off-roading, it’s that tyre maintenance is critical. And that includes adjusting the tyre pressures to suit the conditions. Dropping the tyre pressures when hitting the dirt may seem like a timeconsuming exercise, and you have to pump them up again soon enough, which is even slower and more painful. But in terms of safety, stability and comfort it’s absolutely essential. The difference that appropriately reduced tyre pressures can make is astonishing, particularly on corrugated and rutted roads, and even more so with a hefty load on board when the inclination is to keep the tyres hard. Have a look at the beating the vehicle suspension takes on these surfaces and you will be shocked that there aren’t coils, shocks, leaf springs, rims and rubber scattered all along the region’s most popular trails. So much of this is down to the role that tyres play – and yet many people still underestimate its importance and value. This may partly be due to the increased levels of refinement, comfort and noise suppression in modern vehicles, as even serious off-road vehicles are very well insulated from the outside. Nevertheless there definitely needs to a more concerted effort to get people to understand and appreciate the value of tyre pressures better, as well as the whole concept of tyre care – and that applies to off-road segment as much as it does general motorists and industry.

Colin Mileman is a freelance motoring journalist, photographer and advanced driving specialist with over 13 years of experience in this field. As a former editor of Topcar and Topbike magazines, he’s as enthusiastic about cars and bikes as they come, and has extensive knowledge of all motoring-related matters, including the topic of tyres, having run the annual and highly regarded Topcar tyre tests for several years.

3 0 • J H B M o t o r S h o w

Commercial Vehicle Sector in the Spotlight The 2013 Johannesburg Truck and Bus Show takes place from 16 – 27 October

Visitors to the Johannesburg Truck and Bus Show can expect to see the

and co-locates with the Johannesburg International Motor Show. The Show

latest technology and developments in the commercial sector with an

features product updates and new product launches in the commercial sector

extensive media launch programme in place over the two media preview

including trucks, trailers, buses, body builders and utility vehicle specialists.

days.

An impressive list of commercial exhibitors have already committed to the

A new addition to the programme of events is the recently announced

show including:

Truck and Bus Industry Conference sanctioned by the NAAMSA Heavy

Afrit South Africa

MAN Truck and Bus (SA)

Commercial Vehicle Division and Bus Forum with an impressive line-up

Benetrax

Marcopolo South Africa

Cummins SA

MCV South Africa De Haans Body Works

DAF Trucks

Mercedes-Benz South Africa

FAW Vehicle Manufacturers SA

Mitsubishi FUSO

Freightliner

Powerstar

Henred Fruehauf

SA Truck Bodies

Hino South Africa

Scania South Africa

Hyundai Automotive South Africa

Serco Industries

• Challenges Confronting the SA Bus Transport Industry

Irizar Southern Africa

TATA Motors

• South Africa’s BRICS Membership : Implications for the SA Truck &

Isuzu Truck South Africa

TFM Holdings

Iveco South Africa

VDL Bus & Coach South Africa

JMG & Sons

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles

Jost South Africa

Western Star

Kia Motors South Africa

of topics and speakers. Topics which the attendees will debate include: • SA Truck & Bus Industry : Performance Review & Medium Term Prospects • Heavy Commercial Vehicle Fuel Standards & Specifications • Sub-Saharan Africa Cross Border Transport Challenges • Transnet / Portnet Logistics : Integration of Transport Modes in SubSaharan Africa

Bus Industry • Managing the Influence of Strategic Operational Cost Variables : E-Tolls, Fuel Standards, Portnet & Transnet Operations The Johannesburg Truck and Bus Show hosts media preview days on the 16th and 17th of October with the show open to the public and industry

Johannesburg Truck & Bus Show

visitors from Friday 18th October until Sunday 27th October 2013.

Johannesburg Expo Centre, 16 - 27 October 2013 A visit to the Johannesburg Truck and Bus Show will provide commercial October is traditionally Transport Month in South Africa and all facets

vehicle sector fleet owners and operators a one-stop shop to view the

of road transport will be celebrated at this twelve-day gathering of the

latest vehicle models, trailers, technology and developments.

industry’s finest.

3 2 • O n e - o n - O n e

OTR RADIALS

es ll OTR Machin a r fo le b a it u lS 25” to 35” in e g n ra e iz s l Full e Radials ‘E’ and ‘L’ typ ial el Belted Rad te S t s u b o R l construction sistant tread l Abrasion re compound ed tread area rc fo in re lt e l Steelb ad patterns l Modern tre lity standard l Global qua rer Warranty l Manufactu Hour

= Low Cost P

TESTED & PROVEN

FOR ORDERS & INFORMATION Contact: Ken Martin or Marlin Pillay Tel: 031 764 6451 | Ken: 083 387 8403 | Marlin: 071 880 9247 | Fax: 086 558 8382 Email: ken@tafrica.net or marlin@tafrica.net OnLy AvAILABLE fROm

Transafrica Tyre & Wheel Exclusive

Distributor for RSA, Lesotho, Swaziland and Botswana

I n d u s t r y N e w s • 3 3

Tyre Importers establish Association At a meeting held in Johannesburg on 26 August, it was decided that it is important for South African tyre importers to align themselves by way of an association who can represent its members as a collective voice at various

Empowerment, and environmental matters, and adherence thereto; 1.1.7 establish a policing mechanism for self-regulation;

Government departments. This led to the establishment of TIASA(Tyre

1.1.8 encourage all participants in the industry to adhere to the principles

Importer Association of South Africa), which has been implemented with

set out in this Constitution and the statutes, specifically those

a view to achieving and targeting various objectives. The newly-established constitution includes: 1.1

The main objects of the Association shall be to:

1.1.1 act in the best interest of all Members and protect and further the interests of the Members in ensuring a sustainable, environmentally sound, profitable and an organised industry and business environment for the importation, distribution, and marketing of tyre products in South Africa; 1.1.2 ensure that healthy, fair and ethical competition takes place within the South African tyre industry; 1.1.3 protect the image and integrity of the industry and to act as its representative and voice; 1.1.4 protect the consumer by ensuring confidence in imported tyre products; 1.1.5 work with and lobby government departments towards simplifying legislation and standards applicable to the different categories of tyre products; 1.1.6 define a code of ethics in respect of imported tyre products in relation to importation, marketing, distribution, Black Economic

relating to sound environmental practices; 1.1.9 lobby and engage government on a national, provincial and local level to further the general interests of the Association and its Members and if necessary, promote, support or oppose, as may be deemed expedient any proposal, legislative or other measures which may affect the interests of any or all of the Members; 1.1.10 actively encourage and advance Black Economic Empowerment (historically disadvantaged individuals) in the tyre industry in accordance with this Constitution and the relevant statutes; 1.1.11 co-operate with such other organisations and entities when expedient to do so in the overall interest of the environment and the Members of the Association; 1.1.12 endeavour to promote representation of all stakeholders throughout the tyre industry; and 1.1.13. promote co-operation and goodwill among Members for the good of the Association. All interested parties who import tyres into RSA and who wish to join TIASA in the interests of ensuring fair representation in the industry are invited to contact Charl de Villiers, MD of Tyrecor on 021 905 7688, 083 389 9950 or fax to mail 086 530 2118.

Dunlop gives a stylish twist to Tyre Care Tips Tyres are one of those products that people often take for granted, until something goes awry and then it becomes an urgent priority. Tyre care also isn’t the most exciting of topics but Dunlop has changed that perception with their new range of fun, animated tyre care video clips available on YouTube. As part of the innovative digital drive currently being rolled-out by Dunlop in the form of Facebook and Twitter platforms and Smartzone motoring apps; Dunlop has also undertaken the development of the animated tyre care clips to promote education and safety in a manner that can be easily understood by a diverse audience. Currently playlisted on their YouTube channel under Dunlop Tyres SA, the

aligned and rotated regularly, as well as explaining tread depth indicators, sidewall markings and the dangers of incorrect inflation.

vibrant and contemporary clips have an easy-going retro appeal and are sure

Even if you’re not in the market for a new set of tyres just yet, or don’t have

to be an instant hit with viewers. The clips work their way through some of the

any issues with your tyres, make sure to check out the clips for a bit of fun and

more basic tyre guidelines detailing the reasons why tyres should be balanced,

insight. These valuable tips will be sure to save you money down the line.

3 4 • G o o d y e a r N e w s

Hi-Q cements its iconic status as SA’s best loved tyre retailer Independent consumer research by the Target Group Index (TGI) has placed Hi-Q

at the forefront of tyre retail brands for the fourth consecutive year.

The tyre retail category was one of 163 across nine industries and more than 8 000 brands researched in TGI’s annual quest to find the ones South Africans love the best. This recognition from local consumers sets Hi-Q among a special group of iconic brands from other industries, such as All-Gold and Huletts, Black Cat, Coca-Cola and Nokia. The globally respected TGI Icon Brands survey was first conducted in 1969 and is the largest of its kind in South Africa. More than 15 000 randomly selected consumers were interviewed in the survey this year, representing over 19 million adults. In the tyre retail sector, consumers had to have purchased tyres in the preceding 12 months, to ensure recent first-hand experience in their responses. “We really are a truly South African brand,“ said Dustine Gascoyne, Hi-Q General Manager. “We continually strive to live out the values that launched the network over a decade ago. It’s rewarding to know that our customers are unshakeable in their belief that Hi-Q is the still one they can trust for all their vehicles’ tyre and undercarriage needs. “Now, we are more determined than ever to stay on top. Our customers can expect us to try even harder, because being the best is just the beginning. The results of the TGI survey portray the effort the Hi-Q

G o o d y e a r N e w s • 3 5

is making a tyre purchase decision of necessity, not desire, so ideally we want to make their experience trouble-free and easy. We’re in the solutions business. “Looking ahead, our key focus is to evolve with the needs and desires of our retail network and our customers. The trusted yellow-and-blue look and upmarket feel of Hi-Q will continue to evolve with trends to keep things fresh, but the essence of Hi-Q, the integrity of the business and the way we treat our customers, is clearly a winning formula.” Maria Petousis, TGI Director, said the survey revealed “South Africa’s most current quintessential brands. They define a common experience, often on a daily basis, and South Africans across all demographic groups are committed to them in a real sense; they put their money where their mouths are to demonstrate this commitment”.

network and suppliers put into the brand and their business. It’s something we are very proud of. Gascoyne said the Hi-Q philosophy aimed to deliver essential emotional as well as just rational benefits to its customers. “The connection goes beyond great pricing, quality products and convenient outlets. It is also the feeling of the people that customers encounter within Hi-Q. We actively ensure that all aspects of the tyre purchase experience are made as easy and approachable as possible. Invariably the customer

The One Stop Show for Tyres, Workshop Equipment & Accessories 4, 5, 6 March Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg South Africa

INTERNATIONAL EVENT

ECI International Ltd., Speldhurst Business Park, Langton Road, Kent, TN3 0AQ, England T +44 (0)1892 863888 F +44 (0)1892 863828 sales@eci-international.com

www.eci-international.com

W o r l d N e w s • 3 7

SAILUN OUTSHINES LOCAL CANADIAN TYRE BRAND A group of automotive journalists in Canada recently put tyres through a series of on-road tests to compare a national brand with a value-priced brand, with astonishing results. The journalists did not know which tyres were on the cars they were driving in three sets of exercises: a wet slalom; simulated country at normal driving speeds and hot laps on the track. After a full day of testing, a surprising victor took home the honours: the tyre was the Sailun Atrezzo Z4+AS imported from China which retails in the Greater Toronto area for $111, whilst the competitive national brand is priced at $189. At the test day, journalists were asked to rate the tyres on drive comfort, traction under acceleration, steering feel/responsiveness, cornering stability, and overall control/predictability. In the wet slalom test, the Sailun tyres came out on top in all categories, although drive comfort was not rated for this exercise. Likewise, in the road drive, the Sailun tyres also received a higher rating than the competitor across all categories. Only in the track exercise did the national brand outshine, out-performing Sailun by a slim margin in the steering feel/responsiveness rating. At the end of the day the Sailun brand had accumulated a total of 31 points out of 40 while the national tyre brand had 30. While the points spread is not significant, the Sailun brand won hands down in this part of the world on price, priced at 70$ less expensive than its rival.

www.canadianmanufacturing.com

, 2013 5 1 3 INA Nov. 1 I · CH GHA SHAN

Further information: Messe Essen GmbH · Phone: +49 201 72 44-727 · Fax: +49 201 72 44-435 E-Mail: reifen.china@messe-essen.de · www.reifen-china.com China United Rubber Corporation Phone: +86 10 5865 0277 · Fax: +86 10 5865 0288 E-Mail: reifen.china@chrubber.com · www.reifenchina.com

3 8 • W o r l d N e w s

Apollo Tyres announces three year partnership with Manchester United As part of this association, Apollo Tyres with its philosophy of ‘go the distance’ will create football based play zones in local communities using recycled rubber in the UK and India and encourage healthy lifestyles among youngsters. Apollo Tyres has announced a three year regional partnership with Manchester United Football Club, which will see Apollo Tyres become the Club’s official Tyre Partner in the UK and India. While Apollo is a leading brand in India, the tyre manufacturer, which has annual revenues of over US$ 2.34 billion, will leverage the high profile partnership with Manchester United to raise awareness of its brand among potential customers, business partners and consumer audiences around the world. Commenting on the announcement, Onkar S Kanwar, Chairman, Apollo Tyres Ltd said, “This is a very important partnership for us as a company and clearly demonstrates our global ambitions for our business, and the brand. Very few sports platforms deliver a global profile and awareness and we believe the impact of this relationship will be significant in helping to make Apollo a globally recognisable brand.”

Manchester United Group Managing Director, Richard Arnold commented, “Apollo Tyres is a leading player in the tyre industry and its rate of growth and development into new territories made it an attractive partner for the Club. With a combined fan base close to 46 million

A key element of the partnership will be a joint community commitment

followers in both the UK and India, we are confident in providing Apollo

to encourage young people to ‘go the distance’ and seek a higher level

with a captive audience.

of excellence in building sporting skills and developing healthy lifestyles. Drawing on its philosophy, Apollo will build football pitches made from recycled rubber in local communities across the UK and India. The first ‘go the distance’ pitch will be built within the grounds of Old Trafford before similar pitches are rolled out across the UK and India. This initiative will include some specific skills challenges, encouraging users of the Apollo football play zones to achieve excellence in control, agility, speed and precision. Kanwar continued, “It is a matter of great pride for us to introduce a new healthy living initiative under our corporate social responsibility (CSR), to create new play zones for the youth in the UK and India. In its aim to stimulate the next generations to go the distance, this association really brings to life our brand values of high performance, quality and excellence.”

“This partnership will allow Apollo not only to promote its brand, but also to engage and communicate with our fans, like we observed today with the skills demonstration. “Manchester United is dedicated to youth investment and development, whether through our Academy or via the work we do in the community.” Today’s announcement was made at a launch event at the Club’s Aon Training Complex, which was attended by the senior management of Apollo Tyres, led by Chairman, Onkar S Kanwar and Manchester United Group Managing Director, Richard Arnold. Over three decades old, Apollo Tyres is headquartered in Gurgaon, India, and has a manufacturing presence in Asia, Europe and Africa. The company exports to over 100 countries and is backed by a global workforce of approximately 16,000 employees.

New Agricultural tyre website from Firestone Bridgestone Europe has announced the launch of its new Firestone

Harald Van Ooteghem – Senior Manager for Marketing Planning at

European Agricultural tyres website which celebrates the successful

Bridgestone Europe says, “The new website has been developed after

product return of the Firestone Agri range.

we took on board the comments of our clients and incorporates a new

In recent months Firestone has introduced its Maxi Traction IF series, the

user-friendly Tyre Finder section. Another important development is the

Maxi Traction for Combine Harvesters as well as the Performer series for

Advanced Dealer Locator section which guides visitors to the closest

the Row Crop market sector.

professional Firestone specialist in a swift and efficient way.”

W o r l d N e w s • 3 9

Bridgestone serves as title sponsor for World Solar Challenge 2013 Tokyo – Bridgestone Corporation announced today that the Bridgestone brand will be the title sponsor of the World Solar Challenge 2013, which will be held in Australia October 6-13. The Bridgestone World Solar Challenge 2013 will see a record 45 teams from 26 countries compete in a 3000-kilometer cross-country race using only solar energy to power the vehicles. The 2013 competition will be the 12th running of the event since 1987. The event will feature three separate classes, Adventure Class, which will showcase cars built for previous events; Cruiser Class, which will be judged by design practicality, and Challenger Class, which will compete for the title of the world’s most efficient solar car. Official name:

Bridgestone World Solar Challenge 2013

Schedule:

October 6-13, 2013

Host:

Australia (Start : Darwin, Goal : Adelaide)

Race Class:

Challenger Class four wheels / one driver cars designed to achieve aerodynamic efficiency Cruiser Class four wheels / one driver and one passenger cars designed for practicality Adventure Class three wheels / one driver cars that were built for previous events

Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co.’s New Zealand unit is selling off its chain of retail tyre and auto service centers. Goodyear & Dunlop Tyres is selling the 52 Beaurepaires in New Zealand to local company Beau Ideal for an undisclosed sum. The deal is expected to close by the end of the month, the company said. Beau Ideal, owned by TyreLine Distributors’ founder Grant Rushbrooke, would also assume ownership of Goodyear’s local retail marketing and licensing programs. Last year Goodyear sold its Beaurepaires

Whether it is through eco-friendly products such as our Ecopia line or our support of

commercial tyre service business.

environmental efforts around the globe, Bridgestone is committed to continually working with

“We will continue to sell, distribute and offer

customers, partners, and the communities in which we live and work to create an environmentally sustainable society.

through our wholesale distribution network the same outstanding consumer tyres for cars, 4WDs and light trucks, as well as commercial tyres for trucks and buses,” said Goodyear’s

A new wet weather Rallycross tyre from Cooper

New Zealand sales and marketing director Campbell Gough.

Cooper Tire has announced the arrival of their all-new 17 inch wet-weather Rallycross tyre

Goodyear’s New Zealand unit posted a

which has evolved from the company’s development of a special pattern for the European

2011 loss of $9.3 million against sales

Rallycross Championships.

of $154 million, according to its latest

Having carried out competitive testing in Germany, Norway and Sweden, the tyre is now

financial statements. Last June, the company

available for sale.

announced that it would shift emphasis

The tyre has already competed in competitions in France and Portugal and achieved fastest

on consumer tyre sales to “enhance cost

lap times. A Cooper spokesman states that this latest specialist wet weather pattern further

competitiveness and ensure long-term value

underlines Cooper’s position as an established Rallycross leader.

and success.”

www.tirereview.com

4 0 • C o m p e t i t i o n / S u b s c r i p t i o n

Congratulations!

to our previous competition winner

Johan Uys whose correct answer wins him a set of Michelin Primacy 3 tyres!

quarterly competition QUESTION:

Which Chinese tyre brand recently came out tops in a Canadian tyre test? ANSWER: �� Name: �� Company: �� Address: ��

Win… a set of

4 Sailun tyres for total value of

�� __________________________________________________

Code: ��

Telephone:___________________________________ Cellphone: �� Please address your competition entries and subscriptions to: Sky Publications cc, PO Box 702, Douglasdale, 2165, or Fax entries to: (011) 658 0010 (only one per person please)

Click www.sa onto treads. to ente co.za r!

R5,000

courtesy of CFP Tyres

or enter online at www.satreads.co.za

subscription

I/we wish to subscribe to SA Treads for one year’s subscription (incl. VAT and postage) Local (SA) R 110.00 International R 275.00 (Please address cheques to Sky Publications)

Name:___________________________________________________________________________ Company: �� Address: ��

____________________________________________________________________________________

Code: ��

Profession:_ ___________________________________________________________________ Telephone: ��

Get your entries in on: www.satreads.co.za

4 2 • O n e - o n - O n e