It’s hard to imagine anyone on the planet that hasn’t been directly or indirectly affected by the Corona virus pandemic, and when it comes to industries, the automotive sector has been hit worse than most others, with the clear exception of course being the sectors related to travel and tourism. The fact is that people drive less than normally, for several reasons: many jobs have been cut, reducing commuter traffic; those that still work do it primarily from home or with less days at the office per week than before; and those long drives to visit distant relatives or go on family holidays in other countries have been reduced to a fraction of what they used to be, when they’ve been at all possible. Global automobile sales dropped around 15 % year-on-year in 2020, which is doubtless a result of the pandemic, and OE tyre sales dropped even more than that, a result of due diligence by the car manufacturers. The replacement tyre sales volume dropped also, but not as much as one could have expected – a partial explanation for this is very likely the reduced number of new cars sold, resulting in more tyres needing replacement.

But there’s nothing like a good crisis to spawn innovation. Online sales and delivery services have flourished like never before, and courier companies are busier than ever. As shops have been closed due to lockdowns or just avoided due to the risk of infections in the public space, shopping has moved online to an incredible extent. This means a lot more goods being moved around by a lot more delivery vehicles, which then consume more tyres. At the same time, those that still have their jobs haven’t been able to spend their salaries on annual holidays abroad, so their spending has shifted towards buying more consumer goods at home instead. So, it’s not just that shopping has moved from the physical stores to online shops, it’s also that the total shopping volume has increased. Luckily, most tyre retailers have caught on, and have improved their web shop portals to cater to the increased demand and take measures to stand out from the competition, such as faster delivery times, larger selection of products, and combined services.

Digital shopping

Keeping clients interested using digital means has become more important than ever, as people now tend to buy tyres online and go to have them fitted after the purchase, instead of the traditional way of going to the shop first and buying what the seller there recommends. That has made it extremely important to make the purchase as easy and smooth as possible for the consumers and communicate all benefits to potential clients in a clear and appetising way.

Where many tyre retailers have been locked in a mindset that a website should be set up to persuade potential clients to visit the physical shop and rely on sales being made by the staff there, now they have to make the sale in the web shop first, which requires a much better consumer experience when browsing the web shop than before. One notable method that many have adopted is what’s called “live selling,” where the customers access a video call with a salesperson, who won’t be able to see the caller, but will be able to offer guidance and advice, and hopefully close the sale. This method has proven exceptionally good for products that the customers in general don’t possess very deep knowledge of, and that definitely includes tyres. The old and very reliable rule of thumb for tyre retailers was that 6 out of 10 tyre customers would always say “I just want the same tyres fitted again,” not because they had experienced heavenly experiences riding on those tyres, but simply to avoid the risk of having fitted something that turned out to perform worse. “Good enough” is a strong force supporting habits. “Live selling” (as opposed to what, you may ask, but remember the term has been coined when physical shops have been closed down) offers retailers the chance to go for the traditional replacement sale or actively try to influence the purchasing decision by offering alternatives that might be more profitable for the seller. It’s always important to remember that even though the customer makes the purchase decision, it’s the seller that decides which options to make available as the base of the decision.

Being connected to the customers, the seller is also able to offer related services or products that on average increases the revenue per client, so there’s no doubt the strategy is sound. And there’s no reason for retailers to stop using this channel when we hopefully can go back to being able to visit the physical shops in person again, as it will be a way to catch clients that would have otherwise not visited the shop.

Apart from this, it has been a fruitful strategy for many to cater more to courier fleets and transportation companies with more tailored services and cost benefits. On-road assistance services have increased, and not just for courier vans and cargo trucks, but also for agricultural equipment such as tractors (although that would be more aptly called off-road assistance). At least, the gist of it all is that the overall trend in tyre business has been to move business closer to the customers, when customers haven’t been able to shop as they used to – and there are clear indications that the strategy has been successful.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Pirelli is set to play a central role as the FIM Superbike World Championship concludes the first half of its season this weekend at Donington Park for the UK Round. Marking the final event before the summer break, the Italian tyre manufacturer has equipped competitors with the softest rear compounds from its 2026 standard range. This selection represents a clear advancement in development from the previous year, when riders were limited exclusively to older specification tyres.

For the premier WorldSBK class, the rear tyre allocation is headlined by the SCQ extrasoft compound, intended primarily for qualifying and the Superpole Race. This option, the softest in Pirelli’s portfolio, has already garnered positive feedback from riders during the Emilia-Romagna Round for its exceptional single-lap pace and consistent performance over a sprint distance. Complementing the SCQ are the SCX supersoft and SC0 soft compounds, while front tyre duties are covered by the standard SC1 soft and SC2 medium solutions, with the softer front being the overwhelming preference of last year’s grid, including triple race winner Toprak Razgatlıoğlu.

The notoriously unpredictable British weather remains a critical variable, with cool morning temperatures and frequent rain showers posing significant challenges for teams. Pirelli’s range has historically demonstrated considerable adaptability across fluctuating track and air temperatures, maintaining reliable grip in both cooler and warmer conditions. To address potential precipitation, the allocation is supplemented by DIABLO Wet intermediate and full DIABLO Rain tyres for both front and rear positions, ensuring competitors have viable options regardless of the elements.

In the supporting categories, WorldSSP riders will retain the SCX and SC0 rear compounds alongside the SC1 and SC2 front options. Meanwhile, the WorldWCR field and the emerging talents of the Yamaha R3 World Cup will also be in action, with both series utilising the Pirelli DIABLO Superbike SC1 tyre on both axles throughout the weekend’s racing programme.

Giorgio Barbier, Pirelli Motorcycle Racing Director, said, “Donington Park is a very distinctive circuit and, in many respects, a unique venue on the FIM Superbike World Championship calendar. The opening part of the lap features a series of fast, flowing corners taken at high speed and rapid changes of direction that require riders to manage significant power while the bike is still heavily leaned over. This demands tyres capable of delivering outstanding grip, precision and stability while maintaining consistent performance over race distance.

"Compared with last year, when only standard range solutions were available and no development specifications were included, this season, while confirming the same compounds introduced in 2025, we will provide riders with the complete 2026 standard range. The SCQ extrasoft compound will be the softest option in the allocation and can be used not only in free practice and qualifying but also, potentially, in the Superpole Race. For the longer races, riders will be able to rely on the SCX supersoft and, should temperatures be lower, the SC0 soft compound – solutions that have already demonstrated throughout the season an excellent balance between outright performance and consistency, as reflected by the many new records that have been set.

"Finally, the weather, which has historically been unpredictable in the UK, will once again be a key factor. Rain and low temperatures, even in the middle of summer, can have a major influence on tyre management and race strategies. Having a complete and versatile range available will therefore be essential to provide the best possible support in any weather conditions.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Sri Trang Group has unveiled a comprehensive organisational strategy centred on its ‘Empowering AI’ mission, designed to integrate artificial intelligence across its operations to boost efficiency and foster long-term sustainability. The initiative was formally announced during the company’s flagship annual gathering, the Sri Trang Town Hall 2026, held at the Four Points by Sheraton Phuket Patong Beach Resort. The event drew over 1,700 participants, including executives such as the Chairman, Group CEO and other board members, alongside employees from domestic and international branches who attended both in person and virtually.

Central to the new vision is the Group’s commitment to leveraging AI and data analytics throughout its entire value chain, supported by a robust Enterprise Data Foundation and an AI Governance framework. These systems are intended to ensure meticulous data management and foster stakeholder confidence. The application of AI is being tailored to optimise specific operational phases, from upstream procurement and production to downstream sales and logistics, aiming for precision in market forecasting, quality control and customer responsiveness.

Parallel to its technological push, Sri Trang is prioritising the development of AI Agents and practical AI Use Cases to accelerate tangible business outcomes. This effort is complemented by a cultural shift towards an ‘AI x Human’ paradigm, preparing the workforce to collaborate effectively with intelligent systems. Concurrently, the Group is reinforcing its dedication to environmental, social and governance principles, focusing on resource efficiency and the management of energy, water, waste and emissions as part of its trajectory towards a Net Zero target.

To support its ESG goals, Sri Trang is enhancing data systems to align with international standards like ISO 14064-1, ensuring accuracy and auditability for better risk management and decision-making. The company is also expanding collaboration with suppliers through its ESG Partner approach to elevate industry standards. This strategic direction underscores Sri Trang Group’s ambition to solidify its status as an innovation-led entity, combining human potential with AI to drive the Thai natural rubber sector towards resilient and sustainable growth on the world stage.

Dr Viyavood Sincharoenkul, Chairman of Sri Trang Group, delivered a keynote address on the vision, stating, “AI will not merely be a tool; it will become part of Sri Trang’s way of working and decision-making. We are building the Sri Trang AI Factory to connect data, technology and people together. AI is not simply a new technology but a major transformation in the way we work and compete in business. As the world accelerates AI adoption, organisations and people that are able to learn, adapt and work effectively with AI will be the ones that gain a competitive advantage and achieve sustainable growth in the future. Our goal is not to have the best AI but to build an organisation where everyone can use AI effectively, supported by trusted data, proper governance and a culture of continuous learning. The success of AI is not measured by the number of systems developed but by the number of people who can work effectively with AI and create value for the organisation.”

Veerasith Sinchareonkul, Group CEO, Sri Trang Group said, “The ‘AI Revolution Without Boundaries’ does not mean bringing in technology to replace our people. Rather, it means using AI to enhance people’s capabilities so that they can work smarter, faster and more efficiently. In essence, the meaning of ‘Empowering AI’ is ‘Empowering People with AI’ empowering our people to grow and move forward through the potential of AI. We believe in the power of collaboration between humans and AI. When AI works alongside people at every level, it helps improve decision-making accuracy, enhance the efficiency of frontline employees, strengthen executive leadership and foster a culture of continuous learning, teamwork and innovation. The future of the organisation is therefore not one in which AI replaces humans, but one in which humans grow together with AI without limits.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Michelin has expanded its retail footprint in North India by inaugurating two Michelin Tyres & Services (MTS) outlets, located in Amritsar and Panchkula. The Amritsar location operates through a partnership with National Auto, while the Panchkula facility is a collaboration with Universal Tyres. This development underscores the French tyre giant’s strategy to place its globally recognised products and services within closer reach of consumers in a rapidly developing automotive market.

Each of the new establishments spans 5,000 square feet, situated strategically on Loharka Road and within Panchkula’s Industrial Area. Designed as modern service hubs, they provide a full spectrum of offerings, ranging from passenger car and two-wheeler tyres to advanced wheel alignment and mechanical maintenance. The stores stock renowned product lines such as the Primacy, Pilot Sport and Latitude Sport series, aiming to deliver a premium and seamless experience for vehicle owners.

The selection of Amritsar and Panchkula reflects Michelin’s assessment of their growth potential, driven by tourism, infrastructure projects and a rising number of private vehicle owners. To capitalise on these opportunities, Michelin has aligned with established regional players. National Auto, a trusted entity in Amritsar since 1927, brings a long-standing reputation for quality service, while Universal Tyres contributes over three decades of technical expertise and market knowledge in the Panchkula region.

These partnerships are central to Michelin’s broader objective of delivering superior mobility solutions rooted in safety and durability. By combining its own technological leadership with the local acumen of its partners, the company aims to strengthen its service ecosystem and cater to the evolving demands of the northern Indian automotive sector.

Shantanu Deshpande, Managing Director, Michelin India, said, “North India continues to be a key market in Michelin's growth journey, supported by rising vehicle ownership, improving road infrastructure and growing demand for premium mobility solutions. The launch of our new Michelin Tyres & Services Stores in Amritsar and Panchkula marks another important step in strengthening our retail presence and bringing Michelin's globally benchmarked products and services closer to customers across the region. As we prepare to introduce Made-in-India passenger car tyres, we remain focused on delivering solutions tailored to the evolving needs of Indian consumers.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Tyres Europe has issued a formal call for the Industrial Accelerator Act to be revised, urging policymakers to grant greater recognition to the tyre sector’s strategic importance within the continent’s automotive ecosystem. In a newly published position paper, the organisation argues that the current framework insufficiently addresses the industry’s unique contributions and challenges.

The association is advocating for several key amendments, including an expanded scope that acknowledges tyres as critical components in both the replacement and original equipment markets, thereby stimulating demand for EU-manufactured products. Additionally, Tyres Europe proposes the establishment of a Union origin definition that would prioritise European production in public procurement and state-aid schemes. The paper also highlights tyres’ potential to enhance energy efficiency and lower CO2 emissions for light vehicles, while calling for dedicated backing for retreaded and EU-made truck and bus tyres, alongside increased financial mechanisms for industrial decarbonisation and improved governance of manufacturing acceleration zones.

With these targeted modifications, Tyres Europe contends that the Industrial Accelerator Act could effectively foster a market for low-carbon, high-performance tyres produced domestically. Such adjustments would simultaneously bolster competitiveness, support decarbonisation goals and reinforce the overall resilience of Europe’s automotive supply chain.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!