Hampole Tyre Dump Given Contaminated Land Status
Continental in Search of the "King of the Road"
Goodyear Explores Sale of Chemical Business
Bridgestone Europe Sets Sights on Growth
Marcos Opts for Avons
STS Launches Voucher Incentive Scheme
TIC Strengthens its Council
Free Kit Bag or Paddock Jacket with Avon Azaros
Goodyear and TRW to Collaborate on Tyres and Suspensions
BF Goodrich in CD Promotion
New Members for First Stop
Cooper Tire Buys Mickey Thompson
Continental Takes Top Honours at ITMA Awards 2003
Bridgestone OE on Mazda 6
Tyre Safety Messages Go Trucking with Goodyear/Dunlop
Biological Solution to Waste Tyres

Hampole Tyre Dump Given Contaminated Land Status

A major step has been taken in moves to clean up Britain's second biggest tyre dump thanks to the Environment Agency's work with Doncaster Council. The abandoned tyre dump at Hampole Quarry has finally been given contaminated land status following months of work between the Agency and Doncaster Council. The site is currently home to between three and five million tyres, having been used as a dump for the past 30 years. The decision will enable the local authority to secure Government funds to pay for the clean up of the site which Environment Agency chiefs claim has the potential to become a major pollution hazard.

Paul Tullett, Area Manager for the Agency said: "The consequences, if the main body of those tyres was to catch fire, would be disastrous for the environment. As well as significant problems with smoke, there would be the potential for major pollution of the underground water supply beneath the quarry that, in turn, could pollute nearby rivers and streams. "The decision to designate the land as a contaminated site is good news for the environment and good news for the communities who would be most at risk if the tyres caught fire."

Ralph Crouch, The Environment Agency's Tyres Programme Manager welcomed the decision to give Hampole contaminated land status, commenting: "One of the three key aims of the Agency's Tyre Watch programme is to reduce the risks posed to the environment and human health from tyre stockpiles. Hopefully funds can now be made available to begin re-mediating one of the biggest tyres dumps in the country".

The decision, taken on the 18th February, coincided with a fire started in a pile of 1,000 illegally dumped tyres. These tyres were separate to the main stockpile and had been flytipped in a railway cutting at the quarry site. Firefighters were able to stop the fire spreading from the smaller pile to the main body of the dump, just five metres away. Mr Tullett continued: "This incident serves as a timely reminder of the potential danger of dumped tyres and reinforces the Agency's work, in partnership with Doncaster Council, to have the quarry designated as contaminated land. It also highlights the problems we face with unscrupulous waste operators who are willing to undercut the legal cost of taking used tyres away".

Continental in Search of the "King of the Road"

Continental is launching a Pan-European contest to find the "King of the Road" - the UK operator with the greatest mileage from the new HSR-1 steer tyre from 1 April to November 2003. To participate, operators must have HSR-1 tyres that were purchased in the first quarter of 2003 and fitted by 31st March. On 30 November, the tyres will be analysed to find out the number of miles covered in relation to the amount of tread remaining. The operator with the greatest mileage will win an Omega watch worth £1,200.

The HSR-1 was launched in February 2002 after it had already covered thousands of test miles, not just on the Continental's own vehicles, but on those of many independent operators as well. The HSR-1 (Heavy Steer Regional Traffic) is designed for use in combined long distance and regional transport, which covers the majority of heavy truck operations.

"We are confident that operators entering the contest to find the King of The Road will be convinced of the outstanding performance and economy of this new tyre", says Barry Guildford, Marketing Manager for Continental's Commercial Tyres. For more information on the 'King of the Road' and how you can participate, please your local ContiNetwork partner or call Jill Rogers at Continental on 01895 425900.

Goodyear Explores Sale of Chemical Business

The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company has announced that, to both enhance its financial flexibility and focus future investments on its core business, it is exploring the possible sale of the company's Chemical business. Goodyear Chemical provides basic and high-performance polymers, antioxidants, latex and adhesive resins to customers worldwide. The business has annual revenues of more than $750 million.

"Goodyear Chemical is a great business, with outstanding associates, products and customer relationships," said Robert J. Keegan, president and chief executive officer. "As the largest producer of synthetic rubber for tyres in the world, it is delivering a strong performance during the current economic downturn. We will consider the sale of the business to a buyer that will recognise the value and solid performance of the business, maintain Goodyear's level of service to current customers and take associates' needs into account."

Goodyear Chemical has its headquarters, research and development facilities and a pilot plant in Akron. Its manufacturing facilities are in Niagara Falls, N.Y.; and Beaumont, Bayport and Houston, Texas. The business has more than 1,400 associates.

Bridgestone Europe Sets Sights on Growth

Bridgestone Europe has launched a major investment programme aimed at upgrading production resources and expanding sales in the region. Finance has been provided by Bridgestone Corporation, Japan, with a 400 million Euro capital increase, with the objective of considerably raising Europe's share of global Bridgestone business within the next five years.

The investment package will be deployed immediately to upgrade European manufacturing plants and research facilities. Capacity at the new Poznan factory in Poland will be doubled to 23,000 tyres a day and the Bilbao plant in Spain will increase daily production of truck and bus tyres by 30% to 4,600 units.

Research and testing capabilities will be strengthened with the completion of a new proving ground at Bridgestone's European R&D centre near Rome, Italy, where the new high-speed track will enhance the company's ability to design top-performing tyres.

Marcos Opts for Avons

Westbury based Marcos Engineering has chosen the 215/40 ZR 17 Avon ZZ3 as original equipment rubber on its TS250 sports car.

Explains Marcos boss, Jem Marsh: "We were looking for a tyre that could match the performance of our new TS250 and the Avon ZZ3 fits the bill perfectly. Its roadholding is extremely impressive, not only in the dry but the wet too. And when you do reach the limit, its breakaway characteristics are nicely progressive, leading to a feeling of control and copfidence.

"We also had other reasons for picking the ZZ3. Although the TS250 is capable of extreme performance, it's also intended to be a comfortable tourer, a genuine "GT", so the fact that the ZZ3 is a very quiet tyre is another pint in its favour. For a low profile tyre, it also rides very well too".

STS Launches Voucher Incentive Scheme

Fast fit specialist, STS Tyres and Exhausts, has introduced a new "Recommend a Friend" scheme for customers. The scheme aims to encourage existing STS customers to introduce a friend or relative to the products and services provided by the national retailer. As an incentive, new recommended friends receive £5 off their first purchase and the existing customer - who suggested the friend - will receive free Argos vouchers.

TIC Strengthens its Council

The Tyre Industry Council has announced the strengthening of its leadership. Rob Beddis, UK car sale manager for Michelin, Paul Harrell, Retail Director of Hi-Q/Motorway and Alan Revie. Chairman of Axle Group Holdings, all join the Council with immediate effect.

Free Kit Bag or Paddock Jacket with Avon Azaros

Cooper-Avon is giving away a motorcycle kit bag or a smart paddock jacket to customers who buy a set of its Azaro motorcycle radials during April and May of this year. The offer, which applies to UK residents only, runs from April 1st until May 31st. Claim forms will be appearing in the motorcycle press ifrom April. Simply fill one in, attach proof of purchase and return it to Cooper-Avon.

Goodyear and TRW to Collaborate on Tyres and Suspensions

The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company and TRW Automotive have signed a five-year agreement to jointly study tyres, braking, suspension and steering systems to accelerate product development for vehicle manufacturers.

"A key focus of the development program will be optimising the interaction of tyres, suspension, braking and steering systems," said Steve Roth, Goodyear's director of vehicle systems. "The goal will be to enhance vehicle ride, handling, and other safety, performance and comfort characteristics."

Phil Cunningham, TRW Chassis Systems product business director, noted that the agreement will initially allow the companies to exchange modeling data related to these systems: "We expect to develop joint subsystems models that can be used with selected vehicle model software packages not only to improve existing products but to develop new products for vehicle manufacturers", he said.

Under the terms of the agreement, Goodyear will share its design integration and manufacturing expertise in conventional and extended mobility (EMT run-flat) tyres, its array of engineered rubber products such as airsprings, bushings and mountings; and its knowledge of functional areas related to ride, handling, traction, wear, noise and vibration. TRW Automotive will share its design and engineering knowledge of advanced braking, steering and suspension systems and components and how it uses such technology for improved braking and handling performance.

"This agreement with TRW, a leader in suspension and braking systems, is a great opportunity for both companies to co-develop our capabilities for future products," Roth said. "It also complements the ongoing suspension development work we have underway with our vehicle systems group -- an effort that is moving Goodyear well beyond our traditional role as a supplier of tyres to OEMs."

TRW Automotive is the global leader in active and passive safety systems for the automotive industry, and its customers comprise all major vehicle manufacturers throughout the world. Products include integrated vehicle control and driver assist systems, braking systems, steering systems, suspension systems, occupant safety systems, electronics, engine valves, fastening systems and aftermarket replacement parts.

BF Goodrich in CD Promotion

BF Goodrich is set to ramp up its presence in UK tyre dealerships with a "Gripping Sounds" promotion, giving consumers the opportunity to receive free CD compilations and, at the same time, be entered into a free prize draw.

The promotion, available on BF Goodrich Tires performance range only, will be running until May 2003 in selected dealers throughout the UK and will be supported with eye catching point-of-sale material in each depot including posters, leaflet dispensers and free standing display units.

The CDs on offer include the latest dance and club compilations with up-to-the-minute Sony Audio Equipment on offer in the free prize draw.

New Members for First Stop

The Garage in Milton Keynes and Apex Tyres in Peterborough have become two of the first members of the new year to join Bridgestone UK's First Stop network of independent tyre dealers.

Owner and Managing Director of The Garage, Alan Goodey, said joining First Stop would enable his business to forge closer links with Bridgestone and offer even better service, quality, and value for money to its customers. "I established The Garage in 1995 and we have built up its reputation ever since. In 1998 we moved to a new outlet, and we have gradually increased our custom. We are very well established in the local area and hope that this new venture will make us even more popular."

Peterborough's Apex Tyres will benefit from the backing and support of Bridgestone UK too, as Managing Director Geoff Skipworth explained: "Joining First Stop will enable us to build on our success and established reputation. As well as continuing to offer a first class service, our closer links with Bridgestone will make it possible for us to offer even more choice, better quality, and value for money to our customers." Based in Peterborough since 1983, Apex offers a comprehensive service including tyres, exhausts, batteries, wheel balancing and alignment. The dealership recently opened a new depot in nearby Werrington. State of the art equipment includes a £28,000 wheel alignment system.

Cooper Tire Buys Mickey Thompson

Cooper Tire & Rubber has announced the acquisition of Max Trac Tire Co, better known as Mickey Thompson. Max Trac, based in Stow (Ohio) and Temecula (California), distributes tyres for specialist racing off road tyres under the Mickey Thompson and Dick Cepek brand names.

Continental Takes Top Honours at ITMA Awards 2003

Continental Tyres has scooped three Gold Awards and one Bronze at the ITMA Awards 2003. The Awards, in association with leading conferencing magazine Conference and Incentive Travel, recognise excellence in the organisation of business-to-business events.

Continental garnered three Gold Awards in the categories of Best Overseas Event, Best Incentive and Best Promotional Communication for its UK tyre dealer incentive trip to Australia in February last year. During a two-week stay - split between Sydney and Queensland - 65 dealers and their partners enjoyed a range of activities including Harbour Bridge climbs, sailing regattas, a cruise of the Great Barrier Reef and white-water rafting. As a special surprise, guests were even invited to join in with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra on stage at the Sydney Opera House.

The ITMA Awards are voted by a panel of judges from the conference and incentive industry. The awards were presented at a ceremony on 7th February. Antonio Betes, Sales and Marketing Director, Continental Tyres, said: "Winning these accolades is very important to us as our annual tyre dealer event has become a key fixture in our calendar. We are thrilled to have been recognised for our initiatives by those outside the tyre industry and hope this year's trip to Canada will be equally as successful."

Bridgestone OE on Mazda 6

Bridgestone have announced that its Potenza RE050 tyres have been chosen as original equipment for the top-of-the-range Sport version of the Mazda 6. Already proven on top high performance sports cars such as the Ferrari Enzo and the BMW Z4, the Potenza RE050 offers top sports performance and ride comfort. It also enhances vehicle handling at high speeds and improves performance in both the wet and dry.

Tyre Safety Messages Go Trucking with Goodyear/Dunlop

A unique way of promoting tyre safety messages to thousands of motorists is being pioneered by Goodyear/Dunlop. The 30 or so Goodyear/Dunlop fleet of delivery vehicles which operates nationwide from the company's national distribution centre in Birmingham have one of eight tyre safety messages applied to the back of each trailer. The DAF five-axle drawbar vehicles are being used to deliver truck, car and motorcycle tyres throughout the UK and, therefore, operate on the motorway network and are visible to thousands of motorists each week. The five tyre safety messages are shown on the vehicles. In each case the Tyre Industry Council logo sits alongside the copy line.

Biological Solution to Waste Tyres

A team of scientists from Napier University in Edinburgh has won a £160,000 grant from Scottish Enterprise to develop a project that will tackle the problem of scrap tyres. The Scottish scientists hope an army of bacteria can be set to work on the mountain of tyres generated each year allowing them to be converted back into reusable rubber.

Professor Nick Christofi, who is leading the project, says: "Later this year, it will become illegal to dump tyres in landfill sites and by 2006 for shredded tyres to be disposed of in this way. Therefore, the race is on to find environmentally friendly ways of getting rid of used tyres". If the two-year study is successful, the scientists believe they will be able to extract high-quality rubber from old tyres, which could then be used to make new tyres or other rubber products.

Says Christofi: "Rubber gains its strength through the vulcanisation process, which adds sulphur to rubber molecules. The bacteria, which are found naturally on former coal mining and oil production sites, can devulcanise the rubber in tyres by eating the sulphur". The process involves grinding the old tyres down, removing the metal and fibre, before the rubber chunks are added to a tank of liquid containing the bacteria. The bacteria act on the rubber chunks at molecular level.

Christofi, an environmental biotechnologist, is working with colleague David Bond, a chemist and John Morton a microbiologist. The patented bacteria have been isolated at Napier university from coal bing samples recovered in West Lothian. The scientists will use the funding to test their concept and if it's successful they will then look for a private sector partner to set up a factory to exploit the new technique.