Bridgestone South Africa has announced changes to its commercial tyre operations.

Since 2 March 2015, sales and distribution of all new and retreaded truck, bus and earth mover tyres have been spearheaded by a newly-formed company within the Bridgestone Group, Bridgestone South Africa Commercial (Pty) Ltd.

“Bridgestone Commercial will ensure our customers have the peace of mind of knowing they are dealing directly with Bridgestone,” said Bridgestone SA CEO, Mike Halforty. “It will also allow us to consolidate our branding position and provide closer customer support, as well as positioning us for growth in the commercial market,” he added.

Halforty also announced that Bridgestone Commercial will be led by Dries Lottering, in his capacity as Managing Director.

“Dries has been with Bridgestone for many years and has extensive experience of the challenges faced by our commercial tyre customers.” The launch of Bridgestone Commercial will also see selected Supa Quick outlets offer commercial tyres and services.

Halforty commented that this move would result in closer ties with commercial customers, and explained that the accredited outlets would also be able to supply commercial retreads manufactured according to the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) specifications.

“The time was right to ramp up our commercial operation to a new level. I’m certain that Bridgestone Commercial is going to set ever-higher standards in the segment,” he concluded.