Seasonal tyres still popular
In the first half of 2017 tyre manufacturers and importers in Poland continue to record growth. According to the Polish Tire Industry Association (PTIA), 6.3 million tyres were sold in the passenger car segment, what means an increase of 7 percent compared to the same period in 2016. Of all segments, the biggest changes were noted in the category of motorcycle tyres – 31%. more than in the first half of 2016.
Minor decline has occurred in the sale of truck tyres – down by 1% compared to the first half of 2016.
“We think that sales’ growth of passenger car tyres in the first half of the year is largely driven by good economic performance and its development, resulting in an increase in the number of cars registered. Another important factor is the growing awareness of drivers – who, thanks to educational campaigns, understand that the tyre – as the sole contact between the car and the ground – will ensure safety only when it is of good quality. The decline in sales in the truck tyre segment is attributed, inter alia, to the problems of some shipping companies that are often struggling with payment gridlocks” – comments Jarosław Michalak, President of the Board of the Polish Tyre Industry Association.
"In comparison with the first half of 2016, sales in the truck tyre segment in the corresponding period of 2017 slightly decreased – by 1%. At the same time, transport companies more often appreciate the benefits of buying branded tyres. Good quality tyres are a profitable investment. They provide improved road safety as well as measurable financial benefits. The value of truck tyres is only 5% of transport company’s costs, but in the long run it affects 40% of its total operating costs” – adds Piotr Sarnecki, General Director of the Polish Tyre Industry Association.
Looking at the tyres by the seasonality of their use, all three segments have increased:
Growth in the category of seasonal tyres is very good news – it’s confirmation of the increasing awareness of the impact of cyclical tyre replacement on driving safety. According to research[1], 76% of Polish drivers change summer to winter tyres, and 78% stand for their mandatory replacement. The result of adjusting the tyres to the conditions on the road is what we all care about – improving driving safety. When it comes to all-season tyres it is important that they have a winter homologation – the so-called alpine symbol or snowflake on the background of the mountain.
The European tyre market looks bit different. In 2017, the following changes were observed in comparison with the first half of 2016:
„Sales of tyres in Europe is still at a stable level. We note slight increases, but ETRMA does not expect significant changes. This is dictated by the maturity of the European market – generally in the western countries we are dealing with saturation with new vehicles, and this aspect mainly affects bigger changes in tyre sales. Only in the segment of seasonal tyres we expect fluctuations in sales volume – mainly during the period of standard replacement of summer to winter tyres” – said Fazilet Cinaralp, The Secretary General of ETRMA.
When commuting, traffic safety is a priority for road users. Properly selected and used tyres reduce the risk of an accident, so it is worth to invest in suitable tyres adapted to seasonal weather conditions. It is also necessary to check the tyre pressure regularly – unfortunately, according to research[2], 58% of drivers too rarely control this tyre parameter. Inadequate pressure reduces the grip on the roadway and extends the braking distance of the vehicle.
Source: Polish Tyre Industry Association