– This is year another quarter in which we are seeing an increase in the popularity of premium tyres – in the first quarter of 2019, their sales dynamic increased by 8%. This is an important trend – Polish drivers appreciate good, brand tyres for their cars. Tyres of this class guarantee better grip, especially on wet roads, longer lifespan, less noise and lower fuel consumption. The investment in premium tyres therefore pays itself off very quickly – money spent on a new set returns to the buyer's wallet during its use in the form of, among others, fuel savings and lesser probability of road collisions due to shorter braking distance – says Piotr Sarnecki, general director of the Polish Tyre Industry Association (PTIA).
Transport companies also notice the advantages of branded tyres – the first quarter of 2019 brought an increase in sales in the truck tyre segment by 3%. The quality of tyres and their technical condition affect efficiency of businesses and have an impact on road safety. A low-quality tyre for steer axle will last only for about 120-150,000 km, while brand name tyres will cover over 222,000 km. If we take into account the option of retreading, the tyre lifespan can reach up to 450,000 km. The use of branded tyres allows for fuel savings of more than 2 litres per 100 km, that is approximately 5000 litres in a year[1]. Tyres make up only about 3-5 percent of total expenses, but have a bearing on 40 percent of all operating costs.
– All in all, the 2019 Q1 figures confirm a relatively stable market evolving according to earlier observed trends, welcoming a continued increase in all-season tyres with winter homologation adding to the safety on our roads. Further, we see a very positive evolution in our Members’ growing sales in the truck replacement market. This confirms the 2018 trend – said Fazilet Cinaralp, Secretary General of ETRMA.
Source: Polish Tyre Industry Association