Bridgestone has taken over UK tyre distributor ETB and will add 32 branches in the south of the UK to its distribution and service network. ETB (Exhaust Tyres Batteries) also trades under the name of Britannia Tyres.
“The tyre sector is constantly evolving and, by partnering with ETB, we can ensure we get as close as possible to our end consumer, listen to their needs and offer them the best mobility solutions in the future,” said Robin Shaw (pictured), MD, Bridgestone North Region.
Bridgestone has acquired 100% of the shares in family-owned ETB, which has operated for more than 35 years and employs 265 workers.
Founder Charles Ivill will continue to direct operations from ETB’s headquarters in Worcester, and both ETB and Britannia Tyres will carry on operating under their current identities and with their existing teams, said Bridgestone. As well as tyres, ETB also sells brakes and exhausts and offers car servicing.
Expanding in the retail sector is one of Tokyo-based Bridgestone’s corporate strategies. In the last four years, it has acquired or signed joint ventures with tyre sellers in France, Germany, Spain and Slovakia.
