Replacement tyre sales decline in Europe

The European Tyre and Rubber Manufacturers Association (ETRMA) has published figures, which show a a decline in replacement tyre sales last year

After two consecutive positive years – in which the total market expanded despite a decrease of European producers’ market share – the EU producers’ figures dropped in 2012, confirming that the economic crisis is far from being over.

ETRMA’s Secretary General Fazilet Cinaralp commented on the figures: “This is the lowest market volume since more than seven years. This may be caused by lower mileage per car, the decision by the consumers to delay the purchase of new tyres or to choose second hand tyres instead of new ones!” The latter emerging trend could have severe consequences on the safety of the vehicles on European roads, as second hand tyres could become over-used – and illegal! – very quickly. To avoid these safety concerns, checks on tyre tread depth during periodic and roadside roadworthiness inspections are increasingly important.”

All tyre segments were negatively affected with the biggest fall affecting replacement truck tyres (-19%), followed by consumer replacement tyres (-13%). There was a saturated demand in winter tyres sales, which recorded a further drop in sales of 20% in 2012.

Data for imports from non European manufacturers show a similar trend.

In this context, the ETRMA says it supports a rapid implementation of the CARS 2020 Action Plan announced by the European Commission in November 2012. “We hope” said Ms Cinaralp “that the action plan will bring a gleam of light in this very grim scenario by promoting investments in innovation, skills and training, promoting better regulation, and sanctioning unfair market players through more effective market surveillance”.