ONE of the largest tyre wholesalers in the UK has opened Northern Ireland’s first tyre distribution centre, creating up to 16 jobs.
Micheldever Tyre Services (MTS), which is headquartered at Winchester in Hampshire, says the site at the former Michelin factory in Ballymena, once fully operational, will transform the speed in which garages in the north can order new tyres, leading to an enhanced level of service for consumers.
The owners it will use the new distribution centre - which is operating from Kerr’s Tyres 40,000 sq ft warehouse - to provide local garages and franchises dealers with greater accessibility to a range of tyres including those for electric vehicles, vans, 4x4s and motorcycles.
The investment breathes new life into what was once a key automotive and industrial area (the Michelin Tyre plant closed in 2018)..
It will create eight jobs immediately, with plans to double this to 16 by the end of the year.
Sally Fyffe, head of wholesale for MTS said: “This is an exciting day for garage owners, tyre dealers and drivers in Northern Ireland, and for MTS as a whole.
“Until now, we were only able to provide a twice-weekly service. But garages can now benefit from same day or next day delivery.
“It’s not just about availability though. We see our presence in Ballymena as a fantastic opportunity to give people in the region the same service and benefits as we offer to other parts of the UK.
“Supported by a sales manager on the ground, we can ensure consumers also benefit from our full range of added value services including exclusive access to our mid-range brands and the business support provided by our consumer e-commerce solutions, training, and local marketing materials.”
Tim Peacock, general manager at MTS with responsibility for supply to franchise dealers, says: “We are delighted to be partnering with Kerr’s Tyres Group and look forward to a new chapter where we can provide a consistent service to our dealer partners.”
Norman Kerr, managing director and owner of Kerr’s Tyres Group, says the arrival of a tyre distribution centre is a game-changer for the industry, adding: “We're excited to partner with MTS.”
