The Mercedes-Benz Global Tires Program will cover India, Japan, Korea, Australia, New Zealand and Republic of China with a validity of two years and Malaysia with a validity of one year
Continental Tires has been awarded the ‘preferred partner’ status of the Global Mercedes-Benz After-Sales Tires Program for another term in the Asia-Pacific markets starting September 2020. The partnership extends within the APAC region in India, Japan, Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and Republic of China for a two-year period and in Malaysia for a year. The partnership involves intensive cooperation with the development of special marketing concepts and the implementation of joint sales campaigns and sell-out promotions. This cooperation is a strategic win to strengthen footholds in the region.
The Preferred Partner Program, extended two years ago from Europe to Asia-Pacific, aims to create a closer and joint development of the tyres after-sales, to facilitate in-store sales and enable knowledge sharing between Mercedes-Benz and tyre manufacturers. Ferdinand Hoyos, Executive Vice President, BU RE Tires APAC for Continental Tires, said: “Premium vehicle manufacturers have the highest requirements on the quality and performance of its vehicles and demand no less of their tyre supplier. This applies not just to the original factory-fitted tyres but also to the subsequent tyre changes needed throughout the life of the vehicle. Continental’s shared commitment to premium quality and precision German engineering make us the ideal partner for this program.”
The APAC region is one of Continental Tires’ key growth markets and is expanding its footprint in the region through investments on various fronts – in its people, production, research and development, marketing and distribution. In 2019, it officially launched production at its plant in Rayong, Thailand, to support its planned business growth in both original equipment and replacement business for passenger and light truck tyres. Following its ‘In the Market for the Market’ strategy, Continental Tires serves its APAC customers by continuing to innovate and meet customers’ requirements by understanding local customer demands and provide customised solutions accordingly.
As the winner of this tender for ‘preferred partner’ in the selected APAC markets, Continental Tires will work jointly with the vehicle manufacturer to provide customers an excellent service experience and to offer the right homologated tailor-made Mercedes-Benz marked MO/MOE/MO1, MOS Continental tyre for their vehicle. Continental tyres and co-branded displays will be visible in Mercedes-Benz retail stores across the region. Additionally, customer events will take place jointly to highlight the importance of the correct MO-marked Continental tyre. Continental Tires will also have access to central order and sales tools linking to Mercedes-Benz’s network and a direct online platform to fulfil orders.
This partnership provides a great platform for Continental Tires to further extend its presence in APAC, a focus region for achieving its strategic goals – and being included among the top three global tyre companies of choice. Ferdinand Hoyos added: “As we have before, Continental dedicates its best people to support the program with tyre business expertise and training. We are excited to extend this partnership and look forward to continuing our joint success in the region.” Continental develops pioneering technologies and services for sustainable and connected mobility of people and their goods. Founded in 1871, the technology company offers safe, efficient, intelligent and affordable solutions for vehicles, machines, traffic and transportation. In 2019, Continental generated sales of Euro 44.5 billion and currently employs more than 2,33,000 people in 59 countries and markets.