Most read -- ETRMA: European tire markets in positive territory

ERJ staff report (PR)

Brussels – European tire markets have continued in positive mode in the second quarter of 2014, according to figures issued 14 July by the European Tyre and Rubber Manufacturers Association (ETRMA).

Building on growth noted in most sectors during the first three months of the year, data from ETMRA member companies for April to June shows an overall stabilisation of growth trends in all segments.

The truck and bus tires segment was the most buoyant, with a 10 percent growth compared to the first six months of the previous year. Agricultural tyres also showed a 4 percent growth and motorcycle and scooter tires grew by 8 percent.

On a country-by-country basis, all major markets registered positive first-half figures for truck and bus tires, Germany leading the way with a 15-percent rise.

The picture was more mixed for consumer tires, with the majority of the biggest markets bringing positive results. Exceptions, though, included 1-percent dips recorded both in the UK and Spain.

“The stabilisation of the market on a positive trend is very good news, which makes us hope for a positive end-of-year result after such a grim 2012 and 2013,” said Fazilet Cinaralp, secretary general of ETRMA.

“Furthermore, the sell-in for winter tires continues on a very high level, which hints to a nice picture for the consumer segment,” she added. “However, it will be possible to have a ‘real-life check’ after the sell out from September through November.”