Bridgestone eyes retail growth with UK acquisition

Brussels – Bridgestone Corp. has acquired UK automotive service provider Exhaust Tyres and Batteries Ltd (ETB) in a bid to expand its retail footprint in the country, the Japanese tire maker announced 10 Sept.

Based in Worcester, ETB is a network of service shops in the south-west of the UK and runs 32 locations under the names of Exhaust Tyres Batteries and Britannia Tyres.

Established as a family business 30 years ago, EBT currently employs 265 and claims to have over 10,000 loyal customers a month.

The acquisition, said Bridgestone, will give the company closer access to the UK market, where it already runs a sales office, and offer “a better understanding of its regional end-users”.

The move is also part of Bridgestone’s strategy to build a mobility solutions position in the market.

“The tire sector is constantly evolving and, by partnering with ETB, we can ensure that 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, managing director Bridgestone north region.

Post-acquisition, both ETB and Britannia Tyres will continue operating under their current identities and with their current team. Charles Ivill will continue to direct operations at the company.

from the ETB company headquarters in Worcester.

Bridgestone has increased its focus on retail experience with acquisitions and joint ventures in the last four years across France, Germany, Spain and Slovakia. The company currently owns retail brands such as Speedy, First Stop and Côté Route.

Bridgestone has also recently employed former Bosch Siemens Home Appliances vice president Ulf Harring as its chief operating officer in Europe as part of a strategy to strengthen new mobility efforts.