ETRMA reports “encouraging” signs in European tire markets

Brussels – The European replacement tire market has seen signs of recovery in the first quarter of 2021, with all segments posting positive results during the first three months of the year.

The truck segment led the growth with an 18% year-on-year increase, followed by the moto and scooter segment which posted a 17% increase compared to a year ago, announced the European Tyre & Rubber Manufacturers’ Association (ETRMA) 19 April.

The replacement consumer tires market posted an overall 12% growth, led by all season car tires which recorded a 39% increase in sales. Winter tire sales were up 17% year-on-year, while summer tires posted a 6% increase.

Agricultural tire shipments also registered a 9% increase, according to ETRMA figures.

Strongly affected by the Covid-19 pandemic and lockdowns across the region, the European tire industry posted double-digit declines in key segments during 2020.

“It is encouraging to see that in all the segments the market is recovering, and after the very difficult 2020 this is finally a good sign for our industry,” said ETRMA secretary general Fazilet Cinaralp.

The figures, she went on to say, are also a good sign for the society, which has ‘started to move again’. 

ETRMA linked the “timid increase” in the car summer tires to the Covid effects, as many drivers have not changed their tires for the summer due to the stringent travelling conditions.

“I really hope that in the months to come, with the vaccination plan advancing all over Europe, travelling restrictions will be lifted allowing people to travel again”, concluded Cinaralp.