Handling Scrap Tires Every Step of the Way
Transcription
Handling Scrap Tires Every Step of the Way
volume 6 / Number 3 / june 2009 / $4,95 www.autosphere.ca PM 40014105 Western Rubber Group Handling Scrap Tires Every Step of the Way Mike Roberge DUELER H/T (D684 II) LIGHT TRUCK Highway All-Season light truck and SUV tire Symmetric independent block tread design Its tread blocks and all-season tread compound were developed to provide traction on dry, wet and light snow-covered roads Twin steel belts to stabilize the tread area and a polyester cord body to help cushion the ride. Uni-T Technology 100,000 Kilometer Treadwear Limited Warranty Limited Treadwear Warranty Limited duration replacement with comparable new Bridgestone tire at pro-rated cost if warranted kilometers not attained; actual tread life may vary. Certain limitations and restrictions apply. See authorised retailer for full warranty details before you purchase. IDEAL FITMENTS FOR: Chevrolet Ford Honda Mazda Saturn Dodge GM Hyundai Nissan Toyota CAR DEALERS: Purchase via your Car Manufacturer / Bridgestone National Account Programs where applicable. TIRE DEALERS: Competitive prices on direct billing. ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT & RUN-FLAT TIRES: We maintain a large and comprehensive inventory to meet all your requirements. NATIONWIDE SERVICE: Competitive shipping across Canada. E-mail us for our freight policy and toll free contact numbers. B2B WEBSITE - VIEW INVENTORY AND PLACE ORDERS: Visit www.tiredistribution.com and register today. Atlas Tire Wholesale Inc. SAMPLE SIZES LT245/75R16 P215/70R16 P235/70R16 245/70R16 265/70R16 P235/65R16 235/60R16 P265/70R17 P265/65R17 P235/60R17 P255/70R18 P265/65R18 P275/65R18 P235/60R18 P285/60R18 120/116RE 99S 104T 106S 111S 101S 100H 113S 110S 100S 112T 112S 114T 102H 114V Additional Sizes Available YOUR SOURCE FOR BRIDGESTONE TIRES 6290 SHAWSON DRIVE MISSISSAUGA, ON L5T 1H5 TEL (905) 670-9791 FAX (905) 670-0581 140 McLEVIN AVE., # 6 & 7 SCARBOROUGH, ON M1B 3V1 TEL (416) 292-8202 FAX (416) 292-8177 [email protected] www.tiredistribution.com Contents C O V E R ST O R Y June 2009 14 16 24 f e at u r e s 10 Coming to Ontario Duret & Landry Expands 12 Be Informed! Nitrogen Tire Inflation 14 Western Rubber Group: Handling Scrap Tires Every Step of the Way Focusing on Efficiency Fosters Success for B.C.’s Largest Tire Recycler 22 Tirecraft: Stronger Than Ever and Growing Quickly Unwavering Entrepreneurial Spirit Drives the Brand to Success 24 TPMS: It’s Here, and It’s Still a Challenge Tools and Education Top Our Experts’ Lists 26 Economic Downturn Survival Tips 27 Another MRT Plant in North America Pneus Bélisle Opens a New Retread Plant in Quebec 28 Inventory Management—Know It, Track It, Sell It Don’t Be Stuck With Cash on Your Shelf 29 Management The Challenge of Change 30 Product Life Cycle Starting at the End regulars 4 6 Editorial Good News! Industry News 8, 9 New Products 14, 15, 16, 17 Tire Recycling 18, 19, 20, 21 Commercial Tires 29 Advertisers | www.autosphere.ca | June 2009 | Tire News | 3 editorial Economic good news I’ve been speaking with businesspeople from a variety of industries and the consensus seems to be that we’re seeing new life being breathed into our economy. Some have said that it feels like a switch has been flipped, creating a sudden surge in the demand for their goods and services for the first time in Copy Editor Shirley Brown [email protected] Although this good economic news is to a Production Olivier Rhême [email protected] Valérie St-Cyr [email protected] nomic data such as a decrease in the net The past few months may have been grim, but there’s hope in the air fueled by a steady stream of good news. T loss of jobs in Canada (latest reports actually show that we’re creating jobs in Canada), an increase in the number of resale homes, and a slowdown in the decrease in consumer spending in the U.S.—the economic engine of the world. You’ve probably also noticed that stock mar- Our planet and our environment have their way out of the red. suffered greatly within the last hundred years I’m not saying that we’ve recovered from the economic slump and that the future is rosy, The good news is that now, more than ever, but good news like this is nice to hear, and businesses, governments, and individuals are it’s certainly better than the gloom and doom getting into the spirit. Green is in, and it looks that’s been in the news in recent history. like there’s no turning back. That’s certainly If you’d like to see the news getting even better, I challenge you, as a business owner and consumer to make it happen. Start investing Ontario has finally joined the rest of the country in your business and in yourself. The worst is with a tire stewardship program, scheduled to hopefully behind us, and the time has come come online later this year. According to the plan, to ramp up for increased activity in the com- both on-road and off-road tires will be diverted ing months. That is certainly good news. away from burning and landfills to be reused and recycled into tire derived products such as under- For more great news, be sure to log onto the-hood automotive products, flooring, sports Canada’s only comprehensive automotive fields, play and construction-related equipment business portal: www.autosphere.ca. and materials. That’s good news. 12 million tires sold in Ontario annually and includes an aggressive three-year plan to 4 | Tire News | June 2009 | www.autosphere.ca | Luc Champagne 514-945-1299 [email protected] Subscription 1 year: $19.95 2 years: $34.95 3 years: $49.95 Published by Publications Rousseau 2938, terrasse Abénaquis Longueuil QC, J4M 2B3 T: 450-448-2220 F: 450-448-1041 [email protected] www.autosphere.ca Tire News Magazine is dedicated to serving the business interests of the Canadian tire industry. It is published seven times a year by Publications Rousseau & Associés Inc., a member of AIA Canada. Material in Tire News Magazine may not be reproduced in any form without written consent from the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertising and disclaims all responsibilities for claims or statements made by its advertisers or independent columnists. All facts, opinions and statements appearing within this publication are those of the writers and editors themselves, and are in no way to be construed as statements, positions or endorsements by Publications Rousseau & Associés Inc. Publications Mail Agreement 40014105. Return undelivrable Canadian addresses to Publications Rousseau / Circulation Department, 2938 terrasse Abenaquis, suite 110, Longueuil, QC J4M 2B3 ISSN 1710-4211 PRINTED IN CANADA The program promises to manage the over across Ontario. [email protected] Réjean A. Rousseau 450-649-9007 and investment portfolios are starting to claw eliminate the over 2.8 million stockpiled tires Advertising Nathalie Plouffe 416-925-5665 creeping upward at a somewhat steady pace. The bottom seems to have come and gone Ontario’s good news Administration Wendy Allain [email protected] Danielle Boivin [email protected] [email protected] has reached a crescendo in recent years. good news. Circulation Manager Nancy Belleville [email protected] kets are steadily improving with the index he need to recycle and reduce our waste or so, and it’s time to make changes. Contributing Editors François Charron, Éric Descarries, Jack Kazmierski, Jil McIntosh many months. large extent anecdotal, it is backed by eco- Good News! Publisher Rémy L. Rousseau Rémy L. Rousseau [email protected] Industry News California shops now required to check tire pressure Ontario Environment Minister Approves Used Tire Plan California’s Air Resources Board (ARB) has adopted a regulation that will require automotive maintenance facilities in the state to check the tire pressure of every vehicle they service. Effective July 1, 2010, the ruling will affect about 40,000 service providers, including smog check stations, engine repair facilities, and oil service providers. It does not include car washes, body and paint facilities, or glass repair businesses. The ruling is part of the Global Warming Solutions Act, signed in 2006, which requires the ARB to implement strategies to reduce the state’s greenhouse gas contributions. The new measure has been regulated partly to address older vehicles that don’t have TPMS, which was mandated in the U.S. for all new vehicles beginning September 1, 2007. The Ontario Minister of the Environment, the Honorable John Gerretsen, put the stamp of approval on the Ontario Used Tire Program Plan. The Used Tire Program Plan will implement a managed scrap tire solution for On-road/ Off-road tires supplied into the Ontario market, diverting these tires away from burning and landfills to 3R’s processing that will see them reused and recycled into tire derived products (TDPs) such as under-the-hood automotive products, flooring, sports fields, play ground surfaces, and construction-related equipment and materials. The program will manage all 12 million tires sold in Ontario annually, and will track the tires from collection at over 10,000 points across the province to their sale as tire-derived products. It includes an aggressive 3-year plan to eliminate the approximately 2.8 million stockpiled tires in 90 sites across Ontario. Glenn Maidment, president of the Ontario Tire Stewardship (OTS) Board, said they were very pleased with the decision to use the program plan. He added, “In approving the Plan, the Minister facilitates significant investment in Ontario businesses handling used tires in environmentally-beneficial ways, creating jobs and a green economy for future generations of Ontarians.” The program will inject over $22 million into the Ontario-based scrap tire processing industry in the first year, supporting Ontario-based processors as they invest in their businesses to increase capacity, adopt new scrap tire processing technologies, and create new “green” jobs in the Province. This fall, the 18th International Equip Auto aftermarket tradeshow, which occurs every two years, will take place at the Parc des expositions Paris-Nord. More than 2,000 exhibitors will display parts, accessories, tools, and state-of-the-art maintenance equipment for all vehicle makes and models. Conferences and meetings on new technologies will also be offered to automotive service and autobody professionals, distributors, dealers, and fleet managers. www.equipauto.com The WCTD Has Moved! Since May 1, WCTD’s new address is 948 Jim Common Drive N., Sherwood Park, Alberta, T8H 1Y3. Created in 1962, Western Canada Tire Dealers gathers more than 950 tire dealers throughout British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, western Ontario, Yukon, and the Northwest Territories. www.wctd.ca Erratum On page 10 of the April issue 2009, you should have read that the Michelin Harmony tire is an all season tire, not a summer tire. 6 | Tire News | June 2009 | www.autosphere.ca | NAPA will not only be sponsoring the NASCAR Nationwide race in Montreal next August, it will also be involved with the NAPA 5000 Rally that will start on August 13 in Calgary and end in Montreal on August 26 as part of the NASCAR race festivities. Five teams of chosen mechanics, each representing a Canadian region (B.C., Prairies, Ontario, Quebec, and Maritimes), will cover some 5,000 km while stopping at specific places to go through mechanical tests on chosen cars. The winning team will get a $15,000 Grand Prize. Registration for the contest can be found at www.rallynapa5000.ca. Europe Closer to New Tire Labels Legislation that would require new labels on all tires sold in the European Union has been backed by the European Parliament and will go to voting by the member states. If approved, labels will be required by November 2012, indicating the tire’s fuel economy, wet grip and noise emissions. A fuel-efficiency classification will rate performance from A for best, to G for worst. There is also an obligation for suppliers to provide a fuel savings calculator on their websites for consumers. A “low-noise mark” of a tire wearing earmuffs will appear if rolling noise is kept below a certain decibel level. European tire manufacturers have asked for unified measures, which would apply to passenger car and light- and heavy-duty tires. The European Commission will also set specific requirements for winter tires, and stipulates that Member States may only provide incentives for tires ranked at least “Class C” on fuel efficiency and wet grip. Pirelli and Michelin to Equip the Porsche Panamera The new Panamera sports sedan by Porsche will come equipped with Pirelli and Michelin performance tires. The base model of this exotic automobile, which will go on sale next fall, will come with Pirelli PZero 245/50ZR18 up front and 275/45ZR18 at the rear. Pirelli also announced that 255/45ZR19 and 285/40ZR19 sizes are under development. The top-of-theline Turbo version of the Panamera will come with Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 summer tires, 255/45ZR19 at the front and 285/ZR40 at the rear. An optional set of Michelins will be available with 255/40ZR20 front and 295/35ZR20 at the rear. Porsche also approved Michelin Pilot Alpin PA3 winter radial for the 19-inch wheels while it has chosen Pirelli’s Winter240 Sottozero Serie II for the 18- and 20-inch wheels. photo: Guillaume Descarries Equip Auto 2009 The NAPA 5000 Rally New Products Dunlop Introduces Five New Products Dunlop, a division of Goodyear, is launching five new products. These new tires were first unveiled at the SEMA show last November—they are… • The SP Sport Signature all-season performance tire with Hydro-Paddle technology available in 26 sizes for wheels from 15 to 20 inches, from 65 to 35 aspect ratio; • The Signature CS, a performance tire designed for crossover vehicles available in 11 sizes for wheels from 16 to 18 inches in the 70 to 55 aspect ratio; • The high performance SP Sport Maxx TT, featuring DuPont Kevlar reinforced sidewalls in 35 sizes for wheels from 16 to 22 inches in the 55 to 35 ratios; • The SP Sport Maxx GT ultra-high performance, available in 14 sizes for wheels from 17 to 19 inches in the 45 to 30 aspect ratio; • The Rover M/T Maxx Traction on- and off-road tire for light trucks and SUVs, available in 17 sizes for wheels from 16 to 22 inches; these new Rovers feature the Multi-Pitch Tread Design. Nitrogen Tire Inflator The new NitroFill E-170 is a mobile allin-one generator/inflator that’s fast and easy to use. It has advanced PSA technology—no membrane, no tank, no battery or charger, no other equipment is required. It’s the perfect unit for almost every application and has an amazing 8 CFM rating. It converts up to 6 tires to NitroFill simultaneously at the touch of a button. It provides instant and uninterrupted flow with guaranteed purity up to 99.9%. Each unit comes fully assembled—just plug it in! For more information, contact Wayward Tools by phone: 705-359-1508 or www.waywardtools.com, [email protected]. TPMS Repair Kit You need to be able to repair tire pressure monitoring systems, as many vehicles have it and more will follow. These systems fail because of valve leaks, seal leaks, because the battery in the sensor dies, or the valve core snaps off. These kits are important because the valve stem type TPMS sensors require installation of new hardware whenever a tire is changed. You lose the ability to service a wheel if you do not have the kits in stock. The kit contains a new seal; seal washer; valve nut; valve cap and nickel-plated core. Call your Dorman representative at 416-5219979, email [email protected] or go to www.dormanproducts.com. SignatureSignature CS | Tire News | June 2009 | www.autosphere.ca | Maxx GT Rover M/T Maxx Traction Toyo Introduces Two Proxes Tires Dunlop Unveils a New Winter Tire The Canadian division of Toyo Tire has unveiled two new Proxes tires: • The extreme performance R1R for sports coupes and sedans. Recognizable by its large footprint, this tire will provide great handling. Note the dynamic arrowhead tread pattern for water drainage and performance on wet pavement. This product will be offered in sizes fitting 15- to 18-inch diameter wheels. It’s not winter yet, but Dunlop is planning ahead by unveiling a new winter tire for the 2009-2010 season—the Graspic DS-3. Featuring silica based fibre tread and Miurashaped sipings, the new Graspic DS-3 will be available in 35 sizes for 13- to 18-inch wheels in the 70 to 50 series, all with Q speed rating. • The Proxes ST II, a high performance SUV, sport truck, and crossover tire recognizable by its directional tread pattern featuring a five variable-pitch shoulder for reduced noise emission. This tire will be available in V, W and Y speed ratings for 16- to 26-inch wheels. Proxes R1R Proxes ST II 8 Maxx TT Graspic DS-3 Yokohama’s ADVAN Neova AD08 Hits the Market The ADVAN Neova AD08 is an updated version of Yokohama’s ADVAN Neova AD07, known since 2006 as “the fastest street tire.” The all-new ADVAN AD08, available in 32 sizes ranging from 15 to 19 inches, is designed for a variety of premium sports cars and sedans, including Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Lexus, and others. Extensive testing reveals the Neova AD08’s distinct advancements in four key areas: dry grip, wet grip, ride comfort, and noise level. Do you want to see a Run-flat tire mounted and dismounted in 1 minute 46? Come see our promotional video on our new website, www.duretlandry.com. TPM Electronic Torque Wrench The new OTC TPM Electronic Torque Wrench designed specifically for use on TPM sensor nuts, will cover torque requirements from 10120 inch-pounds. Current TPM sensor nut torque requirements range from 12-106 inch-pounds and conventional torque wrenches don’t cover this range in a single wrench. Other key features designed specifically for TPM sensor applications include slide bar for quickly setting the torque requirements, indexing head for spinning the nut down easily, and flashing LED light with audible beep when torque limit has been met. Specifically designed to torque TPMS sensors to specification, this 1/4-inch drive wrench features an indexing head for use in any position. The indexing head allows for use straight to spin nut down quickly, then rotates to 90° position for torque and leverage. 1-800-533-6127 / www.otctools. com ARTIGLIO 50 Hankook Expanding I*Pike RW11 Winter Tire Sizes Hankook Tire Canada Corp. is introducing 26 additional tire sizes for its I*Pike RW11 winter tire—including 12 new LT Metric winter tire sizes—to offer a more complete line of LT-metric winter tire sizes. The line was picked for expansion in response to a recent increase in demand for both P-Metric and LT-Metric winter tires in North America. According to the RAC, the market has seen a huge growth in year-to-year sales in 2008 of more than 50% percent. The I*Pike RW11, Hankook’s newest high performance studdable winter SUV and Light Truck tire, is now available in 37 different sizes ranging from 13 to 20 inches in diameter. I*Pike RW11 embodies Hankook’s Kontrol Technology to provide enhanced benefits to customers by applying the highest standards of quality in terms of safety, comfort, performance handling and environmental friendliness. CORGHI invests in TECHNOLOGY, Duret & Landry invests in service! Award Winning OTC Tool Kit Named one of the Top Five 2009 Aftermarket Products by the Heavy Duty Aftermarket Journal in USA, the OTC 5195 Wheel Stud Installer/Remover Kit was selected because of its innovative design and ease of use. The tool will save you time and money while allowing shop technicians to quickly and effortlessly remove and install wheel studs, calipers, or axles on virtually any Class 7 or 8 heavy vehicle wheel hub. www.otctools.com Importer of CORGHI products in Canada FOR INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT MR. ERIC LANDRY 800-663-0814 Éric Descarries [email protected] Coming to Ontario Duret & Landry Expands Duret & Landry is a very respected name in Quebec’s tire industry. For years, it has been providing local tire businesses with some of the best tire changing machines in the world, Italian Corghi products, of which it is the exclusive Canadian distributor. Duret & Landry also has a good market base in Western Canada. But for some reason, the market in Ontario seems to have bypassed Duret & Landry’s services. A mobile unit Beginning this summer, this Laval-based organisation will have its own mobile unit on Ontario roads. Tire businesses will thus be able to get to know more about the Corghi products distributed by Duret & Landry. Corghi expert Thierry Lefebvre, a knowledgeable bilingual Duret & Landry Sales manager, will be travelling through Ontario with his Dodge Sprinter mobile unit demonstrating the unique capabilities of the Corghi Artiglio 50 unit and other related products. Tire businesses interested in the tire changing machine can witness how quickly it works on www.auto- Expect to see an incredible demonstration of the Corghi Artiglio 50 tire changing machine by Lefebvre. sphere.ca in the French section, under the “Pneumatique” tab. According to Vice President Eric Landry, it will take 1:46 Duret & Landry’s people are well aware that minutes to change a run-flat tire with the Ontario does not go through a similar tire Artiglio 50 while it might take more than rush as Quebec tire dealers do in fall when 5 or 6 minutes to do so with a regular tire the time comes to switch to winter tires. Yet, changing machine… if it can even handle with so many cars requiring a professional the job! service in Canada’s most populated province, the tire equipment supplier knows very But why a mobile unit instead of a fixed well what kind of help is needed. address unit? “A mobile unit is the key to success,” points out Landry. “Tire business Thierry Lefebvre is Duret & Landry’s new Ontario Sales manager. & Landry’s Sprinter very soon in your area. wheel and tire without any effort from the works. But be prepared—you may never technician and without any damage to the have seen such a great machine before. wheel or the tire. Bars are not even neces- Lefebvre can be reached at 416-902- The Corghi Artiglio 50 is a sophisticated sary! But it will do the job faster, safer, 5663 or [email protected]. yet rugged piece of equipment made to and better than any other competitive handle just about any size and shape of machine. to travel to see how a machine works. We have to go to them!” A unique machine 10 Ontario tire dealers—expect to see Duret | Tire News | June 2009 | www.autosphere.ca | Lefebvre will show you how the Artiglio 50 www.duretlandry.com Photos: Éric Descarries people do not necessarily have the time Be Informed! Nitrogen Tire Inflation What reasons can one put forward to convince a client to inflate his tires with Nitrogen instead of air? Environmental protection? Fuel savings? Longer-lasting tires? The benefits of using Nitrogen are many, as you will see. True or False Pilot Project In 2006, a pilot project funded by Transport Canada showed that inflating truck tires with Nitrogen resulted in a 4 to 6% fuel economy and extended tire life (see figures below). 1- Unlike air, Nitrogen does not compress in cold weather. q True Figure 1 q FALSE 2- Major tire manufacturers unanimously Fuel consumption recommend the use of Nitrogen. q True q FALSE 3- Nitrogen molecules are bigger than air molecules, which reduces the risks of pressure loss by permeability. q True q FALSE 4- It is not necessary to check tire pressure regularly if it is inflated with Nitrogen. q True Figure 2 q FALSE 5- Nitrogen can only be purchased in gas bottles. Actual tire wear (new and retread casings) q True q FALSE 5- False: Several manufacturers offer devices that generate Nitrogen at will using the air from the compressor. 4- False: It is imperative to measure tire pressure at least once a month. 3- True 2- False: Yokohama recommends it, Michelin is sceptical, and Bridgestone considers the product acceptable. 1- True: No matter the weather, the tire pressure remains the same. François Charron [email protected] Did you know…? • Air is made up of 78% Nitrogen, a non-flammable inert gas. • With Nitrogen, inflation pressure is more stable and leaks are minimal or less common. • Race car drivers as well as the trucking and aviation industries have been using Nitrogen for a long time. • Current inflation techniques only allow a 95% rate of Nitrogen inside the tire, because a small quantity of air always • Nitrogen reduces moisture inside the tire and the risks of bursting caused by overheating. 12 | Tire News | June 2009 | www.autosphere.ca | remains trapped in it. Relevant web site www.getnitrogen.org This site contains the findings of studies describing the benefits of using Nitrogen, testimonies, documents to help you assess the relevance of this technology, a search tool to locate the nearest Nitrogen retailer, and much more. POTENZA G019 GRID All Season Performance � � � � � � � Silica to boost wet grip Wider footprint to improve cornering Advanced directional tread pattern for rapid water evacuation Sophisticated and sporty looks Veri-pitch design for a quiet ride Uni-T Technology 80,000 Kilometer Treadwear Limited Warranty Limited Treadwear Warranty Limited duration replacement with comparable new Bridgestone tire at pro-rated cost if warranted kilometers not attained; actual tread life may vary. Certain limitations and restrictions apply. See authorised retailer for full warranty details before you purchase. IDEAL FITMENT FOR: Subaru Acura Mazda Honda Nissan Toyota CAR DEALERS: Purchase via your Car Manufacturer / Bridgestone National Account Programs TIRE DEALERS: Competitive prices on direct billing. ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT & RUN-FLAT TIRES: We maintain a large and comprehensive inventory to meet all your requirements. NATIONWIDE SERVICE: Competitive shipping across Canada. E-mail us for our freight policy and toll free contact numbers. B2B WEBSITE - VIEW INVENTORY AND PLACE ORDERS: Visit www.tiredistribution.com and register today. Atlas Tire Wholesale Inc. S A M P LE S IZ ES P 1 8 5 /6 5 R 1 5 86H P 1 9 5 /6 5 R 1 5 89H P 2 0 5 /6 5 R 1 5 92H P 1 9 5 /6 0 R 1 5 87H P 2 0 5 /6 0 R 1 5 90H P 2 0 5 /6 0 R 1 6 91H P 2 0 5 /6 0 R 1 6 91V P 2 1 5 /6 0 R 1 6 94V 2 0 5 /5 5 R 1 6 91H 2 1 5 /5 5 R 1 7 94V 2 0 5 /5 0 R 1 7 89V 2 1 5 /5 0 R 1 7 X L 9 5 V 2 2 5 /5 0 R 1 7 94V 2 0 5 /4 5 R 1 7 84V 2 1 5 /4 5 R 1 7 X L 9 1 H 2 2 5 /4 5 R 1 7 91H 2 3 5 /4 5 R 1 7 94H Additional Sizes Available YOUR SOURCE FOR BRIDGESTONE WEST EAST 6290 SHAWSON DRIVE MISSISSAUGA, ON L5T 1H5 140 McLEVIN AVE., # 6 & 7 SCARBOROUGH, ON M1B 3V1 TEL (905) 670-9791 FAX (905) 670-0581 TEL (416) 292-8202 FAX (416) 292-8177 [email protected] www.tiredistribution.com SPECIAL TIRE RECYCLING Jil McIntosh [email protected] Western Rubber Group: Handling Scrap Tires Every Step of the Way Focusing on Efficiency Fosters Success for B.C.’s Largest Tire Recycler When it comes to the tire industry, many “success stories” start with someone who grew up in the business. But Mike Roberge, president of Western Rubber Group in Delta, B.C., had only the experience of the tires on his car when he started what is now the largest tire recycling conglomerate in the province. “ I was a forest fire firebombing pilot,” was I wrong. It was really expensive, but transporters under contract,” Roberge he says. “I only worked during the it’s been a great business, and more than says. “From there, it goes to Pacific summer, and I was looking for some- exceeded any expectations.” Shredding Ltd., which is part of our group. thing to do. It was time to grow up Pacific Shredding feeds Western Rubber and be responsible and put the kids in From start to finish school, and I wanted to get into a busi- For the last two years, scrap tires in lating equipment. It makes the coarse ness. In 1989, I was at a trade show and B.C. have been handled through an crumb and sells some to customers, but saw a little pile of rubber at a booth. It industry-lead strategy managed by Tire the vast majority goes to Delta Fine Grind was from a mat manufacturer, and the Stewardship BC (TSBC), a responsibility Company—which is ours, too—and it takes company was looking for suppliers of it took over from the province. Western the coarse crumb into fine grind. buffed rubber. Rubber Group is the dominant recycler Products Ltd. with feedstock for its granu- in British Columbia, from collecting the “That’s then sold to different industries, “I had no experience with tires or rub- tires and shredding them, to produ- although we do make a pasture mat for a ber, but it looked like a sound business, cing crumb and even some consumer company in Ontario, and our own blast- and I thought it was an opportunity to products. ing mats for construction. We also own Island Tire Recycling in Chemainus on get into something that wasn’t already established. I thought it was less expen- “We own our own trucks, and collect 65 Vancouver Island, and it shreds all of the sive being in on the ground floor, and boy, percent of tires, with the rest through other passenger and light truck tires generated on Vancouver Island.” Meeting the capture rate About a quarter of tires collected go to tire-derived fuel for cement kilns and pulp and paper in B.C., while the steel and the fibre is used for fuel at Lafarge Cement. Roberge says that Western Rubber has met the TSBC’s capture rate for scrap tires for two years in a row now. The group employs about 100 workers overall. No settling for the status quo Covering so many steps of the process is a huge undertaking, but Roberge says 14 | Tire News | June 2009 | www.autosphere.ca | Photos: Aaron Tam – [email protected] from the tires goes to a steel recycler, Mike Roberge, president of Western Rubber Group that focusing on efficiency and keeping “There was a lot of distrust when TSBC the customers happy is paramount. “It’s in first started off, because when it was a buying the right equipment and making it government-run program, they just did Mike Hennessy, executive director of work properly, by setting up a system that what they wanted and didn’t listen to the TSBC, is also pleased with how everything covers everything, from work safety, to hir- recyclers. When we took over, there was runs. “All the tires get picked up, the con- ing and training, to preventative mainten- the feeling that TSBC would be the same sumers who are paying the eco fee appear ance. You can’t settle for the status quo, as the government was. But in the two to be getting value for their money, and and we work really hard at that. I can be years we’ve had the program, we’ve def- the job gets done,” he says. “There are no a tough guy to work for, but I feel most of initely built up a good rapport with them complaints from retailers, and that’s the the guys enjoy working with me, because I and there’s trust on both sides. They’re in acid test, which is why we’re satisfied with challenge them all the time, and then I let to make a dollar, we’re in to manage the Western. One of the keys to their success them go and do it. I don’t micromanage, program at the lowest possible cost, and is their determination; they’re assertive but I’m involved. I always meet with my we’ve been able so far to work together and aggressive, and that’s why they’re managers and discuss new ways, better to that end.” alive and thriving.” Huge opportunities Keeping tires in B.C. Roberge is also happy with the new sys- But while it’s essential that Western Don Blythe, chairman of TSBC, agrees tem. “If you’re going to sell something in Rubber Group thrives, Roberge is also that Roberge’s determination plays a this province and make money on it, you’re genuinely concerned with both the en- major role in his success. “I have to say going to take responsibility for getting rid vironmental and fiscal health of his prov- that he has a fiery temper, but he cer- of it, and that creates huge opportunities in ince; he spends a great deal of time at tainly is good to deal with because you recycling,” he says. “That’s how TSBC came conferences and keeps in touch with other know where you stand with him, and he into effect. They accepted the responsibil- industries, always looking for new uses certainly knows the business and all his ity, the solution was there, and they just and markets for recycled rubber. “The ul- customers out there,” he says. “I think took over from the Ministry. That works for timate goal for us, and for the tire board, he knows more about what’s going on in us, because you’re dealing with business is to try and get every tire that’s generated recycling throughout North America than people, not with bureaucrats. They’re busi- in B.C. turned into a finished product in anyone in Canada, and probably anybody ness people like us, so it’s a lot easier to B.C., and preferably used in B.C.,” he says. in the U.S. communicate and get things happening.” “That’s a huge undertaking, but we’re ways, or any problems.” Determination breeds success up for it. Ideally, any scrap that’s generated in a jurisdiction should be recycled in that jurisdiction. You won’t get there right away, but we got to where we are by thinking that way, and you always need something to strive for. I don’t ever want to hear ‘it can’t be done.’ You just find a way to make it work.” | www.autosphere.ca | June 2009 | Tire News | 15 SPECIAL TIRE RECYCLING Jil McIntosh [email protected] Ontario Tire Stewardship: The Program Is Now in Place Environmental Fees Take Effect in September 2009 Following legislation passed in February, Ontario now has a comprehensive plan for scrap tires: the Ontario Tire Stewardship, or OTS. The plan will take effect September 1, 2009; the specifics can be downloaded from www.ontariotirestewardship.com. T he program hasn’t fundamentally changed from what was originally presented to the government, according to Andrew Horsman, Interim Executive Director of OTS. “We’re in the we’re going to work with the existing haulers, processors, and collectors of used Consumer concerns Antoine Thompson said that U.S. firms tires in the province,” he says. “One of While he is enthusiastic about the pro- will close and jobs will be lost due to what the prime missions is to enhance those gram, as a retailer, he echoes the con- he calls an “unfair subsidy” through the existing businesses and industry, so that it cerns of many dealers when it comes environmental fee. can process 100% of the used tires gener- to the consumer. “Across the province, ated in Ontario. Right now we’re probably there’s an average of between $2 to $3 But Horsman says that OTS has met with handling anywhere in the realm of 65 to for the (current) tire disposal fee, so con- a variety of stakeholders, including in the 75% of tires being processed in Ontario, sumers are going to jump from that aver- U.S., and that the incentive isn’t meant with the balance going to the States or age to $5.84, and that’s always a concern to subsidize crumb, but to help proces- Quebec.” when there’s an increase. I also think that, sors increase their capacity. “Whether as a tire dealer and also OTS, we’re going it’s crumb or shred, we’re going to mon- to have to keep an eye on the borders, itor the impact, and work with our pro- Under the program, brand owners and particularly if the dollar goes up to par cessors to stay on the right side of inter- first importers must register as stewards, again. When you look at the GST, PST, tire national trade laws while helping them and remit a fee of $5.84 to OTS for every disposal fee, and traditionally it’s a known to grow their business,” he says. “The passenger tire supplied. It’s an environ- fact that tires in the U.S. are anywhere mission is to work with Ontario-based mental fee, not a tax, stresses Eric Gilbert, from 12 to 18% cheaper, you put all those businesses to manage 100% of those president and owner of Ericway Tire Sales, things together, and it certainly makes it tires, but we’re not saying we’re only and a director on the OTS board repre- attractive for cross-border shopping.” going to work with existing businesses, Not a tax senting OTDA. As such, he says, it will 16 so there is a commercial opportunity for be up to each company and retailer to Ontario-based businesses decide how to pass the fee along, whether The U.S. has also been in the picture expectation is that this will happen and included in the price of the tire, or as a as American processors, accustomed to that will be a good thing for the Ontario separate line on the invoice. The only im- using Ontario tires as feedstock, now face economy.” perative is that the fee is remitted to OTS an end to their supply. In an article in the by the steward. Toronto Star, New York State Senator | Tire News | June 2009 | www.autosphere.ca | new businesses to set up in Ontario. Our www.ontariotirestewardship.com Photos: Marie-Josée Rousseau business of running the program, and Jil McIntosh [email protected] Tire Stewardship Manitoba New incentives drive timely, effective collection. It’s time for a celebration: Tire Stewardship Manitoba (TSM) has reached its first birthday, as a not-for-profit agency formed to represent the tire retailers of Manitoba. T SM took over the responsibility of “We’ve split that to provide an incentive to the government agreed that they would operating the province’s scrap tire collect,” Eckstein says. “This helps improve assist us financially in dealing with the recycling program from a govern- collection in those areas which have been inventory. The backlog has been cleaned ment-run board on April 1, 2008, which historically underserviced, such as some up, and now we’re removing the flow on had managed it from 1995 to 2008. of our more remote rural areas, by paying an annual basis.” There have been challenges, says TSM a separate fee that encourages collection Executive Director Brett Eckstein, but on a timely basis. Our goal is to keep tires High value to consumers overall, it’s been a very smooth and ef- off the landscape and out of retailers’ Eckstein believes that consumers are fective transition. yards, because they pose a fire hazard and pleased with the program, especially since other environmental and human health almost all of the tires are processed within risks, such as mosquitoes.” the province, creating jobs and economic “We collect an eco-fee from the tire retailers at the point of sale,” he says. “It’s a development. “We’ve made some sig- fee on all new tires that are supplied in A successful program Manitoba, so you’re either a first seller or The program is successful: last year, 95% managing tires, we’ve done some cleanup, first importer. There are no manufacturers of all tires collected were recycled within and now those tires are being stored in Manitoba, so it works better from our the province into other products, such appropriately and collected on a more standpoint.” as aggregate, crumb, molded products, timely basis,” he says. “There are some or blast mats. The remaining 5% was challenges that lie ahead, and we’re work- shipped outside the province for tire-de- ing with our processors to improve collec- The fee starts at $4.50 and varies by rived fuel, “but that was program residual tion province-wide. We’re seeing a more tire type, reaching $75 for large OTR that can’t be easily handled by some of systematic approach to collecting tires in tires, with all money remitted to TSM. our processors,” Eckstein says. These were Manitoba and processing them without “We’re responsible for all tires and tubes mainly oversized OTR tires; there aren’t any significant backlog. I think the public in Manitoba,” Eckstein says. “Anything enough of them to justify the expense is getting very high value for what they’re on a motorized vehicle, on- or off-road, of buying the big shredders needed to being asked to contribute.” with the exemption of personal mobility handle them. Responsible for all tires aids, such as motorized scooters.” nificant improvements with how we’re www.tirestewardshipmb.ca One major accomplishment is that a back- Registered processors either collect or log of 12,000 tires from the government contract collection of the scrap tires. program has been cleaned up. “These Two incentives are paid to processors: were OTR tires, and because they were when tires are collected or delivered, not levied, they had accumulated over and when they’re processed or manu- the years,” Eckstein says. “The province factured into other products. Under the occasionally funded some pickups, but government program, processors were they did that with surplus funds, and only paid upon proof of sale of a recycled that’s what got the program in trouble product. financially. When we made the transition, | www.autosphere.ca | June 2009 | Tire News | 17 commercial tires Éric Descarries [email protected] Business Is Good! Agricultural Tires The agricultural tire business—a.k.a. Ag tires—is doing fine. As a matter of fact, according to Brian Riddell, National manager of Bridgestone Americas Ag Group in Canada, it is excellent! T he increasing demand for Ag tires from the agricultural tire industry. Still, in our part of the world can be according to Riddell, Bridgestone produ- explained by the fact that there ces the most popular brand of Ag tires— is more demand than ever for food, Firestone. He even estimates it to be especially from other areas of the globe among the most important in the world. where appetite and taste have grown Obviously, brands such as Michelin and for more meat (mostly beef and pork) Goodyear (which is now under Titan than fish. Consequently, more machin- ownership) are to be counted also, but ery and larger equipment is needed for the interest for the Firestone brand is such farming. This situation has made it easily explainable by the allegiance to more profitable for farmers. Riddell tells the brand as Firestone was the first to us that the demand for big equipment make pneumatic tires specifically for right now has increased to a point where Ag use, and by the fact that farmers are major tractor and farming equipment thrifty people who like to stick to prod- manufacturers have a hard time keeping ucts they have known and trusted for a up with it! long time. Today’s tractors are not what they used The Canadian market to be. Other than modern creature com- The most important market for Ag tires forts such as air conditioning and mod- in Canada remains the Western region still a manufacturer like Firestone can ern technology such as GPS guidance, with about 60% of the market, followed offer a warranty of 9 years on its radial big machines made by legendary manu- by Ontario and Quebec, each with about products, 8 on its bias ply tires. facturers such as John Deere as well as 20% of the same market. Farms in others, are now available with dual and Ontario and Quebec are generally 200- Technology still prevails triple rear tire options and with all-wheel to 300-acres; in Western Canada, they When Harvey Firestone introduced rub- drive! are from the 30,000- to 50,000-acres— ber tractor tires early in the 20th cen- this alone explains the importance of tury, he wanted to replace the steel that area. wheels that used to equip those ma- Unfortunately, it is now more difficult than ever to get the production numbers These Firestone agricultural tires can also be used for snow removal. (photo: Éric Descarries) 18 | Tire News | June 2009 | www.autosphere.ca | Brian Riddell is the National manager of Bridgestone Americas Ag Group in Canada. chines. Firestone was a farmer himself Although some competitors have almost (his original home now sits at the Henry phased out bias-ply tires, Firestone still Ford Museum in the part called the offers them. “They are less expensive, Greenfield Village) and not only was so they are more popular for limited use he looking for comfort, he also wanted and small chores,” comments Riddell. better traction. Nowadays, tractor tire “Still, there’ll probably come a day when manufacturers are aiming at making all Ag tires will be radials.” We also products that will make the lightest com- learned from our expert that Ag tires can paction possible on the soil. At the same last a long time but some of the newer time, they must have the best traction stronger crops have proven to damage possible, no matter what kind of soil is AG tires more. The ones that don’t wear involved. Ag tractor tires are offered in out as fast are the implement tires, but four categories, R-1 for standard soils, R1-W for moister grounds, R-2 for wet, many airports now use farm-type trac- muddy conditions, and R-3 for turf appli- tors mostly in winter for many little cations and for minimal soil disturbance. chores including snow removal. “They The R-1 still is the most popular version choose farm tractors because they are in North America. easily resalable later on,” says Riddell. However, it is important to remember Today’s technology involves making lar- that tires wear out faster on harder ger tires for bigger tractors. Firestone is pavements. still proving that its tires with a 23-degree lug angle are more efficient than For his part, Marin notes that tractors the conventional 45-degree rib angle are used for snow removal in large cities during traction and pulling power. such as Montreal and Quebec City. Since they are used on public paved roads, Another technology making its way in the tires do tend to wear out faster. industry is the rubber track. Bridgestone Tracks for farm tractors are slowly gaining popularity. (photo: Bridgestone) is very much involved in this technology. In addition, the forestry tire business is those brands and their sales dropped Its engineers began working with the slowly picking up thanks to projects in considerably. Once again, brand loyalty concept in Japan back in the 1960s. Quebec, but it has suffered badly from won over novelty. At any rate, he still be- Rubber tracks are more reliable than trade politics with the United States. lieves the big name brands make much ever and Bridgestone offers some in Construction tire sales are also growing better tires. many sizes ranging from a 16-inch to fast thanks to all the local government a 36-inch width. Christian Marin from grants for road reconstruction. Bridgestone told us this concept was Riddell has a great opinion of Ag tire customers. Though he admits that sell- slowing catching on in Western Canada Little competition from the Orient where it helps diminish compaction. There was a time when we all thought that selling to farmers is personable that the foreign competition—particu- and more enjoyable. But, just like any larly from China and India—would be in- other tire representative, he has the Ag tires are not necessarily confined tense for established brands. Yet, accord- same advice to give: “The most import- to farm works. Riddell pointed out that ing to Riddell, farmers shied away from ant maintenance to do on an Ag tire is Other uses ing such tires is not difficult, he says to regularly check the pressure.” Where have we heard that before? Goodyear, now with Titan, is an important player in the Ag tire segment. (photo: Éric Descarries) Firestone’s Christian Marin (photo: Éric Descarries) | www.autosphere.ca | June 2009 | Tire News | 19 commercial tires Jil McIntosh [email protected] Al’s Tirecraft Keeping the Farm Community Rolling Knowledge and service keep the customers coming back. A cross much of the tire industry, the effects of rising fuel prices and the economy are having a major im- pact. But some are seeing a silver lining, most notably in the farm segment, says Bruce Barnim. He’s vice president of Al’s Tirecraft in Burgessville, Ontario, as well Bruce Barnim, vice president of Al’s Tirecraft and president of Tirecraft Eastern Canada Division as president of Tirecraft Eastern Canada school. Five years later, I went full-time Business of the Year with tires. We had a one-bay shop beside Barnim is an active participant in the “Farm tire sales have probably never the service station that grew to a seven- community, and Al’s Tires recently re- been so good,” Barnim says. “The big bay shop.” ceived an award as the Norwich District challenge is finding enough of them, as In the 1970s, Barnim acquired Haugh Year. “I think we do a fairly good job of modity prices were really good last Tire in nearby Clinton, and then took on supporting the community that supports year. They have backed down a bit, but other shops in Ingersoll and Exeter. His us,” Barnim says. “I believe more in put- when the oil prices went so high, they group, Town & Country Tires, eventually ting our advertising dollars toward our started making a lot of ethanol and had 14 stores when the decision was local arena or different clubs, rather than fuel from different products. That put made to join Tirecraft. “We do a little spending a lot of money in radio or other a real demand on everything having to of everything, but truck tire sales and media. We should at least put a portion do with farming and drove the prices up service represents a major portion of of our money into the community.” significantly. our overall business mix,” Barnim says. “But we concentrate on farm. We tend The business also actively supports the “There are some segments of farming to be in a lot of the smaller, rural com- Woodstock Hospital Foundation, the that are down, but overall it’s doing munities. We started in a rural area, so New Norwich Arena, and in conjunc- very well and consequently, there’s in- we tend to like the farm and commercial tion with all of its shops, raised almost creased demand for new equipment. It’s aspects.” $35,000 last year for the Canadian not just North America. Farming has Breast Cancer Foundation through a golf taken off in other places all over the Going to the customer world and it’s put a lot of pressure on That includes going to the customer, everyone.” wherever he may be. Huge farm equip- And most importantly, it all works for ment that breaks down in the field can’t the customer. “Farm tires have got more be simply rolled down to the shop. complex over the last few years,” Barnim In business for 42 years 20 Chamber of Commerce’s Business of the there’s a real short supply. The com- tournament. Al’s Tire Service has been in business “We’re able to fix it, no matter where says. “Radialization is a big factor now. for 42 years. “My father started the it is,” Barnim says. “Tires are getting so It used to be a very simple market, but business in 1967, pumping gas, and he large these days that most of our trucks now the farmers often know more than sold a few tires,” Barnim says. “I was still are now equipped with crane service so the dealers. We have to be right on top going to school and pumping gas after they can lift the tire.” of it all—more now than ever.” | Tire News | June 2009 | www.autosphere.ca | Photo: Jack Kazmierski Division. commercial tires Industry News Continental and Marangoni to Offer Truck Tire Retreads Yokohama Adds Four Commercial Tire Sizes Continental Introduces Five Commercial Tires Continental Tire North America (CTNA) will soon offer Continental-brand retread tires to commercial tire dealers in Canada and the United States. Actually, as we first learned (unofficially) at Montreal’s Expocam, CTNA is cooperating with Marangoni Tread North America and already testing ContiTread retreads for select fleets and customers. ContiTread will be available in two tread designs based on Conti’s fuel efficient HDL Eco Plus and HTL Eco Plus truck tires. Both, bearing the additional name “with Ring technology,” will be built with Marangoni’s Ringtread system that features a seamless ring tread that slips on the processed casing. Yokohama has added four sizes to its 103ZRT commercial truck tire line. The 103ZRT is known to be part of Yokohama’s eco-friendly Zenvironment line of longer lasting, more fuel efficient tires. The four new sizes are: 295/75R22.5 14(G) and 16(H) ply; 11R22.5 14(G) and 16(H) ply; 285/75R24.5 14(G) ply, and 11R24.5 14(G) and 16(H) ply. Continental Tire North America unveiled a new line of commercial truck tires at the Louisville, Kentucky Mid-America Trucking Show last March: BFGoodrich Adds Load Range E Sizes to All-Terrain T/A BFGoodrich, a branch of Michelin North America, has just announced it will add six Load range E sizes to its All-Terrain T/A KO line of tires. Consequently, buyers will have the choice between 21 sizes of Load Range E tires from that manufacturer. Already available are two LRE sizes: 225/75R16 LRE and 285/70R17 LRE. In May, BFG added the 305/70R16 LRE and 325/65R18 LRE, while the 325/60R20 LRE and 265/75R16 LRE will complete the new arrivals in June. • The HSR2, a regional steer tire that replaces the traditional HSR. It features a 23/32” tread compound and the company’s Visual Alignment Indicator (VAI) and a patented stone ejection system. • The HDL2 DL, an over the highway long haul drive tire with a 32/32” tread depth and a wider casing for increased handling stability. • The HTL Eco Plus, a trailer tire with improved fuel efficiency; according to Continental, this new tire will improve fuel economy by 10 percent. Among its feature are a 13/32” tread depth and a stone ejection system with Visual Alignment Indicator. • The HSU2, a waste hauler and construction fleet tire with 26/32” deep rib combined to a cut and tear resistant tread compound. • The HTL 1, a wide-based super single tire designed to replace two regular trailer tires. It features a 13/32” tread depth to minimize irregular wear and for better fuel economy. Add to that sidewalls with ribs to protect from curbing and cutting. Most of these new tires—except the HTL 1—are made at the Mount Vernon, Illinois plant. Your eco fee helps give new life to BC’s scrap tires To find out more about tire recycling, the eco fee or upcoming initiatives please visit www.tsbc.ca | www.autosphere.ca | June 2009 | Tire News | 21 ADVERTORIAL Jil McIntosh [email protected] Tirecraft: Stronger Than Ever and Growing Quickly Unwavering Entrepreneurial Spirit Drives the Brand to Success You have no doubt heard of the phoenix, a mythical bird that burned in a fire, but rose from the ashes stronger than before. It’s certainly an apt metaphor for Tirecraft, a well-known and well-respected company that went through an ownership change a couple of years ago and fell on difficult times. It’s now in the hands of tire professionals, who have once again turned it around into a strong brand that’s growing successfully under the stewardship of its new corporate owners. W hile the name known to many Adding value, without adding expense, by Tire Distributors in two tire distribution Canadians has remained the way of making it easier for our member- centres in Ontario. same, the company is operating ship to conduct business is our number- under two divisions, one in the east and one goal.” one in the west. Tire people run tire businesses “The short-term goal is to bring strong Realizing the value of the brand, two dealers and business partners to the Alberta dealers, Kirk’s Tire and Trail Tire, Tirecraft brand,” says Bob Anderson, purchased the Tirecraft name in 2008. president of Tirecraft Western Canada, “Tirecraft is a name that’s been around Al Barnim Inc. of Ontario also became a based in Edmonton. “Tire people run tire this industry for decades, is well-respect- partner, and as a result, the two divisions businesses, end of story. Tirecraft consists ed, and has a ton of equity, both at the were formed: Tirecraft Western Canada, of a group of entrepreneurial individuals, retailer and supplier level,” says Don and Tirecraft Eastern Canada. Currently, each well-trained in every aspect of the Gauthier, general manager of Tirecraft the western division has 35 stores, one tire business. The group managing the Eastern Canada. “Our goal now is to wheel distribution and four tire distri- Tirecraft brand today is very much in tune simply enhance the program to insure it’s bution centres, and two retread plants, with how the businesses should oper- responsive to our members’ needs, and while the eastern division consists of 45 ate, and market by market, they are the address the market changes as they occur. stores, and is partnered with Regional strength of those businesses. Long-term, Adding value without adding expense our collective goal is to be an amalgamation of Tirecraft East and West, representing the Tirecraft brand nationally.” Strong emphasis on service Tirecraft sees itself as a retail selling group, rather than a buying group, with a strong emphasis on improving service to customers while leveraging the efficiencies of a store network. “Tirecraft is the program banner name, while each member’s name is maintained to leverage the equity built up over the years in their local communities,” says Todd Richardson, Sales & Marketing manager for Tirecraft Eastern Canada. “This change has already opened Todd Richardson, Sales & Marketing manager, Don Gauthier, general manager, and Bruce Barnim, president – Tirecraft Eastern Canada 22 | Tire News | June 2009 | www.autosphere.ca | up new doors to the program.” into the system, so the service is carried approach, will definitely help Tirecraft out to the standard predetermined by grow, even in the uncertain economic times that fleet. Then all the billing comes back we are experiencing today,” Anderson Todd Richardson through their servicing dealer. This is a says. “The poor economy is having some Each store is also tailored for the area in very exciting enhancement to our program impact on our business, especially in the which it’s located. “We’re a very broad- and even though we’re independent busi- commercial segment, but it is tracking to based group,” says Ray Lehman, Dealer nesses, we can present a single face and a expectation. Our new programs and initia- Development manager of Tirecraft Western single solution to our fleet customers.” tives are having a positive impact. Combine Canada. “Depending on the market, a all of this with the equity of the Tirecraft dealer could be stronger in off-road, agri- Growing quickly but sustainably cultural, or commercial businesses than The eastern division’s warehousing system, is comprised of successful entrepreneurs, they are in, say, the retail or mechanical Regional Tire Distributors, plays a big role in [and] we have a very effective team going side, but most of them have everything to building the strength of the Tirecraft brand. forward. offer as a full-line service. That’s part of The two warehouses provide the network of the criteria for Tirecraft stores as we go stores with up to “four times daily” service, “The combined effort of Tirecraft Eastern forward; we want to service everyone.” ensuring the best possible customer service and Western Canada is going to re-establish through timely product access. the Tirecraft brand nationally. That’s why Seamless service brand, and our strong membership which our partners in the east are doing what According to Anderson, it’s that commun- With over 80 locations already established they’re doing, and the manufacturers have ity-based approach that each individual in just a few months, the Tirecraft program seen the benefit as well. We’re two separate store took that made the transition much is growing quickly. However, both divisions companies, but we’re working in partnership easier. In many cases, he says, consumers are taking a methodical approach that will to achieve our common goals,” he says. weren’t even aware of the changes at the result in sustainable growth. “It’s a development process, but we want corporate level, especially as Tirecraft dealers kept their names and, in most “The strength of our associate program to be sure we’re doing the best possible for cases, sourced their products as best they comes from the unwavering entrepreneur- the consumer by partnering with dealers could, with the singular aim of providing ial spirit that exists amongst our member- who have a solid sales, service and busi- seamless service to their local customers ship, which is comprised of a mixture of ness background. We want to be stronger, until a structured program could be put in both new and former Tirecraft associates,” but we need to be smarter. A collective place. “The businesses we’re affiliated with Gauthier says. “This broad-based experi- effort will keep everyone on the right path in the East and West were going concerns ence and knowledge provides us with front- and will insure our continued success.” right through all of 2008, in spite of the line insight that keeps us on target and on unfortunate circumstances,” he says. “But the leading edge of market evolution.” For program information in the East, contact Todd Richardson at 519-532-1692 or email [email protected]. by and large, the customers had dealt with the people in those locations for years. I An effective team don’t think anyone saw any change.” “The broad experience of our membership, coupled with our enhanced marketing In the West, contact Robert Anderson at 780-909-1949 or email [email protected] In Ontario, a trade fair and banquet held in February in Cambridge introduced dealers and prospects to the brand name; Richardson says that over 90 percent of those who were dealers under the old program have stayed on for the new one. Another fundamental change to the program has been the introduction of Tire Service Network, or TSN, which provides a seamless service solution to fleet operators. “It’s in place, with a Web-based 24/7 tire service solution,” Richardson says. “When a company has a truck down at 2 am, they call our Tirecraft 1-800 number, and the fleet profile is already preloaded Bob Anderson, president, and Ray Lehman, Dealer Development manager – Tirecraft Western Canada | www.autosphere.ca | June 2009 | Tire News | 23 Jil McIntosh [email protected] TPMS: It’s Here, and It’s Still a Challenge Tools and Education Top Our Experts’ Lists Once found only on a few high-end models, tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) are now a mainstream item. While they’re not mandatory in Canada—and Transport Canada says it currently has no plans to make them so—their requirement on all new vehicles sold in the U.S. means they’re increasingly common north of the border. B ut common doesn’t always mean agrees that consumer education is of TPMS safety feature on their vehicle, the easy. There are still a number of prime importance. “In our experience majority are not.” challenges, including tools, train- of conducting training seminars across ing, access to information, and most im- the country, the resounding response to Hitchon says that education should ideally portantly, consumer understanding and this question [of challenges] is that the start at the new-car dealer level, but acceptance. consumer education piece of the puzzle is this doesn’t always happen. “If a new-car missing,” she says. “While some Canadian owner is unaware of these features, the consumers are well aware of the new retailer or tire dealer performing the Educating on maintenance “The biggest challenge is education, for both the end consumer and for tire dealers,” says Brian Rigney, general manager with Dill Air Controls. “With the end consumer, we’re trying to work more with TIA and our federal government to educate people so they understand why they have it. That’s where the tire dealers need to come in. They automatically replace the rubber valve stem on new tires, and that’s standard, but we’re now telling them they must replace the key sealing valve components: the seal itself, the valve core, the hex nut and the valve cap. Any time you disassemble the tire from the wheel, you need to replace the components in the service kit.” Dill has also designed a countertop display, containing a dummy sensor, to show consumers what’s in the tire. “Dealers can show customers the sensor, what we’re replacing, or why you need a new one,” Rigney says. Doing what the dealerships don’t Susan Hitchon, national sales manager for Tomkins Industrial and Automotive, 24 | Tire News | June 2009 | www.autosphere.ca | repair or selling new tires can also ‘sell’ years old and are out of factory warranty. TPMS. A refresher is a good idea, but it will the features of TPMS,” she says. The “The biggest challenges right now have depend on the market and how many you dealer must also explain the importance to do with the Asian vehicles,” he says. see. If a dealer’s not having any problems, of replacing the sensors’ service parts with “When the domestic OEs started out, as they may never need training again. OE-equivalent parts. long as you had an activation tool, you could re-register IDs for two sets of wheels “With any training, [track] how much for winter or summer. The Asian vehicles trouble you are having, how much time So once the consumer is educated, what’s made that more challenging, because you you are wasting in the bay doing relearns, next? That would be tools, according to need a scan tool connected to the vehicle how much that is costing you in productiv- Scot Holloway, general manager of Bartec to complete that, more like the OE pro- ity. If you’re breaking sensors, or tying up USA. “The challenge has always been to be cess at a dealership or even at the plant. the bays for long periods, I would suggest Opportunity for everyone you get training right away. If there’s no able to design tools and solutions to work with the broad variety of sensors that are “A solution that allows the most flexibility problem and you’re managing it well, in the marketplace,” he says. “We’re not is a tool that is a TPMS tool and a scan focus on other areas. My advice to retail- going to see standardization in the short tool all in one package. A combination tool ers is to become the expert. If dealers term. [Bartec is] at the OE level and we’re is easier to operate and keeps the learn- are just going to take the approach of seeing four new protocols and/or sensor ing curve simple.” sending it to the new-car dealer, they’re types being introduced right now. At the going to run out of customers; it’s just same time, there’s opportunity for every- It’s all about the toolbox one. If you equip yourself with knowledge The Tire Industry Association (TIA) was and tools, you’ll set yourself apart.” the first to combine relearn procedures Building confidence for each make and model into a quick Customer confidence is everything, says Putting off tools and training won’t work reference chart, and offers training on the Dave Lottridge, president of Prema anymore, Holloway says, because many system. But senior vice president of train- Canada. “If a customer goes into one shop TPMS-equipped vehicles are now five ing Kevin Rohlwing believes that many and they tell him how to maintain it, why dealers have the education they need, and it’s there, what’s the benefit, and the other now it’s all about the toolbox. “It’s hard to shop says, ‘You don’t have to worry about be in the tire business and not deal with it,’ I’d have more confidence in the shop TPMS to some degree,” he says. “It’s not that’s engaged in it,” he says. that simple.” a matter of them putting off training; if they’re putting off anything, it’s invest- “Traditional tire dealers have not been in- ment in tools. Either the retailer or service volved in complex electronic systems,” he provider is deciding to spend the money says. “Before, you had a tire changer and on the electronic diagnostic and relearn valves. Nothing was electronic on a tire. tools, or they do the best they can, and These things cost more money, and the key is send the customer to the dealer. to educate the customer with the value you’re providing. You also need to do a pre-service “Technically, any vehicle can be relearned check to make sure the sensors are work- without a tool, for standard tire work. The ing properly, so that you have documented tools come into play when the relearn pro- evidence that they were working when they cedure for that vehicle doesn’t work. The came in and when they went out. time that it would take to relearn is significantly reduced with electronic tools.” Tracking your requirements photo: autodeadline.com “From our perspective, we’re trying to encourage tire shops to get the tools and be prepared. If they wait until 50% of the Rohlwing believes that dealers should base vehicles have a system until they learn their training on the shop’s requirements, about it, that learning curve is going to rather than schedule refresher courses be very steep. It’ll be like going up over automatically. “The biggest urban areas a cliff to learn what they need to service in the provinces will see the most TPMS, these vehicles. If shops are aggressive because the highest concentration of new about promoting the information and sell- cars will be in that particular area,” he says. ing the service, they’ll gain the customer’s “In the rural areas, they don’t see a lot of confidence.” | www.autosphere.ca | June 2009 | Tire News | 25 Economic Downturn Survival Tips It seems as though each day that goes by, the economic news gets worse—layoffs, bankruptcies, foreclosures and other hardships are realities businesspeople are having to face. The Tire Industry Association (TIA) and its members have come up with some innovative tips businesspeople can use to weather this economic storm. In an economy like this, know what to buy—and what not to. According to Dan Beach, TIA president to existing vendors and negotiate lower prices. If you have to cut, think outside the box. Do you turn the heat down after hours? and a successful businessperson with over Don’t cut marketing—increase it. 40 years of experience, you should keep When the economy slows down, the first week to clean? Do you have to buy land- inventories low in order to conserve cash, thing businesspeople often do is to cut scaping mulch every other year? “You but you should also look at other neces- their marketing budget. But, what they might be surprised at how these small, sary, yet less critical expenses to see if you are really doing is making it much harder repeatable expenses add up,” said Todd can lock in low prices now. “For example, to reach critical customers. For example, Hart, director of sales, at TIA member B&J for a tire dealer, it’s important not to have “Many trade publications, websites, Manufacturing Company. “For example, if a buildup of tire inventory in order to newspapers, and radio and television sta- you switch to recycled tire mulch for your keep a solid cash reserve. Yet, for other tions are willing to deal right now when it landscaping, it will last you several years, expenses—such as uniform service—it comes to advertising,” said TIA Director versus using traditional wood mulch, which may make sense to shop around now to of Marketing Communications Richard has to be replaced every year. While a lock in a low price, as many vendors are Porter. “As business slows down, you need greater up-front expenditure, the recycled willing to negotiate in an economic climate to work harder to reach customers in order rubber mulch is a maintenance-free solu- like this,” said Beach. to generate sales. Cutting your marketing tion for many years, saving the labour and expenditures only makes that effort much materials costs associated with replacing more difficult.” wood mulch every year.” Membership in a trade organization such as Invest in training. TIA can benefit businesspeople on several With the battle for customer dollars get- Listen… and put two and two together. fronts. Most associations offer their mem- ting even fiercer, businesspeople need Go beyond just reading the headlines. bers discounts on vital products/services, every weapon in their arsenal to stay See where the trends seem to be going. such as workers’ comp and liability insur- ahead of the competition. One way to Also, now more than ever, listen to your ance, consumer credit cards, and business achieve this is by investing in training. customers. For example, if your customers software. In addition, they often provide valu- “Investing in education for your service are having an increasingly difficult time able training and education opportunities to teams, as well as your salespeople, places trying to afford the products and/or servi- help businesspeople stay competitive. a value in front of your customer many of ces a businessperson offers, he/she needs your competitors may not have. This to find a way to make it easier and more same education also places value in you enticing for the customer to buy. “Learn to “Change” seems to be almost as popu- as an employer. In today’s environment, put ‘two and two’ together once you know lar these days as the word “recession.” employees tend to look at education as what the trends are. For example, offering Follow this trend. Take a look at existing a sign that their company cares about a credit card like CarCareONE, which al- expenses, such as insurance, uniform them. On top of that, if you are unfortu- lows consumers to pay for automotive pur- service, credit card processing, and nately involved in litigation over an injury chases over 90 days with no interest, can payroll services. Then, shop around. or other liability, the first thing the plain- provide customers with the mechanism(s) Businesspeople might be surprised at tiff’s attorney will look at is training,” said necessary to go ahead and make the pur- how much they can save by switching Jerry Lott, loss prevention manager of chase,” said Beach. vendors of these services. If nothing TIA member GCR Truck Tire Centers in else, with the information gathered from Austin, TX. Consider joining a trade association. Don’t fear change. 26 shopping around, businesspeople can go | Tire News | June 2009 | www.autosphere.ca | Does a cleaning company come in every www.tireindustry.org Another MRT Plant in North America Éric Descarries Pneus Bélisle Opens a New Retread Plant in Quebec [email protected] How important is the demand for retread commercial tires in Eastern Canada? Sufficient enough for Pneus Bélisle, a Quebec-based tire distributor and retreader, to open a brand new retread plant near Quebec City. W hen establishing its second retread organization, A second plant for Pneus Bélisle a $3.9 million plant in St-Augustin-de-Desmaures’ The Pneus Bélisle Group already has a 38-year history; its main industrial park, Pneus Bélisle thought of Michelin’s headquarters are based in the Montreal area. Other than its MRT Retread Technology (MRT). Consequently, this would be retread plant recently opened in St-Augustin-de-Desmaures, it Michelin’s 80th retread plant in North America, its eighth in already operates another retread plant in Québec. Pneus Bélisle Canada. According to Daniel Bélisle, president of Rechapage also has two distribution centres and eleven corporate stores Bélisle, when the plant comes into full operation, it will be able throughout the province. Photos: Éric Descarries to deal with around 60,000 tires a year. According to Bertrand Gariépy, Regional Sales manager for Eastern Canada for Michelin North America (Canada), the demand for high quality retread tires is increasing within today’s economic situation. That alone is enough to justify the new plant. These are some of the retread products offered by Rechapage Bélisle. 17th ANNUAL AARO CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT “Chip in” and help the kids. Join us for our 17th Annual AARO Charity Golf Tournament at the Cardinal Golf Club in Newmarket Wednesday, June 24, 2009. Both AARO and the Bloorview Kids Rehab Centre are not-for-profit organizations. All proceeds from this worthwhile and tax-deductable fundraising event are donated to the Bloorview Kids Rehab Centre. The success of this event is dependent upon the generosity of our sponsors and participants. We urge you to join us for this hugely successful and highly anticipated annual industry event. Both sponsorship packages and participant’s packages are available. For information please go online to www.aaro.ca or contact Bonnie Black toll-free at the AARO office. 1-800-268-5400 | www.autosphere.ca | June 2009 | Tire News | 27 Jil McIntosh [email protected] Inventory Management—Know It, Track It, Sell It Don’t Be Stuck With Cash on Your Shelf What’s the most important business investment you can make? According to Tom Shay of Profits+Plus, it’s your inventory. And by constantly monitoring it, you can make your shop run both tightly and profitably. “ F ifty-four percent of failed busi- management. Your calculations help There are several ways to qualify inven- nesses are making money when determine how much you can and should tory using the Open to Buy calculator; they close,” Shay says. “The inven- spend for each inventory category, if Shay suggests making each tire size a tory was in the wrong place. The concept you’re matching your sales to the inven- “fineline,” or category, for inventory con- is as old as it gets, but I’m amazed at tory on hand, and what product lines trol. He warns that it will make for a lot of how many don’t worry about inventory you want to have in your store. “Open calculations, but they will tell you when to control.” to Buy” is the amount of cash you have buy and restock each fineline. You won’t available to purchase new inventory. sell each fineline equally each month, but Free business calculators when you chart your sales, you’ll find their Shay offers several free, no-obligation “In some cases, running out of stuff ups and downs. “They may defy logic, but business calculators for downloading is good,” Shay says. His example is a over the years, the pattern will be there,” at his website www.profitsplus.org, in- card shop that runs out of full-price he says. “Every product has a reason for cluding “Open to Buy” for inventory Valentine’s Day cards on February 5, going up and down. You don’t necessarily while a competitor is marking them need to know the reason, but you do need down to half-price on February 15. “I to know where the down point is.” want maximum inventory just before peak sales, and then a drop afterwards,” A prime position he says. “I don’t need cash sitting on the Besides knowing what’s moving off your shelf. Inventory and sales must relate— shelves and when, Shay says that keep- they must look like Fred Astaire and ing a strict eye on inventory puts you in Ginger Rogers. But too little inventory a prime position to take advantage of costs you sales, because customers go purchasing opportunities, to change your elsewhere. Selling out continually is not strategies quickly if necessary, and to healthy.” have the cash you need to continue your Velocity coding The key to determining proper inventory “If you end the season with inventory, management is in “velocity coding,” Shay where do you get the money to buy inven- says—assigning a code to each line, with A tory for the upcoming season?” Shay asks. being something that moves every day; B, “Inventory is your investment. It becomes C and D move more slowly, while E might a vehicle that can make you a better re- only sell once a year. These slower-moving turn than any bank or the stock market. items may have a place in your inventory, It’s a lot of paperwork to track your Open since big-box stores probably won’t carry to Buy, but it’s the way to make the busi- them. “But D and E needs to earn its way,” ness work.” Shay warns. “Its profit margin needs to be high. If it’s only 10 percent on a $2,000 Tom Shay 28 | Tire News | June 2009 | www.autosphere.ca | operations. item, then make it a special order.” Jack Kazmierski [email protected] Management The Challenge of Change Making changes is seldom easy. To do so effectively, you need the right tools. I n order to survive and prosper in our changing economy, phone. These comparatively easy and minor changes can often be retailers (including tire shops) need to adapt to the ebb and handled in-house. flow of the market and to increasing consumer demands. But change can be difficult. Individual employees aren’t always If you’re planning changes that will completely alter the entire open to it, and corporations often have a difficult time orchestra- structure and operation of your business, much more “how to” ting the transition from the old business model to the new one. time will be necessary. In some cases you might even need to call in professional help. Getting your staff to embrace new attitudes, new products, and a new way of doing business takes skill—the owner or manager Let them shine of a business must be able to get his team to change their tune And while you’re on a mission of change, why not take the oppor- in unison while maintaining harmony. tunity to get the best out of your employees and really let them Expect opposition shine. The better they are, the better your business will be. Are there skills you can encourage them to develop? Would your team Experts in the field of corporate dynamics will warn you that benefit from hands-on training? Is there a knowledge gap that change is often opposed… especially if that change is forced needs to be filled? upon employees. Your role as the owner or manager is to realize this fact and understand that your employees need more than a The satisfaction that comes from mastering a new skill is often command or an ultimatum in order to make changes. They need enough to change the way an employee feels about him or herself, to know why those changes have to be made. which in turn results in an improved attitude and perspective that benefits the entire company. This is the kind of change everyone Telling your counterperson that from now on he’s responsible for will welcome. the cleanliness of the washrooms without explaining how clean washrooms contribute to the overall image of your shop, create an inviting atmosphere, and encourage customers to come back ADVERTISERS and buy more tires from you, will have him balking at the idea. AARO www.aaro.ca 27 Atlas Tire Wholesale www.atlastire.com a clean washroom suddenly looks like a good idea. autosphere.ca www.autosphere.ca 31 Change is a skill Continental Tire www.continentaltire.ca 32 Duret & Landry www.duretlandry.com 9 Kumho Tires www.kumhotire.ca to train your staff how to make those changes. NAPA www.napacanada.com In some cases, this may involve a few hours of one-on-one time Tire Stewardship BC www.tirestewardshipbc.ca Tirecraft www.tirecraft.com TIREMAX www.tiremax.ca On the other hand, if you connect the dots between demanding customers, dirty facilities, dwindling sales and the fact that his 2, 13 services will no longer be needed if your shop goes under, then Once the need for a change is explained and understood, your employees must be taught how to make those changes. The ability to change is a learned skill—if you want changes to be made without hiccups in your overall vision, you’re going to have 11 7 To find out more about tire recycling, the eco fee or upcoming initiatives please visit www.tsbc.ca 21 explaining the differences between the old and new way of doing business. Perhaps an employee needs to learn how to use new software or needs to change the way he or she answers the 22, 23 5 | www.autosphere.ca | June 2009 | Tire News | 29 Jack Kazmierski [email protected] Product Life Cycle Starting at the End All products have a life cycle. Whether the products you sell will end up in a landfill or be recycled into new products is up to you. I magine a world where manufacturers concept to good use on a larger scale. redeveloped into new products at the end are responsible for the disposal and Whether we sell tires, fix cars, manage a of their usable life, or materials that will recycling of the products they make fleet or repair fender benders, if everyone more easily decompose in our landfills. and sell. A world where every toaster, te- were to do their part we could collectively levision or truck that leaves the assembly make a big difference. line will eventually make its way back to This kind of change can be a challenge the factory to be disassembled, re-used, Re-think or melted down and recycled. Imagine for a moment that lawmakers sud- if ever, include an environmental impact since current business models seldom, denly made you responsible for recycling all component. Most companies and indi- That’s the kind of world many European the products you sell. Whether you’re a ma- viduals are happy to pass the buck, and countries have envisioned and are moving nufacturer, distributor or a retailer, it is now responsibility is a dirty word. toward with laws that hold companies res- your job to make sure whatever you sell is ponsible for the environmental impacts of recycled or re-used. Wouldn’t that make you But if we were all responsible for whatever their products. re-think the way you do business? we sold our customers, we’d start making Beyond the carmakers Perhaps you’d think about the packaging adjust their way of doing business so as These laws and guidelines are a natu- you currently use. Does that tiny widget to make it easier for us to live up to our ral for vehicle manufacturers. Instead of really need to be packed in a kilogram of responsibilities. leaving old vehicles piled up in wreckers’ plastic and cardboard? Perhaps you’d also yards, why not implement a program reconsider the raw materials you use, choo- If we truly care about the environment we where consumers take their vehicles back sing those that are more readily re-used or won’t hesitate to take the initiative now— to the dealer, much like we return old beer recycled. long before laws force us to. Can you start noise and demanding that our suppliers by doing something today to assure the bottles to the retailer? 30 Responsibility Even everyday items like oil filters and air products you sell will be dealt with in an But why stop at carmakers? Whether in filters could be re-thought and re-engi- environmentally-friendly manner once Europe or here in Canada, we can put this neered using materials that can either be their life cycle comes to an end? | Tire News | June 2009 | www.autosphere.ca | YOUR INDUSTRY HOME PAGE! 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