Bridgestone, the world’s largest tyre and rubber manufacturer, has taken up 100% shareholding in UK automotive service provider ETB that covers the south-west of Britain. Bridgestone says the acquisition will help strengthen its retail footprint in the UK.
Under the names of Exhaust Tyres Batteries and Britannia Tyres, ETB runs 32 different locations, with 265 employees assisting more than 10,000 customers a month. This move will provide Bridgestone with an opportunity to get closer access, gain a better understanding of its regional end-users, and continue to build a leading mobility solutions position in the market.
“We are delighted with the acquisition of ETB as an extension of the sales operations that Bridgestone already runs in the UK,” says Robin Shaw, Managing Director Bridgestone North Region. “The tyre 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”.
“ETB is an established family-owned business with over 35 years of experience. The entrepreneurial mind-set of its owner, Charles Ivill, is a perfect fit with our expansion strategy. This, coupled with a very professional team and his local insight and experience, will be invaluable to us.”
Over the last four years, Japan-headquartered Bridgestone has increased its focus on retail experience with acquisitions and joint ventures in France, Germany, Spain and Slovakia. Bridgestone’s retail network now includes names such as Speedy, First Stop and Côté Route.
Both ETB and Britannia Tyres will continue operating under their current identities and with their current team, with Charles Ivill continuing to direct operations from the ETB company headquarters in Worcester.