Point S Launched in UK Market

The Point S name will soon be one recognised by UK motorists following the signing of a partnership agreement with UK Tyre Group Ltd. The association of 13 independent dealers will represent the Point S network at its 56 outlets in England and Wales. Representatives from UK Tyre Group told Tyres & Accessories that the Point S rollout at outlets would begin “as soon as we have received the necessary planning permission.”

Talks between UK Tyre Group and Point S began in December 2009. “When we started to talk with Point S, it was uncanny,” said Charles Sunderland, managing director of UK Tyre Group member Guildford Tyre Co. Ltd. “Their model was exactly the same as the one we’d set up, with the added advantage of their strong buying position with manufacturers.” Point S Development international operations director Fabien Bouquet added: “When we met UK Tyre Group, it was important to see we share the same philosophy. UK Tyre has an existing market, and they already know the UK like we never can.”

The plan, UK Tyre Group directors disclosed, is to grow the association from its current 56 outlets to reach 100 within two years. This will largely achieved through bringing in new members.

Joining the Point S network along with the UK is the Netherlands. Development there will occur through a “specially dedicated and new company” and Point S expects to recruit the first 25 members for this during the coming months. The addition of the UK and the Netherlands brings the total number of national markets included in the Point S network to 20, and Point S anticipates the joining of a 21st before the end of this year.