Martin West to Head New Sailun Europe Operation

Qingdao, China-based tyre manufacturer Sailun Co., Ltd., has appointed Martin West as managing director of its new Sailun Tyres (Europe) subsidiary. West previously held a number of senior roles with Goodyear, Lassa and most recently Infinity. Tyres & Accessories understands that the new European team, which will be based in the UK, currently consists of two people including the recent appointment of a back office manager that brings with him logistics experience at Goodyear Dunlop. According to a statement released by Sailun Europe, the recent moves follow the firm’s decision to begin “strategically focussing to further develop their presence in the European market.”

Sailun branded car tyres are currently distributed throughout Europe by Antwerp-based Deldo Autobanden NV and the pan-European wholesaler is understood to have contractual rights to passenger car tyre distribution across the continent until around October 2011. One of the reported objectives of the new Sailun Europe office is to introduce “a comprehensive range of truck tyres” into the European tyre market.

Sailun Co., Ltd., chairman, Mr Du Yudai commented: “We are delighted to have recruited Martin for this very important and exciting role.  We are eager to further explore and develop the European potential for Sailun. With his experience, passion and enthusiasm, we believe Martin is the man to drive forward this goal and vision for us – we are very excited about the future of Sailun tyres in Europe.”

Martin West commented: “I view this as an incredibly exciting opportunity.  Sailun is a highly regarded quality brand within the premium budget tyre sector and I believe there is substantial potential within the European market for the brand – for both passenger and truck tyres. Initially, we will be looking to raise the profile of the brand, and deliver our Sailun brand vision. The key objective – the increase of Sailun’s European market share – will be supported by an extensive marketing programme and range development.”

Established in 2002, Sailun Co. Ltd., has a particular emphasis on the research and development of radial tyres and tyre technology, with strategic alliances with blue-chip companies and key universities. According to the company, the Sailun brand portfolio offers a full range within both the passenger and truck tyre market segments. Sailun holds ISO9001 Quality Management System Certification, ISO14001 Certificate of Environmental Management System, ISO/TS16949 Certificate, Certificate for China Compulsory Product Certification, EU ECE certificate, US DOT certificate, INMETRO certificate of Brazil, SIRIM certificate of Malaysia and SOCAP certificate of Nigeria.

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