The tyre industry in Northern Ireland is set to undergo a transformative change with the introduction of Micheldever Tyre Services' (MTS) new distribution centre in Ballymena, County Antrim.
MTS, one of the largest tyre wholesalers in the UK, has opened the region's first tyre distribution centre, ushering in a new era of enhanced accessibility and improved services for local garages, franchise dealers, and end users alike. This groundbreaking development promises to breathe new life into the former Michelin Tyre factory site while creating job opportunities and revolutionising the tyre industry in Northern Ireland.
Accessibility and Range Expansion
MTS has strategically chosen the former Michelin Tyre factory in Ballymena, which closed in 2018, as the location for its distribution centre, aiming to revitalise this once vital automotive and industrial hub.
By repurposing the facility, MTS will bring eight immediate job opportunities to the area, with plans to double that number to 16 by the year's end.
Moreover, this new distribution centre is set to revolutionise the tyre ordering process in Northern Ireland, ensuring that local garages can now experience the convenience of same-day or next-day delivery, a significant improvement from the previous twice-weekly service.
With this expansion, MTS is committed to providing greater accessibility and a wider range of tyres to its customers. The company will offer an extensive selection of tyres, including those specifically designed for electric vehicles, vans, 4x4s, and motorcycles. This comprehensive range ensures that MTS can cater to the diverse needs of both tyre professionals and end users in Northern Ireland, reflecting the company's dedication to supporting the evolving automotive landscape.
Empowering Consumers and Businesses
MTS sees its presence in Northern Ireland as an exceptional opportunity to provide the region with the same level of service and benefits enjoyed by other parts of the UK.
Opening its new distribution centre, Sally Fyffe, head of wholesale for MTS said:
“This is an exciting day for garage owners and tyre dealers in Northern Ireland, drivers across the Province, and for MTS as a whole.
“Until now, MTS were only able to provide a twice-weekly service; garages can now benefit from same day or next day delivery.
"It’s not just about availability though. We see our presence in NI as a fantastic opportunity to give people in the region the same service and benefits as we offer to other parts of the UK.
"Supported by a sales manager on the ground, we can ensure consumers also benefit from our full range of added value services including exclusive access to our mid-range brands and the business support provided by our consumer e-commerce solutions, training, and local marketing materials.”
By empowering local businesses with these tools and resources, MTS intends to foster growth within the region's tyre industry, benefiting both industry professionals and the end users they serve.
Partnership and Collaboration
MTS has chosen to collaborate with Kerr's Tyres Group, a local provider headquartered in Antrim, to manage the distribution centre operations. The selection of Kerr's Tyres was based on their heritage, reputation, and commitment to Northern Ireland.
The 40,000 sq. ft. warehouse at Kerr's Tyres will serve as the logistical hub for MTS' sales proposition, ensuring a seamless supply chain and timely delivery of tyres throughout the region.
Norman Kerr, Managing Director and owner of Kerr's Tyres Group, described the arrival of the distribution centre as a "game-changer for the industry in Northern Ireland".
“We are very excited to partner with MTS. The new tyre distribution centre in Co Antrim is ideally located and will provide greater choice and enhanced availability to consumers right across NI,” he added.