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INDIA RUBBER EXPO
Classic Tyre Retreads to Set Up Second Plant
Manoj Ahuja of Classic Tyre Retreads
Delhi based Classic Tyre Retreads is planning to set up a new plant to extend its reach into the untapped markets of the industrial towns bordering Delhi. “We are looking at starting a new plant in Bhiwadi (Rajasthan) or Manesar (Haryana),” says Manoj Ahuja of Classic Tyre Retreads. Both are key industrial hubs supported by large fleet owners. Classic Tyre Retreads retreads tyres using Indag and JK tread rubber. “The majority of our production is with Indag rubber for whom we have been a franchisee since 1998. We started using JK tread around four years ago, when the tyre company launched its tread rubber range,” Ahuja said.
The company’s Delhi plant started in 1984, and retread on average 550 tyres per month, rising to 650 tyres per month during busy periods. On the subject of the proposed new retreading plant, Ahuja said, “Currently, we are studying the markets of Bhiwadi and Manesar to decide the plant location. It could be either depending on location and local market conditions.” The new plant is likely to be operational within the next two years.
Classic focuses on retreading car to TBR tyres from bias-ply to radial using the precure process. “With expressways coming up to Bhiwadi, it could be a good location for the upcoming plant,” he indicated.
The firm was looking for modern plant equipment at the 8th India Rubber Expo at Pragati Maidan. “We were a bit let down as no Indian retreading equipment maker was showcasing its range at the show. We are visiting the show for new equipment for our next plant,” Manoj Ahuja stated.
Classic has already started retreading radial tyres at its Delhi plant. “The bias ply tyre market is shrinking and being replaced by the radials. Therefore, we have now started radials also to meet changing market demands,” he stated.
Interestingly, with tread makers preferring to sell their rubber in the open market, the retread companies are now also open to use a variety of the tread ranges available in the market. The limitation of franchisee networks is no longer there and retreaders are no longer bound to use a single brand. Taking advantage of the prevailing market conditions, the company has recently added Tolins tread also.
“Tolins quality has improved and
demand for their product has also started coming in from the market,” said Ahuja.
Currently, the overall market is down due to winter weather conditions and elections in Delhi state. “Normally, the season starts from June-July onwards when summers starts in Northern India, moreover, the market will hopefully shows signs of picking- up as the new government takes charge in Delhi following the recent state elections,” he says.