Page 14 - Retrading Business N101 2022-02
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Carlos Marques: “Consumers are getting more informed, and the concepts of circular economy in Europe are giving a unique opportunity to retreaded tyres to grow beyond Chinese tyres.”
“In 1998 we made a huge investment in our facility and equipment and star- ted developing a new strategy of product had a huge relevance in the development of the FEDIMA brand worldwide,” Marques ex- plained.
Nearly two decades ago, Fedima embarked resulting in the fact that the company now exports 60% of its retreaded tyres to 50 countries, primarily to Spain, France, and Germany.
“With 85 employees and a daily production most varied production, focusing heavily on constant product innovation, a rigorous pro-
duction process, using the best compounds from the best rubber suppliers, and constant investment in technology, which has enhan- ced the recognition of our products in a very demanding European market, and helped us achieve sustained growth over the years,” Marques said.
STRONG MARKET
Portugal has some of the oldest retreaders in Europe and is one of the European countries with profound traditions in this business.
“We have around 20 retreaders, the majority of which are very small business units,” Mar- ques said, adding that the retreading industry in the country is presented by all segments, including passenger, 4x4, light truck, motors-
port, truck, OTR, and agricultural tyres.
among some customers as a lower quality product over the years. However, this con- cept is totally changing as retreading com- panies continue investing in technology and - - ques said.
Marques added that retreads are now more than ever being perceived as a reliable and - sources and waste and is part of the circular economy as it extends the tyre life cycle.
According to Marques, retreaders in Europe see several major changes in the new tyre
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