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UK TRADE ASSOCIATIONS
NTDA AND BTMA UNITE IN SUPPORT OF TYRE RETREADING
In a bold move aimed at revolutionising the tyre industry, the National Tyre Distributors Association (NTDA) and the British Tyre Manufacturers’ Association (BTMA) have announced a united front to advocate for the benefits of tyre retreading. This announcement was a highlight of the 2023 NTDA Tyre Industry Conference, addressing the need to combat the outdated prejudices and misinformation plaguing the sector.
COUNTRY
REPORT - UK
SAFETY AND PERFORMANCE AT THE FOREFRONT
Contrary to long-standing biases, modern retread tyres boast performance and safe- ty levels that match or surpass those of new tyres. Supported by rigorous endurance testing requirements equivalent to those for new tyres, retreads stand as a testament to reliability. National Highways’ investiga- tions into roadside tyre debris further dispel myths about retread reliability, showing no increased failure rate compared to new tyres. A stringent annual 3rd party Conformity of Production audit ensures that every retread meets high safety and quality standards.
ECONOMIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS UNDERSCORED
With tyre policies influencing half of fleet op- erating costs, the NTDA and BTMA spotlight the economic advantage of incorporating re-
treads. Considering factors like longevity, fuel efficiency, and reliability, the total ownership cost often proves retreads more economical than opting for low-cost new tyres.
The environmental benefits are equally com- pelling. Adopting retread policies can lead to a 75% reduction in tyre consumption and a 50% decrease in tread wear material release. Furthermore, retreading aligns with sustain- ability goals by reusing 85% of the material from original tyres, thus saving on natural re- sources and reducing CO2 emissions.
INVESTING IN THE UK’S RETREAD SECTOR
Despite market challenges, the UK retread sector has seen significant investment, ex- ceeding £15 million in the past five years, to enhance quality, productivity, and capability. Not only do UK-made retreads add more eco- nomic value than imported low-cost tyres,
but they also support numerous jobs, espe- cially in underprivileged areas.
FUTURE INITIATIVES AND EDUCATION
Acknowledging the pivotal role of informed tyre management in reducing operating costs and improving environmental performance, the NTDA and BTMA are committed to championing government support for small- er operators, including fostering the adoption of retreads among large fleets, which are al- ready reaping the financial and environmen- tal benefits.
The partnership between NTDA and BTMA signifies a dedication to enriching industry knowledge and promoting best practices in tyre stewardship. Through their collabora- tive efforts, they aim to reshape perceptions and practices around tyre retreading, ensur- ing a sustainable, cost-effective future for the industry.
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