Large tyre franchises have taken significant steps to protect the future of their businesses. As a result, independent tyre dealers have reached a pivotal moment, writes Ali Yilmaz, managing director of tyre fitting franchisor Point S.
For quite some time now, the dynamic of the UK tyre industry has been slowly shifting. Industry stakeholders have become increasingly sceptical about the future growth of the sector in the wake of a gradual – albeit small – decline of 4.3% in the past five years.
The rise of inflation and the cost-of-living crisis has compounded the issue, forcing consumers to put non-essential car repairs on hold and increasingly, purchase budget parts.
In the wake of these concerns, key franchises within the sector have taken significant steps to protect the future of their businesses.
As a result, the tyre industry on these shores has reached a pivotal moment.
Digital and mobile-first
Recent headlines have highlighted significant changes within the tyre industry, with some major franchises making reductions in their networks, adapting their business models, and increasing their investment in mobile servicing. These shifts reflect the evolving landscape of the sector and raise pressing questions about how viable traditional bricks and mortar service centres can be in an increasingly digital and mobile-first market.
However, where there is change, there is opportunity. I prefer to view these developments as a unique opportunity for independent tyre dealers to redefine their role in the industry, rather than as a sign of decline.
I implore the independents within the sector to share this view and look at this as a call to action. The landscape is evolving, and those who are prepared to adapt, collaborate, and innovate will not only survive but thrive.
As a part of the independent sector – which makes up roughly one-third of the automotive landscape – independent tyre dealers and service centres remain an integral part of the market.
For these businesses, success in the years to come will depend on their ability to harness collective strength, build market presence, and streamline operations without compromising the independence that makes them unique.
The independent advantage
There is a long-standing perception that independent tyre dealers struggle to compete against large corporate chains. However, this assumption overlooks a critical factor: agility.
Unlike multinational franchises with rigid structures, independent dealers have the flexibility to respond to market trends quickly and tailor their services to their customers’ evolving needs.
Independents also offer a level of personalised service that is difficult to replicate in larger, standardised business models. Customer trust is built on expertise, reliability, and local relationships – qualities that remain invaluable even in an era of digitalisation. For this reason, it is especially important for dealers to have a traditional bricks and mortar presence.
The key to maintaining competitiveness lies not in isolation, but in strategic collaboration. This is where independent networks can provide a compelling alternative to traditional corporate chains and franchise models. Unlike a franchise, which is often rigid in its structure, independent networks allow tyre dealers to retain their autonomy while benefiting from the advantages of their size and connections.
The goal of an independent network is to empower its members by providing them with the tools they need to remain competitive, including global buying power, marketing support, and operational efficiencies that would be difficult to achieve alone.
This model enables independent dealers to focus on their customers while enjoying the cost savings and brand association that come with being part of a recognised network.
A competitive future for traditional service centres
Even in the wake of the significant changes impacting the tyre sector, the industry is not spiralling to its end – far from it. Although some franchises have begun to prioritise mobile servicing, traditional service centres still have a crucial role to play.
While mobile servicing may offer convenience, it also comes with limitations, particularly in handling complex tyre replacements, alignments, and diagnostics that require specialist equipment. Many customers still value the assurance of a well-equipped service centre where they can receive comprehensive, high-quality care for their vehicles.
The key to longevity lies in evolving traditional service centres rather than abandoning them. By investing in brand harmonisation, digital customer engagement, and seamless service experiences, independent centres can both retain and expand their customer base.
Looking ahead: A thriving future
Change in any industry can be unsettling, but it also creates opportunities for those who are prepared to embrace it. Although the restructuring of franchised models may signal a change at one end of the spectrum, it is not a sign of decline for the independent sector. Instead, it presents an opportunity for independents to step in where larger operators have taken a step back, capitalise on the gaps in the market, and solidify their presence.
By working together, independent tyre dealers can remain competitive, resilient, and future proof. Independent networks like Point S provide the framework for this success, balancing independence with the benefits of collective strength. Going forward, networks of this nature have a huge role to play – at Point S, our ambition is to be right at the forefront of these exciting developments and be the largest independent automotive service network in the UK by 2035.
The road ahead is not one of decline but of transformation, and for those ready to adapt, the future is bright.
Ali Yilmaz is managing director at Point S UK