The partnership was established in 2013, since when the benefits have included: a 29% reduction in customer downtime due to worn tyres (compared to 2012); 11% reduction in the number of tyres fitted between 2013 and 2018, set against an increasing fleet portfolio; almost half the number of emergency calls to Ryder’s independent tyre distributors network (ITDN) over the same period; and response rates to roadside calls averaging 60 minutes, compared to up to 90 minutes in 2012.
Under the partnership, a 12-strong dedicated tyre team of people from both companies leads on strategy. A Bridgestone representative is permanently based at Ryder’s national breakdown service call centre, while every Ryder location benefits from a Tyre Responsible Person who has received comprehensive training on tyre husbandry and who promotes best practice to colleagues.
The tyre maker’s pan-European fleet service network of tyre dealers, the Bridgestone Partner Network, is a key factor in the continuation of the partnership, which will see closer collaboration on sustainability and efficiency improvements over the next three years.
Greg Ward (right), Bridgestone’s commercial sales director, says: “This contract extension means Ryder is one of our longest-standing fleet customers in the UK and we couldn’t be happier. We have a great product line that performs exceptionally well and we continue to provide solutions that make a tangible difference to the daily operations of Ryder’s customers.”
Terry Dillon (left), procurement director for Ryder, adds: “We’re excited to continue our partnership with Bridgestone. Our mutual focus on continuous improvement and our willingness to challenge and collaborate on solutions means our customers will continue to benefit from industry-leading tyre husbandry and the operational improvements that brings.”