Bandag taking the high road with huge Alba announcement

Alba Tyre Management Ltd, based in Kilbirnie near Glasgow, has officially joined the Bandag network in what is being described as a landmark agreement for both businesses - and a huge coup for the Bridgestone brand as its UK expansion plans gather pace.

Founded in 2004, Alba has grown to become Scotland’s largest independent retreader and tyre supplier, specialising in premium retreaded truck tyres while also providing a comprehensive range of new tyres for all vehicle types. The company delivers local, national and mobile tyre fitting services and is responsible for managing approximately 60,000 tyres currently operating on Scottish roads.

Now, as a newly appointed Bandag ‘Cornerstone Franchisee’, Alba is poised for its next phase of growth.

David Wilson, Operations Director at Alba, said the scale of the support package was decisive.

“This partnership gives us a full front-to-end provision of services. From premium Bridgestone casing supply to access to their new tyre range, data, fleet programmes and mounted wheel offering, it’s a complete solution.

“For us, we will never get into a war about price. We’re about premium quality and delivering a circular, joined-up approach for commercial fleets. With Bandag sharing our philosophy, the growth potential is huge.”

Mike Howling, Bandag Service Operations Business Partner, said: “We are overjoyed to attract Alba to Bandag, who will play a strategic role in the success of our brand for many years to come. The only limiting factor is our imagination. We wanted a footprint in Scotland, and could not wish for a better partner than ALBA

“Alba has established the marketplace in Scotland, but in working together, we both believe the business can grow significantly. We can build a very strong partnership together. We have an entrepreneur in Alba and their enthusiasm and vision for the future is something that we are all extremely excited about.”

As part of the deal, Alba will benefit from new tyre retreading machinery, including a Bandag builder machine, increasing manufacturing capacity by a minimum of 2,000 additional retread tyres per year initially. The business also expects to create new jobs in the future, adding to its existing 26-strong workforce.

A key driver behind the decision was access to the full Bandag and Bridgestone proposition - something few manufacturers can offer as a joined-up solution.

Through the partnership, Alba gains premium casing supply and product quality backed by Bridgestone, alongside access to long-standing commercial fleet partnerships and mounted wheel programmes. Just as importantly, the business will implement BASys, Bridgestone’s advanced digital system that tracks every casing throughout its lifecycle, from collection to retreading to refitment.

Mike added: “Our Bandag model is built on three pillars: premium Bridgestone casing supply, long-standing commercial fleet partnerships and a network of experienced, locally based dealers, which is where Alba comes into its own. We’re not about quantity, but quality franchise partners who share our passion and ambition for the future.

“With Alba now firmly embedded within the network, we have a formidable presence north of the border – and our global expertise, digital traceability and premium product engineering can only provide additional strength in the months and years to come.”