Tyre Labelling

Tyre Labelling Goes Live

Finally, the long wait is over and, from 1st November, all tyres offered for sale (with a very few exceptions) will have to be accompanied by a label, giving details of wet grip, fuel efficiency and tyre noise levels.

The subject has been extensively covered in NTDA bulletins and often featured in the trade press, but if there should be anyone in the tyre trade who is unaware of the new legislation, contact the NTDA Head Office.

The Association welcomes anything that aids motorists in making a more informed purchasing decision and sees labelling as the chance for the retailer to engage in dialogue with the customer and to provide the tyre best suited to his particular motoring needs.

The EU tyre labelling Regulation came into effect for tyre manufacturers from 1st July. From that date retailers can expect to see certain deliveries of tyres arriving with the new “consumer advice” label affixed. The full impact for retail premises is 1st November, when retailers have to pass on this information to consumers. That leaves just 6 months to prepare for the biggest change in tyre retailing for years.

Recognising the need for information and industry guidance, the Tyre Industry Federation has worked closely with the Department for Transport to provide an authoritative guide to the topic. Extensive Industry consultation has ensured that all the key issues are addressed in this easy to read document available free to download here.

Players at every level in the supply chain need to consider how they will meet the requirements of the Regulation. This will include issues such as staff training, data handling, customer communication, invoice preparation and so on. On the positive side tyre labelling will be an opportunity to move the sales process on towards a more in-depth value and service-focused relationship opening the way to greater sales value for both consumer and supplier.

NTDA Chairman Stephen Callow said: “The NTDA and its members have taken an active role in these discussions with the Department for Transport and we welcome the initiative from the TIF which will help clarify the legislation for retailers.”