Our eyes and ears at the Reifen 2014 International Trade Fair this year will be the intrepid John Stone, who writes European Notebook for Modern Tire Dealer. Based in the United Kingdom, Stone has been working within the global tire industry for the last 20 years.
Consider him MTD's version of James Bond. Shaken, not stirred? The veteran Stone won't be either.
In 2004 he launched his own company, Sapphire Media Services, as a business media consultant. He also writes for tire and automotive-related publications in Europe, South Africa and Asia.
Look for Stone's reports from the Reifen show, which will be held in Essen, Germany, May 27-30. Here is his preview of the trade fair, British style and all (although we did change "s" to "z" in words where applicable). -- Bob Ulrich
It's just under two weeks to go before the legendary Reifen Show in Essen, Germany, will take place, and as usual, MTD will be reporting from the event, which is easily Europe's leading and most successful tire show.
Show organizer Messe Essen has recently announced that preparations for this year's exhibition are right on schedule, with 660 companies from 44 countries currently contracted to exhibit their latest products and services.
So far, the most dramatic pre-show news has been Bridgestone's intention to "break new ground"and not only showcase their full line-up of premium truck and bus new tires and retreads, but also, for the very first time, enter the agricultural market with the launch of a premium Agri pattern -- the Bridgestone VT-Tractor. This historic new tire will join many other agricultural tire products from Bridgestone on the booth, including products from Firestone and Bandag.
Other news includes Continental Europe's new "double decker" twin level booth, which will span around 450 square meters of floorspace and showcase the company's extensive brand portfolio, including Continental, Uniroyal, Semperit, Barum and Matador. Also, point S, Europe's largest and most successful tire retail network, will have a new stunning stand, which will include several new products from their private brand. That includes the Summerstar Sport 3 range, which will be making its global debut within the industry.
Netherlands-based Gaither Europe will be adopting a new theme at the show following previous events showcasing its now firmly established Bead Bazooka range. On the Gaither booth will be an innovative selection of their very latest garage tool range (pictured left), including the recently launched Mounting System range.
Finally, tire manufacturer GT Radial will be highlighting the latest addition to its commercial tire range -- the all new GSR225 Combi Road multi-usage tire. The GSR225 Combi is suited to a wide variety of regional and long-haul vehicle applications. Also prominently on display will be a new PCR tire -- the Maxmiler Pro, which has been specifically designed to provide all-round premium comfort. -- John Stone
