Michelin North America Inc. is in the process of launching Michelin OnSite, which will enable consumers to purchase tires online, via mobile device or by phone, and have them installed and serviced at a time and place of their choice.
This new program, to be piloted in Raleigh-Durham, N.C., helps address the growing “on-demand” needs of consumers, including their increasing desire for convenience, speed and simplicity in the tire-purchasing process, according to Michelin.
“We believe there is an unserved market for this type of hassle-free, convenient, quality-focused service, especially as more consumers are looking for ways to save time as they balance their work and home lives,” says Patrick Kirby, managing director of new business concepts for Michelin North America.
"Once consumers learn that they have a trusted resource to help guide them through the tire-buying process and get premium tire-installation service wherever and whenever they want, we expect interest to grow rapidly.”
The Michelin OnSite process is designed to be user-friendly, according to Michelin. Using online tools found at MichelinOnSite.com or the guidance of a trained consumer service representative by phone (866-420-8846), vehicle owners:
1. select and purchase their Michelin brand tires,
2. schedule a time and place for installation -- their home, office or another destination; and
3. wait for a Michelin OnSite mobile unit and a trained and certified Michelin technician to arrive and perform the service where scheduled.
The new Michelin OnSite concierge service includes:
* tire mounting and balancing;
* servicing for tire pressure monitoring systems (as well as disposal of old tires, as needed);
* tire inspection;
* brake inspection;
* optional reminders to schedule rotation service.
Michelin OnSite’s service costs $169, which covers installation for four tires. Tires must be purchased in advance of installation and are sold at market prices.
Initially, Michelin OnSite appointments will be available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Michelin OnSite’s service covers the Raleigh-Durham area, which includes most of the Research Triangle. Michelin chose Raleigh-Durham for the pilot project due to its market demographics, proximity to key distribution sources and the community’s status as an early adopter of new technologies and services.
