Like a good neighbor, Apollo supplies Bangladesh

Dec. 22, 2010

India-based Apollo Tyres Ltd. formally introduced some of its best-performing commercial vehicle tires to media in its neighboring country, Bangladesh.

With the help of the Rahimafrooz Group, Apollo initially is bringing cross-ply heavy and light commercial vehicle tires to Bangladesh.

“Bangladesh is predominantly a cross-ply market, and that’s where we think we can create value for our customers in mileage, fuel economy and service," says Rajesh Kumar, head of international sales for Apollo.

"The Rahimafrooz Group, with its aspirations, is a perfect partner for us, with its robust network, its trained sales force and service back up.”

The Rahimafrooz Group, Bangladesh’s largest manufacturer and distributor of automotive and industrial batteries, has more than 10 exclusive outlets across the country, along with a large distribution network of more than 500 dealers and retailers.

"We have been looking at expansion plans for our product range, and Apollo compliments us best," says Mudassir Moin, managing director of Rahimafrooz Distribution Ltd. "Their tires are tried and tested under similar conditions, and Apollo has the capability to continue to add to this range.

"It’s a long term partnership which we will back through our strong sales and service network. In all senses a win-win combination.”

Apollo describes Bangladesh as "predominantly a cross-ply tire market in the commercial segment," with a replacement market size of more than 45,000 and 30,000 heavy and light commercial tires a month, respectively.

“We will soon also bring here our Endurance range of truck-bus radials," says Kumar. "Since usage of radial tires is still low, much like it was in India a few years back, we will begin by working closely with our commercial vehicle customers to help them realize the radial advantage.”

Apollo Tyres exports to more than 70 countries from its nine manufacturing plants (four in India, four in southern Africa and one in the Netherlands).

For more information, visit www.apollotyres.com.