Goodyear is launching a new service that will allow the public to buy tires directly from the manufacturer.
Phase one of the program is being rolled out this week according to Goodyear CEO Rich Kramer. “As you likely heard, Goodyear will become the first tire manufacturer in the U.S. to start selling consumer replacement tires online,” said Kramer. “In fact, we will launch the first phase of our rollout this week. This new buying option will allow consumers to purchase tires online and have them installed by authorized dealers.” Kramer did not elaborate on exactly what phase one entails.
SEE ALSO: Goodyear Eagle Sport All Season Tire Long-Term Review
“The preference for buying goods and services online — often through mobile devices — is being driven by a new generation of consumers,” said Kramer. “In the U.S. alone, 80 million Millennials with $1 trillion in buying power are entering the market. By embracing digital technology to simplify the tire buying process — and keeping our network of aligned dealers as an integral part of the process — we believe we will be the industry leader in this space and with these new consumers,” he said.
Those interested in buying tires will be able to visit Goodyear.com, input their vehicle details and the site will provide a list of the best tire options. The full price of the tire can then be paid for online, though dealers won’t be completely shut out of the deal.
Buyers will have to choose a Goodyear dealer to receive their tires. That dealer will be compensated by the company with a flat delivery commission, based on the type of tire. All mounting and balancing fees will also go to the dealer.
Goodyear says that thousands of U.S. dealers have already signed up to be part of the service.
[Source: Akron Beacon Journal]