Goodyear deal with AW Rostamani in UAE for Sava Tyres

Goodyear, one of the world’s largest tyre companies, signed a deal with the AW Rostamani for the exclusive distribution of Sava Tyres in the UAE. The deal brings the European mid-market tyre brand to the GCC for the first time.

Around 30% of the UAE’s 2.6 million annual passenger vehicles and 420,000 annual commercial vehicle tyre sales currently come from the mid-market sector, which has traditionally been dominated by Asian brands. As the first European brand in the sector, backed by Goodyear’s reputation and state-of the-art technology, the AW Rostamani Group’s 50-plus distribution channels and UAE dealer network are aiming to make a significant impact on mid-market segment sales.

“We see huge potential for Sava tyres here in the UAE,” said Michel Ayat, CEO, AW Rostamani. “Not only is the automotive market expected to record sales growth of nearly eight per cent this year, but Sava’s reputation for quality, safety and durability – backed by the tried-and-trusted Goodyear name – puts us in an enviable position.

“Longer-term, based on the brand’s success in Europe and the high levels of customer satisfaction and word of mouth recommendation, we expect to take a significant share of the 900,000 plus annual mid-market tyres sales here in the UAE.”

Octavian Velcan, General Manager of Goodyear Middle East and Africa added, “Our strategy for this region was to represent all market segments within the tyre industry and with the introduction of Sava tyres, we have fulfilled these objectives.

“The durability of tyres is particularly important here in the UAE, as sandy conditions and intense summer heat create more wear and tear than in most other places. We know that commercial and private vehicle owners are increasingly looking for value for money, but more importantly they are looking for a name they can trust. Security and confidence are critical. The Sava brand promises high quality tyres at competitive prices – it’s a winning formula.”

Sava produces passenger car, SUV, light truck and truck tyres. The Sava brand, which specialises in rubber manufacturing, was founded in Slovenia more than 90 years ago. Following its success throughout Central Europe, the brand was acquired by Goodyear International in 1997. Today, Sava has not only established itself as an icon in the European car tyre market, but also advanced to become one of the largest and most successful tyre manufacturers in the world.