Bandag has expanded its UK network after appointing Alba Tyre Management Ltd as a new franchise partner in Scotland.
New Bangad Network Member
Alba Tyre Management Ltd, located near Glasgow, has officially joined the Bandag network in what both parties describe as a significant agreement. The move also represents a notable development for Bridgestone, as the company continues to strengthen its UK presence.
Founded in 2004, Alba Tyre Management specialises in premium retreaded truck tyres and also supplies a broad range of new tyres for multiple vehicle categories. In addition to local and national fleet services, Alba operates mobile tyre fitting units and manages an estimated 60,000 tyres currently in operation across Scotland. Under the agreement, Alba has been appointed as a Bandag ‘Cornerstone Franchisee’, positioning the business for further development within the retread sector while supporting Bandag’s wider expansion strategy in the UK market.
David Wilson, Operations Director at Alba, said, “This partnership gives us a full front-to-end provision of services. From premium Bridgestone casing supply to access to their new tyre range, data, fleet programmes and mounted wheel offering, it’s a complete solution. For us, we will never get into a war about price. We’re about premium quality and delivering a circular, joined-up approach for commercial fleets. With Bandag sharing our philosophy, the growth potential is huge.”
Mike Howling, Bandag Service Operations Business Partner, said: “We are overjoyed to attract Alba to Bandag, who will play a strategic role in the success of our brand for many years to come. The only limiting factor is our imagination. We wanted a footprint in Scotland, and could not wish for a better partner than ALBA. Alba has established the marketplace in Scotland, but by working together, we both believe the business can grow significantly. We can build a very strong partnership together. We have an entrepreneur in Alba, and their enthusiasm and vision for the future is something that we are all extremely excited about.”
As part of the agreement, Alba will invest in new retreading equipment, including a Bandag builder machine, which is expected to increase manufacturing capacity by at least 2,000 additional retreaded tyres per year in the initial phase.
The company has also indicated that the expansion is likely to generate new employment opportunities, building on its current workforce of 26 employees. A central factor in the partnership was access to the integrated Bandag and Bridgestone offering, providing a combined solution that includes premium casing supply, established product standards and support from existing commercial fleet programmes.
Through the collaboration, Alba will benefit from Bridgestone-backed casing availability and quality assurance, as well as participation in fleet partnerships and mounted wheel initiatives. The company will also implement BASys, Bridgestone’s digital tyre management system, designed to track each casing throughout its lifecycle — from collection and inspection through to retreading and refitment, supporting improved traceability and operational efficiency.
