Hankook and Schmitz Cargobull AG Intensify Strategic Cooperation
At the last IAA for Commercial Vehicles, Hankook and Schmitz Cargobull agreed an early extension to their partnership. This includes expanding the existing supply contracts in the OE segment, strategic cooperation on a European level in the fleet business as well as developing the spare parts business of Hankook trailer tyres through the existing sales cooperation between the Schmitz Cargobull Service Partner network and its mutual service partner Pneunet. Hankook has been equipping Schmitz Cargobull trailer models since 2013 and currently offers 11 different sizes for the original equipment business. The two companies have collaborating in the full-service business since the beginning of 2015 and are also concentrating on the European market.
Hankook TBR trailer tyres have been available at Schmitz Cargobull as original fitment tyres for years as premium products for all trailer types. The cooperation announced at the IAA includes extending the existing supply contracts in the OE segment, increasing the strategic cooperation on a European level in the fleet business, expanding the full-service range as well as developing the spare parts business of Hankook trailer tyres through the existing sales cooperation between the Schmitz Cargobull Service Partner network and joint service partner Pneunet. This cooperation offers the trailer manufacturer’s contract customers full-service concepts, included standardised conditions both for tyres as well as for tyre services and tyre management in the vehicle fleet. It also covers tyre changes due to wear, punctures, deadline monitoring and fleet checks (air pressure adjustments). In addition, comprehensive cost and mileage analyses can be made available to fleet operators.
Tony, Vice President for Sales and Marketing of Hankook Tire Europe agrees: “Stepping up our partnership with Schmitz Cargobull is of strategic importance to us, particularly since it boosts both our OE and spare parts business in the trailer segment.”
Bernhard Schmitz, shareholder and Deputy General Manager – Purchasing; “The further, long-term extension of the strategic partnership with Hankook is the right logical step for us, since Hankook’s strategy effectively supports the Schmitz Cargobull strategy.”
The trailer tyres for original fitment have been adapted for European conditions, are particularly eco-friendly and economic, and include the Hankook ranges e-cube MAX and SmartWork. The original fitment business for national and international heavy duty traffic with Hankook TBR trailer tyres for Schmitz Cargobull is initially concentrating on the European market and currently covers 11 trailer sizes in the 19.5 and 22.5 inch range, including the meda-trailer sizes 445/45R19.5, 435/50R19.5 and 455/40R22.5 of the Hankook e-cube family. All Hankook tyres are delivered directly to the production plants of the trailer manufacturer, which is based in Altenberge in North Rhine-Westphalia.