FLEET Cost Management is claiming fleets can make four-figure savings on their tyre spending if they adopt careful purchasing strategies. Tyre prices were widely tipped for major rises last year, attributed to a massive increase in the cost of raw materials (Fleet News September 8, 1995).

The price of raw materials rose by an estimated 24% in 1995, due to international shortages of natural rubber, carbon black, steel cord and synthetic rubber. And with margins already cut to the quick, tyre manufacturers reported they could not assimilate such a significant hike in production costs, and would be forced to raise tyre prices.

The average price of a tyre supplied by FCM in May this year was £66.60, but if buyers follow its recommended buying policies, the average drops to £53.15 - a saving of £13.20. This equates to a saving of £1,650 on a 100 vehicle fleet replacing an average 1.25 tyres per car every year.

Fleets can take advantage of FCM's tyre prices simply by applying for an FCM Fuel Plus card, which is valid at all major fast fit outlets. The card can also be used to purchase a wide range of other vehicle and fleet management products.