THE AA is launching a mobile and garage tyre fitting operation aimed at fleets, as part of its ongoing expansion into the tyre business.

Called AA Tyrefitting, the new operation will be based at the 129 Halfords Service Centres that the AA bought a year ago, which are being rebranded AA Service Centres. AA Tyrefitting is targeting 55,000 small and medium businesses and the Fleet News FN50 contract hire firms.

On the mobile side of the operation, the AA has bought 50 new vans for the beginning of September. It plans 150 vans by next year, with the fleet eventually totalling 500. It has also recruited 50 fitters for the mobile service.

Harvey said: 'The fleet market is a demanding animal, and more and more drivers are demanding a mobile fitting service. With new contracts, as much as 80% want mobile work. It is less than 10% of the total market at the moment, but that will rise substantially.'

AA Tyrefitting will use Tyreserve, the internet network and call centre to handle bookings. The AA bought Tyreserve in June.