Since Kenda acquired Starco last autumn, the two companies have been exploring joint business opportunities to grow in the European market.
“There are many Starco-Kenda synergies, short and long term, that we are now exploring. It is a really exciting time,” commented Richard Todd, CEO at Starco.
“Becoming the distributor for Kenda passenger car tires in Switzerland is a good example of a short-term opportunity that we are acting on immediately.”
Starco’s main strategic and operational focus is still on becoming an even stronger partner for original equipment manufacturers.
In the future, the Starco facility in Subingen, Switzerland, will serve the Swiss market with Kenda passenger car, 4X4, SUV and van tires – four categories available in both the winter and summer ranges.
“It’s great to see that Starco Switzerland has the infrastructure in place and the necessary market penetration capabilities to sell the Kenda automotive tire range in Switzerland,” said Michael Andre, sales and marketing director in Kenda Europe.
“It’s a difficult market to access and we see a great match between our products and the market requirements. From a strategical point of view, it is a perfect way for Kenda to grow in the European market, while utilizing the warehouse and distribution facilities within the group. ”
The distribution setup focuses on wholesalers, tire dealers and car service center businesses in Switzerland on Kenda PCR tires.
“We have over 20,000 tires in stock and therefore have a complete and wide range of PCR tires. We have prepared our online shop and distribution setup to accommodate being a supplier of automotive tires,” said Stephan Schär, MD of Starco Switzerland.
“We are almost there and ready for the summer season in wonderful Switzerland. We are looking forward to introducing the Kenda range to our market, through well-established, new channels and partnerships.”
Kenda is currently developing a new all-season tire, which will be launched on the market later this year.
