Vredestein Ups Service Level with Increased Tire Stocks

ENSCHEDE, Netherlands (September 10) - Vredestein announces a major increase in its tire stocks. With that the Dutch supplier who recently relocated its manufacturing of bicycle tires from The Netherlands to India and Thailand, ups its service level for OEM customers as well as for aftermarket distributors. With the relocation of the production some hick-ups occurred. End 2001 and during the first months of this year the Dutch supplier was struggling with delivery problems. Next to that a series of tubes that presented quality problems was adding to the difficulties of Vredestein. To ban-out future delivery problems Vredestein has increased its stocks in tires as well as tubes. Currently there’s a supply chain management system working with which, according to up to date market input, the Dutch tire supplier has established an optimal level of stock. At this moment Vredestein keep for a period of four to five months tires on stock for OEM customers as well as aftermarket distributors. On average delivery within 48 hours, depending on the region, is possible. There’s only an exception with regard to tubes. Recently Vredestein was faced with a batch of tubes that presented valve problems. Due to that the Dutch supplier is now bringing its buffer stock of tubes back to its regular level. (JO)