Top Wheel Weight Maker Grows in Down Market

The establishment of Wegmann Automotive in October 2009 saw some of the world’s leading wheel weight brands (Hofmann, Franken, F-Ecoline and Perfect ) reorganized into a single unified group.

Now united under the Wegmann umbrella brand, sales and marketing director Thorsten Thom reports that the company is facing the current market challenges well and, in certain cases, actually gaining marketshare.

Thom also praised the positive impact made by recently appointed U.K. sales manager, David Peacock. According to Thom, 2009 U.K. market sales have experienced double-digit growth compared with 2008.

Wegmann automotive produces as many as one billion balancing weights a year and production is split roughly 50:50 between the company’s Germany and Tennessee production bases. And what’s more, the company continues to name some of the world’s leading OEMs amongst its customers, such as Audi, Mercedes-Benz, VW, Seat, Ford, Opel, Fiat, Alfa, Ferrari and Porsche to name but a few.

In 2010 the company is set to enhance is marketing activities, explaining both the benefits of its premium quality products and disadvantages of what the company describes as “false economy” low-cost weights to the market. In doing this, the company is aiming to raise customer perceptions of what can be expected from a balancing weight and therefore improve customer experiences of balancing weight products. (Tyres & Accessories)

Discount Tire & Service Centers has a new sponsorship deal with the Los Angeles Angels for the 2024 season. Discount Tire said this partnership will not only benefit its customers with season-long promotions and giveaways but will also support local non-profits.

"We're thrilled to launch this strategic partnership with the Los Angeles Angels," said Sergio Andonian, president, Discount Tire & Service Centers. "As neighbors, from Anaheim, we are dedicated to serving our local communities and providing quality tire & automotive service at the most competitive prices. Together, we look forward to making a positive and lasting impact in the communities. Add baseball to the mix, and with this winning combination, the possibilities are endless."