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Michelin(R) Reports Dramatic Rise in Tire Sales

18 September 2000

Michelin(R) Reports Dramatic Rise in Tire Sales, Consumer Questions Michelin Ramps Up Production 400 Percent to Meet Demand

    GREENVILLE, S.C., Sept. 14 In August, Michelin(R) saw a
dramatic increase in sales of tires for pick-ups and sport utility vehicles as
consumers flocked to dealerships seeking replacements for their recalled
Firestone tires.  Sales of light truck tires had double digit increases over
the same month in 1999 and overall sales of tires for all vehicles jumped
significantly versus year ago.
    "Our stores have just been inundated," said Randy Clark, president of Dunn
Tire Corporation in Buffalo, N.Y.
    Michelin has increased production by 400 percent in response to the
Firestone recall.  Plants are operating around the clock to help get tires to
consumers as quickly as possible.  In addition, Michelin original equipment
plants shifted production to manufacturing replacement tires.
    Firestone previously announced it would reimburse consumers affected by
the recall up to $100 per tire if they replace their tires with Michelin or
other competitive brands.  Firestone has also authorized reimbursement up to
$140 per tire for those vehicle owners affected by the NHTSA Consumer Advisory
issued on September 1, 2000.
    Dealerships across the country have seen a large influx of concerned
consumers with serious questions about their tires.  So in addition to
offering replacement tires, Michelin dealerships nationwide have been
inspecting tires at no charge and offering guidance on proper maintenance.
    "We have many customers with a lot of questions and we're just helping
them understand the situation," explained Sean Furrier, operations manager for
Western Tire Centers in Tucson, Ariz.
    Dealers have also reported a change in the types of questions the average
customer asks.  The increased focus on tires precipitated by the recall has
caused many consumers to ask for advice on basic tire care.  Michelin dealers
nationwide have fielded thousands of questions about tread depth, proper
inflation and rotation.
    "The number one thing we've been doing is spreading the gospel of correct
tire pressure," said Chris Jones, president and owner of Tire Barn in
Anderson, Ind.
    In addition to help at the dealer level, Michelin is also offering
consumers valuable information on proper tire maintenance on its website,
http://www.michelin.com , and extended hours on its 1-888-MICHELIN consumer services
line.  Within minutes of arriving at the website, users can know the name and
location of the five Michelin dealers nearest them, as well as answers to some
of the most common tire questions.
    Also on the site, consumers can access a database that lets them find out
what size replacement tire is most appropriate for their vehicle before they
go to a dealer.  They can use the "Glossary" section to educate themselves on
the way tires are sized and rated.  The website also has an "Essential Tire
Guide," containing useful information on proper inflation, tire wear and many
other tips for maintaining reliable and efficient tires.
    "We know that from the beginning this has been about more than simply
finding the right tires to replace those recalled by Firestone," explained
Alison Heiser, brand manager for Michelin.  "Many people have questions about
their tires, and as the industry leader we want to help however we can."