FORT MILL, SC. The first all-new ContiTread retreading plant has been opened by a tire-industry veteran working in partnership with the commercial vehicle tire business unit of Continental Tire the America’s. Housed in a new 72,000 sq. ft. building, DLS Retreading Inc. will eventually have the capacity to produce up to 250 retreaded truck tires with Continental’s flat procure tread process, according to VP and GM Scott Snyder.
In addition to its retreading operation, DLS will offer new truck tires and 24-hr. emergency road service within a 40-mi. radius of its South Carolina headquarters, Snyder said, who has over 25 years experience in the truck tire and retreading industry. The new company represents a $2.5 million capital investment and will eventually employ at least 50 people, he said.
Continental’s contributions to the start-up included capital for its initial development and the company will provide engineering, marketing and sales support on an on-going basis, according to Paul Williams, Continental’s executive VP for truck tires. The partnership combines the tire maker’s financial and technical resources with DLS’ local market knowledge and relationships, he told Fleet Owner.
Establishing an independent green-field retreading operation would have been nearly impossible without the manufacturer’s support, Williams said, adding that Continental would also consider aiding other start-ups in regions where would improve support to its truck customers. Currently there are ten established operations offering ContiTread retreads.
“Continental is a top- tier truck tire, and everyone wants to try their solution of new tires with matching retreads. Now we’re here to help prove to these local fleets, with Continental’s support, that Continental is an excellent choice for their lifecycle needs,” Snyder said.
