Michelin North America Inc. and Sears Holdings Corp. are celebrating a half century in business together. In those 50 years Sears has sold more than 135 million tires made by Michelin — more than any other retailer.
Sears currently sells more than 1,400 skus of Michelin-made tires, including the BF Goodrich, Uniroyal and Michelin brands.
Those sales began in 1965, when Sears was instrumental in bringing radial tires to U.S. customers. That's when Sears signed an agreement to sell Michelin radial tires under the Allstate trademark, even before Michelin opened its first manufacturing sites in North America.
“Fifty years ago Sears and Michelin took a big risk together when they signed a treaty to sell radial tires in the U.S.,” says Scott Clark, chief operating officer of Michelin North America’s passenger and light truck tire division. “The radial tire technology, which was yet to be proven in the U.S., helped consumers experience tires that lasted twice as long as bias-ply tires, and were more fuel-efficient and comfortable. The partnership with Sears has been a long and successful one for both of our companies, and we look forward to continuing to sell our Michelin, BFGoodrich and Uniroyal tires at Sears in the future.”
“Sears Auto Centers is proud to have sold more Michelin tires than any other retailer,” says Brian Kaner, who leads Sears Holdings’ Automotive business. “Together over the past 50 years, Michelin and Sears have seen many changes in the auto industry, the nation’s highway system and the cars people drive. But one thing has been constant – Sears Auto has been there to help Americans maintain their vehicles, including providing innovative and high-quality tires from Michelin and its brands. We’re excited to mark this special occasion with our teams at Sears and Michelin. In today’s competitive marketplace, two teams working together for 50 years truly is a significant accomplishment.”
Sears and Michelin will mark the anniversary with a number of promotions and special events throughout the months of July and August including an online sweepstakes where one lucky Sears Shop Your Way ® member will win a four-year lease of a Chevrolet Camaro.
For more information about Michelin visit www.michelinman.com.
