Tire dealer Jim Enger, president of Euclid-based Enger Auto Service & Tire Inc., recently attended the 2006 China Auto Parts and Accessories Trade Fair in Jaixing, China, in hopes of drumming up more business with Chinese manufacturers.
Mr. Enger and his general manager, Jerry Zivoder, visited the fair, held Sept. 22-24, as guests of the Chinese Council for the Promotion of International Trade. At the fair, which was attended by exhibitors from all over the world, Mr. Enger said he made direct contact with Hankook Tire Co. Ltd., Qingdao Nama Industrial Co. Ltd. in Qingdao, Shandong province, and other tire manufacturers in China.
He said networking in China has become more necessary now that the country has become a global supplier of tires.
``We feel we can remain competitive and increase our wholesale tire business by buying direct from Chinese manufacturers with a lower acquisition cost,'' he said, noting that he was surprised by the scope and magnitude of the production facilities he saw in China.
``As far as you can see while driving, there is new construction and very large buildings being erected,'' Mr. Enger added. ``It seems the lifestyle of the West is very sought after, and the government is opening up to global companies.''
Mr. Enger operates 13 stores in Northeast Ohio, including one retail/commercial center. He recently acquired a retail store in Massillon, Ohio, from Tire Source. (See story below.)
Enger Auto does business as Enger Tire Centers, and Mr. Enger expects his dealership to post about $10 million in sales this year.