Tireco to handle Westlake consumer lines

HANGZHOU, China (Oct. 17, 2012) — Tire importer/distributor Tireco Inc. has secured an exclusive long-term distribution agreement with China's Hangzhou Zhongce Rubber Co. Ltd. covering HZCR's Westlake-brand consumer tires in the U.S.

Tireco, the exclusive distributor on Nankang-brand tires in North America, said it will offer the Westlake brand on both a factory-direct and a U.S.-direct program from its 1.2 million-sq.-ft. warehouse in Fontana, Calif.

Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Other brands that Tireco distributes exclusively include Geostar, Milestar, Nanco, Tracgard and Geotrac.

Victor Li, Tireco vice president of sales and marketing, said the Westlake line "encompasses one of the broadest consumer product offerings available in the market today and is widely regarded for its consistent, high quality standards, and performance value.

"Combined with Tireco's national distribution expertise, industry leading fill rates, proven brand development and support," Mr. Li said, "Westlake is poised to become the import program of choice."

Westlake is one of HZCR's main brands alongside the Chao Yang, Goodride and Yartu brand names.