OTR Tyres Ltd

An interview was conducted with OTR Group MD Chris Skelton to find out exactly what brought about the move with Kal Tire.

Why have you done a deal with Kal Tire?

There are several reasons as to why this was the right deal for OTR.

What was the most important?

I believe that there is an excellent cultural fit between the 2 companies. The way that we conduct ourselves both towards customers and colleagues is very similar.

Why do a deal now?

OTR has grown considerably over the last 3 years and we can see many more opportunities for growth - we have already started trading in 2 new countries so far this year. Having a bigger partner will give us the opportunity to accelerate this growth.

What does this mean for OTR employees?

Being part of a much larger organisation will mean stability for some and opportunity for others. The objective is to grow the business and we are going to need to have quality people to make that possible.

What immediate changes will there be?

Very little, if any, in the short term because the intention is to build on OTR's strengths and not replace them with something else.

Will there still be an OTR Head Office in the UK?

Yes, it is impossible to run a global business from a single point and so the current OTR Head Office will continue to be an administrative hub for the various OTR businesses.

Will the company name change from OTR?

There is a requirement to champion a single brand across the world and so customers recognise us as a single entity and this will mean the re-branding of OTR at some stage. This won't happen immediately as the OTR brand has a strong identity that we do not want to lose. You will see a gradual migration to a new brand over time.

What will be your future involvement in the company?

As a 49% shareholder in the new company, I have a considerable interest in what happens! My role will be very much the same as it is now with responsibility for the profitability and growth of OTR.



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