United Automobile Limited (UAL) has been appointed official distributor for Goodyear tyres in Malta. Goodyear is one of the world’s largest tyre companies, with operations in most regions of the world.

It is the number one tyre maker in North America and Latin America and the second largest in Europe.

Together with its subsidiaries and joint ventures, Goodyear develops, markets and sells tyres for most applications, from passenger vehicles, to light commercials, heavy vehicles, aircraft and plant machinery.

“Representation of the world-renowned and industry’s favourite Goodyear brand is another milestone for UAL, enhancing our portfolio as holders of high standard and quality brands of products and services in the car industry,” said Edmund Gatt Baldacchino, Managing Director of UAL. “We are therefore looking forward to a wider penetration of Goodyear in the Maltese market to offer what today’s discerning drivers look for: safety on the road, durability of the product, reduced fuel consumption, improved handling, smoother braking in emergency situations, and a service of excellence for peace of mind.”

The launch of Goodyear by UAL was held at the Lija Service Centre where the tyres company operations are run. Goodyear tyres are available across Malta and Gozo from all leading vulcanisers and service stations. Present for the launch was Goodyear’s Regional Business Leader for the Mediterranean Martin Lumb.

The Goodyear Tyre and Rubber Company was founded in Ohio, US, in 1898 by Frank A. Seiberling, with just 13 employees and a production line of bicycle and carriage tyres, horseshoe pads and poker chips. Since then, Goodyear pedalled its way toward becoming the world’s largest tyre company, a title it earned in 1916 when it adopted the slogan “More people ride on Goodyear tyres than on any other kind”, becoming the world’s largest rubber company in 1926.

Today, Goodyear measures sales of nearly $20 billion, although it took 53 years before the company reached the first billion-dollar-year milestone.