From Staff & Wire Reports

AKRON, OHIO — Wheels Inc. has hooked up with Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co.’s Just Tires outlets to create what it says is “the industry’s first on-the-go tire installation program” for passenger vehicle fleets.

The Tire Valet service will roll out in Chicago starting June 6.

Goodyear’s Just Tires operations, which sells tires only, has 28 outlets in the Chicago area, and 140 across the U.S. The Tire Valet program will focus on the Chicago market, but neither Wheels Inc. nor Goodyear stated if the program would be expanded outside of that market.

The Wheels Inc. Tire Valet service features specialized trucks that travel to the fleet driver’s home or office to install and balance new tires, typically in less than 30 minutes. Such fleets include company-owned vehicles, and limo or private car companies.

“We recognize the high worth of fleet driver time and we are always looking for ways that help drivers minimize downtime through their extremely busy work schedules,” said Vince Sommer, director of vendor management for Wheels Inc. “Tire Valet is one more way of adding value to Wheels’ services by eliminating the need for fleet drivers to disrupt their working day by going to another location to get replacement tires installed and balanced.

“The new service is focused solely on inspecting and installing new tires,” Sommer said. “It is an option for fleet drivers who prefer quick, on-site tire installation rather than going to a retail store location. Routine inspections and standard automotive maintenance still require a visit to service facilities,” Sommer said.

Wheels Inc. said it provides a full range of services to help corporations manage their vehicle fleets.

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