Pilgrim tyres in Plymouth joins the First Stop network
First Stop Tyre & Car Services has made a pilgrimage to secure another partner for its ever-expanding network, courtesy of a franchise partnership with one of the most successful garage depots in Devon.
Pilgrim Tyres in Plymouth is embarking on an exciting voyage with First Stop, after taking charge of the old HiQ site in Sutton Road. Three new jobs are being created in the process. It is First Stop’s first partnership with a HiQ franchise and further evidence of the brand’s ambitious plans to 220 stores in the next four years.
First Stop hope that the new relationship is a sign of the times in automotive retail - quite literally - after Pilgrim Tyres were swayed by the network’s new corporate identity.
The clean, crisp branding was cited as a major factor behind the decision to team up, along with a holistic network offering, including links to Bridgestone and Firestone.
The First Stop proposition was deemed to be the perfect fit, with access to Training, Health & Safety and HR advice on hand, not to mention extremely strong supplier deals.
The transition away from HiQ is already complete and First Stop’s Marketing Manager Nikki McCluney expressed her delight of an acquisition of such a highly respected depot which is steeped in the local community.
She said: “There is well over 50 years’ worth of automotive experience in this depot and their knowledge of the local area is second-to-none, as is their intuitive understanding of what motorists want and require.
“To have the First Stop signage above the centre is a huge thrill for us and underlines our pledge to expand the network – but only with quality retailers who share our vision to offer customers the very highest levels of convenience, confidence, comfort and care.”
Pilgrim Tyres branch manager Craig Lauderdale boasts vast experience in the aftermarket, having worked as branch manager for Parts Alliance for 20 years. Meanwhile the centre has retained many of the existing team with Paul Northcott and Danny Hammond having worked for the previous owner for over 30 years.
The store has operated out of the current premises for around 10 years but has been in Plymouth for over three decades, servicing customers within the area. Craig and the team will now work hard to welcome old customers from the previous business back to the site as well as new business, thanks to innovative sales campaigns and preferential prices on the Bridgestone and Firestone products.
Pilgrim Tyres offers the full range of tyres and car services including MOT’s, brakes and batteries and currently boast fleet business in the area with Plymouth Community Homes just one of a number of valued clients.
Customers can access services by popping into the store, calling to make an appointment on 01752 481004
or booking tyres or MOT’s online via https://www.firststop.co.uk/branch-selector/first-stop-pilgrim-tyres