ONE of Britain's newest fleet tyre suppliers claims the industry is at its most open for years after a host of competitors entered the market.

Tyreserve, recently bought by the AA, says that relative newcomers, including itself, are carving out a sector of the market for themselves.

David Goodyear, general manager of Tyreserve, said: 'Significant changes to the market, including major companies having new owners, have encouraged fleet buyers to look at the way they acquire tyres.

'There are signals we are receiving from many large fleet customers as contract season gets underway. The introduction of the AA in our dealings has added enormous credibility and financial security.'

Tyreserve has access to a network totalling 3,221 outlets, including 630 independent fast-fit centres, 1,962 franchised car dealers, 500 mobile units and 129 AA Service Centres.