With its purchase of Lube Mobile for an undisclosed price, the acquisition of the 37-year-old mobile repair business gives Bridgestone a fleet of more than 200 service vans and 20 tyre fitting vans to complement its own fleet of truck tyre service vehicles.

Bridgestone, which has more than 300 BSelect franchised outlets in Australia and New Zealand and is the nation’s biggest tyre retailer, told GoAutoNews Premium that it previously had no significant mobile service for passenger vehicles.

Bridgestone Australia and New Zealand managing director Stephen Roche said there was a strong alignment between Lube Mobile’s business model and Bridgestone’s global focus on enhancing mobility solutions.

“That’s why Bridgestone’s acquisition of Lube Mobile will strengthen both businesses and, ultimately, benefit our customers,” he said in a statement.

“Lube Mobile has a proven track record, a sound reputation for its auto service offerings, and is complementary to our business.”

Lube Mobile will retain its name and operate independently of Bridgestone. Its CEO, David Sayer, said the sale ensures that the company will remain in safe hands for the future.

“Lube Mobile and Bridgestone are both industry leaders, automotive icons and share many of the same values,” Mr Sayer said in a statement.

“We are excited to become part of this professional, iconic, globally recognised group who share our commitment to customer service and innovative mobile solutions.

“I am confident that Lube Mobile will continue to grow under Bridgestone’s ownership and remain Australia’s favourite mobile mechanical service provider.”

Headquartered in Adelaide, Bridgestone Australia is a subsidiary of the world’s biggest tyre manufacturer Bridgestone Corporation. It operates company-owned stores, as well as the franchised Bridgestone Select and licensed Bridgestone service centres.

Its growth in Australia was reinforced with its deal to become the original equipment tyre supplier to Holden from the 1980s.

Lube Mobile was founded in 1982 and has grown to become one of the most recognisable Australian mobile mechanical service providers. It has been built on the principle of providing cost-effective, hassle-free servicing to customers.

By Neil Dowling