Mobility solutions provider Bridgestone has partnered with its counterpart Cacomiaf in the sub–Saharan Africa to launch its flagship retail brand First Stop in Abidjan, Ivory Coast. First Stop, an established tyre and car service retail chain in Africa and the Middle East, consolidates the decades-long experience of Bridgestone in the global automotive and mobility industry, while Cacomiaf is a pioneer in the field of tires and automotive mechanics in the Ivory Coast market.
As part of the partnership, both Bridgestone and Cacomiaf will launch initiatives and solutions for the end users in the tyre industry. Through the Ivorian company’s extensive knowledge of the Ivory coast market, both parties will work to provide the best tools and solutions, including customized services according to users’ needs. Bridgestone will also offer its strong engineering capacity and decades-long experience in developing the ideal product for its users.
Stefano Sanchini, Regional Managing Director, Bridgestone MEA said: “In line with our expansion plans, Bridgestone has partnered with Cacomiaf, who will support us in bringing our flagship retail brand, First Stop to the Ivory Coast market and establish a strong foothold in the region. We are confident that this new alliance will bring in great results. We look forward to working with a partner that fully understands the local market and the importance of bringing specialized auto service to the Ivorian driver.”
Since African countries expanding their investments in the regional infrastructure, more commercial vehicles are expected to be on roads, thereby increasing the demand for transportation products and services. As the country continues to move towards development, Bridgestone hopes to contribute to the development of the region. The company targets to open a new branch office in Ivory Coast while keeping in mind to serve and support neighbouring countries, offering faster access to technical and marketing services.