More than 90% of the company’s fleet is now fitted with Michelin, according to head of transport Terry Jarvis.

He said: ‘Experience over a number of years has shown us that fitting Michelin means we use fewer tyres. They are slightly more expensive up front but they last longer so they are cost-effective in the long run.

‘We know they have a lower rolling resistance so we’re sure they give us better fuel economy as well.’

Around half of Co-operative Funeralcare’s 1,500-strong fleet are ceremonial vehicles including hearses. Other vehicles include limousines, support vehicles and private ambulances – all of which have different mileage requirements and characteristics.

Jarvis said: ‘The hearses are stretched by about three feet in the middle, and weigh about two and a half tonnes, depending on the model. That weight and the long wheelbase means they tend to scrub the tyres so we make use of the Michelin extra load capacity tyres.

‘We also have a lot of different vehicles in our fleet and the wide choice of tyres available is another reason we choose Michelin.’


He added: ‘Ultimately, the reliability of Michelin tyres is hugely significant. The last thing you want on a funeral vehicle is a puncture or tyre failure. We have never had a failure with the Michelins.’

Michelin key account manager Andrew Guile said: ‘We have worked with Co-operative Funeralcare for a number of years and have seen the share of Michelin tyres steadily increase. Although we know we have a great performing range of tyres, nothing beats seeing them perform in a commercial setting and delivering the reliability and lifetime cost savings that our customers want.’

He added: ‘We are delighted that such a well-known and well-respected company continues to use Michelin tyres.’