Considering the evolution of the retreading market in the UK to fewer and larger players, the Retread Manufacturers' Association (RMA) has been faced with somewhat dwindling numbers of members. Consolidation has meant fewer distinct companies, which has in turn made for a reduced membership base. However, this does not necessarily equate to the reduced vitality of retreading in the UK - while certainly facing many challenges from the availability of lower-cost new tyres imported from the Far East, retreading has continued to prove relevant to a greater or lesser degree depending on prevailing macroeconomic winds. Now, with confidence in retreading already increasing, signified by major investments by major players like Bandvulc, Bandag, and Vacu-Lug, the EU's introduction of deep-cutting anti-dumping measures on commercial tyres imported from China should provide another fillip for the sector (see elsewhere in this issue). As a result, strong association representation continues to be seen as important, but without large numbers, the RMA also recognised that measures needed to be taken to ensure its continued ability to make itself heard.
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