Foreword

Welcome to this summer issue of the MLL newsletter! I’m sure you will agree, the content is very rich and shows the the dynamism and speed of growth of the MLL business.

First of all, I’d like to draw your attention to the recognition awarded to MICHELIN branded products by the press recently. This really shows that the market recognises the differentiation and performance benefits of our products. It is essential we continue to promote our points of difference and MLL is working hard with all licensees on communicating the value delivered to our B2B and B2C audiences. Furthermore, this also reaffirms the rationale behind our differentiation strategy – MICHELIN products cannot be “me too products”!

Another very strong development can be seen in the footwear segment, especially the technical soles. We are very happy that professional tennis players recognise the performance benefits of MICHELIN soles and that they are committed to wearing them in the highest level competitions. Furthermore, this is a great opportunity to associate the MICHELIN brand with competition in a universe other that motor sport. However, sometimes these two universes can collide to deliver great impact…. find out more in the ‘Tyres to Soles‘ article which explains how sports shoes featuring MICHELIN soles were exhibited at the UK’s leading motoring event, Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Lastly, I’d like to remark on the recent European vehicle accessory licensee workshop in Amsterdam. It has been several years since MLL launched the concept and I am convinced that everyone can learn a lot from these exchanges and that is a huge opportunity to find some interesting synergies. I thank everyone for their participation and look forward to hearing feedback from future sessions in other zones.

I hope you enjoy reading this edition of the MLL newsletter and I wish you and your teams a wonderful summer and a happy holidays for those who will take vacation during this period.