As truck fleets face rising operating costs and tighter environmental targets, quality retreading remains one of the most effective ways to improve tyre cost-per-kilometre (CPK), reduce waste and maintain on-road performance without compromising safety. Just as crucial is a strong and trusted dealer network – such as Bandag Tyre Services (BTS) – that ensures fleet operators receive consistent service, technical expertise and nationwide support.
That focus on sustainability, reliability and efficiency set the tone at the Bandag/BTS Franchise Conference 2025, held at Pezula Nature Retreat, where more than 120 delegates gathered to discuss innovation, recognise long service and chart the future of the franchise network.
Under the theme Legends are Made, Bandag used the occasion to honour the giants of the retreading and tyre service industry while unveiling the latest products and digital tools shaping its future.
Two new tread patterns – R-Drive 001+ and R-Trailer 002 – took centre stage, both the result of extensive testing across multiple fleets and millions of kilometres. Early results show benchmark mileage, durability and adaptability, reaffirming Bandag’s leadership in the premium retread segment.
The company also launched an upgraded ProApp – now with brand number verification in ProTurbo – and a new online tyre data platform, reinforcing Bandag’s belief in digital intelligence as the future of tyre management.
The Gala Awards evening brought emotion and recognition to the fore, celebrating decades of partnership across the Bandag and Bandag Tyre Services networks.
Long Service Awards were handed to the following franchisees:
Bandag Manufacturing Franchise – 5 Years
• ProBandag
BTS Franchise – 10 Years
• BTS Barkly West
• BTS Queenstown
Bandag Manufacturing Franchise – 10 Years
• East London Bandag
• Protea Tyres Kimberley
BTS Franchise – 15 Years
• BTS Klerksdorp
• BTS Ruimsig
• BTS Worcester
BTS Franchise – 20 Years
• BTS Cape Town
Bandag Manufacturing Franchise – 20 Years
• Mega Treads
• Thomas Tyres Lowveld
Bandag Manufacturing Franchise – 25 Years
• Longlife Tyres
Bandag Manufacturing Franchise – 30 Years
• Afritread Lusaka
The company’s prestigious Quest for Gold (QFG) awards once again highlighted the drive for operational excellence across the franchise base. Winners included Tonway Tyres for Rubber Sales Excellence, Limpopo Tyres for PSI Excellence, Longlife Tyres for On-site Service, Bandag Tyre Services Cape Town for BTS Excellence, and Mega Treads for Manufacturing Excellence.
Two special Director’s Awards went to New Roadgrip Retreaders and Thomas Tyres Meyerton for their sustained excellence and loyalty – true legends of the trade.
“Quality, innovation, reliability and information are what define our network,” said John Laskarides, CEO of Bandag Southern Africa. “Our franchisees deliver value that directly improves fleet competitiveness – and their success is our success.”
To cap it off, Bandag announced that its top-performing franchisees will be heading to Vietnam for a well-earned adventure, celebrating a year that has reaffirmed Bandag’s commitment to performance-driven partnerships.
Editor’s comment: Bandag’s franchise model continues to show how retreading can meet the twin demands of sustainability and cost efficiency. With digital monitoring now complementing proven tread technologies, Bandag is positioning retreading as both a practical and strategic solution for modern fleets – proof that legends are built on consistent performance, not hype.
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