Fast-fit chain HiQ is driving into web-based retailing with a proposition that allows customers to buy tyres online and book fitting at their chosen branch.

The website www.hiqonline.co.uk went live last week, and has already taken several orders, said Geraldine McGovern, HiQ’s e-business and digital manager.

The system works by customers entering their registration number, or their tyre size if they know it, to be offered a range of appropriate tyres from value, mid-range and premium segments.

Over the next three years, the package will be expanded to allow customers to book specific time slots for the fitting service. Currently they can specify morning or afternoon. It will also be expanded to include van tyres.

HiQ has embarked on a multi-million pound relaunch this month, which saw its first new-look centres open in Nottingham and Carterton near Oxford. Alongside its 115 company-owned centres, it has 30 franchised sites, to which it aims to add another 120 within three years.

For more on HiQ’s relaunch and its franchise opportunities, read AM magazine on August 10. To subscribe to AM magazine click here or call 01733 468659.