The National Tyre Distributor Association has announced the winners of the 2008 Tyre and Fast Fit (TAFF) Awards at a black tie event in Birmingham’s Hilton Metropole Hotel.

Family-owned retread producer Kingpin collected the Environmental Award for its wide range of retread tyres, which now includes high performance and 4x4 fitments. These save on raw materials and reduce the volume of scrap tyres in the UK.

B.I.T.S. was named Tyre Wholesaler of the Year Award in recognition of its scheme to increase awareness of the benefits of retread tyres to customers. In 2007, its 70th year, the Bristol-based group was also the first ever winner of the RMA Green Dealer Award.

Good Year picked up the Product Innovation of the Year Award for its Eagle F1 Asymmetric performance tyre, which has strengthened inner sidewalls to maximise the contact patch and increase cornering grip.

Tyre Manufacturer of the Year was awarded to Michelin. The 2006 winner was praised for its holistic attitude to social and environmental responsibility. Michelin’s Fill Up With Air roadshows have increased awareness of tyre maintenance among consumers, and it has outlined an ongoing commitment to reducing the impact of its three UK factories.

Apaseal won the Tyre and Aftermarket Equipment Supplier of the Year Award, its third in four years. The company’s new fitting equipment is aimed at making stiffer tyres, such as run-flats, easier for aftermarket suppliers to fit.