Bridgestone Americas announced a 10% minority investment in mobile vehicle services and technology company, Wrench. The partnership will accelerate both companies’ ability to service vehicles in the mobile vehicle inspection, repair, and maintenance market.
The partnership allows Bridgestone and Wrench to explore synergies in their service offerings. This includes pairing Bridgestone’s 2,200-plus company-owned automotive service stores with Wrench’s complementary mobile services marketplace. Offerings currently available through Wrench include maintenance, access to roadside and towing, detailing, and the Lemon Squad used-vehicle inspection service.
“With the rise of ecommerce and on-demand services, consumer preferences for car maintenance and car care are changing,” says Brian Goldstine, president of mobility solutions, Bridgestone Americas. “Wrench, combined with our company-owned retail stores and affiliated dealer partners, will create a truly world-class service platform that gives consumers trusted automotive service with added convenience and flexibility.”
INTEGRATION WITH CUSTOMERS IN MIND
Bridgestone and Wrench will launch integration plans later this year, allowing Bridgestone stores to use Wrench as a referral business. Wrench customers will be able to book advanced vehicle service appointments at their local Firestone Complete Auto Care store. Existing Bridgestone retail customers will also have the opportunity to book future mobile service appointments, powered by Wrench.
“Wrench provides a technology-forward solution pairing convenience with a comprehensive suite of vehicle maintenance, repair, and inspections services,” says Ed Petersen, CEO of Wrench. “Our partnership with Bridgestone will help accelerate the industry’s digital transformation. This allows both companies to expand our customer offerings while growing our technologies and vehicle care expertise together.”
Finally, this investment is an example of Bridgestone’s pursuit of concierge services for personal mobility and fleet customers. This includes the RESOLV platform for subscription-based vehicle maintenance as well as Firestone Direct mobile tire and service business.
For more company news, visit www.bridgestoneamericas.com.
