ITIA 2025 Review – Challenges and Opportunities
It was another busy year for the Irish Tyre Industry Association (ITIA). Managing Editor, John Loughran sat down with CEO, Sue O’Neill to reflect on 2025’s achievements and challenges, as well as the opportunities that lie ahead in 2026.
The industry continues to face challenges in attracting and retaining staff. However, the ITIA’s Tyre Technician Training Programme—delivered in partnership with LWETB at the Athlone Training Centre—the REACT Programme, and specialised electric-vehicle training have collectively resulted in a notable increase in the number of high-quality, well-trained technicians hired over the past year.
Continued Challenges Scheme
The proposed expansion of the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Scheme by the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications remains a significant concern for ITIA members.
“The structure of the levy currently under consideration does not reflect the recommendations submitted by the ITIA during this year’s consultation process,” Sue explained.
She continued: “Without addressing several key issues, the ITIA believes that the legislation will be extremely difficult to implement and enforce, leading to poor outcomes for all stakeholders. While we remain committed to working with the Department to develop a practical and effective scheme, it is important to clearly outline our position at this stage.”
Unresolved issues, according to the ITIA include:
• Complexity of Weight-Based Categories: The proposed multiple weight categories for agricultural tyres are impractical to segregate during collection.
• Risk of Disputes: Charging based on new tyre weight rather than worn tyre weight is likely to result in disputes and financial losses.
• Cross-Border Compliance: Cross-border movements could circumvent the levy, undermining compliance and fairness.
• Unrealistic Implementation Timeline: Introducing the scheme by April is not feasible. Major producers require at least six months to adapt IT systems, with significant associated costs.
• Lack of IT Support: No provision has been made for system integration or IT support for retailers and collectors.
The ITIA says it remains fully committed to engaging with the Department to reach a workable and effective solution and continues to actively participate in this process.
Events and Initiatives in 2025
2025 was a year filled with successful events and initiatives. Highlights included the AGM, Annual Conference, and Dinner in February, as well as the Annual Tyre Industry Golf Open in September, held at Mount Juliet and sponsored by Tyre Trade Journal.
“This years’ event also included an activity for non-golfers which was well supported. Both events were well-attended, offering members valuable opportunities to discuss industry developments, challenges, and opportunities while networking in a relaxed setting,” Sue recalled.
During Road Safety Week in October, the ITIA ran a highly successful national campaign focusing on Tyre Safety Day. This annual event raises public awareness about tyre safety through increased activity on radio and social media.
“ITIA members received promotional materials and social media assets to support the campaign, with many reporting increased public engagement on tyre safety. The campaign this year was also well supported by local county councils and the message focused on not waiting for your NCT to check your tyres,” Sue noted.
Looking Ahead to 2026
As 2026 unfolds, new regulations and tax-policy changes in Ireland will reshape the operating environment for many small tyre businesses. Budget 2026 introduced a number of important changes: the national minimum wage rises to €14.15 per hour, which will increase labour costs.
“In addition, the new pension auto-enrolment scheme will increase costs for small business owners, as they are required to contribute to their employees’ pensions, starting at 1.5 per cent of gross salary in 2026 and rising gradually to six per cent over the coming years,” Sue elaborated.
“Beyond the direct financial contributions, businesses will face additional administrative and compliance burdens, including updating payroll systems, managing registrations, and reporting contributions,” she added
For companies with tight margins, these added costs can strain cashflow, potentially affecting hiring, wages, or investment, though offering employees a pension may also help with retention and staff satisfaction.
Through its affiliation with the Small Firms Association, the ITIA will keep members informed of these changes and provide support to help them navigate the requirements throughout the year
Throughout 2025, there has been extensive consultation on the EU Deforestation Regulation. While the legislation is legally in force, its enforcement has been delayed: originally scheduled for the end of 2025, it is now expected to come into effect around 30 December 2026 under a revised and simplified framework, pending formal adoption.
“The ITIA is actively engaging with the Department of Agriculture for clarifications and will continue this dialogue throughout 2026 to support members in navigating the new requirements,” Sue noted.
Events for 2026
The ITIA will continue to connect members through a packed schedule of events in 2026.
Thursday, February 26th: Annual Conference and Dinner at the Sheraton Hotel, Athlone. Open to members and non-members, this event will address industry challenges and opportunities. To facilitate members the conference will commence at 4pm followed by dinner and entertainment. Attendees will share experiences, learn about new developments, and enjoy networking over dinner and music. To book, contact the ITIA team at info@itia.ie or call 045 894698.
Thursday, September 10th: Annual Golf & Social Event at Mount Juliet, Kilkenny. This popular event grows each year. The dinner and evening event in Kilkenny City will also welcome non-golfers, providing a great social opportunity for all members.
Training Courses: Training remains an essential service for ITIA members. Courses planned for March 2026 include the Tyre Technician Course, REACT Course, and EV Level 1 Course. Details will follow early in the New Year, and early booking is advised due to high demand.
Closing Reflections
Despite its challenges, 2025 was a busy and productive year for ITIA. Membership continued to grow, and the association remained committed to representing and supporting members across a wide range of areas.
As we begin 2026, ITIA extends its heartfelt thanks to all members for their ongoing support and wishes everyone a prosperous, successful, and fulfilling New Year.