A Scotland-based online tyre fitter has struck a deal with a major garage chain that gives it more bricks and mortar centres than Kwik-Fit.

Black Circles, which has its headquarters in Peebles, has negotiated with Hi-Q and Motorway Tyre to create a network of more than 700 outlets.

Previously the company focused on selling competitively priced car tyres over the internet, promising consumers a saving of more than 50 per cent.

Managing director Michael Welch says: “People are unaware just how little tyres do cost. All we are doing is selling tyres for the right price. We have been successful in supplying drivers of high performance cars who change their tyres regularly and want minimum hassle.”

Customers include Sainsbury's, Marks & Spencer and McDonalds. It also supplies BMW, Lexus, Renault and TVR car clubs. Now the company plans to expand its business to cover motorcycle tyres, win more insurance work and expand its network to 1000 sites.

Welch was lured to Scotland after Kwik-Fit founder Sir Tom Farmer offered him the role of head of e-commerce with the fast-fit specialist.