The RAC has launched RAC Tyres, a retail operation powered by online tyre retailer blackcircles.com.

Anyone accessing RAC’s website will be able to link to RAC Tyres, but its seven million members will be given a 2.5% discount.

Consumers will be able to order tyres through the website and have them fitted at more than 900 of Blackcircles’ partner garages across the UK.

The RAC described the service as “compelling” to its brand and said it provides a value-added service to members and consumers.

It hopes to enhance brand awareness, its member base and provide greater service efficiencies for breakdown instances linked to tyres. 

In 2008 punctures were the RAC’s biggest call out accounting for 8% of the total attended service breakdowns, it said.

Gavin Talbot, RAC senior business manager, said: “Consumers can be confident our new proposition with blackcircles.com offers a great price combined with a trusted quality service.”

Mike Welch, managing director of blackcircles.com, said allying itself with RAC will introduce the brand to millions of potential new customers.