Treading where few broadline retailers would ever dare. (Wal-Mart).(Merchandising: hardware and automotives)(Brief Article)

Few broadline retailers go to the lengths that Wal-Mart does in selling tires. Extremely competitive prices on tires and services give the retailer a definite edge in this niche that enables it to compete against independent tire dealers.

Six different brand tires are offered: Goodyear, BFGoodrich, Michelin, Continental, Uniroyal and Douglas. Prices for passenger car tires range from $17.87 to $84.96, with manufacturer warranties of 40,000 to 80,000 miles offered for each.

Wal-Mart heavily promotes its own tire installation and protection plan at a cost of $9.76 per tire. This includes a road hazard protection warranty, valve stem installation, flat tire …