TBC Corp. has launched a national, online tire-buying business, TireAmerica. Consumers choose from more than two dozen brands, including Michelin, Sumitomo and Goodyear. After selecting tires, they pick a local installer and make an appointment online.

The list of 1,400-plus installers thus far includes 730 of TBC’s NTB, Tire Kingdom and Merchant’s tire and auto service centers; some Midas and Big O franchises; and independents.

TireAmerica ships the tires to the installers and emails the customers’ appointment information. The installer finalizes the appointment.

TBC is marketing TireAmerica as a way for service providers to gain customers with no acquisition costs. Installers set and keep their installation fees, as well as the revenues from other services provided.

TireAmerica is the latest industry effort to connect online tire sales with local installers, including Sears Auto Centers’ “Ship-to-Store” collaboration with Amazon; SimpleTire’s installation partnership with Pep Boys, Monro Inc., Mavis Discount Tire and others; and eBay Motors‘ connection with local tire installers in the United States.