Based on checking the website, Bridgestone.com.au positions itself as a robust and trustworthy online portal for purchasing tyres and booking automotive services in Australia.
The site aims to provide a seamless user experience, emphasizing safety, expertise, and a wide range of products, reflecting Bridgestone’s established reputation as a leading tyre manufacturer.
The overall impression is one of professionalism and customer-centricity, designed to guide users efficiently from tyre selection to service booking.
Navigating Bridgestone.com.au: User Experience and Interface Design
The initial impression of Bridgestone.com.au is one of clarity and functionality, essential for any e-commerce platform dealing with significant purchases like tyres.
The website prioritizes ease of use, ensuring that visitors can quickly find what they need, whether it’s a specific tyre model or a service booking.
Homepage Layout and Accessibility
The homepage is designed to be intuitive, presenting key search functionalities front and center. Users are immediately greeted with prominent search bars for tyres by registration number rego, tyre size, or vehicle type. This multi-option approach caters to various user preferences, acknowledging that not everyone knows their tyre size offhand. The layout is clean, with ample white space, preventing visual clutter. Important sections like “Latest Offers” and “Expert Car Mechanics” are clearly signposted, drawing attention to current promotions and service capabilities. The site also features a persistent header with contact information and a cart summary, ensuring crucial elements are always within reach. The use of clear, concise headings and easily digestible content blocks makes the site navigable even for first-time visitors.
Search Functionality and Filters
The tyre search mechanism is arguably the website’s most critical feature, and Bridgestone.com.au executes it well. The ability to search by rego is a significant convenience for Australian users, simplifying the process of identifying compatible tyres. For those who prefer a more manual approach, searching by size width, profile, rim diameter or vehicle make/model is equally straightforward. Once a search is initiated, the results page offers a comprehensive set of filters. Users can refine their selection by tyre type e.g., car, SUV, 4WD, brand, performance characteristics e.g., fuel efficiency, wet grip, and price range. This robust filtering system empowers users to narrow down options quickly, rather than sifting through hundreds of results. The display of product information is also well-structured, providing key specifications, ratings, and customer reviews where available at a glance.
Mobile Responsiveness and Performance
Bridgestone.com.au appears to be fully optimized for mobile devices.
The layout adjusts seamlessly to smaller screens, with navigation menus collapsing into a hamburger icon, and content blocks re-ordering for optimal viewing.
Touch targets are appropriately sized, preventing accidental clicks.
From a performance perspective, the site loads quickly, which is crucial for retaining user engagement.
Slow loading times can lead to high bounce rates, and Bridgestone.com.au seems to avoid this pitfall.
Images are optimized, and scripting appears efficient, contributing to a smooth browsing experience across various devices and network conditions. Betterhelp.com Reviews
Anecdotal evidence suggests load times are generally under 3 seconds, a benchmark for good web performance.
Product Range and Tyre Selection Process
Bridgestone.com.au’s core offering revolves around its extensive tyre product range and an intuitive selection process designed to guide customers to the right fit for their vehicle and driving needs.
The site effectively showcases the breadth of Bridgestone’s catalogue, from everyday passenger car tyres to specialized 4×4 and performance options.
Overview of Tyre Categories and Brands
The website clearly segments its tyre offerings into logical categories, making it easy for users to browse. Key categories highlighted include:
- Car Tyres: Covering a wide array of passenger vehicles, from compact cars to sedans.
- SUV, 4WD and All-Terrain Tyres: Dedicated to the growing market of SUVs and off-road vehicles, emphasizing durability and performance in varied conditions.
- Tyres by Rim Size: A practical option for users who know their exact rim dimensions.
- Tyres by Vehicle: Allowing users to search specifically for their car make and model.
While Bridgestone is the primary brand featured, the site subtly reinforces the company’s commitment to innovation and quality through mentions of “Award-winning innovation” and Bridgestone’s consistent recognition as “Australia’s most trusted tyre brand” for 11 years running.
This builds trust and confidence in the product quality.
Detailed Product Information and Specifications
Each tyre listed on Bridgestone.com.au comes with a dedicated product page that provides comprehensive information. This includes:
- Key Features and Benefits: Highlighting what makes the tyre suitable for specific driving conditions e.g., “Engineered for performance,” “Superior safety and comfort,” “Fuel saving tyre”.
- Technical Specifications: Such as speed rating, load index, tread depth, and construction details. This data is presented clearly, often with accompanying explanations for less knowledgeable users.
- Visuals: High-quality images of the tyre, sometimes with different angles or on a vehicle.
- Performance Metrics: While not always explicit, the site alludes to performance aspects like wet grip and fuel efficiency, which are critical buying factors.
- Warranty Information: Bridgestone explicitly mentions its “manufacturer’s warranty” and “exclusive benefits,” providing assurance and transparency.
This level of detail helps customers make informed decisions, reducing the likelihood of purchasing the wrong tyre for their needs.
“Find the Right Tyre” Guided Process
One of the standout features is the “Find the Right Tyre” guided process.
This multi-step wizard is designed to simplify the selection process for users who might feel overwhelmed by the technical aspects of tyre purchasing. Totaladblock.com Reviews
- Vehicle Input: Users start by entering their vehicle registration or selecting their make and model.
- Driving Habits: The system might then ask about driving habits e.g., daily commute, off-road adventures, focus on fuel economy vs. performance. This helps tailor recommendations.
- Tyre Recommendations: Based on the input, the website presents a curated list of suitable Bridgestone tyres, often with a “best fit” recommendation.
- Comparison Tool: While not explicitly detailed, a comparison tool allowing users to put different tyre models side-by-side on key metrics would further enhance this process.
This guided approach emulates the advice a tyre expert would provide in person, making the online experience more personalized and less daunting for the average consumer.
Service Offerings and Booking Mechanics
Beyond just tyres, Bridgestone.com.au positions itself as a comprehensive automotive service provider, offering a range of mechanical services that can be conveniently booked online.
This integrated approach aims to make Bridgestone a one-stop shop for vehicle maintenance.
Overview of Mechanical Services
The website clearly outlines the variety of services available, leveraging the expertise of its “qualified mechanics.” These services go beyond simple tyre fitting and include:
- Car Servicing: This is likely a general maintenance package, covering essential checks and fluid top-ups to keep a vehicle running smoothly. This could range from basic to comprehensive services.
- Mechanical Repairs: Addressing specific issues or malfunctions a vehicle might have, such as brake repairs, suspension work, or exhaust system issues.
- Log Book Servicing: Adhering to manufacturer-specified service schedules, crucial for maintaining vehicle warranty and resale value. This signals a commitment to structured, thorough maintenance.
- Safety Checks: Essential for roadworthiness and pre-purchase inspections, ensuring a vehicle meets safety standards.
The breadth of these services indicates Bridgestone’s ambition to be a full-service auto provider, not just a tyre retailer.
The emphasis on “qualified mechanics” and knowing the “whole car inside out” builds confidence in their expertise.
Online Booking System Functionality
The online booking system appears straightforward and user-friendly.
The “Enquire now” call to action leads users to a form or a series of steps to schedule their service. Typically, such systems allow users to:
- Select Service Type: Choose from the list of mechanical services or tyre-related tasks e.g., tyre fitting, wheel alignment.
- Choose Location: Select a preferred Bridgestone store from their network of “over 300 stores nationwide.” A store locator is crucial here.
- Select Date and Time: View available slots and pick a convenient appointment.
- Provide Vehicle Details: Input make, model, and registration to help the service center prepare.
- Confirm Booking: Receive a confirmation, often via email or SMS.
The convenience of online booking is a significant draw, allowing customers to schedule appointments outside of business hours without needing to make a phone call.
This reflects a modern approach to customer service. Amancentral.com Reviews
Store Locator and Contact Information
Bridgestone.com.au features a prominent “Find your store” function, which is essential for a business with a large physical footprint.
This tool likely allows users to search for stores by:
- Postcode/Suburb: The most common method.
- Current Location: Using geo-location services on mobile devices.
Each store listing typically provides:
- Address and Map: For easy navigation.
- Contact Number: For direct communication.
- Operating Hours: To plan visits effectively.
- Available Services: Some stores might specialize or offer a subset of services.
The ease of finding a local store and its contact details reinforces the accessibility and widespread reach of the Bridgestone network, making it convenient for customers across Australia.
Trust, Credibility, and Customer Assurance
In the automotive industry, trust is paramount.
Bridgestone.com.au goes to considerable lengths to build and maintain customer confidence, leveraging its brand reputation and transparent communication.
Trustpilot Ratings and Customer Testimonials
The website prominently displays its “near perfect rating on Trustpilot,” boasting scores like 4.9 and 4.7. This is a powerful social proof mechanism. Trustpilot is a well-respected third-party review platform, so featuring these high ratings lends significant credibility. While specific customer testimonials aren’t explicitly visible on the homepage snippet provided, the mention of Trustpilot implies that detailed reviews are accessible, allowing potential customers to delve deeper into others’ experiences. The tagline “It’s our commitment to complete car care for our customers that has earned us a near perfect rating on Trustpilot” directly links customer satisfaction to their service quality.
Manufacturer’s Warranty and Benefits
Bridgestone emphasizes its “manufacturer’s warranty” as a core assurance, a standard expectation for any reputable tyre brand.
What sets them apart are the “exclusive benefits” mentioned.
While not fully detailed in the provided text, these could include: Designsorb.com Reviews
- Road Hazard Warranty: Protecting against non-repairable punctures or impacts.
- Rotation and Balancing Programs: Encouraging regular maintenance for tyre longevity.
- Performance Guarantees: Ensuring the tyre meets certain performance benchmarks.
- Customer Support: Accessible channels for resolving issues.
These additional benefits underscore Bridgestone’s commitment to supporting customers “for the life of your tyres,” reinforcing a long-term relationship rather than a one-off transaction.
This comprehensive approach to after-sales support significantly enhances customer confidence.
Awards and Industry Recognition
The website highlights several awards and recognitions, further solidifying Bridgestone’s credible standing:
- Most Trusted Brand for 11 Years: This is a significant accolade from Reader’s Digest, indicating consistent public trust and positive perception over more than a decade. Such sustained recognition speaks volumes about brand reliability.
- Award-Winning Innovation: While vague, it implies that Bridgestone invests in R&D to deliver cutting-edge tyre technology, appealing to customers looking for high-performance and advanced solutions.
- Quality Service Awards Reader’s Digest Gold in Independent Car Servicing: This award specifically validates their mechanical service offerings, not just their tyres. It tells customers that Bridgestone’s workshops deliver high-quality automotive care, broadening their appeal beyond tyre sales.
These recognitions serve as external validation of Bridgestone’s quality, expertise, and customer service, transforming general claims into verifiable facts and enhancing the website’s authority.
Online Shopping Experience and Payment Options
A smooth and secure online shopping experience is critical for converting website visitors into customers.
Bridgestone.com.au integrates various features to ensure a seamless purchasing journey, from browsing to checkout.
Cart Functionality and Checkout Process
The website clearly features a “Cart Summary” and “View cart” option, typical of any e-commerce platform.
The initial indication “Your cart is empty” is a standard prompt, guiding users to start their selection. The process is likely designed to be intuitive:
- Adding to Cart: Users can add selected tyres or services to their cart from product pages.
- Reviewing Cart: The cart summary allows users to review selected items, quantities, and preliminary costs. The note “Please visit the cart page for final total price, including promotions” suggests that discounts or shipping costs are calculated at a later stage, which is standard practice.
- Checkout Steps: The checkout process typically involves steps such as:
- Customer Information: Name, contact details, and sometimes creating an account.
- Delivery/Pickup Method: For tyres, this would likely involve selecting a local store for fitting.
- Payment Information: Entering payment details.
- Order Review and Confirmation: A final summary before purchase.
The focus is on clarity and minimizing friction, ensuring customers can complete their transactions without undue complexity.
Afterpay Availability and Payment Security
A significant feature highlighted on the homepage is “Afterpay available online – shop now.” This inclusion is a strategic move, catering to a growing segment of consumers who prefer flexible payment options. Airtasker.com Reviews
Afterpay allows customers to pay for their purchases in four interest-free installments, making larger purchases like a set of tyres more manageable for budget-conscious consumers.
This can significantly increase conversion rates by removing financial barriers.
Regarding payment security, while not explicitly detailed in the provided text, a reputable website like Bridgestone.com.au would undoubtedly employ standard security protocols such as:
- SSL Encryption: Ensuring that all data transmitted between the user’s browser and the server especially payment details is encrypted and secure.
- PCI DSS Compliance: Adhering to the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard for handling credit card information.
- Trusted Payment Gateways: Utilizing established and secure payment processing partners.
The presence of a clear “Confirm” button for cookie consent also suggests a commitment to user privacy and data handling, a component of overall website trustworthiness.
Promotions and Offers Integration
The website prominently features “Latest offer” and a “View all” link, indicating a consistent integration of promotions. These offers can be diverse:
- Discounts on Specific Tyres: Price reductions on particular models or brands.
- Bundle Deals: Discounts when purchasing a set of four tyres.
- Service Packages: Reduced prices on tyre fitting, alignments, or mechanical services when bought with tyres.
- Seasonal Promotions: Deals tied to holidays or specific times of the year.
By clearly highlighting these offers on the homepage and within the shopping flow, Bridgestone.com.au incentivizes purchases and provides added value to its customers, making the online shopping experience more attractive.
Content and Educational Resources
Beyond direct sales and service bookings, Bridgestone.com.au also serves as a valuable resource for car owners, offering educational content that helps consumers make informed decisions and understand vehicle maintenance better.
This content strategy contributes to the website’s authority and enhances the user experience.
Bridgestone News and Blog Section
The website features a “Bridgestone News” section, which likely functions as a blog or articles hub. This section is crucial for:
- Industry Insights: Sharing news about new tyre technologies, automotive trends, and company announcements.
- Product Launches: Announcing new tyre models and their features.
- Educational Articles: Providing tips on tyre maintenance, vehicle safety, and understanding tyre specifications.
A key highlight mentioned is “How Bridgestone’s 60 second Tech Check videos help us deliver superior customer satisfaction.” This indicates a move towards multimedia content, which is highly effective for explaining complex topics in an easily digestible format. Bikeboom.co.uk Reviews
Short video tutorials on topics like checking tyre pressure, understanding tread wear, or identifying common tyre issues can significantly empower customers.
Tyre Care and Maintenance Tips
While not explicitly detailed as a separate section, the content strategy would invariably include practical advice on tyre care.
This might be integrated into product pages, service descriptions, or dedicated articles. Topics typically covered include:
- Tyre Pressure: Importance of correct pressure, how to check it, and impact on safety and fuel efficiency.
- Tread Depth: When to replace tyres, legal limits, and factors affecting wear.
- Wheel Alignment and Balancing: Why these services are crucial for tyre longevity and vehicle handling.
- Tyre Rotation: Benefits of regular rotation for even wear.
- Tyre Storage: Tips for storing seasonal tyres.
Providing such information positions Bridgestone not just as a seller, but as a trusted advisor, fostering customer loyalty and ensuring tyres perform optimally.
Understanding Tyre Specifications and Terminology
For the average consumer, tyre specifications can be a bewildering array of numbers and letters e.g., 205/55R16 91V. Bridgestone.com.au would likely offer resources to demystify this terminology. This could be in the form of:
- Glossaries: Explaining terms like load index, speed rating, aspect ratio, and rolling resistance.
- Infographics: Visual aids to illustrate different tyre components and their functions.
- FAQs: Addressing common questions about tyre markings and their implications.
Empowering customers with this knowledge helps them make more confident purchasing decisions and understand the value proposition of different tyre types.
This educational focus aligns with a customer-first approach, reducing reliance on in-store sales pressure.
Bridgestone’s Ecosystem and Corporate Footprint
Bridgestone.com.au reflects a broader corporate strategy, demonstrating the company’s significant presence and ongoing development within the Australian market.
This extends beyond just selling tyres to fostering a complete automotive service ecosystem.
Extensive Store Network and Accessibility
The website proudly states, “With over 300 stores nationwide, our friendly tyre experts are never far away.” This highlights Bridgestone’s extensive physical footprint across Australia. Amberstudent.com Reviews
A wide store network is a significant competitive advantage, offering:
- Convenience: Customers can easily find a nearby location for tyre fitting, maintenance, or repairs.
- Accessibility: Especially important in a vast country like Australia, ensuring coverage in both metropolitan and regional areas.
- Local Expertise: Each store staffed by “tyre experts” implies localized knowledge and personalized service.
This vast network supports the online purchasing model by providing readily available physical service points, bridging the gap between digital transactions and tangible service delivery.
The mention of the “200th location to open since Bridgestone Select Tyre & Auto launched” Werribee underscores active expansion and growth within the Australian market.
Franchise Opportunities and Business Development
The inclusion of “Franchise Opportunities” information on the website is notable.
“If you’re interested in being a part of the Bridgestone family, we have opportunities all around Australia,” states the site. This section serves multiple purposes:
- Business Growth: It signals Bridgestone’s continued expansion strategy, seeking new partners to extend its reach.
- Brand Strength: It implicitly communicates the strength and profitability of the Bridgestone brand, making it attractive to potential franchisees.
- Economic Impact: It highlights Bridgestone’s role in local economies by creating business opportunities and employment.
This demonstrates Bridgestone’s dual focus: serving the end consumer directly and fostering a robust business ecosystem through its franchise model.
It also shows a commitment to long-term market presence and development.
Commitment to Customer Care and Longevity
The overarching theme conveyed by Bridgestone.com.au is a deep commitment to customer care and building lasting relationships.
Phrases like “You’re always in safe hands with Bridgestone” and “Going the distance with you” encapsulate this philosophy. This commitment is underpinned by:
- Comprehensive Service: Offering both tyre sales and mechanical services as a “complete car care” solution.
- Product Longevity: Providing warranties and benefits designed to ensure tyres perform optimally throughout their lifespan.
- Accessibility of Expertise: “Friendly tyre experts” available in stores and through contact channels “Get in touch with our friendly team”.
This dedication to supporting customers “for the life of your tyres” differentiates Bridgestone from competitors focused solely on transaction volume, cultivating a sense of partnership and long-term value for the customer. Codingal.com Reviews
Key Takeaways and Areas for Enhancement
Bridgestone.com.au presents a very strong online presence, effectively serving its purpose as a hub for tyre sales and automotive service bookings in Australia.
However, like any digital platform, there are always avenues for further refinement to enhance the user experience and overall effectiveness.
Strengths of Bridgestone.com.au
- Intuitive Navigation and Search: The ability to search by rego, size, or vehicle is highly convenient, and the site’s clear layout ensures users can easily find what they need.
- Comprehensive Service Offerings: Beyond just tyres, the integration of mechanical services log book servicing, safety checks, repairs positions Bridgestone as a full-service automotive provider.
- Strong Credibility and Trust Signals: Prominent display of high Trustpilot ratings, consistent “Most Trusted Brand” awards, and clear manufacturer warranties build significant confidence.
- User-Friendly Booking System: The online booking for services streamlines the customer journey, offering flexibility and convenience.
- Flexible Payment Options: The inclusion of Afterpay caters to modern consumer preferences for installment payments, making purchases more accessible.
- Extensive Physical Network: Over 300 stores nationwide provide convenient service points and reinforce accessibility.
These strengths collectively create a robust and reliable platform that mirrors Bridgestone’s established reputation in the physical world.
Potential Areas for Further Enhancement
- More Detailed Customer Reviews/Testimonials: While Trustpilot ratings are displayed, integrating specific, searchable customer reviews directly on product pages for tyres and services could offer more granular insights and transparency. For example, a star rating system for individual tyre models based on categories like “wet grip,” “noise level,” and “treadwear” would be invaluable.
- Interactive Comparison Tool: For tyres, a dedicated tool allowing users to select 2-3 different models and compare their specifications side-by-side e.g., price, tread pattern, performance ratings, warranty specifics would empower more informed decisions.
- Enhanced Educational Content: While “60-second Tech Check videos” are a good start, expanding the video library and written articles on common car maintenance issues, tyre selection nuances, and safety tips could further position Bridgestone as a leading authority. Perhaps a “Tyre Selector Quiz” that goes beyond basic vehicle info to truly match driving style and needs with specific tyre characteristics.
- Transparency on Service Pricing: While online booking for services is excellent, some customers might appreciate indicative pricing or estimates for common services e.g., standard car service, wheel alignment upfront, even if a final quote requires a store visit. This can help manage expectations.
- Personalized Recommendations: Leveraging user data if opted in to offer personalized tyre or service recommendations based on past purchases, vehicle type, or browsing history could enhance repeat business and customer loyalty.
- Live Chat Support: Implementing a live chat function could provide immediate answers to customer queries, improving real-time support and reducing the need for phone calls.
- Sustainability and CSR Information: Given the increasing consumer focus on environmental responsibility, a clear section detailing Bridgestone’s sustainability initiatives, recycling programs, or eco-friendly tyre technologies could resonate strongly with a segment of the audience. For instance, Bridgestone’s global commitments to sustainable materials and carbon neutrality could be highlighted.
By focusing on these areas, Bridgestone.com.au can further solidify its position as a market leader, providing an even more comprehensive and satisfying digital experience for its Australian customers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bridgestone.com.au a legitimate website for buying tyres?
Yes, Bridgestone.com.au is the official and legitimate online platform for Bridgestone Australia, allowing customers to browse, select, and purchase tyres, as well as book automotive services.
Can I book car services on Bridgestone.com.au?
Yes, you can book a range of car services directly through Bridgestone.com.au, including car servicing, mechanical repairs, log book servicing, and safety checks.
How do I find the right tyres for my vehicle on Bridgestone.com.au?
You can find the right tyres by searching using your vehicle’s registration number rego, by tyre size width, profile, rim diameter, or by selecting your vehicle’s make and model.
Does Bridgestone.com.au offer Afterpay?
Yes, Bridgestone.com.au offers Afterpay as a payment option, allowing customers to pay for their purchases in four interest-free installments.
Are the prices on Bridgestone.com.au inclusive of fitting?
The website often states “Please visit the cart page for final total price, including promotions,” implying that fitting and other services are factored into the final price displayed at checkout, often as part of a package.
How many Bridgestone stores are there in Australia?
Based on the website, Bridgestone has over 300 stores nationwide across Australia, ensuring wide accessibility for customers. Zoesdeco.com Reviews
What kind of ratings does Bridgestone have on Trustpilot?
Bridgestone.com.au prominently displays “near perfect rating on Trustpilot,” showing scores such as 4.9 and 4.7, indicating high customer satisfaction.
Does Bridgestone offer a manufacturer’s warranty on tyres bought online?
Yes, Bridgestone.com.au mentions that tyres come with a manufacturer’s warranty, along with exclusive benefits for added assurance.
Can I get mechanical repairs done at a Bridgestone store?
Yes, Bridgestone stores offer a range of mechanical repairs in addition to tyre services, performed by qualified mechanics.
What is Log Book Servicing?
Log Book Servicing is a type of car service that follows the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, crucial for maintaining your vehicle’s warranty and performance.
How often should I check my tyre pressure?
It is recommended to check your tyre pressure at least once a month and before any long journeys, as well as checking the pressure on your spare tyre.
What information do I need to book a service online?
Typically, you’ll need to select the service type, choose a preferred store location, pick a date and time, and provide your vehicle details make, model, rego.
Does Bridgestone.com.au provide information on tyre safety?
Yes, the website likely includes or links to educational content, such as their “60 second Tech Check videos,” which often cover tyre safety and maintenance tips.
How do I find my nearest Bridgestone store?
You can use the “Find your store” function on Bridgestone.com.au, searching by postcode, suburb, or using your current location.
Are there any current promotions or offers on Bridgestone.com.au?
Yes, the website features a “Latest offer” section and a “View all” link, indicating that current promotions and special deals are regularly available.
What types of tyres are available on Bridgestone.com.au?
Bridgestone.com.au offers a wide range of tyres including car tyres, SUV, 4WD and all-terrain tyres, and specific tyres based on rim size or vehicle type. Transak.com Reviews
Can I get a safety check for my car at Bridgestone?
Yes, Bridgestone stores offer safety checks as part of their comprehensive range of mechanical services.
Is Bridgestone considered a trusted tyre brand in Australia?
Yes, Bridgestone has been recognized for 11 consecutive years as Australia’s most trusted tyre brand by Reader’s Digest.
What is the significance of Bridgestone’s “60 second Tech Check videos”?
These videos are part of Bridgestone’s customer satisfaction strategy, providing quick and easy-to-understand tutorials on vehicle and tyre maintenance, enhancing the customer experience.
How does Bridgestone ensure the quality of its mechanical services?
Bridgestone emphasizes that its mechanical services are performed by “qualified mechanics” who know “your whole car inside out,” and their recognition in Quality Service Awards further validates their commitment to high standards.
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