Scarcity of 16" tyres with a 94 load rating

My Superb needed two new front tyres this week, however, it wasn't as straightforward process as I has expected.

The leasing company declined to authorise Michelin Energy tyres, fitted from new and which achieved an impressive 35,000 miles without front to rear rotation. Apparently, the leasing company have an agreement to buy only Conti, Dunlop or Goodyear tyres.

After protest, I duly selected Conti Sport Contact 2 tyres in 205/55/16 94V, however, they were on back order, together with Premium Contact 2 tyres in the same size/rating. This was via a local independent tyre supplier, part of the Fit for Fleet network.

Next I decided to try Kwik-Fit who are also used by the leasing company. They were also out of 94 rated Conti's but did have Michelin Primacy's (excellent tyre and used on my previous Octy) which the leasing company were forced to authorise!

Whilst I would have preferred to stick with Michelin Energy's, the Primacy's are a very good second choice and have the added benefit of rim protection, unlike the Energy's.

Has anyone else experienced limited availabilty of 16" tyres with a 94 load rating?