Have found Conti's wear better than Michelin on my Passat; very good deal on Conti's atm, from Kwikfit, but I have found ATS - at local level, face to face - will price match.
Are they stocked by dealers in the UK, John, or do you get them off the Net ? Have to say that I was surprised when I ordered mine and they were delivered from Germany .
Yes, the smaller tyre outlets do winter tyres over here, but the larger places like Kwik Fit only supply cross climates.
I dont use black circles - although I probably pay top whack for my rubber, I get discounted MOTs and often punctures sorted for free.
John