Who owns champion tire and wheel
## Champion Tire and Wheel: A Comprehensive Overview
Nestled in the bustling city of Buffalo, New York, Champion Tire and Wheel stands as a testament to the American dream and the unwavering determination of its founder, Bob Pickrel. Established in 1953, the company has grown from a humble tire shop into a multi-faceted enterprise spanning the automotive industry with over 125 locations across North America.
### History and Ownership
Champion Tire and Wheel traces its roots back to the vision of Robert “Bob” Pickrel, a former WWII veteran who returned home with an entrepreneurial spirit. In 1953, he opened a small tire store on Buffalo’s Main Street, offering tire sales and repairs.
Over the years, Pickrel’s tireless efforts and dedication propelled Champion Tire and Wheel to become a regional leader in the automotive industry. Through strategic acquisitions and partnerships, the company expanded its reach across the United States and Canada.
Today, Champion Tire and Wheel remains a privately held company owned by the Pickrel family. Bob Pickrel’s son, Jerry Pickrel, serves as the company’s CEO, while Bob’s grandson, Bob Pickrel III, holds the position of President.
### Core Values and Mission
Champion Tire and Wheel is guided by a set of core values that have shaped its success throughout its existence:
Customer Focus: The company is committed to providing exceptional customer service, ensuring that every interaction exceeds expectations.
Quality and Innovation: Champion Tire and Wheel strives to deliver high-quality products and services, staying at the forefront of automotive technology.
Community Involvement: The company actively supports its local communities through charitable initiatives and sponsorships.
Integrity and Ethics: Champion Tire and Wheel conducts its business with honesty, transparency, and accountability.
Employee Empowerment: The company fosters a culture of teamwork, respect, and professional growth for its employees.
### Products and Services
Champion Tire and Wheel offers a comprehensive range of products and services to meet the diverse needs of its customers:
Tires:
Passenger car tires
Light truck tires
Performance tires
All-season tires
Winter tires
Wheels:
Steel wheels
Alloy wheels
Custom wheels
Off-road wheels
Services:
Tire repair and replacement
Wheel alignment
Brake inspection and repair
Oil changes
Battery replacement
Vehicle inspections
### Expansion and Innovation
Champion Tire and Wheel has consistently pursued growth opportunities through strategic acquisitions and partnerships. Some notable milestones in the company’s expansion include:
1989: Acquisition of Tuffy Tire Centers, a chain of tire and automotive service centers in California.
1996: Merger with ETruck, a leading provider of commercial truck tires and services.
2008: Acquisition of TS Tire Wholesale, a national tire distributor.
2016: Partnership with AutoCanada Inc., a Canadian automotive retailer, to operate 60 Champion Tire and Wheel locations in Canada.
In addition to acquisitions, Champion Tire and Wheel has invested heavily in research and development, resulting in innovative products and services:
Total Tire Care: A tire protection plan that covers all aspects of tire ownership, including repairs, replacements, and roadside assistance.
Champion TPMS: A tire pressure monitoring system that alerts drivers to any tire pressure imbalances.
Enhanced Safety Systems: Including dash cameras, blind spot monitors, and lane departure warning systems.
### Community Involvement
Champion Tire and Wheel recognizes the importance of giving back to the communities in which it operates. The company actively supports local charities, schools, and community organizations through donations, sponsorships, and volunteerism.
Some notable initiatives include:
Champion for Children: A partnership with Children’s Hospital of Buffalo to provide financial and in-kind support for children’s healthcare.
Tire Amnesty Program: A collaboration with local waste management companies to safely dispose of used tires, reducing environmental impact.
Employee Volunteer Days: Opportunities for employees to engage in community service projects.
### Conclusion
Champion Tire and Wheel has come a long way since its humble beginnings in Buffalo. Under the stewardship of the Pickrel family, the company has grown into a leading provider of automotive products and services, while maintaining a strong commitment to customer satisfaction, innovation, and community involvement.
As Champion Tire and Wheel continues to navigate the evolving automotive industry, its unwavering focus on quality, innovation, and exceptional customer service will undoubtedly guide its path to future success.
