Penske Auto Centers, the largest independent tire dealer in the United States, will continue to operate its 638 auto service centers in Kmart and Kmart Supercenter stores nationwide under a renewed agreement.
"We're enthused about the new long-term agreement with Kmart and the unique marketing advantage we enjoy by having our auto centers located at Kmart," said Jim Wheat, CEO and president of Penske Auto Centers. "It certainly offers us excellent exposure to Kmart's customer base.
"We look forward to growing our stores along with Kmart while continuing our efforts to provide our customers and those of Kmart with superior automotive services and quality products at value prices."
Penske Corp. purchased the 850-store chain from Kmart Corp. in 1995 and formed Penske Auto Centers. Since then, more than 200 stores have been closed.
Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. is Penske's lone tire supplier. Penske sells Goodyear and Penske brand tires.
