Ben Tire Distributors Ltd. has acquired another store.
The Toledo, Ill.-based chain recently bought McCord Tire in Gibson City, Ill., for an undisclosed sum. "Farm tires are the backbone of their business and the backbone of our business," says Ben Tire President Chuck McLuckey. "The acquisition also strengthens our position in central Illinois, which is our home turf."
The four-bay outlet was formerly owned by veteran dealer Tony Heideman, who will stay on as its manager.
McCord Tire will retain its current name for at least one or two years, according to McLuckey, after which it will adopt the Ben Tire name.
"In rural areas, name changes are a gradual process," he says.
Gibson City has nearly 3,400 residents.
The purchase brings Ben Tire's total number of retail stores up to 34 with more in the works, McLuckey says. Ben Tire is the 27th largest independent tire store chain in North America, according to Modern Tire Dealer statistics.
