AAA Allied Group, an AAA club based in Cincinnati, Ohio, has acquired Bob Sumerel Tire Co. Inc.'s retail business, Bob Sumerel Tire & Service, for an undisclosed sum. The transaction, which does not include Bob Sumerel Tire's commercial division, will close Nov. 1.
AAA will pick up 30 retail stores as part of the deal, which also includes two Mighty Auto Parts franchises. AAA has no plans to make personnel changes.
With 46 total outlets, including 12 commercial-only locations and four combined commercial-retail outlets, Bob Sumerel Tire is the 21st largest independent tire store chain in the U.S., according to Modern Tire Dealer research.
"The deal with AAA has no bearing on our commercial business," which will continue to operate under the Bob Sumerel Tire Co. name, says Todd Sumerel, president of the Erlanger, Ky.-based dealership.
"This is a very exciting opportunity that highlights the strategic synergies between AAA and Bob Sumerel Tire & Service," says company founder Bob Sumerel. "The combination of these two trusted and reputable brands will enhance the value of services available to existing and new Bob Sumerel customers and AAA members to provide growth opportunities for both businesses."
The acquisition "will continue AAA's focus on strengthening its core automotive service offerings," said AAA Allied officials in a written statement.
