The network of Point S tire dealers is growing again as the cooperative of independent tire dealers has expanded into Alabama, its 28th state.
And leaders say there are more states on the horizon.
“It’s been a busy recruitment summer for Point S. In addition to seeing growth with existing markets, we’re excited to extend our operations into Alabama,” says Clint Young, chief operating officer at Point S USA. The cooperative's dealers operate more than 260 stores under the Point S Tire & Auto Service banner.
The move into Alabama comes five years after Point S added its fourth regional distribution center in Memphis, Tenn. The group has been aggressively seeking and adding dealers in the Mid-South region ever since. (Point S also operates distribution centers in Portland, Ore.; Salt Lake City, Utah; and Denver, Colo.)
Brian Lombardino, owner of Brian’s Point S Tire & Service in Huntsville, Ala., has joined the Point S network.
"As an independent owner, it can often feel like it’s me versus all those bigger guys wanting to take the independent guy down. Point S is giving me so many options and support to attack my market and improve my store. Their buying power and network representation is just icing on the cake,” says Lombardino.
“There’s a clear demand for Point S. Our offering isn’t complicated. It comes down to having a strong co-brand and buying programs our owners demand,” says Walter Lybeck, CEO of Point S USA. “The investment we’re making in our infrastructure allows us to bring independent tire store owners a way to stay competitive.”
Because Point S USA is a cooperative, its members are owners, not franchisees, and each owner shares in the profits of the company.
“There’s no denying that we’re growing our footprint and that’s exciting and intentional,” says Young. “Our board of directors and leadership team have aggressive growth goals, but it’s more than putting dots on a map, it’s building a shared brand and helping owners win in their markets.”
The group's growth comes as Point S USA enters its 40th year of operations. The company's owners and vendors will celebrate the anniversary during its next owners meeting in January 2023 in Puerto Rico.
“Hey, it’s only fitting that we add another great state to our retail map as we move into a milestone year, and there is more coming,” says Lybeck.
