Queensbury, N.Y.-Warren Tire Service Inc., which has 16 locations, is celebrating its 40th anniversary.
The family-owned dealership, which has 150 employees, celebrated the occasion with its annual spring sale.
Bob Kellogg, Warren Tire Service’s president, says each Warren Tire location had tents, decorations, food and giveaways and offered deals on new tires and services — including free alignment checks — as part of the event.
“Many vendors, customers and associates, current and retired, came out to help us (also) commemorate this milestone with a nice dinner party one night and barbecue the next day,” he says.
“Over 250 meals were served” and 40 tires, 20 brake jobs and 20 new batteries were given to customers.
The items were donated by U.S. AutoForce LLC, Autopart International and United Auto Supply, says Kellogg.
In addition, customers could buy a spring car care package that included lube, oil and filter; a 30-point safety inspection; tire rotation and more for $39.95.
Customers also registered to win 10 $800 gift certificates towards tires. Drawings took place during the event and customers walked away with their prizes.
Looking back
Warren Tire Service was founded in 1983 by Wayne Kellogg, Bob’s father. Bob was in high school at the time. The company had one location and four employees.
After serving in the U.S. Navy as a helicopter pilot, Bob joined the dealership in 1997, along with his sister, Denise.
In 2007, he took over as Warren Tire Service’s president.
He says the company has experienced constant changes in the tire industry, including “the expansion of tire sizes, designs, technology and reliability.”
The dealership also has changed how it approaches things. For example, it now owns its properties, rather than leasing them
One of the company’s biggest challenges was coping with the COVID-19 pandemic. Bob says his team “quickly adapted” and was able to keep all employees working.
“As an essential business, we never closed — for even one day.”
Warren Tire Service’s growth has been “motivated by our exceptional associated and growing customer base,” he explains.
“My wife of 31 years, Ella, has been instrumental in keeping me grounded during this arduous process.
“We stay the course and see every challenge through together as a family. We are well on our way with a third generation.”
Bob’s nephew, Derek, and his wife, Shirley, along with their daughter, Megan, and son-in-law, Brian, all work for Warren and are stockholders in the dealership.
Bob says he is also focused on “estate planning to ensure the future of Warren Tire — not just for the family, but also for the dedicated associates who make Warren Tire what it is.”
He believes that for a family business to last, communication and planning are essential.
Bob ensures Warren Tire Service has a one-, five- and 20-year plan.
“There will always be setbacks and problems,” he says. “Work hard and smart every day. In the end, you just have to be better than the competition.”
