VERNON, British Columbia—Kal Tire, one of North America's largest independent tire dealerships, has added four locations to its network. The Vernon-based firm announced March 12 it had bought Great West Tire in Swift Current, Saskatchewan, and P.A. Tire Centre Ltd. in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan—both single-outlet dealerships. Financial terms were not disclosed.
Wayne Kinghorn, Kal's advertising and promotions manager, said both owners are retiring and the employees will be retained.
Kal Tire also has taken on two new associate dealerships—Alsop's Complete Auto Repair & Muffler Ltd. in St. Albert, Alberta, and Long Ky Investments (aka Kal Tire) in Wainwright, Alberta—which will be converted to the Kal format soon with new signage and renovation.
Archie Stroh, senior vice president and general manager, said the acquisitions show Kal Tire's commitment to the western Canadian market.
Kal Tire now operates 114 company-owned and 46 associate stores.
In 1998, Kal Tire added 38 locations, including 31 James Tire outlets that were purchased from Bridgestone/Firestone Canada Inc.