Monro phasing out BJ's satellite stores

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (Oct. 24, 2014) — Monro Muffler Brake Inc. is phasing out its Monro Muffler Brake and Service stores in 29 BJ's Wholesale Club Inc. locations.

In making the move the automotive service chain cited the limited growth opportunities these stores represent since they don't offer tires.

Monro has operated satellite stores within BJ's locations since 1999. The Rochester-based retailer said during a conference call with analysts Oct. 23 that this business model was used originally to fill in selected markets, but market conditions have now changed.

The number of Monro stores at BJ's locations peaked at 37 a few years ago. Monro did not say when it expects to have these operations closed.

BJ's did not comment on Monro's decision. The club sells tires at most of it 200-plus locations in tire centers operated by personnel trained by Michelin North America Inc., which administers the website for BJ's tire activities.

Earlier this year, BJ's named Michelin a “Vendor of the Year” for outstanding achievement throughout the past year, including training team members on products, cooperation on merchandising, etc.