LANCASTER, Pa. (Aug. 11, 2015) — Jack Williams Tire Co. Inc. has acquired Lancaster-based Philip Lebzelter & Son Co., dba Lebzelter's Total Car Care, which the retailer/wholesaler said is the world's oldest Goodyear dealership.
Founded by Phillip Lebzelter in 1854 as Eagle Wheel and Bending Works, the dealership started out manufacturing hickory bent rims, shafts, poles, spokes, wheels, bows, banded hubs and fine grade wheels, according to its website.
With the introduction of the horseless carriage at the turn of the century, Mr. Lebzelter committed to serving the transportation industry. In 1900, he began selling carriage and bicycle tires supplied exclusively from Goodyear, and the firm has remained a Goodyear supplier ever since.
Now a part of Goodyear's Tire & Service Network marketing program and the Motorist Assurance Program, the dealership operates three locations — two in Lancaster and one in Millersville, Pa.
Jack Williams Tire said it will rebrand the business over the next few months to reflect the look of its stores in the nearby Harrisburg, Pa., market.
For C. Clair McCormick, who has co-owned Lebzelter's along with Daniel Miller for the past 35 years, there was no better way to carry on the 160-year-old legacy of the business than “to merge with a long-standing family owned partner that shares similar values and service philosophy.”
The dealership's main concern, he continued, “was to find a company that would continue serving and supporting our community as well as provide a great place to work for our loyal and hardworking employees.”
Bill Williams, chairman and CEO of Jack Williams Tire, said the three Lebzelter's locations are a natural fit for the company. To fit the growing needs of customers, the locations will expand their tire and service selections, coupled with extended hours and free shuttle service.
Mr. Miller will continue working with Jack Williams Tire to manage the Millersville location alongside the rest of the Lebzelter's team. Jack Williams Tire also said it plans to hire at least a dozen additional employees to support the increased services offering and to improve customer service.