4 Wheel Parts opening stores in Cincinnati, Columbus

CINCINNATI — 4 Wheel Parts is opening retail stores in the Cincinnati and Columbus areas, expanding its presence in Ohio to four stores and 84 in North America.

The Cincinnati-area store is located in Springdale, a community of about 11,000 just north of Cincinnati near the I-75/I-275 junction. A grand opening for the 15,000-sq.-ft., seven-bay store is scheduled for Sept. 16.

The 10,000-sq.-ft., six-bay Columbus store is on the city's far west side, at the intersection of I-270 and West Broad Street/U.S. Route 40. It's expected to open in mid- to late October.

4 Wheel Parts said it's also looking at the Dayton area an additional store in the Buckeye State to support the firm's push into the Midwest, which it sees as growing in importance for aftermarket parts and services for the off-road, truck, Jeep and SUV tire and wheel market.

The dealership — part of Polaris Industries Inc. since mid-2016 — also expects to open a Midwest distribution center by early 2018 to service its expanding network throughout the region.

The Cincinnati store opening will include discounts, installation specials, promotions and giveaways, and fundraising raffles for Cincinnati-based Cancer Free KIDS, according to Compton, Calif.-based 4 Wheel Parts.

"Of course, the Jeep has a long and storied history here in Ohio and we are proud to be part of carrying on that tradition of passion and enthusiasm for everything that the off-road lifestyle represents," Store Manager Brian Irvin said.

"With so many avenues to enjoy off-roading just a short drive from the city, we are proud to offer this new location in Cincinnati as valuable resource for those who are looking to outfit their Jeep or truck. We have everything to prepare you for the jobsite, the daily commute and your outdoor adventures."

Off-road enthusiasts from throughout the region are expected to join in the celebration, 4 Wheel Parts said, including members of the "Cincy JK Crew" Jeep Club. Guest who participate in the charity raffles will have chances to win prizes, including a $1,000 shopping spree at the new store.

The event also will feature custom vehicle displays, a live DJ, games and activities, and catering by TGI Fridays and Monster Energy Drinks.

Both new stores are reconstructions of existing commercial properties. Both stores open with nine employees, which is the average for new stores, the company said.