ASTORIA, N.Y. — Max Finkelstein Inc. is adding Falken- and Ohtsu-brand passenger and light truck tires to the product it distributes throughout the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast U.S.
Both brands will complement the Astoria-based wholesaler's product screen, according to Sean Franciscus, director of supply chain for Max Finkelstein, who also said this addition "will result in greater market penetration for all of our brands."
Max Finkelstein described the deal as a partnership with Falken Tire Corp., a unit of Sumitomo Rubber North America Inc.
Overall, Max Finkelstein services customers in 13 states stretching from Virginia to Maine. The company's 14 distribution centers total 1.4 million square feet of tire storage and are serviced by 180 delivery trucks, the company said.
The company is planning to open a 15th D/C in Colonial Heights, Va., according to information on its website.
Known traditionally as a Goodyear-focused distributor, Finkelstein also handles Goodyear's Dunlop and Kelly consumer and commercial brands as well as the Carlisle, Kenda, Kumho and Pirelli brands and a wide range of private label consumer, commercial, OTR, and specialty products.
The company, which will mark its centennial in 2019, also is a distributor for the Goodyear G3X, Pirelli FasTrack, Kumho Premium Fuel and Kenda Traction Associate Dealer programs.
Falken Tire said its partnership with Max Finkelstein does not replace any existing distribution arrangements. Instead it complements those existing distribution deals.