SCHENECTADY, N.Y. — RNR Tire Express franchisees Jeff and Patrina Leland have opened their second RNR outlet in New York, in Schenectady, an expansion that also represents the 200th RNR Tire location.
The new 10,000 sq.-ft. outlet is located in a former mattress store renovated to accommodate the RNR tire and wheel business. The store will employ five.
The husband-and-wife team opened their first RNR location, in Queensbury, N.Y., in January 2021, RNR said, bringing three decades of distribution business experience to the new venture.
Patrina Leland manages the daily operations of the couple's stores, while Jeff Leland supports the business by identifying prime real estate opportunities and securing financing for expansion, RNR said.
Patrina's operational expertise earned her RNR Rookie Manager of the Year honors that initial year, RNR said.
Calling this opening a "major milestone" in the RNR brand's dynamic expansion, RNR said this growth "underscores its commitment to meeting surging consumer demand for its innovative pay-as-you-go tire and wheel model while solidifying its footprint across the U.S."
"We're thrilled to not only celebrate the opening of our second RNR location, but also bring the brand to this incredible milestone," the Lelands said.
"Being part of the RNR family has been an incredible experience, from the support we've received to the opportunity to serve our community with quality tire solutions," they said. "As we continue to grow, we're excited to see where the future takes us and look forward to helping even more customers drive safely and confidently on the road."
RNR CEO Adam Sutton added: "As we celebrate the opening of our 200th location, we recognize that this milestone is a testament not only to our strong business model but also to the unwavering dedication and hard work of our franchisees."
RNR's business model caters to a growing market of underserved consumers — those who lack the disposable income to cover unexpected tire expenses of $1,200 or more.
RNR said it expects expansion to continue throughout the remainder of the year and into 2025, with additional openings scheduled in key markets, including Salisbury, N.C., and Vicksburg, Miss.
Company leadership also is seeking new qualified franchisees in prime territories such as Denver, Nashville, Pennsylvania and the Northeast.