The Tire Alliance Groupe (TAG) recently hosted its Member/Vendor Spring Meeting in New Orleans and commemorated its 20th year in business.
“Each year is a challenge as we continue to grow. There are different requirements in terms of member needs, vendor programs, and commitments on both sides. And as the industry has really been flat as it relates to retail sales, we have been fortunate to have the member dedication to continue to grow with our preferred vendors,” said Paul Alves, president of the Tire Alliance Groupe.
During the meeting, Alves also announced TAG had record revenue results for 2015, the fifth year in a row the group had substantial revenue growth and paid out record dividends to its members.
The company distributed more than $12 million in rebates and bonuses to its dealers for 2015.
“We have worked hard to have the right vendors and programs that not only are very strong partners but deliver high value in terms of buying opportunities and support. We have been able to structure these programs where we are maximizing bonus’ with the group’s volume leverage and buying power,” Alves adds.
Alves attributed the group’s success to its members, and the enhancement of the group’s existing preferred vendor programs and the addition of new supplier programs.
In 2015, TAG added two new strategic members, increasing the group’s total number of members to 16 and retail outlets to more than 2,500 stores.
Mavis Tire Supply in Millwood, N.Y., joined through its acquisition of Somerset Tire Service, adding an additional 163 retail locations to the membership store count in the New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania area, TAG said.
Express Oil Company/Tire Engineers in Birmingham, Ala., also joined TAG. The company operates 257 retail locations throughout the southeast region.
Alves added that TAG continues to look at expansion opportunities in markets where strategic additions make sense for business and relationships.
TAG will also celebrate its 20th anniversary at its fall member and vendor meeting in New York City.