It took a winding path over the years, but East Hanover, N.J.-based Gogel Tire is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. 
Gogel Tire was founded by Phil Gogel, a disabled Korean War veteran, who started his business life in the late 1950s in his kitchen and garage in Whippany, N.J. It was from there that he stocked, sold and delivered parts to local repair shops and gas stations.
Tired of the wagon peddler life, Gogel bought his first location in 1962 – Phil’s Chevron – in Whippany, purchasing the facility “on a handshake.” He quickly discovered the benefits of selling tires, and became a major BFGoodrich brand retailer.
His two sons, Stewart and Howard, are very active in the business and have been since they were youngsters. At the gas station they helped pump gas, repaired tires and cars, and did all types of odd jobs. Stewart and Howard are now partners, and own and run Gogel Enterprises, which includes Gogel Tire, Gogel Rent-a-Car, Gogel Used Car Department, and My Limo.
Phil bought Gogel Tire’s current East Hanover location in 1976, which includes a 24,000-square-foot warehouse. Gogel Tire stocks all major brand tires – selling roughly 50,000 tires per year – and performs all types of services including brakes, oil changes, alignments, scheduled maintenance, air conditioning repair and much more.
Sharing its 50th anniversary for customers and employees alike, Gogel Tire held a barbecue in its parking lot, and hosted both the Michelin Man and New York Red Bulls goalie Ryan Meiran. The dealer gave away several sets of tires as well as gift cards and other merchandise.
