After 16 years, the business had outgrown its space at 649 River St. and the ideal spot for the new shop turned out to be right next door at 631 River St.
The move made it possible for McCall to expand the service area from six to 11 bays, increase the inventory stock to more than 16,000 tires and make the promise to customers who came in for tires that they’d get in and out quickly.
But tires are only part of the story.
"We’re full-service. We do everything from tires and inspections to engine diagnostics and air-conditioning," he said Thursday at the store’s grand re-opening celebration. "Right now we’re running winterizing and tune-up specials."
The store stocks more than 400 different sizes and types of tires, including those found on boat trailers and RVs. And McCall has made it his goal to carry all of the name brands such as Bridgestone, Firestone, Michelin, BFGoodrich, Uniroyal, Continental, Goodyear, General, Dunlap and others.
"Pretty much we carry everything and are able to offer any brand with our volume," he said.
Add to that a price guarantee on tires and installation that matches any competitor’s price and it’s easy to see why McCall has been so successful.
"We guarantee the lowest installed tire prices in town or your tires are free!" McCall said.
McCall, 57, started Tire Warehouse in 1982 in his hometown of Colonie. He had earned a business degree in college but automobiles had always been his passion.
"I used to tinker with them. It was sort of a hobby in my youth. After college I knew I wanted my own business and this just sort of came to me," he said.
The Colonie store started small and boasted an inventory of just 30 tires. McCall currently has stores in Colonie, Troy and Halfmoon/Clifton Park and Queensbury.
Along with carrying an inventory that appeals to just about every driver, the focus has always been on exceptional customer service, said Bill Stevens, manager of the Troy store since 1999.
"Our customers are very important to us. We go out of our way to service their every need," Stevens said.
Mechanics at Tire Warehouse hold Automotive Service Excellence certification. The store is a Napa Autocare Center, making it eligible to offer that company’s nationwide warrantees. (Tire Review/Akron)
