Why This Matters to Distributors: The acquisition creates one of the nation’s largest independent tire distribution and automotive service companies, expanding Big Brand’s Midwest presence and adding scale in purchasing, operations and technology as consolidation accelerates across the automotive aftermarket.
Big Brand Tire & Service has agreed to acquire Belle Tire, combining two of the nation’s largest independent tire distributors and automotive service companies with more than $1.5 billion in annual revenue.
The companies announced the definitive agreement Thursday. Financial terms were not disclosed. The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter, subject to customary closing conditions.
The acquisition significantly expands Big Brand’s presence in the Midwest through Belle Tire’s operations in Michigan, Ohio, Indiana and Illinois. Founded in 1922, Belle Tire has built one of the region’s largest independent tire distribution and automotive service networks.
The deal continues a broader consolidation trend in the automotive aftermarket, where private equity-backed companies are using acquisitions to expand geographic reach and operating scale.
Big Brand, headquartered in Moorpark, California, has pursued an aggressive acquisition strategy since partnering with private equity firm Percheron Capital in 2021. The company said the Belle Tire acquisition will increase annual revenue to more than $1.5 billion, creating one of the country’s largest independent tire and automotive service platforms.
Joe Buscaglia, Big Brand’s chief executive officer, said Belle Tire’s strong regional presence and long-standing customer relationships make it a strategic fit for the company’s national growth strategy.
Belle Tire President Don Barnes III said the combined company will have greater resources to invest in employees, operations and customer service while maintaining Belle Tire’s culture.
Big Brand also said it will continue expanding its proprietary EDGE Intelligence platform, an artificial intelligence-based operating system designed to support frontline employees, streamline operations and improve customer service.
Evercore served as financial adviser to Big Brand. Jefferies advised Belle Tire.
The transaction underscores continued merger activity in the automotive distribution sector as larger operators seek greater purchasing power, broader geographic coverage and increased investment in technology to compete in an increasingly consolidated market.
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