Bridgestone’s sale of Speedco finalised

US-based truck service and tyre care chain Speedco now has a new owner following the finalisation of its acquisition by Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores. Previously owned by Bridgestone Americas, the Speedco network contains 52 outlets across the USA; its acquisition means the number of Love’s-operated tyre service and lube facilities climbs to more than 320.

Love’s first announced its intent to purchase Speedco on 15 September. Speedco facilities will continue to offer their current selection of products and services, including diesel oil changes, inspections and battery work. In the coming months, Speedco locations will offer the same tyre brands and services available at Love’s Truck Tire Care Centers, including Michelin, Goodyear, Continental, Yokohama, BFGoodrich and Aeolus – at present, Speedo only sells the Bridgestone, Firestone, Dayton and Bandag tyre brands.

“The partnership of Love’s and Speedco combines two top brands in the diesel service industry into one network,” said Tom Love, founder and executive chairman for Love’s Travel Stops & Country Stores. “Love’s and Speedco are committed to providing professional drivers with quality products as efficiently and quickly as possible. As a leader in the oil change industry, Speedco brings an important service to our Customers. We look forward to serving drivers at Speedco locations and growing the business.”

Retreader Bandag Incorporated acquired an 87.5 per cent majority interest in Speedco from its founders and Shell Oil Products US for US$56 million in early 2004, some two years before Bridgestone in turn acquired Bandag. Tyre care was added to the Speedco service portfolio in 2008.