Sun Auto Tire & Service Expands Footprint with Strategic Acquisitions in North Carolina and Arkansas
Sun Auto Tire & Service has announced two strategic acquisitions aimed at strengthening its presence in existing markets, further expanding the company’s footprint and operational capabilities in North Carolina and Arkansas. These latest additions underscore Sun Auto’s ongoing commitment to growing its national network while maintaining the personal, community-focused service that has defined its brand for decades.
The first acquisition brings Jackson Auto Worx, a family-owned business in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, into the Sun Auto Tire & Service network. Founded in 1976 by Lee Jackson, Sr. and Julian Stith, Jackson Auto Worx has provided reliable automotive repair and tire services to the Winston-Salem community for nearly 50 years. The addition of this location solidifies Sun Auto’s position in the Piedmont Triad region, strategically connecting the company’s existing Piedmont Tire Service location in King with multiple Tire Max outlets across the metropolitan area.
This expansion not only increases Sun Auto’s market density in Central North Carolina but also enables operational efficiencies by leveraging a broader network of resources and services. The integration of Jackson Auto Worx into the Sun Auto network ensures that local customers continue to receive high-quality service while benefiting from the scale and capabilities of a national platform. By combining the longstanding reputation of a trusted local repair shop with Sun Auto’s extensive infrastructure, the company is positioned to enhance brand visibility and customer convenience throughout the Greensboro–Winston-Salem corridor.
Lee Jackson, Jr., reflecting on the transition, emphasized the continuity of service for local patrons: “For almost 50 years, Jackson Auto Worx has been part of Winston-Salem. Joining Sun Auto ensures our customers will keep receiving the personal service they value, backed by the resources of a national network. We’re proud of what we’ve built and excited to see the next chapter under Sun Auto’s leadership.” This sentiment underscores the company’s dedication to preserving the community ties and personalized attention that have been central to Jackson Auto Worx’s success.
In parallel with the North Carolina acquisition, Sun Auto has acquired Hindsman & Son Tire and Service, a well-established business located in Russellville, Arkansas. Founded in 1987 by Tommy Hindsman, this family-operated shop has served the Russellville community for nearly four decades. Under the guidance of Sam and Kellie Hindsman, the company earned a reputation as a trusted and reliable service provider in the Arkansas River Valley, becoming a cornerstone of the local automotive service landscape.
The acquisition of Hindsman & Son fills a strategic gap in Sun Auto’s Arkansas operations, connecting existing Plaza Tire Service locations across the northern part of the state. The Russellville facility enhances Sun Auto’s distribution capabilities, increases market visibility, and provides additional operational leverage, allowing the company to deliver seamless service to customers across the state. By integrating Hindsman & Son into the Sun Auto network, the company ensures continuity for loyal customers while also creating new efficiencies and growth opportunities within its Arkansas platform.
Sam and Kellie Hindsman reflected on the decision to join Sun Auto, noting both the challenge and opportunity of this transition: “After nearly four decades of serving the River Valley community, deciding to sell was not easy. But we believe Sun Auto is the right step forward for our family, our employees, and our loyal customers. We are deeply grateful for the trust and support our community has shown us, and we are confident that Sun Auto will continue to deliver the same exceptional service and care our guests expect.” Their statement highlights the shared commitment between local operators and Sun Auto to uphold the values and service standards that customers have come to expect.
Chris Ripani, Chief Operating Officer of Sun Auto Tire & Service, emphasized the strategic rationale behind these acquisitions: “Both acquisitions demonstrate how we continue to execute on our strategy of adding density in key markets where we already have strong brand presence. By building scale in places like the Piedmont Triad and central Arkansas, we increase efficiency, unlock synergies across our network, and preserve the strong community relationships established by these local operators while providing even more value to guests of the Sun Auto Tire & Service Network.”
The acquisitions align with Sun Auto’s broader growth strategy, which combines national reach with local expertise. As one of the country’s largest independent tire retailers, Sun Auto operates more than 500 locations nationwide. The company prides itself on delivering the trusted, personal service of a local shop, supported by the technology, resources, and operational scale of a national provider.
Sun Auto’s network philosophy centers on three core principles: Clarity, Confidence, and Customer Care. Customers benefit from transparent communication, informed guidance, and access to certified technicians who can handle everything from routine maintenance to complex repairs. This customer-first approach ensures that every service interaction leaves guests confident in their decisions and satisfied with their experience.
For local communities, the integration of these family-owned businesses into the Sun Auto network means retaining familiar, trusted service providers while gaining access to broader resources, advanced service technology, and nationwide warranty and support capabilities. The combination of local expertise and national infrastructure enables Sun Auto to deliver a unique value proposition to both long-time customers and new guests, reinforcing the company’s reputation as a reliable, customer-focused automotive service provider.
The acquisition strategy also reflects Sun Auto’s focus on operational efficiency and network optimization. By increasing density in markets where the company already has a strong presence, Sun Auto is able to streamline logistics, improve service delivery, and create economies of scale. This approach allows the company to better manage inventory, enhance technician training and specialization, and provide consistent, high-quality service across its network.
In addition to operational benefits, these acquisitions demonstrate Sun Auto’s commitment to community continuity. By maintaining the legacy of established family businesses, the company ensures that local employees and customers continue to feel a sense of connection and trust. Preserving these relationships is central to Sun Auto’s philosophy of integrating national scale without sacrificing the personal touch that defines neighborhood automotive service.
As Sun Auto continues to expand, the company remains focused on delivering an exceptional guest experience. Whether customers need routine inspections, tire replacements, or major vehicle repairs, Sun Auto emphasizes clear communication, expert guidance, and high-quality workmanship. This combination of reliability, transparency, and customer care has positioned the company as a leading provider in the automotive service sector, trusted by communities nationwide.
The addition of Jackson Auto Worx and Hindsman & Son Tire and Service represents more than just geographic expansion; it exemplifies Sun Auto’s holistic approach to growth, which balances strategic network density, operational efficiency, and community engagement. By integrating long-standing family businesses into its national network, Sun Auto strengthens its ability to provide seamless service while honoring the traditions and relationships that have made these local operators successful.
With these acquisitions, Sun Auto Tire & Service reaffirms its position as a national leader in neighborhood automotive care. By combining local trust with national resources, the company is poised to deliver even greater value to customers in North Carolina, Arkansas, and beyond. As the Sun Auto network continues to grow, its commitment to clarity, confidence, and customer care ensures that every guest can drive with peace of mind, knowing their vehicle is in expert hands.
