Ed, the owner of Pete’s Tires, reflects on the remarkable journey of the family business spanning over seven decades. The tale begins in 1951 when Ed’s father leased the building from Standard Oil, laying the foundation for a venture that would become an enduring legacy.
Ed joined the business in 1977 after graduating from college. He became a vital part of the establishment and kept it going even after his father’s untimely heart attack just a few months after Ed started working with him. Navigating through personal challenges such as the loss of both parents shortly after moving back. Ed worked diligently to expand the business, officially acquiring the building and adding a new space that facilitated growth.
Honesty, Consistency, and Fair Pricing: The Pillars of Pete’s Tires
Pete’s Tires, at its core, specializes in selling gasoline and tires, distinguishing itself by offering premium and mid-grade tires. Ed attributes the success of the business to principles of honesty, consistency, and fair pricing. He underscores the value of being truthful with customers, recounting instances where honesty prevailed over unnecessary tire replacements.
Ed’s journey as the owner of Pete’s Tires has been marked by both triumphs and challenges. Owning a small business comes with its share of struggles, from the unpredictability of the retail industry to the financial pressures during slow periods. Ed candidly acknowledges the difficulties of sitting in the shop during quiet days, questioning what could be done differently. The weight of financial responsibilities, especially during the early years, added a layer of complexity.
Passing the Torch to the Next Generation
As retirement looms, Ed expresses gratitude for the interest in the building from potential buyers, marking the transition to the next chapter. This shift signifies the passing of the torch to the next generation, underlining the importance of maintaining a vibrant and active downtown community.
“I was driving through another community and saw a vacant building that was of a business similar to mine. It was vacant and locked up and not tended with care. It was a wake up call to me, whatever happens to me I don’t want my building to end up like that. I want to make sure my building remains a part of my community.”
Discipline and Dedication: A Personal Journey to Health and Fitness
Ed’s commitment to the business is evident in his disciplined lifestyle, which includes a daily exercise routine starting at 3:00 a.m. six days a week. Despite facing a few health challenges, including a cardiac arrest, Ed remains steadfast in his dedication to maintaining good health and staying active.
The conversation shifts to Ed’s marathon running, a hobby that became a significant part of his life. He shares the evolution from charity 5K runs to completing full marathons, emphasizing the importance of health and cherishing the second chance life has given him.
Ed’s Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Reflecting on 45 years in business, Ed imparts valuable advice to aspiring entrepreneurs: be honest, persistent, and weather the challenges that come with the unpredictable nature of retail. He acknowledges slow days but underscores the importance of faith and perseverance.
Ed says “you just have to be there when customers choose to buy, and I think that is the hardest part of being in a small business. We’re not busy all the time but we have to be persistent and believe that our services are needed.”
A Grateful Farewell
As Ed prepares for his final days at the shop. Pete’s Tires stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of a small business that weathered challenges, built lasting relationships, and contributed significantly to the vitality of downtown Garden City. Ed’s legacy is not just in the bricks and mortar of the building but in the impact his business has made on the community.
“I appreciate everything that I ever got from my time here. The friendships, to the customers, I just hope that my customers’ needs superseded my financial gain. I hope that their safety and satisfaction in the product that they purchased here were Paramount to mine.”
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