Local business expands into old Burton auto dealership
BURTON, Mich. (WJRT) – From labor shortages, supply chain issues, and inflation – it has been a tough year for many small business.
But there are signs that some mid-Michigan companies are seeing a come-back.
A former Saab dealership on Center Rd. in Burton has a new occupant.
The owner of Timothy’s Tractors explained toABC12 News that he’s been eyeing the old auto store for several years.
“I was shopping around for a building in the area. I wanted to stay local to the community. Stay in the area that’s fed me well,” said Tim Wagner, owner of Timothy’s Tractors.
While there will be no vehicles in the showroom – there will be other types of machinery.
“So, our new store front here allows for us to have more display inside of new equipment. We’ve got more room for sales area. We’ve got a better parts department,” added Wagner.
The demand for both new and used lawn mowers as well as snow-blowers has grown.
And that demand has spilled over into the repair and parts side of the business – which is why Wagner wanted more room.
Space has doubled – which will allow for more home and lawn care inventory and more items on the commercial side.
One bottleneck – getting new equipment in as well as parts due to supply chain issues.
Despite these challenges – Wagner is pushing forward.
“We’re going to be taking all the old Saab signs down. There’s going to be no more cars here. It’s going to be all mowers. We’ve got new flooring in the books for here. And we also have, obviously new signage in the plans. We’re going to re-up, re-do the parking lot,” Wagner said.
As expansion plans continue – the goal is to hire another sales person and several technicians later this year.