Mike Burns is the Sales Director at Independent Tire Dealers Group, a company that supports independent tire dealers across the US by providing competitive buying power and networking opportunities. Under Mike's leadership, ITDG has achieved a 40% increase in locations over the past four years, expanding to 1,174 points of sale. Originally from New Jersey, Mike's career in the tire industry began at a Pep Boys store. He now resides in Houston, Texas with his wife and four daughters.

In this episode…

In an industry where competition is fierce, how does one independent tire dealer stand out and thrive? What strategies can turn a set of challenges into stepping stones for growth? Is there a way to leverage collective experience and resources while maintaining one's independence?

Mike Burns, the Sales Director for the Independent Tire Dealer Group, offers insights into these questions by sharing his own journey from dishwashing at Boston Market to a leadership role in the tire industry. Through his career progression — from working at Pep Boys and Bridgestone Firestone to eventually joining ITDG — Mike underlines the importance of real-world experience, networking, and continuous learning. He emphasizes how ITDG helps independent dealers by providing a platform for growth, offering competitive programs, and fostering a network of like-minded professionals to share knowledge and support. The discussion also delves into the importance of balancing professional demands with personal growth, highlighting how skills learned in retail environments can translate to executive management.

On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge talks to Mike Burns about empowering independent tire dealers. They discuss ITDG's growth strategy, the significance of next-gen initiatives, and how Mike advises and supports ITDG members. The conversation paints a vivid picture of the tire industry, emphasizing the importance of relationships, adaptability, and strategic growth. With anecdotes from his personal and professional life, Mike highlights the value of community and collaboration in a competitive market.

Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: 

• [01:34] Meet Mike Burns: a voice made for radio
• [04:21] Mike’s unlikely journey from New Jersey to Texas
• [05:57] How Bridgestone shaped Mike’s future
• [17:05] Preparing future leaders in the tire industry
• [19:26] ITDG membership: listening and offering the right solutions
• [29:06] Mike’s golden rule for success: treating people right

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Mike Burns on LinkedIn
• Independent Tire Dealers Group
• Pep Boys 
• Robert Everett on LinkedIn
• Bridgestone Americas 
• Mike Edge on LinkedIn
• Tread Partners

Quotable Moments: 

• "You learn how to manage people. You learn how to manage your expenses. You learn how to handle customers."
• "Our mission is about enabling them to make the best possible decisions for their business."
• "Buy like you have 1,100 stores. We're like an equalizer."
• "Our story for as long as ITDG has been around is really one of growth."
• "Treat people the way that you would want to be treated, because it all comes back to you in the end."

Action Steps: 

1. Build strong industry relationships: Networking with peers and industry leaders can provide valuable insights and opportunities for growth.
2. Seek continuous education and training: Pursuing further education, such as a MBA, or engaging in industry-specific training programs can enhance leadership and business management skills.
3. Utilize technology for efficiency: Implementing technology and digital tools can streamline operations and improve customer service.
4. Embrace a customer-centric approach: Focusing on customer satisfaction and service quality can lead to business success.
5. Engage in next-generation leadership programs: Preparing the next generation to take on leadership roles ensures the continuity and success of the business.

Sponsor for this episode...

This episode is brought to you by Tread Partners. 

At Tread Partners, we provide digital marketing for multi-location tire dealers and auto repair shops. 

By using our strategy, branding, and marketing services, we help shops sell more tires and put more cars in bays.

We’ve helped companies like Action Gator Tire, Colony Tire and Service, and Ulmer’s Auto Care Center bring extreme growth in paid leads, ROI, and searches. 

So, what are you waiting for?

Visit www.treadpartners.com or email [email protected] to learn more.