04/02/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 04/02/2026 07:39
DALLAS - April 2, 2026 - CenterOak Partners LLC ("CenterOak"), a Dallas-based private equity firm, today announced that it has completed a majority recapitalization of Grismer Tire & Auto Service ("Grismer" or the "Company"), a leading operator of tire and automotive service centers. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Headquartered in Dayton, Ohio, Grismer operates 28 locations across the Dayton, Columbus, and Cincinnati metropolitan areas. Founded more than 90 years ago, the Company has built a strong regional brand based on high-quality service, trusted customer relationships, and competitive pricing. Grismer provides a full suite of mechanical repair and preventative maintenance services.
"The automotive service sector continues to benefit from strong tailwinds, including an aging vehicle fleet and increasing repair and maintenance complexity," said Jason Sutherland, Managing Partner of CenterOak. "Grismer aligns with our focus on investing in essential, non-discretionary service businesses supported by recurring customer demand. This investment represents our fourth automotive service platform, and we look forward to applying our experience to support Grismer's continued growth."
"Grismer is a highly regarded operator with a long-standing reputation for quality service and a loyal customer base," said Eric Holter, Managing Director of CenterOak. "Grismer has built a strong regional brand, growing through new unit openings and addressing a broader range of customer needs. We see a compelling opportunity to accelerate the Company's growth rate in existing and new markets."
"We are proud of what Grismer has accomplished as a second-generation, family-owned business over its more than 90-year history and believe CenterOak is the right partner to build on our legacy," said former majority owner John Marshall. "Their sector experience, along with the integrity and thoughtfulness they demonstrated throughout our discussions, gives us great confidence in their ability to guide the Company through its next stage and deliver exceptional service to customers."
CenterOak brings significant experience in the automotive service sector, having previously invested in CollisionRight, FullSpeed Automotive, and TruRoad. CenterOak Operating Partner Bob Rosenfield, former CEO of TruRoad, will be joining the Grismer Board of Directors.
About Grismer Tire & Auto Service Based in Dayton, Ohio, Grismer Tire & Auto Service is a leading independent operator of tire and automotive service centers. The Company offers mechanical and electrical repair, preventative and scheduled maintenance, and tire replacement services across a broad range of vehicle types, including electric and hybrid vehicles. Grismer has built a strong reputation for high-quality service, trusted customer relationships, and competitive pricing over its more than 90-year operating history. For additional information, please visit https://www.grismertire.com
About CenterOak Partners LLC CenterOak Partners LLC is a Dallas, Texas based private equity firm managing $2.5 billion of equity capital commitments with a focus on making control-oriented investments in middle market companies. The Firm invests in Business Services, Industrial Services and Consumer Services. CenterOak has a history of creating significant value through organizational development, operational improvements, and transformational growth. For additional information, please visit https://www.centeroakpartners.com