Tim Winkeler

VIP Tires & Service has acquired M&M Service Station in Fort Kent, expanding its footprint in New England to 78 locations.

VIP customers in all five New England states with VIP locations also donated to the organization, raising a grand total of $320,000 in 2025.

The acquisition of Lyons Auto in West Hartford is the fourth auto shop in the Constitution state for VIP, which has 77 locations throughout New England; 35 are in Maine.

The newly proposed legislation includes a provision that would allow manufacturers to control how data would be accessible to independent repair shops.

VIP Tires & Service is relocating its Norway shop into a new facility at 44 Alpine St. that’s twice the size of its previous location at 85 Main St.

Relocation really comes down to two factors. The first is the business owner’s plans for the future and their growth objectives. The second is the staff’s ability to work efficiently and effectively to meet those objectives, writes our guest columnist.

Firetone Complete Auto Care is set to open a retail location in mid-August, close to a shop operated by an Auburn-based regional chain whose CEO says he welcomes the competition.

Renovations include installation of an eight-bay service shop, a showroom and tire warehouse.

The new locations allow VIP to better serve customers in Portland and Augusta with improved layouts, more space and state-of-the-art equipment.

A 25% tariff on all U.S. car imports and certain foreign-made parts is set to take effect this week.