Colin shared the news that the Coker Group (makers of vintage tires) has been sold to the Wade Kawasaki/Capital Investment group partnership. Coker has been run by Wade Kawasaki for last five years. Under him, the company has seen five years of consecutive growth, so I’d expect to see the company continue in its current form.
- https://www.timesfreepress.com/news/breakingnews/story/2018/nov/15/coker-family-sells-tire-business/483105/
- https://newschannel9.com/news/local/chattanooga-based-coker-group-sold-to-wade-kawasakicapital-investment-group-partnership
- https://www.hemmings.com/blog/2018/11/20/coker-group-sold-to-ceo-wade-kawasaki-and-company-management-team/
I have seen comments from others on hot rod and vintage car forums expressing some concern about the future direction of Coker tire. Surely was a great supplier over the years. Just hope that the private equity buyout with Kawasaki doesn’t diminish the great reputation, product quality, product scope and service.
I agree with you Allan , Coker tire has been the go to tire place for vintage tires for all type of vehicles for years . I hadn’t heard that Kawasaki was running the show for five years , hopefully they will continue doing the nice job that Cokey started . I am surprised that Cokey son-in-law isn’t taking the business over .
2017 Dave T……….I saw comments elsewhere that Corky Coker was keeping the Honest Charley Speed Shop business and that might be where the son-in-law is involved. Sat on a wooden bench in the pork sandwich pavilion at the AMCA Antique Motorcycle event in Davenport Iowa in 2017…..had a cool drink…..great barbecue pork sandwich…… and chit chat with Coker
I just learned this also. Corkys younger brother owns Wheel Vintiques, which was part of the deal.
Coker group was apparently formed shortly BEFORE Corky’s dad Harold died due to complications from a fall at SEMA the year Wade took over as President of Coker Group and and President of SEMA.
There are several changes brewing in the vintage parts market.