Sweden’s automotive aftermarket is seeing a wave of modernization as established businesses adapt to evolving consumer needs and technological advancements. This report focuses on Magnussons Däckservice, a family-owned tire retailer and service provider in Vimmerby and Mariannelund, as it navigates this changing landscape under the leadership of new owner Kevin.Founded in 1936, the company is balancing tradition with necessary investments in digitalization and infrastructure to meet growing demand – including a booming tire storage business – and prepare for the increasing prevalence of electric vehicles.
Magnussons Däckservice, a Swedish tire service and retailer, is undergoing a modernization push under the leadership of its new owner, Kevin, who recently returned to the family business. The company, with roots dating back to 1936, operates two locations in Vimmerby and Mariannelund and generates approximately 20 million Swedish krona (roughly $1.85 million USD) in annual revenue.
Kevin’s return to the helm followed a five-year period working outside the tire industry, a deliberate move to broaden his experience. “It wasn’t a given that I would take over,” he said. “I wanted to test other things so as not to close any doors, and I worked in industry for a couple of years. At the same time, my father always had a desire for me to continue running the company – even if he didn’t want to say it outright – and of course, I also feel a strong sentimental value.”
Magnussons Däckservice caters to a diverse clientele, ranging from individual vehicle owners to large commercial operations, including Postnord and the Vimmerby municipality. Services span the spectrum from repairing stroller wheels to servicing tires on 40-ton trucks, tractors, and forestry machinery.
A key growth area for the company is its tire hotel in Vimmerby, currently storing tire sets for 1,200 vehicles. The facility requires expansion by 30-50 spaces each season to meet demand. The increasing popularity of tire storage services reflects a broader trend in the automotive aftermarket towards convenience and seasonal tire management.
The automotive industry’s shift towards electric vehicles (EVs) is presenting both challenges and opportunities for the company. “The tires are heavier and the lifting process itself becomes a greater risk. If you make a mistake, the entire battery pack can be damaged,” Kevin explained. “We are working hard to adapt, for example, we have invested in tire lifts and other aids to reduce the risk of damage. But there are still heavy tasks involved.”
Magnussons Däckservice’s membership in Däckpartner, a larger tire retail group, is considered crucial for maintaining competitiveness. “Today, you almost need to be part of a chain to succeed,” Kevin stated. “Däckpartner is good because you retain your freedom while getting better purchasing prices and access to a wide range of products. We sell most premium tires, but also cheaper alternatives that have improved significantly – especially summer tires.”
Looking ahead, Kevin aims to modernize internal systems through digitalization and improve overall efficiency. He also envisions potential expansion, with a focus on strengthening the company’s capabilities in handling heavy-duty vehicles. “It feels good to be able to put my stamp on the company, but it’s also reassuring to take over something that already works well. We have a good reputation and if we stick to delivering high quality and making customers happy, the future looks bright,” he said.
Founded in Mariannelund in 1936 and expanding to Vimmerby in 1994, the company currently employs three people year-round, supplemented by seasonal staff during peak periods.
Fakta/Magnussons Däckservice
Anläggningar: Vimmerby and Mariannelund.
Erbjuder: Däckservice and storage for all vehicles.
Grundades: 1936 in Mariannelund and 1994 in Vimmerby
Antal anställda: Three year-round and extra personnel during peak seasons.
Omsättning: Total for Vimmerby and Mariannelund approximately 20 million kronor.
Det här reportaget finns också att läsa i Däcksnack nummer 5 2025.
