One of the largest auto service companies in the United States, Monro Inc., is closing 145 stores nationwide after experiencing a steep decline in annual sales. In its fiscal 2025 report, Monro posted a 4.9% decline in sales, which translates to a
$5.2 million loss. The company’s new CEO and president, Peter Fitzsimmons, stated that the closures were included in a broader plan to improve operations and profit-generating performance.
Fitzsimmons takes the helm
Fitzsimmons, who became CEO on March 31, replaced Michael Broderick. He had formerly been a partner and managing director at the worldwide consulting firm AlixPartners. Fitzsimmons told the earnings call that the closure of “underperforming stores” is among several key initiatives in Monro’s transformation strategy to halt declining profits.
“We are focused on improving our customer experience, selling effectiveness, and merchandising productivity,” Fitzsimmons said in a May 28 news release. “Though the plan will take time, we’re committed to boosting profitability and shareholder value in fiscal 2026.”
Headquarters sale and financial setbacks
Monro, based in Fairport, New York, also announced last year it would sell its Rochester headquarters. Financially, the troubles at the company are deep: total sales declined 6.4% to $1.195 billion in fiscal 2025 from $1.277 billion in fiscal 2024. More starkly, the company recorded a net loss of $5.2 million, a dramatic reversal from the $37.6 million in net income it recorded the previous year.
Which stores are closing?
Monro confirmed that 145 stores will be closed, although the company has not yet released a full list of affected stores. A spokesperson stated in a release to USA TODAY that they are “not releasing the full list of stores slated for closure at this time.”
Monro operates over 1,300 stores nationwide today, comprising more than 1,200 company-owned and 48 franchisee-owned stores. The closures will affect a wide range of stores under the Monro brand family.
Monro’s brands and coverage
The retailer’s portfolio spans several well-known auto service brands, such as:
- Monro Auto Service and Tire Centers
- Mr. Tire Auto Service Centers
- Tire Choice Auto Service Centers
- Car-X Tire and Auto
- Tire Barn Warehouse
- Tire Warehouse
- Ken Towery’s Tire & Auto Care
- Allen Tire Company
- Monro Commercial Solutions
- Free Service Tire Company, Inc.
- Mountain View Tire & Auto Service
- Skip’s Tire
- Lloyd’s Tire
- Calabasas Car Care
- Bud’s Tires
A brief history: From Midas to Monroe
Monro’s origins trace to 1957, when founder Chuck August opened a Midas Muffler shop. After a falling out over the services offered, he parted ways with the franchiser. He renamed his stores “Monroe” as a tribute to the original sign. But when the letters wouldn’t all fit, the “e” was lost—hence the Monro name.
Now that the business is moving into the next stage, some loyal customers and communities are now bracing for the impact of these store closures.
