Is Inflation Reshaping the Tire Industry in 2025?

Mike Griffin is the Sales Manager at Dunlap & Kyle Tire Company in Birmingham, Alabama, that’s been serving the Southeast for decades. With years of experience behind the counter and in the field, Mike has seen firsthand how shifting markets, customer habits, and economic changes affect everyday operations. Known for his grounded leadership and people-first mindset, he brings a refreshing blend of humor, honesty, and insight into every tire business conversation.

In this episode…

Inflation has become more than a headline, it’s an everyday reality for dealers and customers alike. But what does it really look like when you’re the one managing inventory, serving customers, and trying to stay profitable?

In this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge sits down with longtime friend and industry veteran Mike Griffin to discuss what’s really happening behind the counter as inflation in the tire industry continues to reshape the way dealers do business in 2025. Their conversation is equal parts candid and relatable, covering how higher costs, cautious customers, and unpredictable supply have forced shop owners to adapt and think differently.

Mike shares how many dealers are leaning more heavily on service work to offset slower tire sales, finding creative ways to stay competitive while maintaining quality and trust. Beyond the business side, he also dives into mindset, discussing the importance of staying intentional, leading with empathy, and keeping perspective when things get tough. It’s a reminder that success isn’t just about numbers but about how you show up for your people and community.

If you’ve ever wondered how shop owners are coping with inflation in the tire industry in 2025, this episode gives you a clear look at the realities, the resilience, and the real humor that keep this industry moving forward.

Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:

[00:42] Mike Griffin’s background and his role at Dunlap & Kyle Tire Company

[05:48] Tariffs, pricing shifts, and market uncertainty in Alabama

[06:53] Why tier three and four tires are gaining more traction

[07:38] How domestic manufacturers are finding opportunity amid tariffs

[11:41] A local favorite: Mike’s go-to restaurant in Birmingham

[17:34] Favorite sports movies and what The Natural teaches about life

[18:24] The much-debated sequel to Happy Gilmore

[25:02] Mike’s personal mantras and lessons for leading with empathy

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Mike Griffin LinkedIn
• D&K Tire Company LinkedIn
• D&K Tire Company Facebook
• Tread Partners
• Gain Traction Podcast on YouTube
• Gain Traction Podcast Website
• Mike Edge on LinkedIn

Quotable Moments:

• “Treat everybody you meet like they’re hurting, because you won’t miss by much.” – Dr. Kevin Elko, shared by Mike Griffin
• “Even when tire sales are flat, service keeps the doors open.”
• “You can’t always control the economy, but you can control your attitude.”

Action Steps:

1. Keep a close eye on how inflation in the tire industry 2025 is influencing customer behavior and pricing strategy.
2. Focus on growing service work and value-based offerings to offset softer tire sales.
3. Lead with empathy: your people and customers feel economic pressure too.
4. Find ways to keep humor and perspective alive, even when times get tough.