By María Camp | maria.camp@franklincountytimes.com
PHOTO BY SHELLEY OZBIRN
Jason Parker, co-owner of Banner Tire in Golden, Miss., works with his son, Chase Parker, and employees Stephen Ashley and B.J. Mink.
Banner Tire keeps community rolling “If you want fast and friendly service, give us a try.” That’s the basic motto of the team at Banner Tire in Golden, Miss. “We like helping people, and we hear lots of folks say they like the way we do things,” explained Jason Parker, manager and co-owner. “We do all types of car and light truck tires, such as 3500’s – rotating, balancing, checking for and xing leaks. We also do lawn mower and ATV tires.” The company also offers services like oil changes on some vehicles. Parker said they change about 175 tires a week, on average. “We have done 65 in a single day,” explained Parker, “but not every day is like that.” “We’re also trying to get a little more into mechanical work, such as break work,” he added. “That’s the kind of thing we’re working toward looking forward.” It’s with a deep-seated concern for the wellbeing of his customers that Parker stays motivated in working to provide the best level care he can. “We try to be courteous and get people in and out so they don’t have to sit around and wait any longer than is necessary." For Parker, the reward comes in providing quality care for his customers, many of whom are friends and neighbors. It’s not just about good business but being part of the community and helping take care of each other while treating everyone right. Banner Tire sees lots of familiar faces, but Parker said they enjoy meeting and helping the new ones, too. “We have a lot of repeat business, and that’s a wonderful re ection of the trust our customers place in us,” he said. “I’ve overheard lots of folks telling other customers they can count on the work being done right when they come to see us.” A native of Fairview, Miss., Parker, along with his brother, Jody Parker, owns the business. They still own the family trailer manufacturing business, as well, where they both worked at rst. Now Jody operates that one, while Jason runs Banner Tire. “Our dad started our other business, GPI Industries,” explained Jason, “and I started working there after I graduated from high school. I eventually decided I wanted to do something else,
and I’ve always loved cars and general automotive work.” That’s what led to buying Banner Tire in July 2013. The original business in that location started around March 1985 with owner, Ricky Mink. It was called Rick’s Tires. When Mink decided to retire, that provided just the opportunity the Parker brothers were interested in pursuing. At Banner Tire, the philosophy is simple. “I tell folks what I would do if it was my vehicle. We don’t try to sell people goods or services they don’t actually need, and that’s how we build and maintain trust. “People know we will treat them right, and lots of folks bring their cars in and tell us to just do whatever needs to be done,” Jason said. “I love it when we can nd ways to help people save money." Parker said a lot of the customers know each other and enjoy talking and visiting in the sitting area while they wait. “There’s a real sense of community, and the friendly atmosphere makes a difference in the experience you get with us. I’m fortunate we have a team that works so well together. You don’t get that everywhere.” His son, Chase Parker, recently started working with him in the store. Other employees include Stephen Ashley and B.J. Mink. “I’ve been here ve years,” explained Ashley, “and my favorite thing about working here is how we all back each other up. There’s a real sense of family.” Mink said he enjoys seeing lots of different folks come through every day, noting it’s rewarding to help people get what they need so they can get where they need to be. “I’ve been here four years. My dad is the one that started this business to begin with, and I worked here some growing up,” he explained. “I’ve been doing this kind of work all my life. It’s nice to be working somewhere that has that kind of history for me.” Located at 8320 Fairview Banner Road in Golden, Miss., Banner Tire is open Tuesday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, call 662676-2177, email bannertire@outlook.com or visit their Facebook page, Banner Tire Store.