Magnum Automotive celebrates 50th anniversary

Having a successful business for 50 years is something to celebrate. Magnum Automotive did just that with a 50th anniversary celebration on Monday at its 302 S. Second Ave. E. location.

“We want to thank the community for supporting us over the years. Their loyalty is what’s kept us going,” owner Ryan Riggs said. “We’re trying to give back to all of those people who have supported us.”

Magnum Automotive was founded in 1968 under a different name, Jasper County Tire, by John Sandholm and his son Paul. The business first opened at the current Cappy’s location.

In 1982, the shop’s name changed to Magnum Muffler and was relocated across the street to the its current warehouse. Just shy of two decades later, Magnum made another change to get to where it is now.

“In 2000, we moved to our current location and took on all makes, all models, all services, we do everything instead of just mufflers,” Riggs said. “We started with exhaust and morphed into everything.”

After the retirement of Paul Sandholm in January, Riggs took over the business to lead it into the next 50 years.

“I had been doing it for almost 50 years full time and it was time,” Sandholm said. “Ryan is a good, hard worker and a smart guy, and it was a good opportunity for him and for me, and I thought ‘here is a guy that can keep it going and keep serving the community.’”

Magnum currently has eight full-time employees who average nearly 18 years of experience. Riggs said there are three ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certified technicians on staff making it the only AAA-Approved auto repair facility in the county.

To celebrate five decades in Newton, Magnum threw a party inviting customers to come to and help enjoy the milestone. The day had special deals, food, vendors and the FVP Sprint Car on display. Those in attendance also had the opportunity to win one of several prizes, including a brand new set of tires.

“We had about $3,000 worth of merchandise to give away,” Riggs said.

Following the lunch cookout, a special social hour event with drinks and snacks took place in the evening.

“The community has supported us and we have tried to do what we can to support the community and everything is good,” Sandholm said.

Contact Jamee A. Pierson at
641-792-3121 ext. 6534 or
jpierson@newtondailynews.com