The Situation
Tire Discounter Group was experiencing rapid growth across multiple markets and identified Barrie as a key launch point for its Northern Ontario distribution strategy. Only two years after acquiring a facility that was three times the size of their previous space, the business had already found its time to grow again. Existing industrial buildings in the market did not offer the ceiling height required to store inventory efficiently, creating a challenge that could not be solved by simply leasing more square footage.
The Approach
Recognizing that the problem was not footprint but functionality, Tire Discounter Group engaged the Maven team’s services to explore alternative solutions. Rather than limiting the search to existing buildings, the Maven team recommended evaluating land opportunities that would allow for not only a purpose-built facility but to take advantage of the market looking for space with high ceilings . This focus shift excited the client because the idea of building extra square footage than what they needed could provide not only wealth building, but future relief should they keep up their fast growing trend of outgrowing their space!
The Strategy
The Maven team conducted a comprehensive site selection process, reviewing zoning permissions, lot size, labour availability, transit access, geotechnical conditions, and regional distribution routes. Each factor was assessed to ensure the location could support a taller building and efficiently serve Northern Ontario. The Maven team also worked closely with appraisers to provide market data and valuation support, helping the client justify the project’s value for financing purposes.
The Execution and Results
A 4 acre site in Barrie’s south east quadrant emerged as the strongest location based on logistics, workforce access, and transportation routes. It was double the size originally envisioned, giving Tire Discounter Group the confidence to proceed with an 80,000 square foot build. The company initially occupied 30,000 square feet, while leasing out the remaining space to multiple tenants. This approach created stable income, reduced risk, and preserved future expansion potential within the same facility.
What began as a space constraint evolved into a major leap forward just by thinking through a much longer-term growth solution. Through careful site selection, detailed analysis, and forward-thinking planning, the Maven team helped Tire Discounter Group secure a future-proof distribution hub.
