Carquest celebrates grand opening in Medina

Photos by Ginny Kropf: The grand opening of Carquest in Medina was celebrated with a ribbon cutting Friday morning. From left are Dave Gagne, president of Orleans County Chamber of Commerce; Jay Bridges, independent sales director for Carquest in Michigan; Arnold Huth, counter man; store owner Joe Kauffman of Middleport with daughter Emma, 8;  Larry Schlossin, account executive for Carquest in Buffalo; Assemblyman Steve Hawley; John Belson, driver; and Darlene Hartway, director of Orleans County Chamber of Commerce.

MEDINA – Opening his own store has become a reality for Joseph Kauffman of Middleport, who celebrated the grand opening of Carquest on Friday morning.

Kauffman had been working as parts man for Orleans Ford, but always wanted to be in business for himself. When the old Carquest moved out of Medina, he saw an opportunity.

Joe Kauffman (right), owner of a new Carquest store in Medina, is congratulated by Assemblyman Steve Hawley on the new store in Medina.

He contacted Larry Schlossin, account executive for Carquest in Buffalo, and soon plans were in the works for a new store in Medina. He opened the doors March 13, but waited for the official ribbon cutting until all his signs and inventory were in place. The new store is located at 11270 Maple Ridge Rd., between Rent-A-Center and Valu.

Friday morning, Kauffman was joined by staff and Carquest personnel to cut the ribbon at his new business. Among the guests was Assemblyman Steve Hawley, who presented Kauffman with a proclamation congratulating him on his new venture.

“We are here to support him,” Schlossin said.

Kauffman is joined by counter man, Arnold Huth and two drivers, John Belson and Kenneth Flickner.

Kauffman’s dad, Kurt Kauffman said he expects to lend a hand part time after he retires from Mullane Motors, where he has been a mechanic for more than 40 years.

Carquest is a full-fledged parts store, serving the automotive industry – from heavy duty truck parts and cleaning supplies to hydraulic hoses, tools and shop equipment.

Hours are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.

For information, their phone number is (585) 318-4528.