NORWICH – This year marks a milestone for the Norwich Tire Company – 50 years in business. And with a project in the works that would expand their product offerings and give them more service space, the company hopes to stick around for 50 more.

Norwich Tire recently was granted an economic development loan from the City of Norwich. Office Manager Vince Anthony explained the loan will be used to help the company to expand. “We’re transforming one of our existing buildings into an outdoor power equipment center,” said Anthony. “It will be used for sales and service of our complete line of products.”

Norwich Tire’s outdoor power equipment center will carry Stihl Equipment, Toro Mowers and Tractors and a line of Ferris Equipment.

The reason for the expansion is two fold, Anthony explained. He said when Norwich Tire first opened in 1958, they carried a lot more than just tires, including a full line of outdoor equipment, bicycles, appliances and anything else people might need. “As the times changed, product lines began to drop off,” Anthony said. While the company has continued to offer some outdoor equipment over the years, they are hoping to supply more offerings in the new outdoor service center.