Columbia, S.C. - December 15, 2010 - The Pete Store, one of the largest truck dealers in the United States, has opened its newest location at 1300 Buckner Road in Columbia, South Carolina.

The new location is a full-service dealership providing service, parts, sales, leasing, financing, and insurance services to the Midlands region of South Carolina. This will be the company's second location in the state. The first is located in Greenville.

Garold Goodin, who has worked at the company's Knoxville, Tenn. location for 16 years, will serve as parts manager and Kevin Franklin joins the company as service manager, bringing with him 13 years experience from a local Caterpillar distributor.

"Columbia was a natural choice for us as we continue to expand our footprint in South Carolina and throughout the Eastern United States," said Greg Arscott, General Manager of the company's South Carolina operations.

Arscott says they choose Columbia for its central location, accessibility to Interstates 20 and 26, and the proximity to several existing customers in the area.

"We have been fortunate to partner with some outstanding companies in this market. Our arrival in Columbia is a demonstration of our long term commitment to these customers," Arscott says.

In addition to Columbia, The Pete Store will be opening a dealership in Springfield, Va. in early 2011, and is evaluating several other markets for possible expansion.

"As the transportation industry and the economy begin to show positive signs of recovery, our company is extremely well positioned for growth," said John C. Arscott, president and founder of The Pete Store. "For us, 2011 is about getting back to business, back to growth, and frankly, back to having fun after three very difficult years for our industry. We are excited about what lies ahead."

More info: www.ThePeteStore.com.