The repair shop opened for business in 1948 and remains in business today. The grocery store has undergone several changes of use over the years. The store went from the Sweeney’s to a tenant who ran the store for a few years. It was then converted to a drop store for Cadet Cleaners, a local laundry company from the 1960’s through the early 1990’s. Finally it was used as a jewelry store until 1998.
Sweeney continued to operate the auto repair business well into his ‘80’s. He became a local icon, regaling customers with stories of his time serving as a SeaBee in the Pacific during WWII all while chewing on his signature cigar.
Upon the death of John Sweeney in 1989, control of the business fell to the current owner, Sweeney’s youngest grandson Phil Basinski. After earning a degree in education in 1986, Phil found himself with an opportunity in the repair business.
In the late 1990’s the service area was expanded and the storefront converted to a customer waiting area. We now provide full time employment that helps support four families while maintaining a responsible position in the community.
Sweeney’s supports many local charities including Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, High School clubs and sports, WNY Independent Living, Child and Family Services, Youth Baseball and Ice Hockey, Tonawanda Police, Kenilworth Volunteer Fire.