Billings' MasterLube founder sells company to Grease Monkey franchisee

Longtime owner will remain involved during transition period

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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The founder of Billings-based MasterLube, a local auto repair and oil change chain, has sold the company to a Grease Monkey franchisee. MasterLube was founded in 1981 by Simmons, who will remain actively involved with the business during the transition to new ownership.

Why it matters

The sale of a long-standing local business to a larger national franchise highlights the changing landscape of the auto repair industry, as smaller independent shops face increasing competition from larger chains. However, the founder's continued involvement suggests an effort to maintain the company's local identity and community ties.

The details

MasterLube was founded in Billings, Montana in 1981 by Simmons. After 45 years of operating the local auto repair and oil change business, Simmons has sold the company to a franchisee of the national Grease Monkey chain. Simmons will remain actively involved with MasterLube during the transition to new ownership.

  • MasterLube was founded on February 16, 1981.
  • The sale of MasterLube to the Grease Monkey franchisee was announced on February 9, 2026.

The players

Simmons

The founder of MasterLube, who opened the first location in Billings in 1981 and has now sold the company to a Grease Monkey franchisee.

Grease Monkey

A national auto repair and oil change franchise that has acquired MasterLube, a long-standing local business in Billings, Montana.

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The takeaway

The sale of MasterLube to a Grease Monkey franchisee reflects the ongoing consolidation in the auto repair industry, as smaller independent shops face increasing competition from larger national chains. However, the founder's continued involvement suggests an effort to maintain MasterLube's local identity and community ties during the transition.