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25 Years of Innovation: A Q&A with Excel Tire Gauge CEO Jay Nelson

Q: Excel has been around for 25 years. How did it all begin?

A: We introduced digital calibration to the U.S. market 25 years ago, forever changing how drivers access and use air service. That breakthrough set the stage for decades of innovation. Since then, we’ve continued refining our software, customizing features, and improving parts that are now industry standards. Today, our revenue share business has expanded to nearly 4,000 locations, and our equipment is installed in more than 50,000 gas stations and convenience stores nationwide.

Q: What impact has Excel had on the industry as a whole?

A: Much of the industry has followed our lead. From digital calibration to the coiled hose, compact vacuum attachments to countless other details – our innovations have become industry benchmarks. While we view imitation as flattery, we also never stop innovating. Our software and communication platforms continue to evolve, giving customers the best tools for reliable service and efficient performance.

Q: Excel was also an early mover in credit card-enabled air machines. Why was that significant?

A: We were pioneers in that space. While the machines themselves generate revenue, the real value lies in the data they collect. That data allows us to service equipment more efficiently, reduce downtime, and optimize operations. Our backroom systems remain unmatched in the industry, giving partners the intelligence needed to continually enhance performance and income.

Q: One of your latest innovations is the Free Air Kiosk. How does it work?

A: Many convenience stores are required to provide free air, but doing so can be inconvenient or costly. Our kiosk makes it simple. Customers walk into the store, receive a four-digit code, and then inflate their tires at their convenience. Unlike older systems where employees had to activate the machine and customers had to rush outside before time expired, our kiosk provides flexibility and ease of use. Just as important, it drives valuable foot traffic into the store—the number one priority for any C-store operator. For those who prefer not to go inside, the option to pay a small fee remains. That balance allows store owners to offset costs while maintaining customer satisfaction.

Q: Beyond convenience stores, how are you serving other markets?

A: A great example is our SC05 Truck Unit, built with a larger compressor for the growing truck stop market. It gives truckers reliable, accurate calibration and provides site owners with a strategic service at a fair price—often lower than competing systems. It’s a win-win solution for both drivers and operators.

Q: What’s next for Excel Tire Gauge?

A: Looking ahead to 2026 and beyond, our future is bright. We’re expanding into new markets with both revenue share and direct service models. Our commitment to the C-store and tire shop industries remains strong, but we’re also ready for opportunities beyond those spaces. Each advancement builds on our foundation of reliability, accuracy, and service—ensuring we continue leading the industry for decades to come.

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