Matos Towing & Recovery is the culmination of decades of hard work, perseverance, and determination by Carmen and Pablo Matos. Born in Brooklyn, NY, Carmen moved to Reading, PA, as a teenager, where she met Pablo in 1995. Pablo, a native of Reading, grew up in a hardworking family and juggled various jobs before venturing into the auto business. Together, they shared a vision of building a successful enterprise, starting small but always aiming high.
In 1998, they opened their first shop in Reading, focusing on minor repairs, inspections, and vehicle sales. Early on, they didn’t even own a tow truck—Pablo would rent dollies to handle towing requests. Overcoming financial struggles and multiple relocations, the couple gradually expanded their services and gained a reputation for reliability and resilience. In 2016, they pivoted from car sales to towing, insurance calls, and private tows, eventually securing the highly sought-after city towing contract.
Securing that contract was no small feat. Pablo sold their buy-here-pay-here accounts to purchase a property large enough for vehicle impoundment, dedicating countless hours to bringing it up to code. Once approved, the hard work began in earnest. Pablo often worked through the night, and the family made significant sacrifices, putting everything they had into growing the business.
By 2020, Pablo had earned his CDL and invested in heavy tow training, enabling them to handle larger recovery jobs independently. Their fleet now includes 38 trucks, serving not just Reading but the entire state of Pennsylvania. Beyond towing, they’ve expanded into roll-off dumpster services and rental property investments, creating a diversified business portfolio.
The couple also prioritized their health after years of nonstop work. Carmen underwent a transformative weight-loss journey, shedding 80 pounds, and Pablo followed suit, losing 140 pounds. They credit their renewed energy to their desire to be there for their five grandchildren, whom they lovingly describe as “little potatoes turning into French fries.”
Today, Matos Towing & Recovery stands as the largest towing company in Reading, offering 24/7 emergency services, roadside assistance, and vehicle recovery. With over 20 years of experience, strong partnerships with local and state police, and a commitment to excellence, Carmen and Pablo Matos have turned their dream into a thriving business that continues to grow.
Rosa J. Parra
Founder & Editor
610-223-7071
