Quantcast
Jump to content


Do You Fear Franchise Stores?

Joe Marconi

By Joe Marconi
in Auto Shop Franchises

 Share

Recommended Posts

Water Proof And Self Adhesive
CARMandP Proficient

CARMandP

Posted
Posted

I am in a small town where there isn't enough "business" now to worry about any franchise shops coming into town. I do have several small shops that are my competition but right now I have so much work I can't keep up so I am not really worried about it.

Link to comment
Share on other sites
Chris_NC Rookie

Chris_NC

Posted
Posted

Franchise stores don't really worry me too much. The franchise stores in my area tend to be tire oriented, and I chose to stay away from trying to compete with that market. My biggest worry is the dealers, but they have proven to be my biggest asset so far due to their excellent customer service(sarcasm). We have factory tooling for most of our client base, and the shops within a few miles of me don't mess with European vehicles too often and tend to send their Euro customers to us. I used to worry about what the other shops were charging, but I've decided to just make sure our work stays top notch, and go an extra mile for our customers (customers meaning they actually will pay for our services) and just worry about what we have to have to complete the job properly and profitable. O'reilly's and Carquest have came by to talk to me about tech-net or certified programs, but I've been unsure about going that route. I worry if the customer has had a poor experience somewhere else with those signs being displayed, will they associate us with it? Some customers who have been to quick lubes for their oil services will question our oil change prices being higher, but I just try to explain the affects of using a non-OE approved oil with pics of some engines we have torn down using the improper oil and service interval and assure them that the vehicle will be thoroughly inspected, correct fluids used, and service reminders will be reset, it eases their mind. The business is only a couple of months old, so I'll see how it works. So far so good, I'm just trying to get car count up and see if I can make it continue to work and make the necessary changes as I go.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now
 Share
Go to topic listing

  • Available Subscriptions

    See all Subscription Plans

  • Have you checked out Joe's Latest Blog?

    • Joe Marconi
      The Toolbox is Last to Leave, First is the Heart
      By Joe Marconi in Joe's Blog
         0 comments
      It always amazes me when I hear about a technician who quits one repair shop to go work at another shop for less money. I know you have heard of this too, and you’ve probably asked yourself, “Can this be true? And Why?” The answer rests within the culture of the company. More specifically, the boss, manager, or a toxic work environment literally pushed the technician out the door.
      While money and benefits tend to attract people to a company, it won’t keep them there. When a technician begins to look over the fence for greener grass, that is usually a sign that something is wrong within the workplace. It also means that his or her heart is probably already gone. If the issue is not resolved, no amount of money will keep that technician for the long term. The heart is always the first to leave. The last thing that leaves is the technician’s toolbox.
      Shop owners: Focus more on employee retention than acquisition. This is not to say that you should not be constantly recruiting. You should. What it does means is that once you hire someone, your job isn’t over, that’s when it begins. Get to know your technicians. Build strong relationships. Have frequent one-on-ones. Engage in meaningful conversation. Find what truly motivates your technicians. You may be surprised that while money is a motivator, it’s usually not the prime motivator.
      One last thing; the cost of technician turnover can be financially devastating. It also affects shop morale. Do all you can to create a workplace where technicians feel they are respected, recognized, and know that their work contributes to the overall success of the company. This will lead to improved morale and team spirit. Remember, when you see a technician’s toolbox rolling out of the bay on its way to another shop, the heart was most likely gone long before that.

  • Similar Topics

    • carmcapriotto
      Promotional Products for Auto Repair Shops [E103] - The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast
      By carmcapriotto
      Thank you to our friends at RepairPal for providing you this episode. As shop owners we were part of RepairPal’s Certified network and you can learn more at RepairPal.com/shops.
      Show Notes
      How we met - Chamber + Locally Owned Tangi during Covid Megan’s story - what got her into Promo Products Your automotive dealership background experience Why promo products? Your favorite promo product story? Your top tips for choosing promotional products Why work with a promo product agency rather than going straight to Vistaprint, Imprint, or other online retailers? Let’s talk set-up and other fees. One shop owner asked why do I have to pay setup fee every single time if the file is already there?  Another note/comment from a shop owner: how can they touch/feel/see before buying? Really looking for a company to display at our trade shows. How can we make this process of selecting/buying promo products easy? Any promo product pet peeves you have? Last words….  
      How To Get In Touch
       
      Group - Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind
      Website - shopmarketingpros.com 
      Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros 
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
    • carmcapriotto
      Auto Allies: Forging an Independent Networking Group [THA 382]
      By carmcapriotto
      Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching, and Today's Class The power of unity and shared purpose. Automotive industry professionals from Buffalo, New York, discuss their independent networking group's evolution and impact. They emphasize the importance of continuous learning, support, and the benefits of a collective approach to improving their businesses and the industry. The group's resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic and its commitment to education and community involvement are also highlighted. Paul Henderson, CSR, NAPA Auto Care. Jim Fleischman, Automotive Alley, Arcade, and Marilla, NY. Jim’s previous episodes HERE. Tom Sciortino, Total Automotive, Buffalo, NY. Tom’s previous episodes HERE. Show Notes
      The impetus of the independent networking group (00:00:01) The origin and purpose of the group, including its initial formation and goals. Involvement of vendors in the group (00:03:07) The role of vendors in the group, criteria for their involvement, and the value they bring to the meetings. Impact of the group during the COVID-19 pandemic (00:06:31) How the group navigated through challenges, including vendor support and sharing of ideas during the pandemic. Positive changes and learning experiences among the members (00:14:03) The growth, learning, and positive changes experienced by the members, including the supportive nature and the development of a strong network. Leadership roles within the group (00:19:25) Tom's role as the go-to person, collaboration among leaders, and the importance of sharing ideas. Networking and visiting other shops (00:21:14) Importance of networking, visiting other shops, and the supportive nature of the group. Group dynamics and collaboration (00:22:34) The group's impact, the importance of being serious about participation, and the positive relationships formed. Supporting and collaborating with other shops (00:24:27) Collaboration among shops, sharing information, and supporting each other. Education and involvement with schools (00:29:20) Engagement with schools, internships, and creating opportunities for students. Vision for the future of the group (00:31:27) Long-term vision for the group, potential scholarships, and growth into a statewide organization. Organic opportunities and support within the group (00:33:46) Organic opportunities for members, support, and collaboration within the group. Sharing Valuable Information (00:36:34) Emphasis on the group's commitment to sharing valuable information, the diverse experience in the room, and the goal to motivate other independents. Evolving Opportunity (00:39:07) Encouragement for involvement and evolution, including the inclusion of vendors and the focus on education and teamwork in the group. Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Thanks to our Partner, Auto-Fix Auto Shop Coaching Proven Auto Shop Coaching with Results. Over 61 Million in ROI with an Average ROI of 9x. Find Coach Chris Cotton at AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching on the Web at https://autoshopcoaching.com/ Thanks to our Partner, Today's Class Optimize training with Today's Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today's Class on the web at https://www.todaysclass.com/ Connect with the Podcast: -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 -Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto -Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/ -Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/ -Follow on X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/RResultsBiz -Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/ -Join our Insider List: https://remarkableresults.biz/insider -All books mentioned on our podcasts: https://remarkableresults.biz/books -Our Classroom page for personal or team learning: https://remarkableresults.biz/classroom -Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carm -The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections                                  
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
    • carmcapriotto
      Should an Auto Repair Shop Use a Local Marketing Company or Marketers Who Specialize in Auto Repair Shops? [E102] - The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast
      By carmcapriotto
      Thank you to our friends at RepairPal for providing you this episode. As shop owners we were part of RepairPal’s Certified network and you can learn more at RepairPal.com/shops.
      Show Notes
      Introduce the article and the 2 options of marketers with an explanation of each Talk about They Ask You Answer Meeting face-to-face and the overall relationship In person vs Zoom Industry events Most locals meet over zoom now anyway Industry knowledge As generalist we had to learn a new client each time Terminology, acronyms. How they make money Auto body shops for example It did make us better marketers Generalist tech vs specialist tech analogy Knowledge about your local area Hot august night Road closures The words you use - pop vs soda, “northshore” Overall results A little subjective There are some great generalists out there We know what works for auto repair It’s like pattern failures on cars for specialists shops Comfort first story The dumpster rental company story  
      How To Get In Touch
       
      Group - Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind
      Website - shopmarketingpros.com 
      Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros 
      Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/book
      Instagram - @shopmarketingpros 
      Questions/Ideas - [email protected]
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
    • carmcapriotto
      The Untapped Potential of Tire Sales [RR 958]
      By carmcapriotto
      Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Auto Care Darren Mclea shares his passion for tires and offers valuable insights on how tire sales can significantly boost a shop's profitability and customer loyalty. He discusses strategies for shop owners to incorporate tire sales, the support available from tire distributors, and the benefits of creating a one-stop-shop experience for customers. Darren McLea, DMJ Solutions, LLC. [email protected] Show Notes
      The importance of selling tires (00:04:15) Darren emphasizes the significance of selling tires and the impact on customer loyalty and profitability. Selling tires vs. oil changes (00:06:32) Darren compares the profitability of selling tires versus oil changes and highlights the potential for increased profits. Tire distributors and support (00:10:18) Darren discusses the support provided by tire distributors. The inspection process (00:12:29) Importance of including tire inspection in the service process, mindset, and training. Customer's tire shopping experience (00:13:34) Comparison of tire shopping to buying a washing machine, customer's lack of knowledge, and the need for guidance. Understanding customer needs (00:15:49) Customer inquiries about tire warranty, driving style, and price comparison. Customer's perception and experience (00:21:12) The impact of new tires on customer experience and the potential for future sales. Additional services and offerings (00:23:41) Opportunities to recommend alignments and road hazard protection along with tire sales. Tire Price and Profitability (00:24:41) Discussion on setting the price of tires and the potential profitability for shop owners. Tire Sales Strategy (00:25:42) Exploration of the number of tires that need to be sold to maintain profitability and minimize road hazard exposure. Tire Sales Goals (00:26:30) Setting targets for tire sales and road hazard coverage for a successful shop. Training and Implementation (00:28:32) The process of implementing tire sales into the business. Service Advisor's Role (00:30:14) The importance of service advisors in understanding and selling tires to grow the business. Getting into the Tire Business (00:31:56) Initial steps and considerations for shop owners interested in entering the tire business. Partnerships and Rebates (00:39:13) Exploring distribution partnerships, rebates, and the potential for profitability in the tire business.
      Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Auto Care Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care Connect with the Podcast: -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 -Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto -Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/ -Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/ -Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RResultsBiz -Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/ -Join our Insider List: https://remarkableresults.biz/insider -All books mentioned on our podcasts: https://remarkableresults.biz/books -Our Classroom page for personal or team learning: https://remarkableresults.biz/classroom -Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carm -The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
    • Water Proof And Self Adhesive
    • carmcapriotto
      The Importance of Safety and Compliance in Automotive Shops [RR 957]
      By carmcapriotto
      Thanks to our Partners, AAPEX, NAPA TRACS, and Automotive Management Network Explore the importance of adhering to safety regulations, the role of common sense in maintaining a safe work environment, and practical tips for small businesses to comply with OSHA standards. Discussions include the significance of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), how OSHA inspections are triggered, and examples of common safety oversights in the workplace. The conversation also covers the precautions necessary for handling electric vehicles (EVs), the necessity of monthly safety inspections, and the critical role of safety in retaining qualified technicians. Tom Herrmann, Small Business Safety & Compliance Company, LLC. [email protected] Show Notes
      A Real World Perspective on Safety [RR 916]: https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/e916/ OSHA regulations and enforcement (00:02:22) Discussion about OSHA regulations, enforcement, and the consequences of non-compliance. Common sense safety measures (00:03:50) The importance of common sense safety measures and examples of common sense safety practices. Safety violations and fines (00:04:22) Examples of safety violations and the associated fines for non-compliance with safety regulations. Creating a safe work environment (00:06:15) The importance of creating a safe and healthy work environment and the impact on employees and the community. Personal protective equipment (PPE) (00:09:02) The importance of providing and wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) in the workplace. Compliance with state and federal regulations (00:12:59) Discussion about the requirements for displaying state and federal posters in the workplace and the importance of compliance. Promoting safety culture in the workplace (00:17:22) The importance of promoting a safety culture in the workplace and engaging employees in safety practices. Ear Protection and Noise Concerns (00:17:47) Discussion on proper ear protection and the impact of noise on hearing, including the use of earbuds in a shop environment. Safety Measures for EV Repair (00:22:25) Importance of personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety measures for working on electric vehicles (EVs), including testing gloves and monthly inspection. Monthly Safety Inspections (00:25:55) The necessity of monthly safety inspections for building and equipment, covering various aspects such as exit lights, electrical boxes, and fire extinguishers. Power Strip Safety (00:30:29) Safety precautions related to power strips, including the types of devices that should not be plugged into them and the potential risks involved. Commitment to Safety (00:33:09) Emphasizing the importance of embracing safety in the workplace and promoting a commitment to safety measures. Thanks to our Partners, AAPEX, NAPA TRACS, and Automotive Management Network Set your sights on Las Vegas in 2024. Mark your calendar now … November 5th-7th, 2024. AAPEX - Now more than ever. And don’t miss the next free AAPEX webinar. Register now at http://AAPEXSHOW.COM/WEBINAR NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Get ready to grow your business with the Automotive Management Network: Find on the Web at http://AftermarketManagementNetwork.com for information that can help you move your business ahead and for the free and informative http://LaborRateTracker.com Connect with the Podcast: -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 -Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto -Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/ -Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/ -Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RResultsBiz -Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/ -Join our Insider List: https://remarkableresults.biz/insider -All books mentioned on our podcasts: https://remarkableresults.biz/books -Our Classroom page for personal or team learning: https://remarkableresults.biz/classroom -Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carm -The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections                    
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio


  • nptrb

    Tax Season Preparation: A Comprehensive Guide

    By nptrb, in Automotive Industry,

    1 comment 1,034 views
    nptrb

    Understanding S-Corp Distributions and Draws | Are They Taxable?

    By nptrb, in Automotive Industry,

    1 comment 1,198 views
    nptrb

    Spring Clean Your Finances: 5 Steps Every Business Should Take

    By nptrb, in Automotive Industry,

    1 comment 898 views

  • Our Sponsors



Main Sections

More Sections

Discussion Forums

×
×
  • Create New...