Joe Marconi

Frank, I think you hit the nail on the head. For those that hate what they do, ending a career would be easy. For me personally, I always enjoyed what I did. My original plan was to wait until age 70, but with all that I was doing, it just wasn't in the cards when I began to be approached by buyers.

All great points, Frank. Middle America does not have nearly the amount of EVs as the East Coast or West Coast. And a restaurant of some kind, near a major highway with adequate parking may be an idea worth looking into. For me, my advice is to wait and see. Too many variables at this point.

Every shop owner has different needs and approaches life and business differently. It sounds like you have done an amazing job at building a solid business while creating a great workplace environment. For me, selling my company last year, was the right decision for me, to pursue other interests. Although, I do miss the shop, can't deny that. Great to hear from the "kid"

I will be presenting the Elite Fly with the Eagles course with my fellow Elite business coach, Kevin Vaught. The course will be held in Indianapolis, Oct 4 to 6. This is Elite's premiere shop management course for shop owners and managers. Hope to see you there. For information and to enroll:

If you are going to the Ratchet and Wrench Conference in September, please let me know. I am honored to be selected as the keynote speaker. I will be speaking about my message and takeaways to the industry after selling my company. Hope to see you there! Joe

With the massive push from car makers to build more electric vehicles in the coming years, does it make sense now to install an EV charging station? What percentage of your current customers own EVs? And do you have customers asking questions about EVs?

Do you use a digital inspection program? If so, how do you feel it helps your workflow and sales. What are the pros and cons of the program you are using?

Wow! Thank you for sharing this. After 41 years as a business owner, and nearly 50 years in the business, I sold my last location this past Dec. 2021. I really thought it would be easy, but it isn't. I agree with you 100%. My work was my identity. And even with all the struggles and challenges and disappointments, I have no regrets about being an auto shop owner. In fact, I do miss it. Luckily, I am involved in the industry, working with Elite Worldwide as a coach, trainer, and other duties. And I write for Ratchet and Wrench Magazine, And Of course, cofounder of Auto Shop Owner. I am also 67 years old too. Get involved with something, we all need to have an identity, and sometimes that is worth more than money. It won't totally replace being a shop owner, but it helps.

Most shop owners I speak to are having banner years. They are as busy as ever and booked with quality, profitable work. With the uncertainty of the economy, will it last? Should shop owners prepare for a downturn?

Moonlighting, side jobs, side-hustle. It's all the same. Many techs work after hours to earn more money. How do you feel about that? Does it interfere with the job you employ them for? Do you feel it lowers the professionalism of our industry? Other comments and opinions?

Throughout the years, I purchased either Ford F250 or Chev 2500. Both HD. The last truck I purchased was a Silverado 1500, with HD package. And that worked out fine for us too. I felt that these trucks suited my business needs. I needed a truck for general use for the repair shop, road calls, plowing and hauling. Hope this helps. One other point, speak to your accountant on how to expense any truck you purchase. This can help you on taxes.

You have a lot going on, with the potential to grow your base business and revenue streams. I think the key thing here is what you said earlier, "I might pivot sometime in the future..." Great content, thanks for sharing so much info! Every business is different, no such thing as a cookie-cutter repair shop business.

It is obvious you have a good handle on your business, and you don't try to be everything to everyone. One last question: What is your income/revenue driver? In other words, what type of services are generating the greatest amount of sales and profits for you?

Agree, good points. For people with money, it may not matter. But, do you think for people on a strict budget, maintaining their existing car will pay off down the road?

Well said! It would be good to hear from the group what steps they did to help secure their financial future.

Exactly what I was referring to. Many shop owners that rent, have used the business to provide for their families and to build wealth while they are in business. I agree; there's more than one way to skin a cat. (Can you say that these days?)

I understand the position you are in. Whether you rent or own the property, you can still plan for your financial future. I am not a financial advisor, but I do know many shop owners that have rented their entire career but invested their money, and some have actually purchased other properties, which will pay off in the future. Speak to a financial advisor or business coach. And continue to keep your eyes open for opportunities.

Wow! You have a lot going on. But, all good....moving forward. Question: When you say your business is not compatible with tires, why? To play devil's advocate; won't tires and related repairs become an important part of our business with the increase in EVs?

You make good points. And having a manager present is a good protocol. With regard to customers walking into the shop or standing behind the bays, I was adamant about getting that customer back to the customer service office. I remember way back when I was a tech, before a business owner, if a customer stood over me, or behind the bay, I was bold enough to tell the boss, "Get that guy away from me."

First, great news about the 5-star review that Carl generated! As far as the situation with the Subaru oil drain plug, I have been down the road all too often. Hate it. Stand your ground, and always protect yourself with photos, videos, and documentation. A lesson for all.

We all know that techs and service advisors have two distinctly different roles. And both get different training. Service advisors are on the front lines every day taking care of customers, selling work, organizing work, and a lot more. While most customers don't engage with the technician, is there a time when we should allow the customer to speak to the technician?

According to Kelly Blue Book, new car prices hit an average of $48,000. Will auto repair shops see a surge in business, as consumers choose to keep their old cars, rather than purchase a new car?

With technology dominating our industry and all the new tools and equipment now available, what new tools and equipment are on your wish list this year and next year?

Many repair shops are experiencing an uptick in business this year. This may also increase your tax liability on your next tax return. Obviously, waiting until the start of 2023 to begin thinking about planning for taxes is not a wise move. So how often do you meet with your accountant to discuss tax planning?

Mike, your words resonate with me, and they should with everyone. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and comments. You are right on target, and the balance between work and life is such an important topic. We need to discuss more. We also need to prioritize: Family, ourselves, and business.