Failing at Retirement: Building Eight Shops in Eight Years [THA 486]

Carm Capriotto talks with Matt Curry and Judy Curry of Craftsman’s Auto Care about building one of the automotive industry’s most respected multi-shop operations twice.

After growing Curry’s Auto Service to 10 locations and retiring in 2013, the Currys returned to the industry with a new vision, launching eight Craftsman’s Auto Care locations in eight years. Matt shares his role as the visionary leader driving momentum and ideas, while Judy explains how operational discipline, marketing, and customer experience keep the business grounded and scalable.

The conversation explores their “5 Ps” philosophy: People, Policies, Processes, Procedures, and Profits, along with their commitment to employee development, strong culture, customer transparency, and community involvement. The Currys also discuss how Digital Vehicle Inspections and an intentional customer experience helped them earn nearly 10,000 five-star Google reviews.

What You’ll Learn

• How Matt and Judy Curry scaled multiple successful shop operations
• Why leadership balance and “staying in your lane” matters
• The “5 Ps” framework for building a strong shop culture
• How employee investment drives long-term success
• Why transparency and DVIs build customer trust
• How culture and customer experience fuel growth and retention

Sustainable growth in automotive repair comes from more than technical expertise. It requires intentional leadership, strong systems, a healthy culture, and a commitment to both employees and customers.