Build Customer Loyalty: Branding, Event Planning, and Community [RR 1088]

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS

Watch Full Video Episode

In this episode, Carm Capriotto talks with Lola Schmidt, co-owner of Schmidt’s Auto Care, about how shops can rise above the “ordinary” perception of auto repair through intentional event planning, meaningful community engagement, and a fully integrated branding strategy.

Key Topic Points

  • Make the Shop an Experience: Auto repair isn’t naturally exciting, so shops must create memorable, in-person experiences that bring customers into the bays and build real connections.
  • Community Events That Matter: Hosting hands-on events, like Girl Scout badge workshops and “Tiny Tech” days, creates lasting impressions and builds trust far beyond what social media can achieve.
  • Differentiate with Purpose: Identify what makes your shop unique (4-day workweek, curbside service, in-house specialties, team talents) and turn those into consistent marketing stories.
  • Branding is Everything: From clean visuals and a great-smelling shop to honest, pressure-free service, every touchpoint contributes to a 360 brand experience.
  • Elevate the Customer Experience: Replace cheap swag with thoughtful, useful gifts that customers actually value, creating a lasting emotional connection.
  • Create Memorable First Impressions: A curated “unboxing” experience for new customers sets the tone and reinforces your brand from the very first visit.
  • Respect the Customer’s Time: Efficiency and convenience are key drivers of loyalty; customers will travel further for a shop that consistently delivers both.

Standing out in today’s automotive industry requires more than great repairs; it demands intentional experiences, clear differentiation, and a commitment to making every customer interaction memorable.

Lauralee/Lola Schmidt, Schmidt Auto Care, Springboro, OH, Listen to previous episodes HERE

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS

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

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/

Connect with the Podcast:

The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

About the author, Carm Capriotto, AAP

Carm is the founder and host of the Remarkable Results Radio Podcast and the pioneer of automotive aftermarket podcasts. Carm calls on his years of experience in the aftermarket to bring engaging stories from his guests.

Listen to raw, unfiltered, honest, and sincere stories that include insights, trends, best practices, and expertise. Each interview brings an opportunity to learn one new thing through the stories of personal achievement. Many podcast guests tell their story of transformation from working in their business to working on it.

As host of over 1,000 episodes, Carm uses his enthusiasm and passion for the aftermarket especially the service sector to take his listeners on a journey showcasing successful service professionals’ paths to Remarkable Results. He also enjoys interviews with aftermarket industry thought leaders who bring their industry perspectives to his listener.

Follow the podcast on your favorite podcast listening app and always listen to learn just one thing!