Wife Raised the Kids and After 27 Years and Partnered With Husband to Open a Shop [RR 554]

Connie and Russell Cook owns Finish Line Automotive in Ocala, FL.

Talking points:

  • Husband and wife story of commitment to open their own shop
  • Russel had a long commute and worked at a dealership
  • Connie finds a going shop within three miles of home and Russell did the research
  • Russell has 27 years experience as a dealership tech
  • Russell know they needed help on the finance side of the transaction
  • They put a lot of money as a down payment but put them in a tough position with working capital. That is why Russell continued to work at the dealership for 5 monthsThey have survived with his normal income
  •  They will continue to take less of a salary to help the business get on a strong cash footing
  • They took ownership on February 1, 2020, and one month later Covid-19 hit. They are coming out of it very well
  • They kept some of their great, long time, people that have helped Connie transition
  • Connie had to learn to be a service advisor
  • Russell will jump in at whatever level he needs to do from counter to be in the bays
  • The business they bought had good consumer ratings. They keep hearing good talk about the business
  • They started with a database of 5,000 customers
  • They made a move on labor rates. They were too low compared to other shops. They also changed their menu prices
  • They fixed a credit policy that charged more if you used your credit card. Wrong thing to upcharge
  • A bright and well-lit waiting room
  • Fix it or repair the new businessComputer/Invoicing
  • Broadband speed
  • AC Recharger would not complete a functionCouldn’t get it repaired
  • Bought a used on
  • Scan tool
  • They were blessed with the technicians that were in the business and the affordability of the deal.He has 5 bays and 4 usable
  • An alignment machine

Resources:

  • Thanks to Connie and Russell Cook for their contribution to the aftermarket’s premier podcast.
  • Link to the ‘BOOKS‘ page highlighting all books discussed in the podcast library HERE. Leaders are readers.
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This episode is brought to you by AAPEX, the Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo. AAPEX represents the $740 billion global automotive aftermarket industry and has everything you need to stay ahead of the curve. With 2,500 exhibiting companies, you’ll see the latest products, parts, and technologies for your business. As a result, the event also offers advanced training for shop owners, technicians, warehouse distributors (WDs) and auto parts retailers, as well as networking opportunities to grow your business. AAPEX 2020 will take place Tuesday, Nov. 3 through Thursday, Nov. 5, 2020 at the Sands Expo in Las Vegas. Therefore, more than 48,000 targeted buyers are expected to attend, and approximately 162,000 automotive aftermarket professionals. They will be from 135 countries which are projected to be in Las Vegas during AAPEX 2020. For information, visit aapexshow.com

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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!