Quantcast
Jump to content


Business during the start of 2009


Recommended Posts



Our first quarter was up 8% over last year as most our car count is up and R/o down , but we have increased our R/o up $70.00 to an average of $323.00 .

 

April is always a tough month we hope to stay on track .

 

Thanks Dan Reichow [ OHIO ]

Link to comment
Share on other sites

How has business been during the first months of 2009?

 

Our January-February was strong

March was o.k.

April has fallen off the cliff.

 

So you will know where I am coming from we had not had a down month to month in 4 years until March.

 

Can we compare notes?

 

My sales pattern was the same as yours.

January - Feb Strong

March - OK

April - off the cliff (down about 30% from last April)

 

Seems to be picking back up but still not where I need it

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • 2 weeks later...
  • 3 weeks later...
  • 3 weeks later...
There are many areas of the country that are struggling. I think now is the time to make your presence know in the market. Try to increase your advertising and be more convenient to your customers. Be careful with discounting, it may hurt you bottom line and make it harder to increase prices when the economy turns around. Offer value packages like a Summer Promo. Put together a package that includes and oil change service, multipoint inspection and maybe an A/C check.

 

Keep the customer top of mind, they will remember this.

 

 

Well May was a strong month for us. June started off strong but has died down last week into this week, Not sure what to attribute that to just yet.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • 1 month later...
  • 2 weeks later...
  • 2 months later...

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
  • Available Subscriptions

  • Have you checked out Joe's Latest 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

    • By carmcapriotto
      Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Auto Care Craig Noel recounts his near-death experience from multiple blood clots in his lungs and how it profoundly affected his perspective on life, family, and business. This life-altering event led Craig to reevaluate his priorities, emphasizing the importance of relationships and intentional living. Craig shares how his absence from work revealed the strength of his team and the culture he built. The discussion covers overcoming the "I can't" mentality, establishing accountability, and planning for unforeseen circumstances. Craig's story inspires listeners to cherish relationships, embrace change, and focus on what truly matters in life. Craig Noel, Sun Automotive, Springfield, OR. Listen to Craig’s previous episodes HERE Show Notes
      Craig's Near-Death Experience (00:01:13) Craig shares his story of a near-death experience caused by multiple blood clots in his lungs. Understanding the Health Crisis (00:02:12) Craig explains his symptoms leading to hospitalization and the discovery of the blood clots. Reflection on Life Changes (00:05:34) Craig reflects on how his near-death experience shifted his perspective on relationships and life priorities. The Importance of Relationships (00:07:17) Craig emphasizes the need to value relationships and communicate feelings intentionally. Reconnecting with Old Friends (00:08:29) Carm shares a personal story about reconnecting with an old friend, highlighting the importance of maintaining connections. Intentional Communication (00:09:41) Craig discusses the impact of intentionally reaching out to influential people in one's life. Material vs. Emotional Fulfillment (00:10:25) Craig contemplates the balance between material possessions and the importance of relationships. Living Without Distractions (00:12:00) Craig suggests leaving phones at home during family outings to foster better connections. The Impact of Technology on Relationships (00:12:25) Carm reflects on how technology affects family interactions and the need for personal discipline. Planning for Meaningful Experiences (00:13:14) Craig encourages planning meaningful experiences and spending time with loved ones. Business Continuity Discussion (00:15:42) Carm discusses the importance of planning for business continuity in case of unexpected events. Leadership and Team Discussions (00:16:49) Craig emphasizes the value of discussing business operations and leadership with team members. The importance of presence (00:17:04) Craig discusses the significance of being present and the impact of leadership on team culture. Reassessing leadership roles (00:17:41) Craig reflects on his need to be present and the realization that his team can thrive independently. Employee accountability (00:19:26) Discussion on implementing employee diaries to enhance accountability and track conversations. Introduction of 'Way We Do' software (00:20:11) Craig explains how this software helps manage SOPs and employee manuals effectively. The value of modifying processes (00:22:05) Emphasis on customizing borrowed ideas to fit your unique business culture for better results. Planning for unexpected events (00:23:05) Carm shares insights on having contingency plans, referencing a previous episode about preparedness. Updating legal documents (00:24:40) Craig talks about the importance of updating wills and trusts to ensure business continuity. Collaboration with professionals (00:25:27) Advice on involving various professionals to create a comprehensive support system for business planning. The importance of perspective (00:26:36) Craig shares personal insights on enjoying life and not feeling the need to prove oneself. Encouraging accountability (00:27:36) Carm suggests involving close individuals to hold each other accountable for life planning decisions. Impact on employees' lives (00:29:05) Craig reflects on how he can positively influence his employees' futures through thoughtful planning. Final thoughts on preparedness (00:30:04) Carm and Craig conclude with reflections on the need for proactive planning and emotional resilience.
      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 Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters -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
    • By carmcapriotto
      The Weekly Blitz is brought to you by our friends over at Shop Marketing Pros. If you want to take your shop to the next level, you need great marketing. Shop Marketing Pros does top-tier marketing for top-tier shops.
      Click here to learn more about Top Tier Marketing by Shop Marketing Pros and schedule a demo:https://shopmarketingpros.com/chris/
      Check out their podcast here: https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/
      If you would like to join their private Facebook group go here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/autorepairmarketingmastermind
      In this episode, Coach Chris Cotton from Auto Fix Auto Shop Coaching delves into a range of strategies designed to help auto repair shop owners elevate their business operations through the implementation of the "Profit First" methodology. This approach is centered around the critical aspects of cash flow management, profitability enhancement, and the adoption of effective financial practices. Chris underscores the significance of establishing separate accounts specifically for profit, taxes, and operating expenses to ensure a clear and organized financial structure. He also highlights the necessity of having supportive financial partners, such as banks and accountants, who can provide valuable guidance and support.
      Furthermore, Chris encourages shop owners to take proactive steps towards improving their financial health by engaging with educational resources, such as watching a webinar or seeking additional guidance tailored to their specific needs. This episode is proudly sponsored by Shop Marketing Pros, a company dedicated to providing specialized marketing strategies aimed at boosting the visibility and success of auto repair shops. Through their sponsorship, Shop Marketing Pros underscores their commitment to supporting the growth and development of businesses within the auto repair industry.
       
      Introduction to the Episode (00:00:04)
      Coach Chris Cotton introduces the podcast and its focus on auto repair business strategies.  
      Importance of Profit First (00:01:01)
       
      Chris discusses the significance of adopting the Profit First mentality for auto repair businesses.  
      Webinar Promotion (00:02:20)
       
      Information about an upcoming webinar on implementing the Profit First system is provided.  
      Understanding Cash Flow (00:03:24)
       
      The necessity of managing cash flow for successful auto repair operations is emphasized.  
      Challenges with Traditional Accounting (00:04:35)
       
      Critique of traditional accounting methods and their inadequacy for auto repair shops.  
      Profit First Methodology Explained (00:05:46)
       
      Overview of the Profit First approach and its application in the auto repair industry.  
      Setting Up Separate Accounts (00:06:58)
       
      The importance of establishing separate accounts for profit, taxes, and expenses is discussed.  
      Bank and Accountant Collaboration (00:08:02)
       
      Challenges in getting banks and accountants on board with the Profit First system are explored.  
      Incorporating Dave Ramsey's Principles (00:10:16)
       
      Integration of financial control principles from Dave Ramsey is highlighted for better financial management.  
      Results of Implementing the System (00:11:27)
       
      The positive outcomes of using the auto shop profits and cash flow system are outlined.  
      Call to Action (00:14:44)
       
      Chris encourages listeners to take proactive steps in managing their shop's finances effectively.  
       
       
      https://autoshopcoaching.com/
      https://connect.autoshopcoaching.com/profits-cashflow-webinar-form
       
      Connect with Chris:
       
      [email protected]
      Phone: 940.400.1008
      www.autoshopcoaching.com
      Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/
      AutoFixAutoShopCoachingYoutube: https://bit.ly/3ClX0ae
       
      #autofixautoshopcoaching #autofixbeautofixing #autoshopprofits #autoshopprofit #autoshopprofitsfirst #autoshopleadership #autoshopmanagement #autorepairshopcoaching #autorepairshopconsulting #autorepairshoptraining #autorepairshop #autorepair #serviceadvisor #serviceadvisorefficiency #autorepairshopmarketing #theweeklyblitz #autofix #shopmarketingpros #autofixautoshopcoachingbook
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
    • By carmcapriotto
      Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss, and 360 Payments AJ Nealey shares his journey from technician to business owner, highlighting key constraints to business growth in the auto repair industry. AJ emphasizes the importance of recognizing personal limitations, building a strong team, and implementing effective processes. He advocates for working "on" the business rather than "in" it and stresses personal development and accountability. This episode provides valuable strategies for overcoming challenges and creating a scalable business model, ultimately fostering long-term success. AJ Nealey, Nealey Auto Service, 5 locations, Edgewater, MD. AJ’s previous episodes HERE Show Notes
      Identifying Constraints (00:00:28) AJ discusses the primary constraint to business growth, drawing from his journey as a technician turned owner. Personal Experience and Growth (00:01:50) He shares insights on overcoming growth ceilings and emphasizes the importance of mentorship in his journey. The Biggest Constraint: Self (00:02:31) AJ identifies the self as the main constraint, urging owners to recognize personal limitations. Understanding Business Constraints (00:03:16) He explains the need to identify specific constraints like marketing or process issues for effective growth. Building a Strong Team (00:04:10) AJ stresses the importance of hiring the right people and developing a capable team for business scalability. Developing Middle Management (00:05:52) He discusses the necessity of creating a middle management layer as businesses grow from multiple locations. Hiring and Training Challenges (00:06:40) AJ highlights the significance of effective hiring and training processes in the automotive repair industry. Sales Process and Customer Retention (00:08:31) He emphasizes improving the sales process to retain existing customers and identify growth constraints. Working "On" vs "In" the Business (00:09:31) AJ reflects on the need to focus on strategic tasks rather than day-to-day operations for business growth. Identifying and Prioritizing Constraints (00:10:23) He encourages creating a power list of tasks that contribute to business growth and overcoming constraints. Creating Processes for Growth (00:11:26) AJ stresses the importance of documenting processes to ensure scalability and operational efficiency. Coaching and Accountability (00:12:56) He discusses using processes as tools for coaching and holding team members accountable for their performance. Personal Development and Business Growth (00:14:10) AJ emphasizes the importance of personal development for business owners and how it reflects on their business. Reflecting on Personal Constraints (00:15:04) Discussion on identifying personal limitations and the impact of self-awareness on business success. Embracing Challenges and Growth (00:15:48) AJ highlights the necessity of facing challenges and learning from failures on the path to success. Value of Time and Opportunity (00:17:30) The importance of recognizing time as a valuable commodity and serving the community with gratitude. Closing Thoughts on Constraints (00:18:09) AJ concludes by reiterating that personal constraints affect business growth and encourages proactive change.
      Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and 360 Payments Shop Boss – Shop Management Software built by shop owners for shop owners. It works the way you need it to, right out of the box. Find on the web at https://shopboss.net Connect with the Podcast: -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters -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 The Aftermarket Radio Network Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.              
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
    • By carmcapriotto
      In this episode of "Business by the Numbers," Hunt Demarest, CPA, kicks off a three-part series breaking down the 2024 Automotive Industry benchmark report for auto repair shops across the country. This report gives a clear look at how shops are performing financially and operationally, helping owners see where they stand.
      Key Points:
      • Benchmark Report Basics: The episode starts by explaining a detailed report that covers sales, profits, and key metrics for different types of auto repair shops, including Euro and diesel shops in various regions.
      • Sales and Tech Performance: The report shows average monthly sales per technician, highlighting how important it is to make sure your techs are productive and hitting industry standards.
      • Profit Margins: Hunt dives into the differences in profit margins on labor and parts, showing how different types of shops (like general repair versus high-end) stack up in terms of profitability.
      • Rising Costs: There’s a discussion on how rising costs, especially in labor and rent, are squeezing profits, and why keeping costs in check is crucial to staying in the black.
      • Industry Trends: The episode also covers big industry trends, like the need to offer solid employee benefits to attract good workers, and the different ways shops are paying their staff.
      • DOWNLOAD THE REPORT HERE: https://paarmelis.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2024-PMA-Benchmark-Report.pdf
      Thanks to our partner, NAPA TRACS
      Did you know that NAPA TRACS has onsite training plus six days a week support?
      It all starts when a local representative meets with you to learn about your business and how you run it.  After all, it's your shop, so it's your choice.
      Let us prove to you that Tracs is the single best shop management system in the business.  Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at NAPATRACS.com
      Thanks to our partner, Promotive
      It’s time to hire a superstar for your business; what a grind you have in front of you. Introducing Promotive, a full-service staffing solution for your shop. Promotive has over 40 years of recruiting and automotive experience. If you need qualified technicians and service advisors and want to offload the heavy lifting, visit www.gopromotive.com.
      Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive Repair
      Visit us Online: www.paarmelis.com
      Email Hunt: [email protected]
      Download a Copy of My Books Here:
      Wrenches to Write-Offs Your Perfect Shop   
      The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/
       
      Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion.
      Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life.
      Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest.
      The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level.
      The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching.
      Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
    • By carmcapriotto
      A lifelong student of history - this episode began as a serious topic of interest for Craig - and evolved into multiple conversations with a special guest. 
      For our listeners, we took our time with this episode and it was reviewed with careful consideration due to the significance of the subject.
      On June 6, 2024 - many of us in the free world paused to recognize a significant anniversary. The 80th anniversary of D-Day.
      D-Day, also known as Operation Overlord, was the allied invasion of Normandy to liberate Europe from Nazi tyranny. 
      There have been other milestone anniversaries of D-Day, but this year came at a very challenging time in the world and hits very differently that previous years for other reasons.
      The conversation begins around why that is.
      One term that was raised in one of the many articles written on the topic - was that we are losing our ‘tangible interpreters’ of the event. 
      The people who were there in 1944, the people that many of us knew or were even raised by, sadly, will not be with us much longer.  The knowledge of these major events now passes to those of us fortunate to know those who lived it and to take care in how we communicate these events to new generations who soon will never have the chance to meet a veteran of WWII.
      To help with this topic - Craig knew the perfect guest, Evan Wisner.
      When sharing an anniversary article with Evan, that article highlighted the Army Rangers DDAY operation on Point Du Huc, a conversation followed that we decided to take to the recording studio.
      Craig came to know Evan and appreciates his unique experiences and expertise as they are both members of Grand Rapids Toastmasters Club#404 - joining the club around the same time in 2019.  This means - Craig gets to hear a lot of great speeches from Evan.  Since Evan is both an EQ expert as well as a veteran of the war on terror who served alongside Army Rangers, you can be certain he brings a unique perspective to this conversation that makes it very much worth listening to.
      We ask listeners to take into consideration that this was a discussion focused on one major operation of a larger campaign of a greater war, and that all history, especially discussion around war, is limited, and does not tell every story, and often needs context for understanding.
      Thank You To Our Partners:
      The Institute at We Are The Institute.  "Stop stressing over your business, you deserve a good night's sleep. The Institute’s coaching helps you achieve success and financial peace.
      AutoFlow at AutoFlow.com. Your partner in technology, Autoflow consolidates your client interactions - before, during and after the visit to a single thread. Learn more at Autoflow.com
      AutoLeap at AutoLeap.com. Are you tired of juggling multiple tools to manage your auto repair shop? Say hello to the streamlined efficiency of AutoLeap, the #1 all-in-one Auto Repair Shop Management Software!
      App Fueled at appfueled.com. “Are you ready to convert clients to members? AppFueled™ specializes in creating custom apps tailored specifically for auto repair businesses. Build your first app like a pro”
      Shop Dog Marketing at Shop Dog Marketing.com. "Want to see your auto repair shop thrive? Let Shop Dog Marketing be your guide. Our customer-first approach, combined with AI-driven creative content, ensures top rankings.
      Contact Information
      Craig O'Neill Email: HERE  
      The Aftermarket Radio Network
       
      Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion
      Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life.
      The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level.
      The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching.
      Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest.
      Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio


  • Our Sponsors



×
×
  • Create New...