GM to cut 1,000 low-rated dealerships next year

AutoShopOwner News · 2009-04-27T21:29:00+0000

General Motors plans to contact owners of about 1,000 dealerships starting in May to notify them that their franchise agreement will not be renewed in 2010, a GM executive says. View the full article

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The Toolbox is Last to Leave, First is the Heart

By Joe Marconi in Joe's Blog
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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.

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Unstoppable Framework for Auto Shop Owners Part 2: Mastering Your Finances [RRR 1004]
By carmcapriotto

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Auto Care Part 2 of the "Unstoppable" series, the episode focuses on "Mastering Your Finances." Maryann Croce emphasizes the importance of understanding financial statements, calculating profit margins, and managing cash flow. She shares practical advice on building financial reserves and separating personal and business finances. The conversation aims to empower shop owners with financial literacy, enabling them to make informed decisions and ensure business sustainability. Maryann, Small Biz Vantage. Maryann’s previous episodes HERE. Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode Unstoppable Framework for Auto Shop Owners Part 1: Core Values and Vision [RR 997]: https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/e997/ Here is the link to the worksheet for Episode 2: Mastering Your Finances https://bit.ly/3BBCOnb Mastering Your Finances (00:01:19) Understanding Financials (00:02:10) Importance of Healthy Profits (00:03:24) Mastering Financial Dashboard (00:05:04) Calculating Profit Margins (00:07:02) Industry Benchmarking (00:09:11) Understanding True Profit (00:10:08) Cash Flow Management (00:12:42) Personal Story on Cash Flow (00:13:49) Invoicing Best Practices (00:17:51) Emotional Aspects of Money (00:19:45) Cash Flow Management (00:20:02) Expense Control Strategies (00:21:06) Personal vs. Business Accounts (00:22:16) Normalizing Profit and Loss Statements (00:22:18) Building Financial Reserves (00:24:21) Cash Reserve Calculation (00:25:36) Strategic Decision-Making (00:26:28) Financial Literacy Development (00:28:45) Learning Financial Concepts (00:30:09) Building Cash Flow Confidence (00:31:20) Encouragement to Seek Help (00:32:21)
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 -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections 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. https://remarkableresults.biz/ Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/ Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/ 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. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/ The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/ Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/ Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
How Will the 2024 Presidential Election Impact Auto Repair Shop Owners? [E189] - Chris Cotton Weekly Blitz
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 of "The Weekly Blitz," Coach Chris Cotton delves into the potential impact of the 2024 presidential election on auto repair shop owners, offering a comprehensive analysis of the key issues that could shape the industry's future. He begins by examining the implications of small business support policies, highlighting how different candidates' approaches could influence access to funding, tax incentives, and overall business growth opportunities.

Coach Chris then shifts focus to workforce development, emphasizing the importance of training programs and educational initiatives that could be introduced or expanded depending on the election results. He stresses that a skilled workforce is crucial for shop owners to remain competitive and meet the evolving demands of the automotive industry.

Infrastructure spending is another critical topic discussed, as Coach Chris outlines how increased investment in roads, bridges, and transportation networks could lead to more business for repair shops due to higher vehicle usage. He also touches on the potential for regulatory changes, noting that shifts in environmental and safety regulations could affect shop operations and compliance requirements.

The discussion moves to minimum wage and labor laws, where Coach Chris analyzes how potential changes could impact labor costs and staffing strategies. He advises shop owners to stay informed about legislative developments and consider proactive measures to manage payroll expenses effectively.

Supply chain challenges are also on the agenda, with Coach Chris exploring how global economic policies and trade agreements resulting from the election could affect parts availability and pricing. He encourages shop owners to build strong relationships with suppliers and consider diversifying their sourcing strategies to mitigate risks.

Throughout the episode, Coach Chris emphasizes the importance of adaptability, urging shop owners to prepare for potential changes by reviewing their operations, budgeting for increased costs, and focusing on marketing efforts to attract and retain customers. He reassures listeners that maintaining strong customer relationships and operational efficiency will be key to navigating the evolving economic landscape, regardless of the election outcome. By staying informed and proactive, auto repair shop owners can position themselves for success in a dynamic and uncertain future.

Election Discussion Begins (00:01:11)
Chris highlights the importance of the upcoming 2024 presidential election for auto repair shop owners.
Pros and Cons of the Election (00:02:13)
A breakdown of potential advantages and disadvantages for auto repair businesses due to the election.
Support for Small Businesses (00:03:17)
Discussion on potential small business tax credits and health insurance reforms from candidates.
Workforce Development Challenges (00:03:17)
Focus on addressing the tech shortage through vocational training initiatives for the auto repair industry.
Infrastructure Spending Impact (00:03:17)
How increased infrastructure spending can lead to more vehicle repairs due to wear and tear.
Potential Regulatory Changes (00:04:26)
Concerns about new environmental regulations affecting business operations post-election.
Minimum Wage and Labor Laws (00:04:26)
The impact of potential minimum wage increases and labor law changes on shop budgets.
Supply Chain Issues (00:05:28)
Discussion on how international trade policies could affect parts pricing and availability.
Adaptability of Shop Owners (00:07:34)
Emphasizing the importance of adaptability in business operations amidst changing political landscapes.
Preparing for Future Changes (00:08:31)
Advice on budgeting and marketing strategies to navigate potential upcoming changes.
Customer Loyalty and Community Focus (00:08:31)
The significance of building strong community ties and customer relationships during uncertain times.
Conclusion and Encouragement (00:09:38)
Chris reassures listeners that challenges can be managed and encourages steady focus on business operations.

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
Are You Sure You Want to Charge Your Customers A Fee for Using Their Credit Card?
By Joe Marconi

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The Top 12 Success Strategies From Professional Auto Service CEOs [RR 1000]
By carmcapriotto

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Auto Care Welcome to a special milestone episode of "Remarkable Results Radio," hosted by Carm Capriotto. As we celebrate our 1000th episode, we're not only reflecting on the incredible journey we've taken together, but also unveiling something special—12 Success Strategies From Professional Auto Service Ceo's, distilled from over 2,000 podcast episodes that have shared invaluable insights from industry leaders, shop owners, and experts. Over the past nine years, Carm has gathered a wealth of knowledge from the brightest minds in the automotive aftermarket. Each episode has contributed to a deeper understanding of what drives success in this ever-evolving industry. These 12 strategies are drawn from the real-world experiences and lessons shared by our remarkable guests. This episode is more than just a celebration—it's a resource for you. These strategies are designed to help you evaluate and strengthen your business, ensuring long-term success in the automotive aftermarket. Thank you to our loyal listeners for your continued support, engagement, and feedback. You’ve helped shape the conversations that have led to these key takeaways. Download the full copy of 'The Top 12 Success Strategies from Professional Auto Service Ceo's': remarkableresults.biz/ceo We gathered episodes based on each of the 12 strategies. Find them on our Collections page HERE. Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode Download the full copy of 'The Top 12 Success Strategies from Professional Auto Service Ceo's': remarkableresults.biz/ceo
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
Shop Owners to the Rescue: Friends First, Competitors Second [THA 402]
By carmcapriotto

Recorded at the 2024 Automotive Aftermarket Retailers of Ontario (AARO) Business Management and Lindertech Training Tradeshow, join the discussion about the unparalleled camaraderie, local business support network, lifestyle changes, and management strategies shared among automotive business peers. These automotive industry leaders showcase the value of having a contingency plan and the impact of personal and professional transformations over the years. Mark Bergasse, Mark's Auto Service, Ontario Glen Colling, Eastside Auto Service, Ontario Carlo Sabucco, Sil’s Complete Auto Care Centre, Ontario, Carlo’s previous episodes HERE. Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode Automotive Aftermarket Retailers of Ontario (AARO): https://www.aaro.ca/ RR 341: Friends First-Competitors Second: https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/e341/ Mark's Heart Attack Incident (00:02:29) The Impact of Local Networks (00:05:38) Competitive Yet Collaborative (00:06:49) Shared Customers and Support (00:09:10) Leadership and Team Dynamics (00:10:00) Changes After the Heart Attack (00:11:30) Mark's Recovery and Moving (00:16:49) Implementing Systems (00:19:07) Continuity Planning (00:20:10) Personal and Corporate Wills (00:21:02) Importance of Coaching (00:21:47) Marketing Passion (00:24:41) Team Acknowledgment Practices (00:26:11) Balancing Strengths and Weaknesses (00:29:59) Long-term Business Goals (00:30:50) The Family Business Legacy (00:31:53) Future Ownership Plans (00:32:19) Unique Relationships Among Shop Owners (00:32:43) Depth of Trust in Business (00:33:13) Importance of Personal Connections (00:34:41) Trust as a Foundation (00:35:54) Lifestyle Changes After Health Scare (00:36:59) Navigating Dietary Restrictions (00:37:38) Cooking Tips and Culinary Adventures (00:39:06)
Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS 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/ Thanks to our Partner, Auto-Fix Auto Shop Coaching Proven Auto Shop Coaching with Results. Over 61 Million in ROI with an Average ROI of 9x. Find Coach Chris Cotton at AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching on the Web at https://autoshopcoaching.com/ Thanks to our Partner, Today's Class Optimize training with Today's Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today's Class on the web at https://www.todaysclass.com/Connect with the Podcast: -The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 -Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters -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 X: 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 -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio