2 of my techs came from dealerships because they were tired of being slaves. Sans our bonus structure, their original starting pay was lower than the dealer and they were happy as can be to start. And 2 years in they are extremely happy. Are they making 50% of labor sales? No.
I would love to know how you operate a legal shop and pay your techs that.
Taxes, Insurance, Tools, Identifix, Mitchell, Diag computers/software, Gas/Power (have full HVAC year round), unemployment/WC, Paying for environmental grade disposal and storage of fluids, advertising/marketing, CC fees, 401K, Rent, phones, security, uniforms, etc.
You drop most of that, have a hole in the wall shop, cash only, pay everyone under the table, etc. I can see them getting 50%.