So You Think You Want To Open Your Second Location? [THA 377]

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS and AutoFix Auto Shop Coaching

Industry shop owners discuss the challenges and strategies of opening and managing a second location. They explore the motivations behind opening additional shops, touching on wealth building, seeking new challenges, and planning for retirement. Carl Hutchinson emphasizes the importance of providing a growth path and career opportunities to attract and train the next generation of industry professionals. The conversation highlights the complexities of scaling a business and the need for strong leadership, financial planning, and a commitment to developing talent within the industry.

Carl Hutchinson, Complete Automotive, 2 locations, Springfield, MO. Listen to Carl’s previous episodes HERE

Kim Auernheimer, CS Automotive, 2 locations, TN. Listen to Kim’s Episodes HERE.

Jim Fleischman, Automotive Alley, 2 locations, Arcade and Marilla, NY. Listen to Jim’s previous episodes HERE.

Watch Full Video Episode

Behind the Scenes: New Shop Retrofit/Remodel with Carl Hutchinson [CC 097]: https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/cc097/

Store two considerations (00:01:01) Discussion on the importance and reasons for opening a second store, including financing and marketing efforts.

Finding the second location (00:02:52) Panelists share their experiences in finding and choosing the location for their second store.

Preparation and challenges (00:09:33) Challenges and preparations for operating a second location, including policies, procedures, and staffing.

Systemizing and structuring (00:12:29) The importance of systemizing and structuring operations for a second location, as well as the challenges and preparations involved.

Transition and training (00:15:14) Discussion on transitioning and training staff for a new location, including the use of a shop management system.

Reflection and passion (00:17:32) Reflecting on the passion and effort required to start and grow a business, including the challenges of expanding to multiple locations.

Store Number Two Challenges (00:17:56) Challenges of opening a second store, losing customers, ordering parts, and managing separate entities.

Inventory and Supplies (00:20:14) Challenges in stocking inventory and supplies for a new store, unexpected expenses, and the importance of thorough planning.

Financing and Cash Flow (00:24:43) Discussion on financing options, including seller financing, bank loans, and personal investment, and the impact of COVID-19.

People Problems and Leadership (00:29:17) Dealing with turnover, hiring challenges, and the importance of finding the right people for leadership roles.

Grooming and Growing Store Two (00:32:45) Balancing time and effort between store two and store one, empowering vice presidents, and the changing role of the company president.

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