In this episode of the Garage Grit Podcast, host Brad Hurlock from AA Shop Marketing sits down with guest shop owners Gina and Shaley to discuss the intricacies of successfully managing auto repair and collision services under one roof. The conversation delves into a variety of topics including the benefits, challenges, and market advantages of having both services available at a single location. Gina and her dad Greg share their experience with running Metric Motors, a dual-service shop for mechanical and collision repairs, while Shaley provides insights into the operations of Austin Spencer, another combined shop in Rochester, New York. Key discussions include the logistics of running both services seamlessly, the importance of customer communication, the complexities of dealing with insurance companies, and strategies for converting mechanical service customers to collision repair customers. Additionally, the episode covers the role of towing services in boosting business and the impact of local township regulations on business expansion. All three guests share personal anecdotes and practical advice, making this episode a valuable resource for shop owners looking to integrate multiple services.

00:00 Introduction to the Garage Grit Podcast

01:03 Meet Gina from Metric Motors

02:44 Shane Lee's Journey with Austin Spencer

04:53 Greg's Early Days and Business Evolution

06:27 Challenges and Strategies in Collision and Mechanical Work

07:52 The Importance of Loaner Vehicles

17:03 Handling ADAS and Insurance Companies

23:09 Shop Operations and Customer Relations

36:49 Challenges in Marketing Collision Services

37:13 Insurance Companies and Customer Choices

38:27 Upselling Collision Repairs

39:24 Customer Reluctance to Repair

40:08 Educating Customers on Repair Options

42:40 Detailing as a Customer Retention Strategy

44:08 Managing High Volume Repairs

49:36 Township Challenges in Business Expansion

01:07:58 Family Dynamics in Business

01:10:55 Political Action Committees and Local Politics

01:12:19 Conclusion and Community Engagement