Episode# 161 A Tale of Succession & Success! Mark Fuerbacher's Story- Universal Imports of Rochester

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:shopmarketingp...
Check out their podcast here: autorepairmark...
If you would like to join their private Facebook group go here: / autorepairmarketingmas...
In this podcast episode, Chris Cotton, an auto repair business coach, talks with Mark, owner of an independent European auto repair shop in Rochester, New York, that also does sales and bodywork. They discuss Mark's family history, including his father's move from Germany to the U.S. and his transition from diamond cutting to car sales. Mark recounts his path in the family business, from washing cars to his current role, and the lessons learned along the way. They also delve into succession planning, with Mark's son Hunter potentially taking over. Mark highlights the benefits of working with Chris implementing a new service management system, and the positive changes in business performance and staff engagement. The episode touches on the importance of regular staff meetings, understanding daily business metrics, and the joy of family involvement in the business.
The background of Mark's family (00:00:05) Mark talks about his father's journey from Germany to the United States and their family background.
Mark's family's journey in the auto repair business (00:02:05) Mark shares the story of his family's involvement in the auto repair business, including their transition from sales to service.
Mark details his father's journey in the auto industry (00:04:08), from working at a BMW dealership to starting his own car sales business.
Mark's connection to European cars (00:10:52) Mark discusses his family's deep connection to European cars, particularly Audi, BMW, Mercedes, and Volkswagen.
Mark's journey in the auto repair business (00:14:48) Mark reflects on his journey in the auto repair business, from washing cars to becoming a service advisor and learning to buy cars at auctions.
Auto Auction and Nostalgia (00:21:29) Chris shares his experience working at an auto auction, and both speakers reminisce about the excitement of auctions.
Transition and Succession Plan (00:23:16) Mark discusses his role in the business and the prolonged transition plan from his father.
Succession Planning and Family Dynamics (00:29:31) Mark emphasizes the importance of communication and close relationships in succession planning.
Future of the Business and Retirement (00:34:14): Mark discusses his long-term plans for the business and his reluctance to retire.
Family and Business History (00:37:29) Discussion about the family's daily routine and plans for creating a slideshow of old pictures for the website.
Transition to New Location and Succession Plan (00:38:19) Mark mentions the upcoming 40th anniversary at the new location and discusses their decision to change service management systems.
Initial Meeting and Decision to Work with Chris (00:43:40) Mark's initial meeting with Chris at a convention, initial reluctance to work with a coach, and the decision to start working with Chris.
Impact of Coaching on Business (00:45:48): Coaching has a positive impact on business performance, particularly in December and January, and has improved their outlook for the year.
Benefits of Coaching and 20 Groups (00:50:40) Discussion about the value of coaching, 20 groups, and the supportive industry landscape in Rochester.
Future Plans and Idea Sharing (00:55:20) The anticipation of a productive year with many ideas yet to be explored and nurtured during the coaching sessions.
Accountability and Responsibility (00:55:34) Discussion on the importance of accountability and responsibility in business ownership.
Meetings and Regimen (00:56:37) The significance of regular meetings and a structured approach to managing the business.
Future Plans and Succession (00:58:36) Mark's plans for the business include his son's involvement and the transition of responsibilities.
Family Traditions and Gratitude (00:59:22) Mark's family traditions include meals prepared by his mother and expressions of gratitude.
Connect with Chris:
[e-mail]
Phone: [phone]
www.autoshopcoaching.com
Facebook:
AutoFixAutoShopCoachingTH-cam: bit.ly/3ClX0ae
#autofixautoshopcoaching #autofixbeautofixing #autoshopprofits #autoshopprofit #autoshopprofitsfirst #autoshopleadership #autoshopmanagement #autorepairshopcoaching #autorepairshopconsulting #autorepairshoptraining #autorepairshop #autorepair #serviceadvisor #serviceadvisorefficiency #autorepairshopmarketing #theweeklyblitz #autofix #shopmarketingpros #autofixautoshopcoachingbook #riseandgrind