Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care, NAPA TRACS and Automotive Management Network

Tune in to hear James Marsh's journey as he navigates the transition from a family-owned dealership to managing an independent automotive shop. James shares the significant differences between dealership and independent shop environments. He discusses marketing strategies, the importance of customer service, and the challenges and opportunities independent shops face.

James Marsh, Empower Automotive, Traverse City, Michigan

Show Notes

• Watch Full Video Episode


• Empower Automotive Name Change (00:01:40 )


• Transition from Dealership to Independent Shop (00:02:52 )


• Employee Retention and Culture Shift (00:03:28 )


• Perception of Independent Shops (00:05:40 )


• Marketing Challenges (00:08:30 )


• Wage Comparisons (00:10:01 )


• Warranty Work Impact (00:11:55 )


• Management Culture Differences (00:12:53 )


• Key Performance Indicators (00:14:15 )


• Customer Service Focus (00:14:49 )


• Comfort with Aftermarket Parts (00:21:19 )


• Quality Suppliers Discussion (00:22:00 )


• Transition to Independent Service Center (00:22:33 )


• Marketing Strategies for 2025 (00:23:40 )


• Population and Market Insights of Traverse City (00:26:56 )


• Impact of Remote Work on Local Economy (00:28:35 )


• Networking for Hiring (00:30:12 )

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care, NAPA TRACS and Automotive Management Network

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

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/

Get ready to grow your business with the Automotive Management Network: Find on the Web at http://AftermarketManagementNetwork.com for information that can help you move your business ahead and for the free and informative http://LaborRateTracker.com

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