Boronia Goodyear Autocare was recently named the company’s National Dealer of the Year, and franchisee Gary Merz couldn’t be happier.
The award saw the company’s network of 130 stores judged across a range of categories, including operational standards, the range of services offered, customer feedback, brand standards, sales measures and more.
Gary said he was honoured to receive the brand’s top title.
“Winning this award came as a real surprise; it’s such a fantastic achievement to share with my team members, Leigh Girginis, Jason Morrison and Tom Peachey.
“It’s really rewarding to see that our efforts have been recognised, and incredibly satisfying to show the team that their consistent hard work has paid off,” he said.
Gary was also quick to recognise the role of his customers in the store’s success.
“None of this would be possible without our devoted customer base or the support of Goodyear, both of which we’re very lucky to have.
“I’m certain our customers will be pleased to know they’re being serviced by the Goodyear Autocare ‘National Dealer of the Year,” he added.
Gary has a strong automotive and retail background, so it made sense that he opt for Goodyear Autocare.
“I had worked and managed a large automotive retailer for 17 and-a-half years. The time had come to take the reins and do it for myself.
“Having so many years experience in the industry, promoting and selling the brand, I knew the product range and quality. It made my choice easy,” he explains.
Looking to invest in the brand? Gary says Goodyear Autocare is a great network to be involved with, and advises potential franchisees have the relevant skill set prior to investing.
“For people looking to join, I would recommend they have prior knowledge of the industry.”
The Boronia store was a little dated when Gary took it over two years ago, which he says posed a challenge early on.
“Being an older existing site, a lot of the main equipment was due for servicing and replacement. I worked on priority and had everything sorted in the first three months.”
Gary has silent partners in the business, however he is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the store.
“I deal with customers by taking phone calls, producing quotes, making bookings and so forth, I organise the workshop and also help the mechanics when I have time,” he says.
Gary says he markets the business through:
- Local advertising
- Sponsoring the local Little Athletics club
- The provision of exceptional customer service, which spreads good word of mouth
Gary is pleased he decided to invest in the business, and hopes to open another store within the next two years.
“There is nothing better than being your own boss and in complete control of your own business, and I am more financially stable now,” he says.