With more than two decades spent in the direct mail sector, Jody and Dave Repass decided it was time for a change. Dave was tired of the travel associated with his job, and he wanted to pursue something in line with his hobby and passion: cars. When the couple began to search franchise opportunities in the automotive industry, it was quickly evident that Meineke was going to be their ideal match.
According to Dave Repass, the leading car repair and maintenance franchiser had a proven system for success. The brand's ongoing support also meant that the Repasses would be able to get the training and information they needed to stay current on the constantly-changing technology that is employed in vehicles today. Thanks to the brand's support and training, the technicians at the couple's Delaware location are able to work on the many makes, models and years of vehicles they see in the center with confidence.
The husband-and-wife franchise team moved to Lewes, Delaware eight years open and opened their Meineke location. They were quickly embraced by the local community, and this has allowed their center to thrive and grow over the years. Further proof of their success recently came in the form of the "Franchisee of the Year" award at the brand's convention this year, which was held in March in Las Vegas.
David Repass said the couple's immediate goal when they opened was about building customers for the long term and not just sales figures. This led to a shop and service design that has the customer in mind. In their 14-bay location, customers can watch repairs being made on their vehicles on waiting room monitors.
The Repass family also uses the brand's e-inspection program, which allows techs to communicate electronically with customers and to send a professional estimate that details what a vehicle needs and what it doesn't to help build and keep customer trust. They also accommodate professionals such as school teachers, doctors and nurses who may have a harder time leaving work for car service by including a vehicle pickup and delivery option for local schools and hospitals.
Firm believers in giving back, the Repass family also takes part in many charitable programs and initiatives, from sponsoring 5K events to raise money for the fight against breast cancer to working on a restoration project for a local military landmark. On Veteran's Day, they offer free oil changes to active-duty military member and veterans, and they performed 352 oil changes on that day last year.
Currently, Meineke has more than 800 franchise business locations that see around 3 million cars per year, and there are still franchise opportunities available. The initial investment with this brand ranges from $123,121.00 to $572,411.94.
