Wonder if any has any knowledge on this subject

[ornelles]

Hello,
I figure you guys are the most knowledgeable people I know when it comes to auto parts and auto related subjects so I was wondering if anyone could add their two cents in on the subject of owning/operating a auto parts store? I am going to be retiring from the military in about 7 months and am looking at starting up one of these in texas, does anyone have any first hand experience with this? (know Jeff does!) I hope this is not crossing the line between competetor type stuff with IH only thats not my intention. Looking at one of the franchise options with the n**a stores.
Thanks for any input, all is welcome for or against.
Steve

 

[kyleandhisIH]

I don't have any operating experience relating to stores, but I can't see how an established company like the one you mentioned is worth censoring in an open-discussion subforum.

I have a local napa in my area with one guy that always seemed to be behind the counter, and eventually he got to recognizing me and my Scout II. Since it was closer to my route into town, I'd stop there first and more than once he had directed my attention away from his own store and other chains towards real advice from people who know my vehicle... And I ended up making two new contacts who I can rely on for information and quality work.

As a fellow gearhead, I would say that running a parts store can only be as good as your experience with a customer - and being able to honestly say "I've been there" can be valuable in establishing the experience. I say go for it. Besides, there's a good chance we can all learn something new every day. If you do choose to make this happen, I wouldn't mind knowing how that situation turns out - never know when I might pack up for different space and suddenly need a friendly local vendor!