Faith-based repair shop implements values into business model
Infusing comfortable and homey shop design, enhanced customer relations, strengthened employee benefits and faith values, Christian Brothers Automotive Corporation (CBAC) is working to break the typical repair shop stereotypes and introduce patrons and staff to a new way of doing business.
On track to grow to 175 locations by 2015, CBAC currently boasts 50 auto repair franchises across the country. With its upscale décor and business pillars of honesty and integrity, Christian Brothers aims to create a “positive culture shock” in the industry by breaking the pigeonhole beliefs that repair shops can be dirty, male-centric and unethical.
“Historically, the automotive repair industry has been plagued by negative perceptions, and women are traditionally more hesitant about the car service experience because of the dishonesty often associated with the industry,” says Mark Carr, CBAC founder and CEO. “CBAC exists to challenge the norm by insisting on quality, fairness and first-rate customer service at all times. And since women make up the majority of our customers, we go the extra mile to make them feel comfortable and at home.”
“Ultimately, CBAC strives to provide honest, ethical and excellent service without compromise. Our goal is to build relationships based on trust regardless of gender. We want every customer that leaves our shop to understand what service or repair was performed and why,” he says.
Currently operating in eight states, including Texas, Oklahoma, Georgia and Mississippi, and established in 1982, CBAC is a faith-based company with business ideals of honesty, integrity and exceptional customer service.
“We really are concerned with our customers, not just their automobile. When a vehicle is down, you are usually in crisis mode. You don’t have a way to get to work or get the kids to the soccer game,” says Jeff Toth, CBAC franchise owner in the Woodlands, near Houston, Texas. “We see this as an opportunity to be a light in the community through serving people by working on their vehicle and helping them get their life back together.”
CBAC is equally focused on its employees, typically offering annual salary packages of more than $70,000, including comprehensive family health insurance and a 50 percent share in store profits. Each franchise owner also manages the store’s accounting, human resources and real estate functions.
With a family-first value system, the company locations all operate during traditional working hours, but are closed on weekends to ensure employees have time to spend with their relatives.
Though all franchise owners are required to be born-again Christians, CBAC has been welcomed in their community locations by all.
“I have never received a negative response for implementing my faith into my business,” Allnut says.
Cleveland, Ohio consumer Jennifer Alexander agrees that reputation and results — not religious denominations — are what is important when seeking out repair shops.
“I would visit any chain with a reputation for honesty and integrity whether from solid business practices or Christian beliefs,” she says. “And if a repair shop had an accommodating waiting room and atmosphere where I felt comfortable asking questions and spending time, I would be encouraged to take more of an interest in my car.”
CBAC provides full-service automotive diagnostic testing and evaluation, maintenance programs and repair work for all domestic and foreign vehicles at each of their locations. All facilities are staffed with ASE-certified technicians.
Please visit CBAC online for more information.
About the Author
Krista McNamara
Krista McNamara is the former Editorial Director for the Vehicle Repair Group at Endeavor Business Media. She oversaw five brands — Motor Age, PTEN, Professional Distributor, ABRN and Aftermarket Business World. She worked in the automotive aftermarket industry for more than 15 years.