The Great Bear shop is located in Flushing, N.Y., in the borough of Queens, east of Manhattan.
The shop routinely offers basic automotive knowledge events for female customers.
moves the fear factor. By ‘telling not selling,’ we explain a problem and the remedy instead of simply selling them in order to increase the repair ticket. We emphasize service instead of sales. The shop will earn a fair price for parts and labor without the need to unduly pressure the customer by telling them ‘well, you need this.’” Fordin noted that, “We strive to educate our customers, especially females, about their vehicles, in terms of how systems operate, the role that certain components play, and what’s involved in repairs. This affords us transparency with the customers, giving them the opportunity to communicate and participate in their auto maintenance service and repairs. This boosts their confidence by reducing or eliminating any apprehensions and increases their understanding of the parts and labor required for specific repairs. By educating our customers, they better understand why certain repairs are required.”
training seminars, in addition to online practical and theory education.
What do customers want/expect from your shop? Our shop is recognized for professionalism, quality of work. We make it clear that we stand behind and guarantee our work. As a result, we have developed an extremely loyal customer base. What is your approach to technician training? Our technicians undergo continuous training in terms of daily hands-on experience, in-house
Fordin conducts classes during “career days” at a local school.
Where do you buy your parts? We purchase parts from local suppliers including Parts Authority, Coney Island Auto Parts, AutoZone and Worldpac. What influences your parts buying decisions? Rank from 0 to 3, with 0 having no influence and 3 having the greatest influence. Price ................................................. 3 Brand name recognition ............. 1 Promotion in racing .................... 0 Perceived quality........................... 3 Availability/time ........................... 3 Other (describe)… We try to read/research to stay informed regarding newly available parts. How has ASP benefited your business? ASP deep dives into all aspects of the repair and techniques (tips and tricks) to give factual information that helps us to communicate and share with my customers regarding how stuff works. ■
GREAT BEAR AUTO REPAIR
Flushing, New York
Owner .............................................. Audra Fordin Business founded.......................................... 1933 Number of bays ................................................... 5 Number of certified technicians ......................... 4 Shop size .................................. 3,600 square feet Number of vehicles serviced per month.........250 Hourly labor rate ......................................$109.99 Average job ticket price ....... Approximately $250 Gross profit............................ Approximately 50% Average spent on tools and equipment annually ..........................$25,000 Vehicle makes serviced ...... American, European, Asian, electric and hybrid October 2 019
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