CARS of America wins 2013 Motor Age Top Shop award

CARS of America Inc. has been named a 2013 Top Shop by Motor Age magazine, the auto service industry's leading B2B publication.

"There are more than 175,000 independent auto repair facilities in the United States, and to be chosen in the top 10 indicates that a panel of our peers judged our team to be in a very elite group of top achievers," said Bob Dupre, CARS’ founder and director of business development.

Auto shops from around the country entered the annual contest, which evaluates companies based on experience, training and education, shop management, marketing and social media plans, website presence, aftermarket involvement, community activity and technical offerings. Only 10 shops in the country are chosen for this honor.

Tschanen Brandyberry, Motor Age managing editor, said that to be recognized on a national level as a well-rounded, trustworthy shop is something any owner would want to help better their business in their community. 

"Today's shop owners have a balance they strive to maintain in running a successful business, keeping up with rapidly changing technology and taking care of their employees," she said. "The Top Shops contest gives owners a chance to showcase what they are doing and be honored for their achievements."

Brandyberry said Dupre and his staff at CARS of America understand that running a successful repair shop goes beyond just fixing cars well.

"He has implemented a solid marketing plan, integrated social media into the business and placed a focus on a variety of training for all of his employees," she said. "Bob knows the hard work it takes to be successful, and instills that into his employees while giving back to the industry as well as his community."

Dupre founded CARS of America in March 1972 as a one-man mobile service, later opening a permanent location in Glenview. The company has been in its current location at 1727 Chestnut Ave. since 1988.

CARS of America underwent an extensive application and interview process as part of the Top Shop competition. Dupre said it was important to go through the process and be selected as a Top Shop because it helps support his mission to make a difference for vehicle owners, as well as professionals who work in the auto repair industry.

"Making a difference means providing vehicle owners with the necessary knowledge and guidance to make informed decisions," he said. "We want to help them achieve their goals for purchasing, maintaining and reselling their vehicles. We want to minimize their investment and maximize the dependability, safety and resale value."

Brian Blohm, managing partner of CARS of America, said this Top Shops award shows it is possible to run an auto repair business in a manner that is beneficial for the shop and its clients.

"I'd like to help spread the word that shops do exist that are professionally run and understand that the road to success is paved with bricks made by caring about the welfare of the clients and staff before all else," he said. 

Brian Blohm is the Service Manager and Managing Partner - Operations CARS of America in Glenview. He is an ASE-Certified Automotive Service Technician and ASE-Certified Service Advisor with more than 25 years of automotive experience. A graduate of Triton College with an associate's degree in Automotive Technology, he has continued his training and education with the Automotive Training Institute and RL O'Connor. You can reach Brian via email at brianb@carsofamericainc.com or by phone at (847) 961-4363.