It’s been a tough time for everyone, and small business owners are no exception.
With the need for restrictions to prevent spreading COVID-19, many businesses have struggled to make ends meet.
In fact, compared to the beginning of 2020, the number of small businesses open has dropped about 37%, according to Opportunity Insights, a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization at Harvard University.
With so much working against them, local business owner Oren Glasman wants to show entrepreneurs that they can survive and even thrive during tough times.
His mechanic shop, Oren’s Automotive, is celebrating its 7-year anniversary and, even without the pandemic, it hasn’t always been easy.
“I started out passing out business cards at the local Costco,” Glasman says. “I didn’t have the budget for more marketing than that. It was mostly just word of mouth.”
What started as a three-bay automotive shop has expanded to six bays with updated technological equipment and technicians who know how to work on many vehicles.
Glasman credits his success to persistence and determination, spending time in the community, providing customers with what they need and being sympathetic and honest with them.
Integrity and innovation
(Oren’s Automotive photo.)
From the start, Glasman knew that, to be successful, he had to offer something unique compared to other automotive shops: integrity.
“You don’t always find that in today’s automotive industry,” Glasman says. “I know it sounds corny, but integrity is something that really makes us stand apart. We will go above and beyond to make sure you’re getting the right service for the right price.”
Additionally, because Oren’s Automotive has invested in cutting-edge technologies, technicians can work on virtually any make and model of vehicle, including high-end European and Japanese models.
“We have all the equipment to service vehicles with complex internal computers,” Glasman says. “Body shops will contract with us to recalibrate vehicles after getting work done.”
Oren’s Automotive also stands out because it works with the American Automobile Association, a national organization with millions of members that not a lot of local auto shops work with.
Transparency and customer service
Oren’s Automotive posts reviews directly on its website for anyone interested in seeing what real people have said about their experiences. Providing that information is part of the shop’s commitment to transparency and customer satisfaction, two pillars that Glasman has built his business upon.
“When you talk, we listen,” according to OrensAuto.com. “Too many consumers feel that car service shops are dishonest. Only by responding to your questions in a patient, thorough way can you feel totally at home with our work.”
Glasman is part of the community and cares about his customers so, in addition to offering honest, reliable service, he encourages people to take care of their vehicles to cut down on needed repairs, with tips on social media as well as the shop’s website:
» Always do factory recommended maintenance.
» Don’t put off repairs, as doing so may lead to more expensive repairs.
» Ask service professionals for advice and options.
» Check your tire pressure and inflate immediately when needed.
» Combine errands and avoid unnecessary trips.
When your vehicle needs work, the turnaround at Oren’s Automotive is quick, Glasman says. The technicians can usually complete a repair in a day or two — sometimes sooner when you have an emergency.
No matter your service needs, Oren’s Automotive has you covered for oil changes, tune-ups, emissions inspections, and repairs on the chassis, suspension system, engines, water pumps, radiators, heaters, air conditioners, and more.
For information about the services available or to schedule an appointment, visit OrensAuto.com or call 805-965-6142.