AWRS Franchise Owner Interview - Tom Perez
Posted by Michael Dunlap on Fri, Oct 14, 2011 @ 09:20 AM
For those of you who have never been in franchising, or had the experience of being a franchise owner, you may be interested in what some of our most successful franchise owners had to say about their experience and what has made them some of the finest franchisees in the wheel repair industry.
Tom Perez, one of AWRS' first franchise members, was introduced to mobile alloy wheel repair in the early 2000's. As a pioneer, and part visionary of the future of AWRS, Tom has grown his wheel repair franchise to a highly successful business operating in multiple US States. I wanted to learn more about Tom's experiences so I took a few moments to ask him more about AWRS, his company and his entrepreneurial spirit that drives his franchise success.
AWRS: Tom, you've been with us for quite some time. Exactly when, how, and why did you decide to be a franchise owner?
Tom: I started with AWRS sometime in 2003. I had answered an ad placed by Tom Morris offering the purchase of an alloy wheel repair franchise. After speaking with Tom about his wheel repair business opportunity I decided that I wanted to be in control of my own destiny, so I decided to open a franchise.
AWRS: Why did you decide to buy a franchise rather than start your own business?
Tom: Franchises typically have a proven method, a solid marketing and warranty program and a name that is recognized. All of this creates solid net worth. Without a franchise anyone can take advantage of your company.
AWRS: What aspects of AWRS attracted you to this type of franchise opportunity?
Tom: When I started AWRS was not really on its feet. Tom Morris sold me hook line and sinker. The idea of providing a viable solid service that was unique to the auto industry is what most interested me.
AWRS: Are you a car lover, or were you in the auto industry before starting your franchise? If so, is it a benefit to you?
Tom: I am not really a car lover and frankly know very little about them. So for me, the benefit doesn't apply; however, there are many franchise owners in our company that are car lovers and the idea of being involved in the auto industry is simply icing on the cake.
AWRS: What qualities and special skills are necessary to be a franchise owner and specifically to repair alloy wheels?
Tom: To be a successful franchise owner I believe you need to be a solid planner, have some sales/people skills and a great work ethic. AWRS does provide an inital two week training as well as continued learning & support so having knowledge of wheel repair isn't initially required. However I do believe you have to be willing to get your hands dirty and be somewhat mechanically inclined.
AWRS: What are some of the challenges you face as a franchise owner?
Tom: There are many challenges in being a franchise owner. Most of all I find that keeping my equipment running efficiently and managing employees is a constant reminder of the challenges of being a franchise owner. But those challenges can be overcome by the benefits of increasing net worth.
Tom Pere
z is an authorized franchise owner of Alloy Wheel Repair Specialists. He owns several franchise locations through out the midwest including Missouri, Kansas, Arkansas, and Louisianna. Through his efforts he earned "Highest Grossing Mobile Operation" honors in 2010.
Tom Perez (left) and Tom Morris at the 2011 Franchise Convention