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This is Chris Redgrave, the new voice for Zions Bank Speaking on Business.
I recently had the chance to meet with Ron Burt from the Burt Brothers Automotive Centers, and we talked about this family-owned business. I knew he was in business with his brother, Wendall, so I said, "Ron I love my sister dearly but I couldn't imagine being in business with her." He said he couldn't imagine NOT being in business with his brother.
The Burt brothers knew they always wanted to be in business together, especially since they shared the same work ethic. Both brothers spent 30 years in the automotive industry before they encountered an opportunity to start their own business. This became Burt Brothers Automotive Center in Bountiful, which opened in 1991.
As the company grew, mainly as a result of Ron and Wendell's intense focus on their customer base, they made the decision to adjust their business model and simplify the automotive repair business. Customers can get everything done in one place, from tires to oil, brakes to alignment work, even On-the-Spot state registration. What a wise decision that has been. They have also made it a priority to let customers know exactly what needs to be done to their vehicle and why.
Today, Burt Brothers Automotive Centers' corporate headquarters and central distribution center are located in North Salt Lake, but the company operates seven different locations around the valley. To ensure employees are properly focused on the customer, they are not commissioned. The atmosphere of professionalism with honesty and integrity is paramount for Burt Brothers' success.
It was their dad, who retired years ago, who taught them the value of a hard day of work. He was so supportive and proud of what his sons accomplished that they hired him to join their venture. They also employ five of their sons.
I was impressed at how clean the operation is. This is also a business priority for the Burt brothers, especially as women account for at least 50 percent of their business.
The success of Burt Brothers Automotive Centers can be attributed to Ron and Wendell's different leadership styles and their ability to know how to support their differences in a business environment.
For Zions Bank, I'm Chris Redgrave, speaking on business.
