The East Cobb Business Association (ECBA) held it’s monthly meeting Tuesday, November 12, at the Olde Towne Athletic Club. This event was highlighted by the announcement of the 2019 Business of the Year Award presented to Honest-1 Auto Care. The Business of the Year Award recognizes a small business for its demonstrated success, innovation, contributions to economic growth and community involvement.
When asked how he felt about being named 2019 “Business of the Year”, Honest-1 Auto Care owner-operator, Butch Carter, took a deep breath in, grinned and stated “Incredibly honored. Humbled. There were so many high caliber businesses nominated, we were blown away with this unexpected honor. It confirms for us that East Cobbers appreciate our focus on a premier customer experience — taking care of them while taking care of their cars — and there just isn’t any better feeling as a business owner.”
Carter, whose background is in the pharmaceutical industry, wanted to take his management and customer service skills in a different direction and drew on childhood memories of his relative’s auto shop in North Carolina, an integral part of the community. Honest-1 Auto Care, a small franchise with just over 75 locations nationwide fit the bill, with ample opportunity to assure every customer feels they are the most important one and trust they are receiving excellent, honest service.
What differentiates Honest-1 Auto Care from others is an exceptional, luxury feel while you wait. A minivan owner is treated like a Rolls Royce collector in the waiting area, which includes an internet café, refreshments, leather chairs and a variety of publications to peruse. “Our goal is to wow our customers at every turn. Auto repairs are rarely a fun activity you look forward to,” said Carter. “But they should never be dreaded and uncomfortable. That is where we shine.”
Carter’s commitment to local charities and schools is a strong part of his business. An active member of East Cobb Rotary, Honest-1 Auto Care supports multiple local charities, such as Revved Up Kids, Camp Trach Me Away, the MDE School, breast cancer organizations and area school sports teams. As an Air Force veteran, he also supports United Military Care and programs close to his heart at Dobbins Air Force Base, such as the Dobbins Top 3, aiding enlisted soldiers who have fallen on financial hardships.
“Being involved in the community is as big a priority to me as my responsibilities in business planning, marketing and sales,” stated Carter. “If we are successful as a business it is because of our customers and it is vital to me we give back to them and their causes.”
When asked his advice to a new business owner, Carter replied “Don’t be afraid to take risks. Find your niche and focus on that, be the best in one key area and you will be remembered and valued.”
Honest-1 Auto Care East Cobb is located at 1391 East Cobb Drive, Marietta. For an appointment call 770-809-6253.
The East Cobb Business Association is a membership-based professional group committed to providing a lineup of strategic events and networking opportunities that are specifically designed to help member businesses grow and prosper in East Cobb County.
