Clint Dudley, owner of Shade Tree Auto, 1750 SE 11th Street, Grimes was our speaker today.
Clint talked about:
- 21 years with the business, started in his home off of Merle Hay Road, thus “Shade Tree Auto”
- Upon moving the shop and going full time in the business, joined Johnston Chamber of Commerce to help gain customer base
- Very good experience and helped grow his business
- 2014 US Chamber of Commerce Top 100 in country small business award, only one in IA in 2014
- Clint is on the advisory board at DMACC for their auto technician degree
- Business philosophy revolves around being fair, and using informative diagnostics, i.e. educating the customer and trying to help guard against a major expense that’s not expected
- Clint has extensive 504 SBA loan experience that he utilized in the construction of their new facility off of Hwy 141 in Grimes
- Overall state of the industry (auto repair and mro) is strong and growing, people are running their cars longer due to the shortages of new and used vehicles in the marketplace currently, as well as the very high prices for new and used vehicles
- Shade Tree is affiliated with NAPA auto care centers, and can provide nationwide warranty and repair support via other affiliated NAPA auto shops
- Claim to fame is the 4 year/ 40K warranty on all supplied / replacement parts
Various Rotarians have used his business for car repairs and have been happy with the completed work.