I appreciate the kind words. I am not an expert business person, I just know what has worked for my business. We are always learning from our mistakes and trying to see what we can do better. I am very fortunate to know some really great business people that share what they know with me. Without them not sure if we would have made it. Always happy to share what I learned, mistakes and successes alike.

Cheers

Also, further commentary there is a huge difference starting a specialty shop from scratch and buying an existing 'boutique' repair facility.

The entry fee for the latter is huge but compared to what $$$ and time it takes just to get a small shop up and running with good staff and the scaling it to what's described here.................priceless. It's a lot easier to buy a well run shop and then move it in the direction you want VS starting with "0"

Obviously, starting a shop from "0" in these times is a huge cash flow nightmare.............................

I just wish I had Jeff Alton and Fastfred as local indy shops when I had my Boxster. I am sure the outcome for my Boxster would have been a lot different. :)

Feels like I should - so why shouldn’t I. Maybe that sounds weird, but generally feel I can figure anything out and make something pretty great out of just about anything. Been successful doing it.....for other people in areas I liked but not loved. It’s either for love or money right? 🙂

I've always been under the bias that some German brands were a little too 'protective' with providing repair spec data to independent shops.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motor_Vehicle_Owners%27_Right_to_Repair_Act

For me it's purely love. I'm technically retired since I love what I do so much.

A lot of good advice here from very successful people.

The only thing I would add is that unless there is a big need, in general, that isn't being filled local to you, I think you must specialize and be the very best at that specialty. I can't imagine starting out late in life, from scratch, as a general repair shop with established, trusted competition around you.

And as you've outlined in your OP makes listed, targeting affluent people will be a big help.

Lastly, if you are great and the only one who can do what you do, don't undervalue your services.

Wise words.