The Toledo Automotive Supply Staff
continued. “Not only is that a completely
different area of parts needs, but in the
service, too. Because of the extremely high
voltage they operate on, mechanics have
to take precautions to prevent shock as
do even EMT medical providers at crash
scenes where an electric car is involved.
If the electrical system is damaged in the
crash, there’s a very real danger of an EMT
being electrocuted trying to aid a crash
victim.”
“These are all new and different things
that in one way or another, directly affect
our business, and they are things that we
have to stay up to date on to better service
our customers.”
“And that is something that NAPA
has helped us do,” Cecil added. “Being
connected with them has kept us updated
and informed on the industry, they’ve
offered suggestions on things to do to
improve our business and they’ve helped
with store updates.”
The National Automotive Parts
Association (NAPA), also known as NAPA
Auto Parts, was founded in 1925. It’s an
American retailers’ cooperative distributing
automotive replacement parts, accessories
and service items in North America. There
are more than 6,000 NAPA Auto Parts
stores across the United States of which
1,142 are NAPA company stores owned by
Genuine Parts Company. The remainder
10 Business MATTERS | 2020 Spring Edition
are independently owned. 15,000
NAPA AutoCare repair facilities are
in operation which provide vehicle
maintenance and repair services.
NAPA carries more than 500,000
items, including automotive
replacement parts, paint and
refinishing supplies, automotive
accessories, farm and marine
supplies, tools and equipment, and
heavy-duty parts.
As a NAPA affiliate, Toledo
Automotive Supply offers an
extensive inventory of automotive
and truck parts and supplies for
dealers, garages, construction,
industrial, farm, body shops,
NAPA awards
government agencies, service
stations, and individuals.
Plaques on the wall serve as testimonials drag racing and tinkering with cars.”
Asked about the keys to success for
to both NAPA’s appreciation for the
being in business as many years as Toledo
Center business and to Toledo Automotive
Supply’s achievements. One recognizes the Automotive Supply has enjoyed, Jasen
thought for a few seconds before answering
company’s support as a jobber since 1967,
another lauds the local store’s achievement with a smile, “Work hard and save your
money.”
in being the first Dallas district store to
Looking at the long and successful
purchase $1 million in one year for 1994,
history of Toledo Automotive under the
one for 35 years of valued support, and yet
guidance of Cecil Watlington and his son,
another for 50 years of customer service.
Jasen, one might add that knowing exactly
Commenting on what he likes about the
what you want to do goes as long way as
automotive parts business and why he’s
well.
stayed in it, Jasen said, “Because I’m a car
guy. It’s always been my hobby. I enjoy