LAS VEGAS - Eighteen months ago, ABC Companies announced it was diversifying by launching a new subsidiary called ABC Service America.
The one-stop, express-service business opened its first location less than two months ago and based on the initial reception it expects to open a second ABC Service America outlet during the first quarter of next year and begin selling franchises later in the year.
ABC believes it has identified an overlooked and underserved automotive service niche that ABC Service America can fill: Express preventative maintenance, diagnostic and minor repair services for recreational vehicles, motorcoach coaches, commercial vehicles and even passenger cars.
While it offers many of the same services as the quick-lube industry, ABC Service America outlets will provide a wider assortment of services to a broader range of vehicles.
The 6,900-square-foot Las Vegas branch has two oversize lube bays, a service and detail area, a wash center that can handle all sizes of vehicles, and waste disposal facilities for both RVs and motorcoaches.
"We are now meeting a need that has long been ignored by the express service industry," says ABC Service America Vice President Ron Similo.
ABC Companies hired Similo to develop and implement the ABC Service America concept. He's responsible for supervising day-to-day operations, developing retail partner alliances, site selection, store development and coordinating brand support and marketing.
Similo has more than 25 years experience in the industry, having held executive positions at both Pennzoil Products Company and The Valvoline Company.
The Las Vegas operation, which is roughly two miles west of Las Vegas Boulevard (The Strip) and two miles south of Tropicana Avenue, opened significantly behind schedule largely because of the incredibly long wait needed to obtain building permits in the nation's fast-growing city.
During the delay, Similo refined the concept, including an increased focus on the RV market, whether purpose-built recreational vehicles or luxury coach conversions.
The next store is slated for Orlando in the spring, with Chicago to follow at a yet-to-be-determined date.
The Las Vegas ABC Service America outlet features:
* Citgo premium lube products
* A professional staff of 5 to 9 people, including ASE-certified technicians
* 100 percent work performance guarantee
* Easy record keeping with a personalized maintenance record tracking system
* Environmentally friendly waste disposal service
* Oil-change analysis, including oil testing and contaminants report summary with recommendations
* Engine analysis
* Credit payment convenience and special credit terms for fleets
* Pre-approved work performance warranties on select equipment
* Open 11 hours weekdays, and 8 to 4:30 p.m. Saturdays
For more information, call 800-222-2875 or visit www.abcserviceamerica.com.