We had the good fortune of connecting with M Franco and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi M, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
I’m fortunate to be involved in a career that heavily incorporates one of my passions and hobbies. South Florida is a Mecca of exotic and luxury autos. Concurrently, it’s always trending to customize and performance of those same autos. I’ve been able to spend my “off time” connecting with the community over the years. I have been customizing my cars since I was 16 years old. So, for the better part of 30+ years, I have spent many days and nights with people who share the same passions. After starting the customization division of my family business in 2014, my hobby became workload. I’m not going to lie and tell you it’s all fun now. As I’ve grown and become a husband and father, I’ve had to make time for work and family. The kids used to come out to our auto events more often. As they have gotten older, they don’t share the same passion for these autos as I do. I’ve adjusted my “work schedule” to be able to spend more time with my kids who are quickly growing into their own adulthood. It’s working out well. I “work” a little less now and have the benefit of enjoying my family more as we grow.

What should our readers know about your business?
I essentially started in the automotive business as a child. My father was a mechanic by trade. His early career started with a large tire company and eventually he opened a gas station here in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. After several more years, in 1984, he opened his own auto repair facility. So, from a young age, I was exposed to the business and spent several summers working in his shop and subsequently worked for him full in my early 20’s. I eventually accepted a position as a Service Advisor for a large auto dealership. I quickly progressed though the corporate ranks and eventually found myself in management. I learned a lot about the way large companies were run, customer service, customer retention, etc. While learning how to treat customers, more importantly I also learned how not to treat customers. These are the valuable lessons and knowledge I brought back to the table when I took over my father’s shop in 2010.

South Florida is a very competitive market for anything automotive. I always think about ‘what should set us apart from everyone else?’ You can buy parts virtually anywhere anymore. But customer service, understanding, empathy, and a personal interest in what the customer wants – that’s what sets me/us apart. That building of trust and relationships with every client is the key to the success of my business. We care. We must care. Many businesses see themselves as indispensable. That’s a failed vision. The customer is paramount and should always be handled as such.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
South Florida doesn’t leave much to the imagination. First on the agenda would be a fantastic meal at Hard Rock Hollywood. More than likely Counsil Oak for a fantastic steak dinner. We would naturally follow that by winning in the casino. We would have 50 yard line seats to take in a Miami Dolphins game. Visiting Ft. Lauderdale wouldn’t be complete without some great food and drinks on Las Olas and some socializing on the classic “Ft. Lauderdale Strip”. A stop at the historic Elbo Room is a must-do. Wind down the trip with a nice drive to the west coast. Naples is great spot with some fantastic restaurants coupled with a nice, slow pace.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My father, Sam Franco. He dragged me into this.

Website: www.signatureautohaus.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/signature.autohaus/

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Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@signatureautohaus4910/featured

Image Credits
Signature Autohaus

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