By Coach Chris Cotton
In the automotive aftermarket auto repair industry, a term gets thrown around a lot—”mom-and-pop shop.” You’ve heard it. You may have even used it. For years, this phrase has been a badge of honor for smaller, independent businesses, signifying that they offer personalized service, have deep roots in their communities, and are a family-run operation.
But here’s the thing: It’s time to stop using the term “mom-and-pop shop.” It is outdated and can have negative connotations that don’t reflect the professionalism, capabilities, or modern approaches these businesses often represent today. Let’s discuss why we need to leave this phrase in the past and start redefining what independent auto repair businesses are.
“Mom and Pop” Can Be Detrimental to Perception
What do people imagine when they hear “mom and pop shop”? Often, it’s a small, possibly disorganized operation with limited resources, older equipment, and a couple of people trying to hold it together. It can evoke an image of a business stuck in the past that may not be as capable or as cutting-edge as a larger, franchised competitor.
The reality is that many independent shops today are highly sophisticated businesses. They use advanced diagnostic tools, have specialized training, and offer expertise that rivals—if not exceeds—what you’d find at a dealership or corporate chain.
Professionalism and Growth Are Key
Most shop owners I know (and I’ve worked with many) are savvy business people who have grown their operations into streamlined, customer-focused, tech-driven machines. They’re not just mechanics working out of a garage anymore. They’re running businesses that deal with advanced vehicle technology, complex financial operations, and high customer expectations.
Labeling a thriving business as a “mom-and-pop shop” undermines the years of hard work, strategic investments in technology, and professional development that go into making these shops successful. It minimizes the scale and professionalism of what they’ve built.
Modern Independent Shops are More than Family-Run
There’s nothing wrong with being a family-run business. It’s something that gives many shops their heart and personality. But it’s essential to move beyond just that. Shops today are structured for efficiency, customer satisfaction, and employee development. They’ve got systems in place, robust digital marketing strategies, online booking tools, and top-tier training programs for their staff.
Independent shops can compete with (and in many cases outperform) the large corporate chains in terms of service, quality, and customer experience. So why saddle them with an old-school label that doesn’t do them justice?
The Language We Use Matters
If you want to change how customers and employees see your business, you must start with the language you use. Referring to your business as a “mom-and-pop shop” might be comforting to some, but it can also imply that you’re small, limited, and old-fashioned. This affects how customers perceive your shop’s capabilities and might influence their decision to trust you with modern, complex vehicle repairs.
Instead, focus on independent, locally-owned, or family-operated terms if you want to keep that family vibe. Better yet, highlight your business’s strengths by using terms like professional, specialized, or expert. These words signal that you’re more than capable of handling today’s advanced automotive needs.
The Future of Independent Shops is Bright
The automotive industry is rapidly changing, with more technology, competition, and customer expectations. Independent shops are rising to the occasion, and those that will thrive are those that position themselves as modern, capable, and forward-thinking.
Let’s stop using the term “mom and pop” and start using language that accurately reflects the professionalism and expertise we bring to the table. We are no longer “just a small shop down the street”—we’re thriving, independent businesses ready to compete at the highest level. It’s time the rest of the world sees us that way too.
In conclusion, words have power. Let’s use them wisely and intentionally to shape how our industry is viewed by customers, employees, and the broader marketplace. The next time someone refers to your business as a “mom-and-pop shop,” politely correct them. Tell them what you are—an independent, modern, professional auto repair business equipped for the future.
