Shop View: West Point Auto Works
1. Retro Space
With added modern equipment, new electrical updates, and basic renovations, a 1950’s Atlantic gas station transforms into a small, but effective, auto repair shop.
Although the 1,600-square-foot Pennsylvania shop, West Point Auto Works, has only been around for a little over a year and a half, the space innovation and clean design makes this shop a standout.
Before owner Jesse Brocious and his team opened West Point Auto Works, the vintage gas station hadn’t been touched in over 40 years.
“When we first got in, we pretty much had to hot-wire the lifts to go up and down,” Brocious says.
The gas pumps had been removed, but not much else in the space had been handled. The remodeled retro space now includes a renovated shop floor, a beautifully clean waiting area, repaved parking lot, and updated signage.
The original blueprints of the gas station remain on the waiting room wall to pay homage to its past life.
2. Keep it Clean
Working in a 1,600-square-foot shop is no easy task. Brocious says keeping it clean and organized is the only way to keep the space functional. To ensure the accessibility and flow of West Point Auto Works, the staff keeps the shop spotless by cleaning up every night and making sure there are no parts strewn about.
The only storage available in the shop is a very small supply room in the back that’s kept well organized to maximize space.
“We try and keep everything to the T, and in its place,” Brocious says.
3. New Technology
Having the most up-to-date technology in his shop was an important priority for Brocious and his team.
“We didn’t want to ignore the opportunity long-term to embed those technologies and features people are starting to use more and more,” he says.
The West Point Auto Works team invested in ALLDATA Manage Online for their repair order system, as well as chat features on their website.
“We’re technology driven on the backend for our website; it’s stuff you don’t typically see, at least in our market,” he explains.
Brocious says customers can go online and chat with him directly if he’s available.
“It was investing in new technology in an old space,” Brocious says.
4. Get Your Merch
To further West Point Auto Works’ branding, the waiting area has its own merchandise wall. The options include hoodies, beanies, and hats, all adorned with their custom-designed logo.
“We wanted to celebrate small business,” Brocious says.
Giving back to their community is also a large pillar for Brocious and his team, so they give 10 percent of the merch sales to their favorite nonprofits. They also give back to nonprofits by donating to numerous organizations and hosting events throughout the year.
SHOP: West Point Auto Works LOCATION: Greensburg, Pa. OWNER: Jesse Brocious SIZE: 1,600 square feet; STAFF SIZE: 2 full-time, 2 part-time AVERAGE MONTHLY CAR COUNT: 130-150 ANNUAL REVENUE: $450,000-550,000
