About the Company

Finish Line Towing & Auto Repair (FLT) is the largest provider of roadside assistance in Wisconsin, operating between 40-50 trucks across the state's lower half and extending services throughout the Midwest. The company offers a wide range of services, including lockouts, jumpstarts, tire changes, battery installations, contract towing, private property parking lot management, police accident response, and emergency towing. FLT's commitment to customer service and effective dispatching has played a significant role in its success, allowing it to find a niche with specialized contracts and expand its market presence.

FLT generates approximately $5 million in annual revenue from its diverse service offerings and has ambitions to grow its operations in Wisconsin and beyond. The company's focus on clean and efficient service, along with strategic customer relationship management, has been key to its sustained growth and profitability. Johnny Van, the owner, emphasizes the importance of maintaining a strong brand reputation and customer trust as the company continues to expand.

Idea Behind Company

Johnny Van's journey into the towing and auto repair industry was influenced by his upbringing in Appleton, Wisconsin, where his father operated a small towing business. Despite his initial reluctance to join the family business, Johnny's early exposure to the automotive industry sparked a lifelong interest in cars and motorcycles. His parents instilled values of hard work, honesty, and resilience, which became foundational principles for Johnny as he embarked on his entrepreneurial journey.

After exploring other career paths, including pursuing a business degree and working as an insurance adjuster, Johnny realized the corporate environment was not for him. A misunderstanding over dress code policies at his corporate job became a turning point, prompting him to quit and explore opportunities in the towing industry. This decision was bolstered by discussions with his brother about a potential business opportunity in Madison, Wisconsin, where a large insurance company was seeking a reliable service provider.

Johnny's decision to enter the towing industry was driven by a combination of necessity and opportunity. The demand for towing services and the potential for growth in the Madison area presented a promising avenue for him to leverage his skills and experiences. His determination to succeed, coupled with the support of his family, laid the groundwork for the establishment of FLT.

Creating the Company

Establishing Finish Line Towing & Auto Repair required significant effort and resources. Johnny and his brother initially invested in two service vans and two tow trucks, using personal funds and loans to cover startup costs. They prioritized minimizing expenses, utilizing personal connections for truck parking and securing fuel discounts through WEX fuel cards. The initial months were challenging, as Johnny worked tirelessly without a paycheck, performing multiple roles to ensure the business's survival.

The company's success hinged on attention to detail and customer service excellence. Johnny emphasized the importance of treating each customer interaction as if it were the only opportunity to earn business. This customer-centric approach helped FLT build a reputation for reliability and trustworthiness. Johnny's dedication to building relationships with local businesses and securing referrals from auto shops played a crucial role in FLT's growth trajectory.

As the business expanded, Johnny continued refining FLT's operational strategies. He developed pricing models based on fixed and variable costs, incorporating lessons learned from his business education. The implementation of GPS trackers in trucks improved efficiency and allowed for better resource management. These early challenges and innovations set the foundation for FLT's ongoing success and expansion plans.

Launching the Business

The launch of Finish Line Towing & Auto Repair marked a significant milestone for Johnny Van. His efforts to secure initial contracts and build relationships with insurance providers were instrumental in generating a steady stream of calls from day one. The company's early success was rooted in its ability to establish trust with clients and deliver high-quality service consistently. Johnny's commitment to forging meaningful connections with industry partners proved invaluable in expanding FLT's client base.

Johnny's risk-taking approach and willingness to seize opportunities contributed to FLT's rapid growth. Financing new trucks and hiring employees without an established office were bold moves that paid off in the long run. He relied on his entrepreneurial spirit and determination to overcome challenges, leveraging his background in business and customer relations to propel the company forward.

To attract and retain customers, FLT focused on maintaining a clean image and strong online presence. Johnny prioritized Google reviews and customer feedback to build credibility and trust. By engaging with local communities and supporting nonprofits, FLT further solidified its reputation as a reliable and community-focused business. This strategic approach enabled FLT to thrive in a competitive industry and set the stage for future expansion.

Earnings

FLT has achieved remarkable financial success, with annual revenues reaching $5 million. The company's profitability has allowed Johnny to reinvest in the business, purchasing additional trucks, expanding into new markets, and acquiring real estate to support growth. Johnny's decision to buy out his partner further enhanced profitability and enabled him to focus on hiring top talent to drive the company's expansion.

Looking ahead, Johnny envisions continued growth and increased market presence. Plans to hire an operations manager in 2023 will allow Johnny to transition from day-to-day operations to strategic business development. FLT aims to establish full-service towing operations in every major market in Wisconsin, laying the groundwork for potential expansion into neighboring states. The goal is to achieve a company valuation of $10 million to $15 million within the next decade.

Johnny attributes FLT's success to his proactive approach and willingness to take calculated risks. He emphasizes the importance of action and resilience in overcoming obstacles and achieving business goals. By maintaining a customer-centric focus and continually refining processes, FLT is well-positioned for sustained growth and long-term success in the towing and auto repair industry.