When Ron Ewer opened Quick Lane Tire & Auto in Richmond/Katy, it was in direct response to customer need. This pattern of putting customers first has proven wise for Ewer, a savvy business owner who understands the importance of meeting customers’ needs.
In March 2018, Ewer opened his stand-alone auto service center in a location centrally located within the Richmond and Katy areas. Having previously opened Legacy Ford in Rosenberg in 2005, he had established himself within that community as a trusted dealership. He noticed, however, that Legacy’s customers, although happy with their Ford purchase, were not returning for service, and the primary reason was an inconvenient location – Legacy was just too far from most customers to warrant the drive. As a result, Ewer conceived of the idea of opening a separate location to service their Ford customers. That seed sprouted into something bigger when he asked himself, why only work with Ford buyers? Why not offer full service on all makes and models? That idea developed into Quick Lane, and it was quickly confirmed that he was on to something.
Since its opening just a few months ago, Quick Lane has almost reached the status of #1 Tire Retailer in the area. Business has doubled since the first month and the customer base has expanded rapidly, with 70% of customers bringing in non-Ford automobiles for service. Ewer attributes this fast success to a number of factors, including the latest and greatest technology utilized at the location.
“We have a state of the art laser system that checks your alignment when you drive in,” Ewer explained. “The computer system has a database of over 15,000 tires and is so precise that it can identify the make of your tire, then very objectively determine the tread wear on each tire. We give you a printout that shows each tire as red, yellow or green, indicating the life of each tire as well as any alignment issues contributing to the wear and tear. This is much more precise than the standard gauge used by most mechanics, and much more reliable. There’s no guesswork involved, no opportunity for a mechanic to mislead you about the need to change your tires.”
In addition, Quick Lane mechanics are certified technicians trained on all makes and models of cars. They are also trained to take care of the customer. “Unlike big chain companies, we don’t treat people like a number,” said Ewer. “I’ve let employees go who aren’t focused on customer service and satisfaction. It’s my number one priority as a business owner.” Third, Ewer and his team strive to improve the car maintenance experience by making it as pleasant as possible. Their auto center offers free, easy access to Wi-Fi, a business center, a pristine childcare facility, a coffee station, and even an Enterprise rental car location right next door if customers can’t wait while their car is being serviced.
Most services are fast and convenient, and customers are flocking to Quick Lane, in particular, for oil changes and state inspections. With 9 employees and 12 bays, the Katy/Richmond center is equipped for large volumes of traffic, including heavy trucks. Their A Technicians can handle virtually any car issue, and if they can’t, automobiles can be transported by truck to Legacy Ford. In total, the two locations share 37 technicians who have every qualification to solve any car problem that may arise. And every customer who walks through the door, no matter how small the service, gets a free car wash before they leave.
If services and convenience weren’t enough, Quick Lane and Legacy Ford have worked hard to build a presence in the community and earn the trust of their customers. “In Rosenberg, Richmond, Katy, Fulshear, Westlake, we are as involved as we can be,” said Ewer. “We’ve purchased scoreboards, annual fireworks, legacy walls recognizing state competitors, football fields and marquees for several high schools. We sponsor Fun Runs and are the primary sponsor for Fulshear Day. From State Highways 99 to 36, I10 to I69, we are involved everywhere we can be. Why? It’s all about community. If I’m going to spend a dime, I’m going to spend it in my community. The community has given to me well over the years and this is my opportunity to give back.”
Quick Lane is family owned and operated. The business owners live and work in the community and hire within the community. As Ewer says, when that’s the case, owners have an extra stake in doing a good job. “I want to be able to walk into a local store and know that when I run into customers, they’ll want to shake my hand and greet me warmly.” His goal is to continue to bring in the right people with the same attitude – one of pride in the company and a commitment to excellent service.
Quick Lane holds a mixer in conjunction with the Fulshear Chamber of Commerce on the third Tuesday of every month. All are welcome to come by and check out the new service center, meet the owners, and relax in a friendly environment.
For more information about Quick Lane’s services, visit www.quick-lanekaty.com. The facility is located at 23301 Farm to Market 1093 in Richmond.
