(And they rely on their “First Call,” Assistant Store Manager Scott Flowers, to provide that great service. That’s why Flowers has been named Counterman magazine’s 2007 Counter Professional of the Year, presented by Affinia.
“For the past 21 years, Counterman magazine has annually awarded parts professionals this prestigious, national honor,” said Counterman Editor Brian Cruickshank. “Testimonials from colleagues and customers speak to Scott’s 20 years of service to his industry and profession. It’s clear to me that his employer, customers and the entire Hickory community have greatly benefited from his expertise, knowledge and customer service.”
“Scott is the ultimate parts pro in that he possesses both technical and selling skills,” said Auto Supply Co. President Charlie Key Jr. “Years of experience both under the hood and behind the counter provide invaluable assets for Scott and Auto Supply Company. He is highly thought of by our customers, co-workers and management staff. To round out Scott’s total package, he displays a positive attitude and a strong loyalty for his company. He has been a role model for many years in our organization. With this award he has raised the bar for counter professionals everywhere.”
Flowers began his automotive career in 1987 as a delivery driver. For the past two decades has become a trusted source for customers. He has worked for Auto Supply Co., an Automotive Distribution Network/Parts Plus member WD and an ACDelco DDG, since 1994. Auto Supply Co. operates 19 branch locations – including Scott’s store in Hickory – and two DCs throughout North Carolina and Western Virginia.
“When dealing with Auto Supply Co. we always ask for Scott. He has true concern for our needs,” said customer Michael Martin of M&R Automotive. “He always has a great attitude anytime we call and his knowledge surpasses anyone else’s in the business.”
The knowledge that allows Flowers to help others comes from his extensive education in the automotive industry. He has completed technician courses at Catawba Valley Community College and has attended a number of seminars on topics ranging from air conditioning, to brakes, ignitions, batteries and HAZMAT. Flowers, who is ASE certified, also has completed numerous ACDelco training classes and Parts Plus National Seal and Bearings courses.
Not only does Flowers possess the knowledge needed to get the right parts to his customers the first time, but he also has the personal skills necessary to relate to his customers. Flowers said he thinks of customers as friends and feels that it’s his responsibility to help his friends in any way he can, especially when they’re in need of the right parts at the right time.
“Scott has become a constant in my business. I don’t talk to anyone else when calling Auto Supply Co.,” said another customer, Ron Bolton of Ron’s Auto Center. “He has a great attitude and his knowledge of parts is superior to anyone else in the business. No matter what kind of day I’m having, by the time I get off the phone with Scott, he has me laughing. He goes beyond the call of duty for his customers.”
The Counter Professional of the Year, presented by Affinia, honor includes an all-expenses paid trip to Las Vegas to attend Automotive Aftermarket Industry Week (AAIW), the world’s largest trade-only automotive show. Cruickshank will present Flowers with the award at an Automotive Warehouse Distributors Association lunch held during AAIW on Oct. 29.
