SPOTLIGHT ON EXCELLENCE

“ARA is my bridge to connect with what is happening nationally, statewide and locally that affects the industry and my business.”

We have weekly employee meetings where I listen to their comments and problems and I ask them how we could improve the business. Some employees are more talkative than others, and that’s okay. Everyone has the opportunity to say something if they want to. I also keep an open door. All of our employees, no matter what their position, know they can come in and talk to me privately if they feel the need.

AR: Are your brothers and father involved in the business?

employees are connected to the business. Ninety per- cent of my employees have been with me from the start.

AR: How do you connect your employees to the health and profitability of your business? Everyone has an equal stake in the business. For our production employees, NationWide has a salary plus bonus program. We set quarterly goals, and when employees achieve their goals they get a bonus. All of our salespeople are on full commission. We do not currently provide benefits but I am looking to do so in the near future.

AR: You mentioned frequent communication with your employees. What form does that take?

They have played a huge role in the success of NationWide with me. My younger brother, Mortaza, is sales manager and my older, Rashad, is general manager. Together we set the company’s weekly, monthly and annual production and sales goals. My father is retired, but he often stops by. He smiles to see his sons working together, being successful, respecting each other.

AR: What role does ARA play in your business? We have been a member since the day we started. ARA has helped me out a lot. It’s my bridge to con- nect with what is happening nationally, statewide and locally that affects the industry and my business. We became a Gold Seal Member in November 2015. We want our customer base to know that we are set aside from our competition and that we are con- tinuing to improve NationWide’s standards in the industry.

AR:With the kind of growth you are experiencing, you obviously have figured out how to attract and keep customers. Your website promises “VIP treat- ment for all your customers.” What does that mean day to day?

Our reputation is based on customer service.

Everyone says that, but we have practices in place that take customer service to the next level. For example, we cover parts that are out of warranty. Another exam- ple, we deliver on time or give the customer a dis- count. Our customer service sets us apart.

AR: Your business is located in a desirable area to tap into that high-end, New York City market. How does the local competition stack up?

56 Automotive Recycling | January-February 2016