TUSCON, AZ- Americans love cars, but hate the inconvenience of repairs and maintenance. Every auto needs scheduled maintenance. Every car owner groans about the logistics involved in getting that done. Desert Toyota in Tuscon has a way to make visits to the service department more of an experience than an inconvenience.
This Arizona dealership was at the top of my list unique food in unlikely places. When my engine light came on in the desert outside Tucson I was upset. I just wanted to get to a service department. The prospect brightened when I walked from the service department to customer waiting area. There were no hard plastic chairs. There were comfy chairs and tables. Then I saw something that seemed like a mirage. There was a grill. Could it be true? Were they serving fresh, hot food in an automobile service department? Indeed, they were.
I had fresh coffee, really fresh. I had a breakfast burrito with scrambled egg made with onion, just how I like it. The staff in the grill was not just friendly, but enthusiastic about the quality of the fare.
The repairs took hours. By the time lunch rolled around I had finished half of a story and conducted a phone interview at a counter set up for customers to conduct business. Not far from me was a salesman working from his smart phone and computer. This place was a perfect office away from office. I ordered a hamburger with everything, a Diet Coke and chips for a grand total of $3.01.
My car was ready but I spent an extra half hour there finishing my story. Who spends extra time in a dealership service department?
If I was buying a car in the Tucson area, I’d have to buy it here. They’ve created an area where one can do business and have a hot meal while waiting for the repairs. This was Toyota heaven.
Tip: If you’re far from home and have problems, call your service department. I called Charlie at Hampton Toyota. From a thousand miles away, he gave me some pretty good advice that probably saved my engine. Keep that number on speed dial.
When you find good food in unusual places, let me know at al@gasstationgourmet.com
This is a great idea! It’s adding value. Perhaps we should think of doing this?
Jordan, any place that people wait is a place where food & beverages can be sold. This can mean a new revenue stream for the business if done right. First, know your customers, then build slowly from there. Comfortable waiting area, food and quality coffee & beverages can give you an edge over the competition.