David Lush is a dynamic leader and a polished communicator. In addition to his technical and leadership skills, David spends a great deal of his time teaching and lecturing young professionals. This passion has been the driving force behind lending his personal time to guest lecturing at a number of Colleges and Universities in Canada, this list includes Queens University, Concordia, McMaster, Centennial and Humber College.
David brings a great wealth of auto service and franchise experience with him to his current role of President and CEO of Prime CarCare. Prior to Prime CarCare he was the COO of Carstar Automotive Canada for more than 3 years where he was responsible for greatly improving operations, expanding the business and improving the bottom line for both franchisees and Carstar head office.
David lives in Burlington, Ontario, is married and has 3 sons.
BeTheBoss.ca: Tell us about the Speedy Auto concept.
David Lush: Speedy is one of the oldest and most respected auto repair companies in Canada, one hundred percent Canadian owed and operated for over 55 years. We offer full general repairs and maintenance to all makes and models but is certainly best known for our exhaust and brake service.
BTB: How and when did you become involved with Speedy Auto?
DL: I joined Speedy in 2009 to lead the organization as President and to craft the future direction and prosperity for our franchisees.
BTB: What was your background prior to joining Speedy Auto?
DL: I have an extensive automotive and franchise background with organizations like Canadian Tire, Ford and Midas.
BTB: What are some of the advantages of being a Speedy Auto franchisee?
DL: The Speedy brand is well known to Canadians and our belief that “At Speedy You’re a Somebody” is recognizable all across the country. We also offer the lowest royalty fee and most competitive purchasing program in our category.
BTB: Who is your ideal franchisee?
DL: Our ideal franchisee is an individual or often a couple with a tremendous customer service focus, while industry experience is beneficial, customer service skills are the keys to success.
BTB: Tell us a little about the automotive servicing industry?
DL: The auto service industry in Canada is entering a period of great potential, people are keeping their cars longer and the number of cars in service in Canada has increased dramatically in the last few years.
BTB: What are some of the greatest lessons you've learned in growing this franchise?
DL: The quality of the franchisees determines the success of the brand, plain and simple.
BTB: Do you have a mentor or is there someone you use for inspiration?
DL: If you are a Canadian you have to look at what Ron Joyce did with Tim Horton’s, his focus on quality and consistency is a model to copied.
BTB: What advice do you have for someone looking to acquire a franchise?
DL: Do your homework and understand what is really required to be successful, owning a franchise can be rewarding but success follows hard work, there are no short cuts.
BTB: In your opinion, why do you think Speedy Auto would be a great opportunity for someone?
DL: Speedy is poised for growth and the industry is poised for growth, that is an uncommon combination and that usually means success for all involved.
