Christian Brothers Automotive Franchise Owner Finds Integrity, Profitability, and Growth

Franchisee Profiles October 11, 2023 4 min to read

Featured Franchisee: Cal Pascanu
Christian Brothers Automotive Franchise
Peoria and Surprise, Arizona
Franchise owner since 2018
35 Employees

When Cal Pascanu realized he needed a career change, he thought business ownership could provide the independence and work-life balance he craved. As he began exploring franchise opportunities, one brand in particular checked all of the boxes for him. We asked Cal to tell us a little bit about his journey to Christian Brothers franchise ownership.

Why did you purchase a franchise versus being an employee or opening an independent business?

I had enough of seeing others cashing in on my hard work. I knew it was time to start building my own legacy. Additionally, I wanted more family time and the ability to attend my kids’ weekend games and activities. I wanted to find work-life balance and didn’t want to start my own business from scratch. So I began researching franchises.

Did you have your mind set on a specific industry or brand from the start?

I had a vague idea I wanted to be in the automotive industry as it is an essential need for everyday life and something that can flourish in a good or bad economy (and not be influenced by internet giants like Amazon).

Of your prior skills and experiences, which were most helpful in your new business?

My energy and personality gave me the edge in providing outstanding guest experiences. No matter what we do in life, we are in the customer service business. In our case, that service is fixing cars.

When researching franchises to buy, what criteria mattered to you most?

In choosing a franchise, my priorities were integrity, profitability, and growth opportunity.

Did you view FBR’s lists and franchisee satisfaction reports during your research?

Yes! I used the FBR website, Top Franchises lists, and Franchisee Satisfaction Reports to examine the rankings and ratings of various franchise opportunities. As I compared all of the options, the Christian Brothers Automotive franchise consistently resonated with me above all others.

Did you speak with other Christian Brothers franchise owners?

Yes. It was important to me to speak with other owners before I made the leap. I asked what they liked the most, what was the most challenging aspect of the business for them, and what their day-to-day looks like.

Which questions did you ask the Christian Brothers Automotive leadership team?

I focused a lot on how the franchisor felt about me as a candidate and what values they see in me that I can bring to this opportunity to create success.

What were your biggest challenges when you first started out, and how did you overcome them?

Building the team was my biggest challenge, and it continues to be my main focus. It’s important that I create and maintain a healthy culture with people who love winning and serving others.

How does the Christian Brothers franchise support and encourage your success?

The support is second to none! It seriously felt like a mother or father holding my hand and walking me through our start-up process. And as I grew, they slowly let go but were always there for me—and still are—whenever I have a question or concern.

What are you most proud of and why?

I’ve always had a winning mentality. Reaching the top is definitely very satisfying to me! I strive to be in the top 10% in anything I do in life. Additionally, I get satisfaction from being able to help guests in need, especially single mothers. I enjoy growing team members around me and seeing them take the next steps in life and their careers. I love helping them work toward opening their own Christian Brothers Automotive shop. That, to me, is priceless. I want to help one person per year achieve this major milestone of opening their own store!