Issue link: https://ppgrefinish-na.uberflip.com/i/981524
"We did exhaustive research back then to make sure we had the right partners in PPG and distributor Painter's Supply and Equipment," recalls Peter. Later, when expansion talks began in earnest, they did not hesitate to call upon their PPG partnership for their expertise. "I've converted many different types of buildings before—bowling alleys, theatres, etc., but this is my first church!" said Tom Nichols, PPG technical sales and service rep. Tom worked with dealership personnel to explore numerous scenarios, ultimately deciding to utilize the former church sanctuary for the paint booth area and the lower ceiling school for areas such as the metal shop. The final blueprint included a dedicated space for aluminum repairs, something that was essential to a dealership serving so many Ford pickup owners. The roomy paint operation features three GFS flow- through paint booths including one oversized unit to accommodate commercial vehicles, trucks and large vans. Other notable features are walls with large glass block windows that bathe the work area in natural light and a workstation vacuum system that keeps critical areas dust-free and creates a more healthier work environment for employees. "We believe that if we take care of people, they'll take care of us," says Brian. "We're fortunate to have very low turnover and a very experienced team," he explains, "but eventually we will have to hire more people, and we want to have the kind of environment that people want to work in." Concern for employee welfare resulted in a larger and well-appointed lunch room/break area and upgrades to the lighting that not only help technicians in their work but also help them feel better about their work setting. The investment in added space cost $2.5 million, but additional site work will likely result in total expenditures of nearly twice that. It's a strong sign that Pat Milliken Ford is committed to its community. "The culture here is to do the right thing for both our customers and our employees," says Peter. "The other thing is that we take the long view on planning, not just what's best for today, but what's going to be best 10 years from now." Any investment this large is something of a leap of faith. But given their impressive track record, it's easy to see how Pat Milliken Ford will give this former church building new life for decades to come. "CONVERTING TO WATERBORNE WAS ANOTHER WAY TO DEMONSTRATE OUR CONCERN FOR OUR EMPLOYEES." — BRIAN GODFREY, DEALERSHIP PRESIDENT "CONVERTING TO WATERBORNE WAS ANOTHER WAY TO DEMONSTRATE OUR CONCERN FOR OUR EMPLOYEES." — BRIAN GODFREY, DEALERSHIP PRESIDENT