Anthony Scala - City Chevrolet of Grayslake

Anthony Scala, owner of City Chevy Grayslake, sits down with Dave today. They dive into Anthony's rich family history in the car business and his journey from a porter to a dealership owner. Anthony shares his commitment to community involvement, emphasizing the importance of building genuine relationships and creating a welcoming atmosphere at City Chevy. They discuss the challenges of rebuilding trust within the community and the dealership's focus on customer service. The episode wraps up with playful insights into Anthony's personal life and his passion for fostering a positive work environment.

Discovering Grayslake: A Deep Dive into Anthony Scala's Journey and Insights on the Car Business

In this episode of "Discovering Grayslake," host Tony sits down with Anthony Scala, the owner of City Chevy, at Agora, a co-working space in Grayslake. The conversation is rich with insights into Anthony's background in the automotive industry, his family's legacy, and his journey to becoming a dealership owner. This blog post will break down the key themes discussed in the episode, offering actionable advice and detailed explanations to guide listeners and readers alike.

Family Legacy and Early Experiences

The Scala Family Legacy
Anthony Scala's journey in the car business is deeply rooted in his family's history. His grandfather owned a dealership in the late 70s and early 80s, and his father continued the legacy by running the Lynch Auto Group in Chicago. Growing up in this environment, Anthony was naturally drawn to the car industry, although he admits that no child dreams of becoming a car dealer.

Lessons from a Strict Upbringing
Anthony shares a personal story about his upbringing, highlighting the strict parenting style of his father. As the oldest of five siblings, he felt the pressure of being the firstborn. He recalls how his father monitored his every move, which he initially resented but later came to appreciate. Anthony reflects on how his father's high expectations and support shaped him, even when he made poor choices as a teenager. This strict yet supportive environment instilled in him the values of hard work and determination.

The Importance of Community Involvement

Building Relationships with Customers
Anthony emphasizes that building relationships with customers is crucial. He believes that understanding the local demographic is essential for tailoring services and marketing strategies. Each of the five dealerships he operates caters to different communities, and he recognizes that what works in one area may not be effective in another. This adaptability is key to his success.

Community Engagement
Tony expresses gratitude for City Chevy's community involvement, highlighting the dealership's sponsorship of local events. Anthony shares that they have an even more robust schedule of community activities planned for the upcoming spring and summer, emphasizing the importance of being an active participant in the community. This commitment to community engagement helps build trust and fosters long-term relationships with customers.

Customer Service Philosophy

Creating a Positive Experience
Anthony explains that while data and demographics inform marketing strategies, the real focus should be on personal interactions. He believes that if a customer doesn't feel a connection with the staff, they are unlikely to make a purchase or return for service. This philosophy drives the hiring and training processes at City Chevy, where he aims to foster a culture of respect and teamwork.

The Role of Authenticity
Scala emphasizes the importance of creating a welcoming atmosphere at his dealership. He believes that the first impression is crucial, and he encourages his employees to assess the "vibe" of the store each day. According to him, the dealership has a significantly more positive energy, characterized by friendly a