The first annual AAPEX 2020 Service and Repair Awards honored Shop Owner of the Year, Brian Sump, president, Avalon Motorsports and Urban Autocare, Denver, Colo. Sump has been in business 13 years, and during this time, has used his business acumen and a detailed, process-based management philosophy to grow into a multi-location shop operator.
A former professional athlete, Sump had never turned a wrench in a shop before starting Avalon Motorsports in 2007. Along with his success as a shop owner, Sump dedicates his time to industry and employee development through community involvement, for- and not-for-profit organizations and podcasts, all which illustrate the ambition and enthusiasm needed to continue to grow and develop the next generation of industry leaders.
To support his community, Urban Autocare contributes $10,000 per year to Hope House of Colorado to provide automotive repairs for young mothers as part of their self-sufficiency program. Sump also donated over $1,000 in oil services to front line workers during COVID-19 through a partnership with Advance Auto Parts and Petro Choice. Additionally, his shops raise more than $5,000 in parts and labor per year for the DC-21 low income charter school program serving those in need of repair.
Sump also is involved with Picken’s Tech Community College and Novation Church, and has been recognized with multiple industry and business awards, including Motor Age Top 10 Shop in America, BBB of Denver/Boulder Torch Award for business ethics, AutoInc. Top 10 Automotive Repair Website and the Hope House Outstanding Partner Award.
Sump teaches at industry events and conferences and is a board member with Transformers Institute where he assists other shop owners in developing the organizations of their dreams. He also contributes to podcasts on Remarkable Results Radio.
The AAPEX 2020 Shop Owner of the Year award was presented during the Virtual AAPEX Experience in early November. The new award recognizes and elevates the essential services that shop owners provide to keep the motoring public on the road, even during times of crisis.
The Virtual AAPEX Experience served as the hub of training, insights and connections for the more than $1 trillion global automotive aftermarket industry. It featured instructor- and exhibitor-led training, product and equipment demos from industry suppliers, the New Product Showcase, and opportunities to connect one-on-one with exhibitors to talk products and conduct business.
AAPEX 2021 will return to the Sands Expo and Caesars Forum Conference Center in Las Vegas, Tuesday, Nov. 2 through Thursday, Nov. 4.