Back in high school’s trips to the repair shop involved an all-too-common experience: the local mechanic assuming she knew nothing about cars, simply because she’s a woman.
Today, she’s not only shattered that stereotype by launching the successful 180 Degrees Automotive in Phoenix – she’s also committed to empowering and educating customers to ensure they never feel talked down to.
Now, 180 Automotive is getting national attention from Deluxe Corporation’s Small Business Revolution documentary project. The Small Business Revolution, which also features “Shark Tank” star Robert Herjavec, is a yearlong campaign that celebrates the vibrancy, variety and community impact of small businesses across the country. Its latest story is a photo essay profiling 180 Automotive, one of 100 profiles of inspiring small businesses that will debut throughout 2015 at SmallBusinessRevolution.org.
In addition to running a successful business, Lateiner actively encourages other women to pursue careers as mechanics. In fact, six of her shop’s eight employees are women. But she doesn’t stop there: Lateiner is also one of three female hosts on the show “All Girls Garage,” and she mentors other small businesses too.
Deluxe developed the Small Business Revolution to focus on the importance of personal touch and local involvement in an era when business is becoming increasingly impersonal. The campaign is capturing the stories of small businesses and their customers, families and friends – all of whom are a crucial part of what makes our communities whole.
“The hands-on customer service, the entrepreneurial spirit and the deep community involvement people find in the small businesses they frequent make all the difference,” said Amanda Brinkman, chief brand and communications officer for Deluxe Corp. “Telling these moving, inspirational stories and putting a spotlight on these owners is our way of celebrating the best parts of American business.”
The Small Business Revolution will unfold throughout 2015, as a part of Deluxe’s 100th anniversary celebration. Since 1915, Deluxe has helped small businesses and financial institutions grow and thrive by providing a range of business services, from websites and logos to social media and email marketing to checks and other financial services.
The Small Business Revolution will also award $25,000 to one small business later this year. Anyone can nominate their favorite small business at SmallBusinessRevolution.org, and Shark Tank’s Herjavec will help Deluxe choose the winner who best exemplifies the Small Business Revolution spirit. The person who nominates the winning business can see how it feels to be a “shark” by personally delivering the $25,000 prize.
