Printed in Tulsa People Magazine – TulsaPeople.com – November 2011
http://www.tulsapeople-digital.com/tulsapeople/201111#pg77
Then & Now – A look back at the history of some of Tulsa’s most successful stores and companies.
European Autospecialist, Inc. – Since 1983
A Passion for BMWs Creates a Foundation for Flourishing Business
When Kurt Krans began European Autospecialist, Inc. nearly 29 years ago with his father and brother, he wanted to give Tulsans a better option for the care and maintenance of their European vehicles, other than the dealership. With specifically skilled mechanics and a passion for BMWs, Mercedes, and Mini Coopers, European Autospecialist, Inc. (EAS) built a reputation as a leader for this specialized industry. For nearly three decades, customers have counted on EAS to perform on point so their cars can do the same.
“A lot of our customers are very diligent and know why it’s important to properly maintain their BMW, Mercedes or Mini Cooper, which is not something that every repair shop can do well or has the proper high-tech equipment and access to manufacturers’ specs to get the job done right,” Krans says. “Often these customer are also interested in performance or equipment upgrades. That’s something else that EAS specializes in.”
As times change and people are keeping their cars longer, EAS is able to help customers maintain their automobiles for a longer period of time. “In today’s economy, a lot of our customers find it more economical and fun to drive these cars for many years and miles,” Krans says. “A BMW, Mercedes, even a Mini Cooper (now owned by BMW), is built to run upwards of 200,000 miles if properly maintained. Compared to buying a new car every three to seven years, it now makes a lot of sense to buy a high-quality European auto and enjoy it.”
EUROPEAN AUTOSPECIALIST, INC.
4121 S. 72ND E. AVE.
(918) 627-2002
www.europeanautospecialist.net
Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
European Autospecialist Receives 2009 Best of Tulsa Award
U.S. Commerce Association’s Award Plaque Honors the Achievement
WASHINGTON D.C., June 8, 2009 -- European Autospecialist has been selected for the 2009 Best of Tulsa Award in the Automotive Repair Shops category by the U.S. Commerce Association (USCA).
The USCA "Best of Local Business" Award Program recognizes outstanding local businesses throughout the country. Each year, the USCA identifies companies that they believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and community.
Various sources of information were gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each category. The 2009 USCA Award Program focused on quality, not quantity. Winners are determined based on the information gathered both internally by the USCA and data provided by third parties.
About U.S. Commerce Association (USCA)
U.S. Commerce Association (USCA) is a Washington D.C. based organization funded by local businesses operating in towns, large and small, across America. The purpose of USCA is to promote local business through public relations, marketing and advertising.
The USCA was established to recognize the best of local businesses in their community. Our organization works exclusively with local business owners, trade groups, professional associations, chambers of commerce and other business advertising and marketing groups. Our mission is to be an advocate for small and medium size businesses and business entrepreneurs across America.
SOURCE: U.S. Commerce Association
What some customers are saying about us
"Dear Kurt and the Specialist Crew,
I just wanted to send you a note and tell you all how much I appreciate you and how happy I have such knowledgeable and professional people helping keep my car in shape! You guys are fabulous and I, for one, am glad you're in Tulsa!
Thank You Again, D.K."
Customer Since 2005
Vehicles: 1981 BMW 735i
Currently: 2000 BMW 540i
"James,
Just wanted to drop you a line and let you guys know how much we appreciate the service EAS provides. We were stranded in Yellowstone Park with a broken water pump on our 740i. The service guys told us they were going to have to order the parts from the east coast via a NAPA parts store in West Yellowstone. You can imagine my shock, 7 to 10 days for delivery. I then picked up the phone and called you guys. Not only did we have the CORRECT parts, but a complete care package including everything but a radiator in 3 days. This blew our mechanic away. Between new hoses, clamps, and even a reservoir we were up and rolling in no time. It was lovely being stranded in the middle of nowhere at the Old Faithful Lodge, but by day 4 we were ready to get rolling back into our 4200 mile journey.
Thanks a million, you guys saved our bacon!!!!
Sincerely, K.J."
Customer since 2005
Current Vehicle: 1998 BMW 740i
"Everything about BMW is built to last. EAS makes sure mine lasts a long time."
Mr. L.B.
Customer Since 1985
Vehicles: 1985 BMW 325e (Single Owner, 23 years)
Current Vehicle: 2006 BMW 330i
"I looked for a year for this particular model of BMW. EAS understands my passion to keep 'Otto' (my car) in perfect condition."
Mr. M.V.
Customer since 2008
Current Vehicle: 2001 BMW 540i
"BMW engineering is legendary. EAS has the technical capability to do regular maintenance on my new X5. They're less expensive than a dealership, and it doesn't void my factory warranty."
Mr. B.H.
Customer since 2008
Current Vehicle: 2008 BMW X5
"What we like about EAS is the integrity of their service. They never talk down to you and explain everything."
Mr. & Mrs. P. & L. V.
Customers since 2001
Vehicles: 1989 BMW 535i, 1997 BMW 540i
Current Vehicle: 2004 Mercedes Benz C320
"You guys are AWESOME! Thank y'all very, very much. I sure appreciate having someone I can trust with my car."
E-mail received from Mr. MM
Customer Since 2008
Current Vehicle: 2003 BMW 330ci
Received From Jenks Public School System, Career Counseling Department
Regarding Student Shadowing for Automotive Technologies Class
"If we who work with students could not call on people like you, we could not have successful programs.
Our students come back from career shadowing excited, inspired, and per one source 'They could not stop talking about where they went and what they got to see.'
You have given of your time, your knowledge, your talents, your patience. We appreciate you"
Jenks Volunteer Office
Yesterday, I picked up my car after having it serviced, and while I was driving home, I was thinking how fortunate I am to have European Autospecialist to service my car. I hear so many complaints from friends regarding the poor quality of service they receive from their service providers, that I am truly grateful for the dependable care my car receives. They are not only courteous and professional, but they care enough to keep me informed as to the needed future service to prevent problems from occurring down the road.
When I moved to Tulsa just over nine years ago, just by chance I arrived at European Autospecialist for service, thinking I was going to another service agent. That turned out to be one of the best mistakes I ever made. There has never been a moment when my trust in their service has ever been shaken.
I appreciate the fact that I know my car is getting the service it needs without my needing the knowledge to bring problems to their attention. They give my car the best care I could ever hope for. Auto service is one very important issue in my life about which I never have to worry.
My sincerest Thanks and Appreciation to Kurt, James, and all of the professional crew at European Autospecialist.
E-Mail from Mr. R.M.
Customer Since 2000
Current Vehicle: 1983 Volvo 244
I am writing to thank you for the excellent service you provided a few months ago. After replaceing a component in the rear suspension of my '04 BMW M3, a misalignment lead to the speedy demise of my rear tires. Fortunately, you stood behind your work, paying for an alignment and replacement tires.
I would like to take this opportunity to say Thank You for your outstanding service. I cannot tell you how happy I am to find a company with knowledge, trustworthy, and upstanding staff who are willing to service my BMW at such reasonable prices. You have earned a lifelong customer and enthusiastic advocate.
Letter from Mr. W.P.
Customer Since 2009
Current Vehicle: 2001 BMW 323i Sedan
Current Vehicle: 2002 BMW 323i Coupe'
Current Vehicle: 2004 BMW M3 Coupe'
