Matco Tools: Revolutionizing Automotive Tool Distribution

Matco Tools is a prominent franchise known for distributing high-quality automotive tools and equipment. Established in 1979, the brand expanded into franchising in 1993 and operates out of its headquarters in Stow, Ohio.

The franchise offers an extensive catalog of over 13,000 products, including wrenches, screwdrivers, gauges, and specialized tools tailored to the needs of the automotive sector.

What sets Matco Tools apart is its innovative mobile store concept. This unique model enables franchisees to deliver their products directly to customers at automotive workplaces, ensuring convenience and a personalized shopping experience.

By adopting this direct sales strategy, Matco Tools franchisees cultivate strong customer relationships while tapping into a consistent demand for tools at garages, repair shops, and similar automotive service locations.

Training

Matco Tools provides comprehensive training to franchisees to ensure a uniform and effective business operation. This includes a minimum of 50 hours of initial classroom training, called the Matco Business System Training (MBST) Program, held at their corporate offices or another designated location.

The program covers essential topics such as the Matco Business System, customer service standards, purchasing, selling and marketing techniques, customer relations, and basic computer operations.

Additionally, Matco offers 80 hours of field training over a six-week period. This training includes on-site support from a designated trainer who accompanies the franchisee during sales calls to enhance their skills in selling, marketing, customer relations, computer operations, and product knowledge.

Beyond the initial training, Matco provides optional advanced training sessions, product updates, and business seminars to keep franchisees informed and skilled in new practices and tools.

Some ongoing training sessions, such as the Matco Business System Continuation Training (MBSCT), are mandatory within specific periods after commencing operations. This approach ensures franchisees are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in their distributorship.

Territory Protection

Matco Tools provides its franchisees with a territory defined by a "List of Calls," which serves as the franchisee's operational area. This list is established based on a survey of potential customers and includes details about the businesses within the territory.

The agreement refers to this as a "protected territory," ensuring that the franchisee operates exclusively within the specified area. However, the "protected territory" is subject to certain terms and conditions outlined in the Distributorship Agreement.

While the franchisee has the rights to the defined area, the franchisor retains the ability to make adjustments or engage in activities that may overlap, as allowed by the agreement. This arrangement helps franchisees focus on their designated customer base while aligning with broader franchise system policies.