A business that's making tracks in British Columbia

The B.C. Chamber Small Business of the Year for 2008 will have a decidedly local imprint this year, as Entire Automotive lays claim to the Chamber's award for small business across BC.

Considering the number of small businesses across the province and the depth of the competition it's quite the coup for the local tire and auto repair operation which first opened up in 2004.

Owners Dwayne MacNeill and Bonnie Beal will head off for Whistler later this month to collect their award and share their story of small town success, especially impressive considering the economic troubles of the city during the four years that they have been open.

The Daily News featured a profile on their award in Friday's paper.

City firm scoops coveted award
Much-appreciated local company is also turning heads on provincial stage
By Kris Schumacher
The Daily News
Friday, May 09, 2008

Pages one and five

When Dwayne MacNeill and Bonnie Beal opened Entire Automotive Services four years ago, all they wanted was to provide their customers with honesty, integrity and peace of mind.
So, the couple was understandably elated to find out the B.C. Chamber of Commerce was awarding them with 2008's B.C. Chamber Small Business of the Year. It's exciting enough that Entire Automotive stood out among the stiff competition of nominated businesses from across the province this year, but they are also the first small business in Prince Rupert to ever receive the distinguished recognition.

"We were pretty ecstatic, not only because it's such an honour to have our work recognized, but because you don't expect awards like this in smaller communities like Prince Rupert," said MacNeill.

"You think of all the Chamber of Commerces in B.C. and all the small businesses they nominated throughout the province. And they're not just tire shops, they could be any type of store, so it really is quite the honour."

Once the Prince Rupert Chamber of Commerce nominated Entire Automotive for the award, the B.C. Chamber also required a written statement from MacNeill and Beal detailing their business, as well as several letters of support or 'customer testimonials,' both of which set them apart from the competition in the eyes of the B.C. Chamber.

"B.C.'s economy is built on small businesses like Entire," said John Winter, president and CEO of the B.C. Chamber of Commerce. "To see the evidence of their success is an inspiring example. They are definitely setting a higher bar to which other small businesses can aspire."

Since Beal and MacNeill began their small business venture in 2004, they've always aspired to their motto of 'Honesty, Integrity and Peace of Mind is the Entire Solution,' and credit their success to their customers, family and friends in Prince Rupert, as well as their other loyal customers who make the trip from Terrace and Kitimat to have work done on their vehicles.

"I think it's all about trying to treat customers the same way I would want my wife or family to be treated," said MacNeill.

"For years, the automotive field has got a real bad rap for service and people being taken advantage of and things like that, so when we opened I wanted to change the perception of what a garage is, and what a mechanic is, and elevate the level of service. It all comes down to the service."

The happy couple will be travelling to Whistler at the end of the month to accept their award at the BC Chamber of Commerce's 56th Annual General Meeting and Conference. The Prince Rupert Chamber of Commerce is delighted that Entire Automotive is being honoured and will be representing the community at the province-wide meeting. The local Chamber says Beal and MacNeill's small business has demonstrated excellence not only through positive growth, through providing outstanding customer service, and creating a positive environment for its employees, but also through its involvement in business leadership and its tremendous support of community groups.

"We are extremely proud of the Entire Automotive team, and of the services they provide to our community and to customers across the Northwest," said Deb Stava, Prince Rupert Chamber of Commerce president. "Their principle-centred leadership has ensured customer loyalty and encouraged steady business growth."