AUTOWORLD – Car Dealership

The impossible dream Mr. Mezei had before the Romanian revolution of 1989 became a reality in 1990, an era when the entrepreneurial spirit held many Romanians spellbound as they longed for a lifestyle change and a break from the past.

A car mechanic by profession, Mr. Mezei set up his auto shop in 1990. He evaluated several external opportunities and did not invest too much money in the new business. However, he built customer loyalty through professionalism and consistent quality service. The business started with one employee and help from two apprentices taken from a technical school in Cluj.

Mr. Mezei contacted ROMCOM his first year in business, using the loan to purchase a hoist, a steamroller, and a hydraulic pressing machine. These pieces of equipment were vital for his business at that time. The new machines impacted the business tremendously, leading to a decrease in labor costs and a significant improvement in customer service.

In 1995, due to the increased work volume, Mr. Mezei hired the two now graduated apprentices full-time. Mr. Mezei also hired his wife as an accountant in addition to  hiring a warehouse keeper.

Space in the shop became scarce. The street was a virtual parking lot, often too crowded with the many cars brought for servicing each morning. In 1997, Mr. Mezei prepared a budget and purchased some land for a new facility. By March 1999, the new location was ready and all business activities were transferred by April.

Before moving to the new location, many auto manufacturers had contacted Mr. Mezei to persuade him into becoming an authorized dealer. He chose to partner with Volkswagen-Audi. The German company was attracted to Mr. Mezei’s business because of its reputation and goodwill in the city of Cluj-Napoca. Also, as a family business, it involved continuity, perseverance and power, along with a steady record of growth.

The partnership took root in October 1999.  The company's stellar reputation within the community led to a fantastic start.  They sold 187 vehicles in 2000, winning many VW-sponsored sales contests and quite a few trips and prizes.  The sales increased to 210 in 2001, and they sold 190 vehicles in the first six months alone of 2002, making Mr. Mezei's VW dealership among then top in Romania.  The dealership also has the most parts sales this year.

The business now has 50 employees, including Mr. Mezei's three sons. The company is finalizing the construction work on a new European-standard dealership (full-service and a mini-hotel with restaurant) for Fall 2003.  Mr. Mezei is very optimistic and positive about the success of this initiative. His team continues to show professionalism and consistency.

Mr. Mezei continuously transfers his set of core values to his employees: consistency, a clear set of principles, and an ethical perspective on business. “Passion for excellence” best defines both Mr. Mezei and his prosperous business ventures.