Q&A with Steven Johnson, Owner, Mr. Appliance Birmingham, Richmond, Chattanooga, and Cincinnati
Tell us about your company?
I currently own Mr. Appliance Over The Mountain (Birmingham, AL), Mr. Appliance of Chattanooga, Mr. Appliance of Richmond, Mr. Appliance of Cincinnati. Mr. Appliance is a Franchise that is based out of Waco TX under the name of Neighborly (Formerly Dwyer Group) with approx 260 Mr. Appliance franchises in the United States. We currently hold the #1 status for Mr. Appliance franchisees based on Revenue, Net Promoter Score & Compliance.
How did you get into the industry?
I started a Commercial Repair Business out of College where we mainly serviced Restaurants & Schools.
Do you do sales and service?
Only Service.
When did you start your company?
Started my first company in 1981. Started with Mr. Appliance in September 2009.
Whit differentiates you from your competition?
I feel our edge in the marketplace is our Systems & Technology but our Code of Values is truly a game changer that sets us apart.
How long have you been a UASA member?
Not really sure how long but Mr. Appliance provides this membership as a benefit to all Mr. Appliance Franchisees.
How did you first hear about UASA?
Through Mr. Appliance network right when we got started in 2009.
How has the association benefited you?
Honestly, I’ve never utilized the association like I should since we have so many benefits within Mr. Appliance, but this past year I started serving on the Board and realized there’s a lot it has to offer. I would say the biggest help is the Service Library that my Technicians can access.
How many techs do you have?
28 (2 of these are in training)
What are your long term business goals?
Growing our current locations and making them more profitable – will be expanding a little bit this year. I’ve been stepping back a little bit more each year not being so “visible” mainly working behind the scenes. My Son, Derek, will be taking over Birmingham soon and my goal is to hire another Manager to help with our other locations this year.
What is your favorite part about the Appliance Business?
The People – whether it’s our Employees, Customers or Fellow Franchisees. I love helping others and our network of Mr. Appliance Franchisees is hands down some of the best people I know.
What do you do for fun when you aren’t running your company?
I live on the Lake so just being here at home is wonderful especially when my Family gets together and Boat Ride or just hang out by the lake that’s the perfect day. Spending time with my Family is what I enjoy most! Me and my Wife like to travel but that’s been a little challenging this past year but we hope to get that going in 2021.
Is there an experience or takeaway that you can share from one of the ASTI conventions you’ve attended in the past?
You get out what you put in. Get involved.
