Q&A with Renee Galioto, Island Appliance Repair
Tell us about your company.
Island Appliance Repair, based in Wilmington, NC (office in Navassa) provides factory authorized service on several major brands. We are the top rated appliance repair company in Wilmington.
How did you get into the industry?
Started in delivery for a Maytag dealer and moved into repairs out of necessity.
Do you do sales and service?
Our company is service only. The occasional scratch and dent can be found in our warehouse for resale, but mainly repair.
When did you start your company?
In 2004 we bought the repair side of a sales and service company and went out on our own.
What differentiates you from your competition?
We don’t look at the technician and the repair industry as a job. We look at it as a career and something to be proud of. We foster those kinds of attitudes with our technicians and support staff. We are not just repair people, we are professionals.
How did you first hear about UASA?
Our parts distributor would send out informational flyers in the parts deliveries about USA (now UASA) and the ASTI. I became interested as a result of reading about the ASTI.
How has the association benefitted you?
The association has benefited me in many ways. The ASTI being the event of the year, I first attended not really knowing what to expect. But I quickly learned that there was a wealth of information and networking opportunities to be gained. For the first time, I spoke with individuals who did what we do and understood my business concerns. It was an eye opening experience. Those conversations turned into advice, and sometimes became part of my company. Those individuals became acquaintances and then friends. There is a comradery with this organization that is invaluable.
How many techs do you have?
13 at present.
What are your long term business goals?
As time goes on, I look to the idea of retirement and what to do with the business. I have children that will take over and certainly take it further than my husband and I have.
What is your favorite part about the Appliance Business?
My favorite part about the appliance business is being able to provide a needed service to our community.
What do you do for fun when you aren’t running your company?
We love to travel and spend time with our family.
Is there an experience or takeaway that you can share from one of the ASTI conventions you’ve attended in the past?
I remember the thrill of information from my first ASTI. I came back with such enthusiasm for the business and more ideas than could be used effectively. Just the ability to talk openly with other people who “get it”. It’s something I look forward to every year.
