Ensuring customer satisfaction a top priority

At age 32, former banking examiner John S. Blanco wears several hats, teaching U.S. History and Government at the Saipan Southern High School and managing the JBCR Inc. in As Lito where he serves as company president.

Blanco decided to put up the company two years ago, at a time when his girlfriend, Pearl Ehsa, was conceiving their only son, whom he later named after his father, former House Speaker Juan B. Blanco.

Getting inspiration from his child and motivation from his father pushed Blanco to properly manage his company’s affairs and plan on expansion.

Initially, the company operated the Chico’s Body Shop, which was named after his business partner—Chico P. Reyes—the technical expertise behind the auto repair shop. Earlier this year, the company has branched out to start Juan’s Towing, which was named after Blanco’s father and son.

“It’s better to start young. If you fail, you learn from your mistakes early,” the businessman said.

Blanco and long-time friend Reyes started the company in April 2002, although the auto shop actually began operations in September that year.

Reyes had the expertise in the industry, having worked for major auto shops in Seattle and on Saipan. With Blanco’s financial capital, the duo gave birth to the JBCR Inc.

With the support of her sister Antonia and William Hunter, Blanco and Reyes managed to come up with an initial capital of $80,000 to start the company.

Chico’s Body shop focuses mainly on auto body repair. Most of the shop’s clients are those whose vehicles figured in collisions. Blanco said the shop concentrates on three aspects to maintain the venture’s survival: excellent customer service, quality workmanship, and reasonable price. “We have a lot of repeat customers,” Blanco said.

Blanco dismissed the notion that businessmen get to have vacations anytime they want, saying that, in contrast, they work 24 hours, seven days a week to ensure that they satisfy their customers with prompt service. “We guys are workaholic.”

About three months ago, Blanco said the company acquired a tow-truck from the United States and began Juan’s Towing to complement the auto shop business. With the towing services, the auto shop has been getting more customers, especially those involved in road mishaps.

Blanco said the company is planning to expand its operations by engaging in other ventures. “We’re setting money aside for the next couple of ventures.”