Business Spotlight: Hutchinson Automotive & Glass
Mark and Pamela Hutchinson are the owners and operators of Hutchinson Automotive & Glass in Elliot Lake. They provide service to Elliot Lake and surrounding areas, as well as nationwide as the distributor and master trainer for Nanopro ceramic coatings in Canada. Hutchinson Automotive & Glass offers auto services including detailing, windshields, stone chip repair, spray-in bedliners, accessories, and more. Mark shared with us some insight into his experience as a business owner.
The Hutchinson Automotive & Glass shop on Perini Road
What motivated you to start your own business? The personal challenge and desire to work for myself….also to see how far I can go and how much I can succeed.
What challenges did you encounter while growing your business, particularly in a rural area? One of our biggest challenges has been to decide which products and services are most profitable and desirable in the area.
How has your local community played a role in your business? We’ve had a lot of support from our community as most of our business comes from local sources. We have always tried to stay active as well by organizing and participating in events and fundraisers in town.
What advice would you give to a new entrepreneur? Write a business plan and revisit it often to check your progress on your goals, and feel free to change them/modify them as you go.
What do you see as your greatest accomplishment? We went full time 3 years ago, purchased our building, and grew even during the Covid-19 pandemic. We recently acquired Reinhardt’s auto care and glass business thereby expanding even more.
What is a little-known fact about your company? We are also “Nanopro Canada” (click here for more info) and distribute our ceramic coating products to other detailing shops nationwide.
As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? Have my own car show on television.
What’s your beverage of choice? Dr. Pepper.
What professional development training or book did you find most useful as an entrepreneur? Rich Dad Poor Dad.
What does your daily morning routine look like? My morning consists of running around like crazy to get the kids ready for school and then heading into work so I can relax haha!