After an 11-year career in the U.S. Army, Thaddeus Grage worked a short time in law enforcement before eventually becoming the owner of an aftermarket performance shop. From there, his interest in the automotive industry grew, and what initially began as a search for an automotive maintenance franchise resulted in Grage becoming the new owner of an existing automotive-styling franchise location: Tint World Gulfport, Mississippi. By Cindy Charette
After an 11-year career in the U.S. Army, Thaddeus Grage worked a short time in law enforcement before eventually becoming the owner of an aftermarket performance shop. From there, his interest in the automotive industry grew, and what initially began as a search for an automotive maintenance franchise resulted in Grage becoming the new owner of an existing automotive-styling franchise location: Tint World Gulfport, Mississippi.
Grage’s Tint World ownership began in May 2019, and despite the challenges of the following year in 2020, his location experienced exponential success. In fact, projected goals of 30% growth were not only reached but exceeded that year. To add to his success, Grage took over his second Tint World location as of April 1, 2021, in Memphis, Tennessee.
According to Grage, Tint World’s business model is proven and a big part of his success. Grage explained that, in order to be a successful franchisee, you have to trust the process. He also attested that Tint World’s processes – developed by Charles Bonfiglio, who is not only the founder and CEO of Tint World, but also a prior industry franchisee himself – are tried and true.
In addition, Grage has successfully transitioned and applied the skills of team building and leadership, from being a staff sergeant who oversaw several military troops, to his daily role as a franchise owner.
As a result, he has created a cohesive and safe team environment. Grage explained, “My crew is like family to me,” which is supported by the fact that his staff has been with him since day one and enjoys coming to work every day.
Additionally, Grage stated that as a father of two, the most rewarding part of running his businesses, aside from reaching financial freedom, is gaining the freedom of time. Grage recalled how time in the military took away from time with family. Now, he has more time to spend with his children, who reap the benefits of growing up in a Tint World franchise and have already announced the takeover of their dad’s Tint World franchise one day.
For more information, visit tintworld.com/franchise-opportunities.
– Cindy Charette