Celebrating 100 years of Legendary Service

MAGAZINE

AD O

NOVEMBER, 2023

Celebrating a Century of Excellence: Courtesy Garage’s 100th Anniversary

A

celebration of a hundred years of automotive excellence! We are thrilled to present this commemorative magazine, marking the extraordinary journey of Courtesy Garage as we reach this remarkable centenary milestone.

Since its inception a century ago, Courtesy Garage has been more than just an automotive dealership; it has become a cherished part of countless lives, weaving a tapestry of exceptional service, innovation, and lasting relationships with its customers and the community.

As you flip through the pages of this magazine, we embark on a nostalgic voyage back in time, tracing the rich history of Courtesy Garage from its humble beginnings to the pioneering industry leader it is today. We pay homage to the visionary founders, their enduring values, and their unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction, which laid the foundation for the enterprise’s incredible success.

But this magazine is more than just a tribute to the past. It is a testament to the vibrant present and a glimpse into the promising future that Courtesy Garage envisions. With a steadfast focus on customer-centricity, a passion for innovation, and a dedication to corporate social responsibility, the journey forward holds limitless potential for this cherished institution.

Hear the reflections and stories from the exceptional team members who are the driving force behind this illustrious legacy, embodying the core values of trust, integrity, and excellence that have been the pillars of Courtesy Garage for a century.

In the spirit of celebrating this momentous milestone, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the community, whose unwavering support has been the driving force behind Courtesy Garage’s thriving journey. Together, we look back on 100 years of memories and look forward to a future filled with boundless possibilities.

So, as we immerse ourselves in the fascinating Within these pages, you will encounter story of Courtesy Garage, let us raise our glasses to inspiring tales of resilience, triumph over a century of exceptional automotive experiences, challenges, and the driving force of adaptability exemplary service, and the promise of many more that have enabled the organization to thrive remarkable years ahead. through the decades. Witness the evolution of the automotive industry as seen through the Here’s to Courtesy Garage’s 100th lens of this legendary establishment, always at anniversary— a true testament to the power of the forefront of technological advancements and passion, dedication, and the enduring pursuit of industry best practices. excellence!

COURTESY 100TH 3 ADVOMAG.COM

OUR HISTORY

Early Beginings

COURTESY 100TH 4 ADVOMAG.COM

T

he history of Courtesy Garage dates back to the mid-1900s.

Beginning in the mid1900s, its founder was Louis B. Epstein, and it was first located at the corner of White Park Road. At that time, the company was known for the Hudson and Essex motor cars.

The business was changed again in June 1966, when a group of local businessmen led by Sir Kenneth Hunte floated a company and purchased the business of Robert Thom Ltd. The new company was called Courtesy Garage Ltd., and it became the agents and distributors for the Nissan brand of vehicles.

In its early years, the company opened a branch to sell auto supplies, also located It was subsequently taken over by the at White Park Road. That company, Express family business of Eckstein Brothers, which Auto Supplies, became the representative represented General Motors Corp., the for Goodyear Tire Safari as early as 1969. manufacturers of Buick, Pontiac, Chevrolet, With the growth of the business, the exodus of businesses out of the city, and the and Opel. creation of the ABC highway adjacent to From there, its ownership changed once its headquarters at Wildey, a modern and again in 1939, when it was taken over by efficient tire center was constructed.

Today, Courtesy Garage is still located Robert Thom Limited, local distributors for at Wildey, with its showroom featuring Vauxhall and Bedford vehicles. the Nissan and Hyundai brands, which It became known for the famous General have now evolved into electric and hybrid Motors products, Buick, Pontiac, Opel, vehicles. This location is a one stop housing Chevrolet, Vauxhall, and Bedford, were for all the departments: Administration, sold by Courtesy Garage at White Park Finance, Service, Tyres and Battery , Parts, Rentals, Sales, Autobody shop.

Road, St. Michael.

COURTESY 100TH 5 ADVOMAG.COM

Nicholas Mackie Regional General Manager

COURTESY 100TH 6 ADVOMAG.COM

MANAGEMENT TEAM

Management Team Sitting Front sitting ( From Left) Michael Marshall, Samuel Gaston Nicholas Mackie Standing from left: Scott Bentham, Stephanie Catling -Birmingham, Andrez Greene, Rhonelle Waldron, Kareem Boyce

COURTESY 100TH 9 ADVOMAG.COM

COURTESY 100TH 10 ADVOMAG.COM

Samuel Gaston Regional Sales, Product and InventoryManager

COURTESY 100TH 11 ADVOMAG.COM

NISSAN & HYUNDAI SHOWROOM

GET THE RIGHT ENGINE PROTECTION WITH VALVOLINE FULL SYNTHETIC

THE ORIGINAL MOTOR OIL

A M E R I C A’ S F IR S T M O T O R O IL B R A N D

TRUSTED FOR 150 YEARS

@Valvoline | valvoline.com

EXCLUSIVELY DISTRIBUTED BY

426-1800 | Wildey, St. Michael • Welches, St. Thomas • Six Roads, St. Philip • Inchcape, St. Michael

www.AutomotiveArt.com

CELEBRATING OUR EMPLOYEES

COURTESY 100TH 14 ADVOMAG.COM

COURTESY 100TH 15 ADVOMAG.COM

Stephanie Catling-Birmingham Divisional People Manager and Group Talent Development COURTESY 100TH 16 ADVOMAG.COM

HUMAN RESOURCES & ADMINISTRATION TEAM

Administrative Staff: Standing from left : Marsha Alleyne, Stephanie Catling -Birmingham, Marcia Griffith

COURTESY 100TH 17 ADVOMAG.COM

We extend heartiest congratulations to Courtesy Garage for their

100th Anniversary.

Here’s to 100 more!

CONGRATULATIONS! to the Management and staff of

DISCOUNT

On reaching this amazing milestone Your company has set an exemplary standard for all of us We look forward to many more years of partnership.

MCCARTHY’S GARAGE, TWO MILE HILL ST MICHAEL TEL: 4293820

NISSAN SALES TEAM

Sales Team Nissan Standing from left : Sharon Winfield-Clarke, Sean Prescod, Nissan Sales Manager, Charles Branch, Shawn Brathwaite, Samuel Gaston, Sales Manager, Lisa Boyce COURTESY 100TH 19 ADVOMAG.COM

SEAN PRESCOD NISSAN SALES EXECUTIV

S

ean Prescod has been working at Courtesy Garage for 25 years and is now one of the leading salespeople for the Nissan brand at the

company.

As Courtesy celebrated its 100year anniversary, Sean was one of the people honored for his long service and outstanding contributions to the company.

His journey with the company did not get off to the expected start. As he sat back with a smile and recalled the initial moments, Sean said that he first came as a qualified technician and had applied for a position as a technician.

Still smiling, he added that when he did his interview and saw his qualifications, they said there was an opening for a service advisor.

“The Service Manager at the time asked me how I felt about doing the service advisor job just temporarily.”

“I did a test, and they were impressed by it,” said Sean as he leaned over and placed his hand on his chin, adding, “Not knowing that they were grooming me for this service advisor job, which was supposed to be temporary.”

With a giggle, he said, “You know, I think I was tricked.” The temporary position turned into 15 years as a Service Advisor, and during those years, he saw changes in the staff as well as the technology in the motor service industry.

With an eye to hopefully moving to sales, Sean did not want to leave the department without passing on his knowledge and experiences gained throughout the years.

“The last five years (of the 15 years) or so, I pretty much always had my eye on sales as well, but I didn’t want to leave for the Sales department as the Service department was also close to my heart. I didn’t want to step away

COURTESY 100TH 20 ADVOMAG.COM

and leave it just like that. I wanted to pass on my experiences to someone, and once I was satisfied with that, I could ease my way into sales. So I left the service department satisfied with the young people that I left there and went into the SalesDepartment.”

He highlighted that Courtesy Garage encourages and pushes you to go to FR different levels, SERV and can elevate ADVI one self in the TO NI company as a result.

SALES One of his favorite things about working at the company is the changing technology in the automotive field.

The changes in vehicles that he has seen over the course of his 25 years have been exciting.

From carburetor models to fuel-injected models, and now to

VE Hybrids and Electric vehicles, This Hybrids always left him excited to see what is coming next.

But despite all of this, it is the customers who hold the top spot in his view.

“It’s a joy to see the excitement in people’s faces when they step into a new vehicle.

ROM VICE ISOR ISSAN SMAN

In order to best serve the customer and help them make a sound and informed decision, Sean said that they too, as salespeople, must be trained so they can properly explain things to the customer.

“You may not know, but when dealing with cars, you have to keep a close eye on politics, what’s happening

around the world, and that kind of thing. All these things play a part in dealing with vehicles.”

A new car is an investment as it entails dealing with a considerable amount of money, and as he noted, one can see the difference in people’s behavior when it comes to their money.

“You must pay attention to people’s needs. You must listen a lot and act on it, and learn quickly. One of the mottos is do it right the first time, so you have to make sure that if there is a mistake, it doesn’t happen again.

As a result he said one of his proudest moments is the satisfaction and feedback from the customers. “When that person recognizes the service that you give. That is one of the most satisfying things.”

What has surprised him during his 25 years is that senior employees and management

also recognize the work that you have been doing throughout those years. It surprised him during his time in the Service department that people saw his dedicated work, and that has helped him in his transition into the sales department.

“When someone sees you doing good work, pretty much every manager will say they want you in my department.”

He would like to be able to read people so he can better serve them, and he hopes that one day before he leaves the company he will be able to pass on knowledge to other people.

“Passing on knowledge is my main satisfaction. I will feel a sense of guilt for leaving here with all of that knowledge and experience and not passing it on.

His parting words were that he would recommend Courtesy Garage because of the backing of the product. From the technicians in the workshop, who he said are very knowledgeable, to the overall service provided by all aspects and departments in the company.

COURTESY 100TH 21 ADVOMAG.COM

R

yan Morris has an incredible team of experienced professionals who are more than willing to share their knowledge with him. As a newcomer to the new car sales industry, Ryan was eager to soak up as much information as possible. He understood there would be a learning curve and looked to his colleagues for guidance. Looking back on his nine-year journey as a Hyundai Sales Executive he doesn’t hesitate to credit his colleagues for his organizational and personal growth in the company. With over 50 years of combined experience within his sales team they willingly shared their strategies, tips, and tricks of the trade, teaching him the art of negotiation, how to read customers and the importance of building lasting relationships. Ryan was grateful for their generosity and soaked up every piece of wisdom they offered.

However it wasn’t just his colleagues who played a crucial role in Ryan’s personal growth but two particular individuals

who stood out through his journey.

His first Manager, Phillip Bynoe, was an instrumental figure in shaping his career. Phillip was a seasoned professional who had seen it all. He saw potential in Ryan and pushed him to constantly improve.

Under Phillip’s guidance, Ryan honed his skills and developed into a formidable salesman. Although Phillip has retired, Ryan appreciated everything he did for him and considered him a mentor.

Yet one person stood out from the rest: Samuel Gaston, the original product manager. Samuel understood the importance of teamwork and providing support to his colleagues. Samuel went above and beyond to help Ryan navigate the murky waters of the industry.

Their countless conversations, brainstorming sessions, and Samuel’s willingness to take Ryan under his wing had transformed their professional relationship into a

COURTESY 100TH 22 ADVOMAG.COM

deep bond of respect and f Together, Samuel and ideas, pushed boundaries each other’s perspectives. S support gave Ryan the co innovative projects and pe professional journey.

As time passed, Ryan be and make a name for himse hard work and dedication guidance and wisdom of hi him to new heights. Ryan’ gratitude have brought hi professionally but also pers Ryan knew that it was t individuals who had believ beginning. Their mentorsh unwavering support had s confident and accomplish has become as Courtesy c year celebrations.

One of his favorite thin the Hyundai brand and i clients. He mentioned that the models and the change the years have moved Hyu leadership positions in aut

friendship.

Ryan explored new s, and learned from Samuel’s unwavering onfidence to pursue ersonal growth in his

egan to hone his skills elf in the industry. His n, combined with the is mentors, propelled ’s determination and im success not only sonally. thanks to the special ved in him from the hip, knowledge, and shaped Ryan into the hed professional he continued their 100-

ngs thus far has been interacting with the t the commitment to e in technology over undai into one of the tomotive mobility in Barbados.

Buying a car is a big

decision, and as Ryan put it, it is one of the two biggest decisions one makes in life. Buying a car or buying property He highlighted that it is a serious process, and at Courtesy, they do all the legwork behind the scenes for their customers. During the sale and even before the sale, months are spent planning and communicating with the clients. Dealing with things like the financial institutions, building those relationships, their relationships with the insurance companies, and making sure that the client doesn’t feel the burden or stress of having to do all that legwork.

“Then there’s also the aftercare because, as you can appreciate, you bought it from the salesman as the first point of contact.

So if there is an issue, the first person that you’re calling is me, and I should be available to you because this is the secondbiggest part of your So if you’re spending $100,000 to $200,000 on a vehicle, then you should have accessibility.”

These are the things that he believes set the Courtesy team apart “because we don’t take them for granted.”

With the legendary service provided by Courtesy Garage, Ryan said that through all the trials and tribulations, they have seen almost everything. “So that would have to mean that we are doing something right. You’re doing the majority of the things, and if you want to be with a company that has a legacy, 100 years shows commitment, shows commitment to customers, shows commitment to the country, shows commitment to investors.”

Ryan Morris Hyundai Sales Executive

RYAN LEADS HYUNDAI TEAM

COURTESY 100TH 23 ADVOMAG.COM

COURTESY 100TH 24 ADVOMAG.COM

HYUNDAI SALES TEAM

Sales Team Hyundai Standing from left : Ryan Morris, Derek Harris, Samuel Gaston (Regional Sales , Product and Inventory Manager), Steve Moore, Mekyle Carrington

COURTESY 100TH 25 ADVOMAG.COM

ANDREZ GREENE DIVISIONAL FINANCIAL CONTROLLER

THE FINANCE DEPARTMENT ADDS VALUE BEYOND COURTESY 100TH 26 ADVOMAG.COM

O

ne might think that the Finance Department of a car garage would be nothing more than a collection of number crunchers, focused solely on counting dollars and cents. However, the Financial Comptroller of the Courtesy Garage, Andrez Greene, sees his department as so much more. As the company celebrated its 100-year anniversary, Andrez boldly declared that all roads lead back to the finance department, proudly declaring it the hub of all operations.

When he joined the team nine years ago, Andrez said that the camaraderie and welcoming nature of the team were two of the things that stood out to him.

“We have a very good team here that pulls together through good times and bad times. Everyone is willing to assist where necessary and go above and beyond their normal day-to-day. If somebody needs help, someone else would pitch in.”

Along with the family-type atmosphere, Andrez said his initial thoughts on moving to the company were a little daunting since people had been there for 10, 15, and 20 years. But he was welcomed with open arms, with everyone willing to share their knowledge.

Reflecting on the past, Andrez reminisced about the changes the department had undergone. In 2017, the team implemented a new management system, replacing the outdated one that had been running for years. The change has brought about a level of efficiency previously unseen. Processes that had once been laborious were now streamlined, and the team found themselves with more time on their hands. Their use of the new software system allowed them

to provide greater value not just to their own department but to every other department in the company.

Andrez pointed out the simple example of handwritten cheques Previously, the team had to spend significant time manually writing and reconciling cheques. Now, everything is printed by the system, saving time and reducing errors.

The high volume of transactions they processed became more manageable with the help of the new system. They were able to report their monthly management accounts reports to the head office on time, ensuring smooth operations and informed decisionmaking.

“Our value goes beyond counting dollars and cents,” Andrez said about his team and department. He saw them as an integral part of the company’s operations, providing support to almost every single department.

Their role went beyond financial management; they were the repository of crucial information that other departments needed to analyze costs, assess supplier performance, and make strategic decisions. Andrez recognized the importance of their work in ensuring that the company received the best value for its products and services, always looking for ways to enhance efficiency.

As a strong believer in the growth and development of his team, he has strived to provide opportunities for them to gain new skills and experiences.

Over the years, he has witnessed moments of revelation when his team members truly grasped the significance of their roles and took ownership of the opportunities presented to them.

These moments, though perhaps not surprises, were always met with a sense of pride and satisfaction. It was a testament to the investment made in their development and the team’s commitment to continuous COURTESY 100TH 27 ADVOMAG.COM

improvement.

To be number one in the automotive industry in Barbados is one of the goals Andrez wants the company to reach, as he mentioned they are currently hovering between two and three.

“I think based on the product lineup and all of the processes and plans that we have in place, it is an achievable goal along with the continued growth and profitability of the company.”

He believes technology will help everyone involved by “using technology effectively to make people’s jobs easier and also to make the customer experience as seamless and enjoyable as possible.”

With the drive to make the customer experience easier, they have already been able to implement such things as the payment system, reservation system, and in the service department, emailing auto statements. “These things, which a few years ago seemed somewhat impossible, but with the evolution of the systems, our customers are able to transact business without even coming here,” Being able to provide goodvalue products to solve the needs or problems that the customers have has been the hallmark of Courtesy, which is known for its Legendary Service.

As the Financial Controller of the Courtesy Garage, Andrez Greene understands the immense value his department brings to the company. All roads do lead back to finance, where every piece of information and transaction is carefully managed. With their expertise and support, every department can thrive, helping the company navigate the challenges and successes of its 100-year history.

Andrez knows that as long as the Finance Department continued to evolve and add value, the Courtesy Garage would continue to prosper for years to come.

ACCOUNTS TEAM

Accounts Department

Standing (from Left) Kurt Blackman, Andrez Greene, Financial Controller Sitting( from Left): Rhonelle Waldron, Kathyann Holder, Michelle Smith, Carolyn Franklyn, Shanice Lynch, Shenell Harris, Tracy Belgrave COURTESY 100TH 28 ADVOMAG.COM

Happy 100th Anniversary “THE WINDFORCE BRAND HAS BEEN WORKING WITH COURTESY GARAGE FOR OVER A DECADE NOW AND THROUGHOUT OUR BUSINESS RELATIONSHIP, EACH COMPANY’S PERFORMANCE HAS BEEN EXTRAORDINARY. HOPEFULLY, THEY SHALL CONTINUE TO BE WINDFORCE’S DISTRIBUTOR FOR MANY YEARS TO COME, TOGETHER WE CAN ACHIEVE GREAT THINGS.”

WINTER TIRES FOR YOUR CAR

COURTESY 100TH 29 ADVOMAG.COM

VINTAGE CAR S

T

he Vintage Car Show was a featured event held in October 2022 as part of the 100th anniversary celebrations.

As the name implies, the intention was to show back in the day’ cars that have been kept in pristine condition or have been restored. During a walk-through in the yard of the Wildey location, those in attendance oohed and ahhed at the range of models, which were immaculately presented.

The car show was a historical presentation on the evolution of cars for young and old.

The response was fantastic, matching and even exceeding expectations, as attendees included car enthusiasts, members of the public, and children.

The Wildey showroom was also open to the public, where Hyundai and Nissan vehicles were on display. An array of car products and a body shop display were available for viewing.

COURTESY 100TH 30 ADVOMAG.COM

SHOW A HIT

COURTESY 100TH 31 ADVOMAG.COM

KAREEM BOYCE

TYRE AND BATTERY MANAGER COURTESY 100TH 32 ADVOMAG.COM

K

areem Boyce was sitting at his desk one day when someone told him about a job opportunity at Courtesy Garage. That was seven years ago, and now he is the tyre and Battery Manager at Courtesy Garage.

“I applied, not really thinking anything about it, and I got an interview. I came, and I was offered a job the same day.”

Kareem said as he recounted his first days.

He started his journey in the inventory department, and according to him, he has had quite an evolution at Courtesy. He was promoted to Assistant Tyre Manager and recently to his current position.

He has high praise for the camaraderie in the company.

“Everybody is always trying to help one another. Trying to find solutions, even if it’s not in your department, trying to find solutions that best help your department and, by extension, the company,” Speaking of other companies, you might get one department saying, ‘I ain’t doing that because it’s not part of that department, and stuff like that.’

“But here at Courtesy, it’s always been a team effort. We cannot satisfy the customer unless we pull together and make sure that that customer is satisfied.”

People oriented Kareem said if he could have a superpower, it would be anything dealing with people.

“I really need to be a motivational speaker one day because I believe that goes a long way. There’s nothing more gratifying than seeing somebody succeed for me. I think that will be my major superpower, just getting people to do the best for themselves as well as their families.”

During the celebrations for Courtesy’s 100-year anniversary, Kareem said that getting to know the personnel, the committee members, understanding their strengths, and understanding my strengths, more so in a role like that where I’m now seen as a leader rather than just one of the normal workers, was interesting.

“The 100-year anniversary celebration, pulling some of these events together, making sure that you know your staff have a good time but also making sure that the public is aware this is a grand occasion that we had a 100-year celebration,” was a highlight for him.

He wishes everyone knew the quality service they can get at Courtesy.

“We try to strive for that, and no, we don’t always hit our marks, but we keep trying to improve on it every day. Having customers come to us and say this person gives me good service is always gratifying.”

Even if it is not his department, Kareem would go to that person and say, “Well done”, and explain where the compliment came from.

“Those little things go a long way, as some people just want to hear that they’re doing a good job.

And that’s something I try to do every day. I try to motivate people throughout the department and throughout the company, all across the Goddard Group.”

He has tried to use his experience to overcome any challenges that come his way. Though one is COURTESY 100TH 33 ADVOMAG.COM

never able to anticipate or plan for every challenge, he said that with help and experience, one can get through it, take small steps, and move forward. This also helps one see the positive in a challenging situation.

As he looks to the future, Kareem is hoping that one of the goals that will continue to be reached is keeping the workers health and safety at the forefront.

He also wishes that the company continues to be profitable every year and ensures that their customers are satisfied.

“To make sure that we can serve them in the best possible way and to make sure that they know that we are like family to them, We want to make sure they are happy.”

When it comes to his department of tyres and batteries, he wants people to know they are intertwined.

“Sometimes you think that a battery man or tyre man is supposed to do certain aspects of the job, but we all put ourselves together to make sure that the customer experiences are well received.

BATTERY & TYRE TEAM

From left : Kareem Boyce, Tyre and Battery Manager, with Adrian Blunt and Shawn Jones

TROPICAL BATTERY STAFF Back Row from left: Paul Marshall, Hinkson Spooner, Adrian Blunt , Shawn Jones, Don Cumbebatch Front Row frrom left: Kareem Boyce ( Tyre and Battery Manager ) Donna Trotman White, Eugene Hoyte, Cheryl Carter, Shanika Greenidge

SERVICE TEAM

Service Team

Back row from left: Ezra Gibbs, Patrick Richardson, Anthony Springer, Ramon Maxwell, Andy Williams, Scott Bentham Front row from left: Cheryl Rowe, Kielia Coppin-Marshall, Maria Hinds, Bonnie Jackman, Samantha Boyce

SCOTT BENTHAM SERVICE MANAGER COURTESY 100TH 36 ADVOMAG.COM

I

n 2019, when Scott Bentham embarked on a thrilling journey in the service department at Courtesy Garage, little did he know that this role would bring both fun and challenges that would shape his professional growth.

Scott was looking for an opportunity to grow in a bigger organization, and Courtesy Garage ticked all the boxes for him to take the next step in 2019. From the moment he joined, it was a big shock, as the new organization was bigger than where he had previously worked, and the magnitude of Courtesy was a surprise.

The service department is normally a hive of activity, with technicians working diligently to diagnose and repair vehicles service advisors bustling around, attending to customers’ needs. But soon after his arrival came the COVID-19 Pandemic, which lasted less than a year, and everything had to change.

“So just as I was getting into things, the pandemic would have hit, and we would have had significant changes and

SCOTT MAKING STRIDES challenges throughout the company at that point in time. Things such as trying to still be able to manage customer expectations with all the new protocols, having to be creative, and how we would set up and restructure the service department to be less interactive with the customer “From a safety standpoint, those were all things that we would have had to do, including making sure vehicles were sanitized before they went in the

workshop for the technicians to work on, to making sure that they’re sanitized after the vehicles leave the workshop to then protect the customer, so it was a battle that we had to fight and face on two fronts, trying to protect the staff from the customers and then the customers again from the staff as well in the event.

“It was definitely a rough, steep, quick, and sharp learning curve.”

Scott excelled and was promoted in 2021 to the Service Manager position after meeting those challenges head-on and overcoming them.

“I want to say it was a highpressure situation, but it’s one that I believe has allowed my career to make big steps, leaps, and bounds because, you know, sometimes great things are created under pressure.”

During the lockdown of COVID, they had to adapt and reevaluate how we lived and carried on our day-to-day lives, as well as how we did business. So it was definitely one thing that opened Scott’s eyes, along with all of the colleagues, to different ways of thinking and trying to do business in new ways and to evolve from where they were to where they are now.

Despite the challenges, the camaraderie among the service department staff as well as the family-oriented staff in the other departments made the experience all the more enjoyable. Their support of each other through demanding situations, sharing

COURTESY 100TH 37 ADVOMAG.COM

laughs, and celebrating victories together has strengthened the family-type culture at Courtesy as they continue their 100-year anniversary.

He continues to look for innovations and ways to improve, and he mentioned that one of the goals he has set for himself and the company is to find more effective ways of doing business in all departments.

“By saying effective business in terms of finding ways to make the customer experience not only more seamless but a lot easier for the customer and being able to provide all automotive solutions and services to the brands that we currently offer,” As time went on, Scott realized that his favorite thing about working at Courtesy was not just the technical challenges or the satisfaction of fixing cars. It was the joy of being able to assist and help people with their mechanical concerns, ensuring that they could continue their journeys safely and smoothly. And so, with a friendly smile and a passion for problem-solving, Scott continues to embrace the fun and challenges of being a service manager at the organization, always ready to assist and help people with all their mechanical concerns throughout the Hyundai and Nissan brands.

WELLNESS INI EMPLOYEES LA

T

he wellness of all its staff members is the key to Courtesy Garage Limited.

To this end, the management has embarked on a get-well programme during the first few months of 2023. It began with an exercise program where a qualified gym instructor was assigned the responsibility of providing strength and fitness training programs three days a week.

Coupled with this were team-building hikes around Barbados, where every monthend staff have the opportunity

ITIATIVES FOR AUNCHED to enjoy the sights and scenery of Barbados starting as early as 6 a.m.

Some of the hikes included the picturesque Bath to Bathsheba as well as the Gun Hill Signal Station.

Also part of the 100th anniversary celebration was a scavenger hike and hunt from Portvale Sugar Factory, where employees of sister companies in the Goddards Group of Companies joined their colleagues in the special anniversary celebration.

COURTESY 100TH 39 ADVOMAG.COM

u t a a l r t g ions no C to you and your team on reaching this huge milestone!

#14 Oakwood Park 2nd Ave Thorpes St. James

Tel : 246 2662222

LINDSAY FORDE

BODYSHOP MANAGER

LIVING IN THE PRESENT IS LINDSAY’S PHILOSPHY COURTESY 100TH 42 ADVOMAG.COM

L

indsay Forde, the manager of the Body Work shop at Courtesy Garage, has an unconventional approach to her role. She sees herself not as a manager, but as a team leader. Lindsay believes that living in the present moment was vital for effective functioning, and dismissing any notions of anxiety or concern about the future. She is focused on making peace with past experiences, and striving to leave each situation better than she found it.

One of Lindsay’s most memorable moments at the company arose during the COVID-19 pandemic. The country had a pressing need for specialized vehicles, but with the unexpected lockdown stretching beyond two weeks, Courtesy Garage was asked if they could meet the demand. In response, Lindsay and her team embarked on a project to build and modify existing vehicles, ensuring the country had the necessary resources. It was a testament to their adaptability and dedication.

Lindsay’s journey at Courtesy Garage began in 2009 as a service advisor. After a brief stint at another organization, she returned in 2016, witnessing her own evolution within the company. She embraced progress and continuously sought to improve herself, not just professionally, but also mentally and spiritually. Lindsay learned to react less to certain situations, allowing for a clearer head when making critical business decisions.

When asked about her team’s embrace of her philosophy, Lindsay remarked that they initially struggled with the idea of there being no problems. However, they eventually recognized the importance

of collaborative problem-solving.

Lindsay acknowledged her team’s expertise, understanding that she couldn’t do her jobs without their valuable skills and knowledge.

Through respectful collaboration and open communication, the team has grown to appreciate that challenges were simply opportunities to find solutions together.

Lindsay observed a shift in the workforce culture over the years.

With people no longer seeing lifelong commitment to a company as a necessity, turnover rates have increased. Lindsay emphasized the importance of understanding different mindsets among team members, particularly with regards to experienced and new employees.

To effectively manage the diverse workforce, Lindsay adjusted her approach, tailoring her result to resonate with each individual’s learning style.

As a manager in the Body Shop, Lindsay faced unique challenges dealing with customers’ heightened emotions.

She recognizes the repressed anger, anxiety, and entitlement that often accompanied the repair of damaged vehicles. Managing these emotions require sensitivity and empathy from her team. As a result she has created an environment where everyone could be heard and allowed for appropriate outlets to relieve stress, such as playing music and fostering a sense of camaraderie.

COURTESY 100TH 43 ADVOMAG.COM

Lindsay’s commitment to her team has extended beyond the workplace. She makes more than just an effort to understand their personal lives and challenges, letting them know that she cares about their well-being.

She also celebrates her team’s artistic abilities, recognizing that bodywork was a form of art. She encouraged creativity within the boundaries of company policies, fostering a sense of pride and belonging.

As a female within a male dominated environment, Lindsay is perceived as rare. Her technical background and experience in Facilities Management prepared her to succeed in her role as a female leader in the Automotive Repair Industry in Barbados.”, Lindsay was a rare female leader in the field of automotive body workshops in Barbados. Her dedication to preparing her team to work cohesively, even in her absence, highlights her commitment to building a well-oiled machine.

Lindsay Forde is a beloved leader at Courtesy Garage. Her focus on the present, embracing challenges, and nurturing a supportive environment has endeared her to her team and contributed to their success in navigating the dynamic world of the automotive industry.

BODYSHOP TEAM

Autobody Department

Back row from left : Jaire King-Burney, Wayde Weekes, Ryan Forde Front row from left: Hollyann Lampkin, Rownell Reid, Lindsy Forde. Manager, Renee Reid, Shanice Selman

Holly Ann Lampkin World Skills Competition 2023 Winner& SJPI intern with Courtesy Garage Ltd.

We join with the management and staff of

As we celebrate a proud and long association between our companies.

COURTESY 100TH 47 ADVOMAG.COM

Driven to success

Congratulations on this milestone of reaching 100 years in business.

Much has changed since you first opened your doors, yet your drive for success is still strong. Your approach is visionary, and you have successfully evolved with the times and introduced cleaner emission vehicle options.

We applaud you on marking 100 years!

The CIBC logo is a trademark of Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, used by FirstCaribbean International Bank under license.

TEAM MEMBERS CONT’D

Parts Department Sitting from left : Julia Holder, Hartlene Oughterson, Noreen Worrell -Callender, Heather Grant-Howard Standing from left :;James Barrow, Patrick Thompson, Anthony Gibson, Cedric Cox, Cecil Jordan, Jason Stuart, Tyson Knight, Glenroy Watts, Asst. Parts Manager, Andre Leonard, Leonard Best

Service Technicians : From left : Sherlock Watson, Chad Webster, Kenville Best, Brian Lestrade, Ramon Hinds

Courtesy Car Rentals : Standing from left : Rudolph Blackman, Selwyn Osbourne Sonia Greene, Margaret Weekes, Carolyn Messiah

CONTACT US : 431 4100

courtesygaragebarbados nissanbarbados hyundaibarbados

hyundaibarbados nissanbarbados courtesygaragebb