Today we’d like to introduce you to Andrew Markwood.
Hi Andrew, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I used to work in housing developments as a cabinet installer. I often worked 12+ hours to provide for my family. It wasn’t something I loved, And I missed lots of moments with our new baby and our daughter. I’ve never minded hard work, Never graduated college and only finished high school with a GED.
I’ve always known “How to do stuff” and had a passion for cars. I would work on friend’s vehicles, Specifically exhaust systems. There’s something about the American V8 that gets me going. One day I just had an idea to start doing exhaust work on the side for a little extra income.
It got to the point where I was turning down more “side” income than I was making in my full-time job. So my wife and I went for it and started doing custom exhaust work full-time out of our home garage.
We began sponsoring local car clubs, Partnering with other local shops, And expanding our offerings. It grew to a point where we needed more space and a permanent location. The next move was opening our own shop in Georgetown, Where we are now.
I get substantially more time with my family, We make our own schedule, And I’m living the dream doing something I love.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It was pretty scary at first, Quitting a full-time job making good money to do something we didn’t know the outcome of. We put everything on the line to make this happen. We still had a mortgage to pay, Car payments, And two children to provide for in the middle of a global pandemic.
Cash flow was a struggle for a while. Just when we thought we were making a good profit, We found ourselves needing to immediately reinvest that in our business – More equipment, Tools, Bigger parts inventory, Advertising, etc. We often had less than $500 in the bank, Despite being a successful small business.
Paying for and opening our shop was also difficult. We didn’t even have power there for three weeks due to an issue with the city. We were paying for a nice, New location we couldn’t even use. If not for the support of friends, Neighbors, And family, I’m not sure we would’ve made it through those weeks.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about A&M Exhaust?
We are the #1 full custom exhaust shop in the Austin area. We are known for our unique and creative ideas and providing affordable custom exhaust systems for local car & truck enthusiasts. We work on everything from hot rods, To race cars, Off-road vehicles, And have even put exhaust tips on a Tesla.
We can work with any budget and can typically give customers something better than a generic aftermarket part for less.
We have become a staple in the car community and stay active on social media @makeitloudexhaust
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
What I like best is the car community. There are a ton of local clubs and individual enthusiasts for every type of vehicle and taste. All the clubs are willing to get together for a good cause. Recently we did a drive-by parade for a young boy fighting cancer. That’s what it’s all about.
What I like least is that we lack a local drag strip or race track in the Austin area. I advocate against street racing. And believe there would be less of it and fewer accidents if young enthusiasts had somewhere to go. Typically you can spend a day racing for less than $30. It’s good family fun and keeps us all safe, Enthusiasts and regular motorists alike.
Pricing:
- Free Consultations!
Contact Info:
- Email: makeitloudexhaust@gmail.com
- Website: www.makeitloudexhaust.com
- Instagram: @Makeitloudexhaust
- Facebook: Facebook.com/makeitloudexhaust
