From bodywork to truck towing, Rob Leipziger has built an automotive empire based off growth and trust.
In a world where big box stores and national chains increasingly dominate, the success story of Robโs Automotive & Collision Center stands out as a shining example of what can be achieved through passion, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to customer service.
From its humble beginnings operating out of a home garage, Rob Leipzigerโs family-owned business has grown into a sprawling enterprise with multiple locations across the region and some of the most recognizable vehicles on roadways from Philadelphia to the Lehigh Valley and beyond.
From Garage to Empire
โI worked in the driveway at my momโs house when we first started. Then I went to a one-bay shop with no heat,โ remembers Leipziger. โBut itโs worked out because of the chances I took.โ
But breaking into the business wasnโt the only hurdle to overcome – Leipzigerโs young adulthood was in part defined with his battle with dyslexia. In part because of this challenge, he developed an uncanny photographic memory for automotive repair, along with an insatiable curiosity and hands-on aptitude that would ultimately unveil his true calling.
Fueled by his love for the automotive industry and a determination to provide exceptional service, the business quickly outgrew its modest beginnings, later expanding to a four-bay operation and earning approval as the primary towing vendor for his community by 1986. And other opportunities would follow.
This was only the start of an exponential growth trajectory that would see the company open new divisions, acquire additional facilities, and cement its reputation as a leader in the industry.
Today, Robโs Automotive boasts more than 10 operating service divisions, including a state-of-theart Automotive & Collision Center, a Truck Collision Center, a Trailer Shop, and the prestigious L.R.A. Auto Sales & Museum, showcasing a diverse collection of classic American muscle cars. With multiple locations and a workforce of more than 280 dedicated employees, the companyโs success is a testament to Leipzigerโs vision, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
โIt was just the growth. It happens when you do the right thing. You take care of the customers [and] it will naturally progress. Itโs kind of like karma.โ
โBut youโve got to be able to control it. Youโve got to be able to handle it. Luckily, over the years, weโve had a lot of growth, but that doesnโt mean we have millions of dollars in the bank because weโre always focused on spending it on the right thing and investing right back into the process.โ
Banking on Trust
Leipziger attributes much of his companyโs growth and success to doing business the right way. That starts with establishing and cultivating trusting relationships โ whether with customers, employees, or his bank.
From the early days of seeking a loan for his first heavy-duty tow truck to the more recent expansion into the burgeoning yard truck business with Capacity Trucks, Penn Community Bank has been a steadfast financial partner, providing the necessary capital and guidance to fuel Robโs Automotiveโs ambitious plans.
โI started the business, and I didnโt have any financial partners,โ he says. โNow, Iโve been with the bank for what seems like forever.โ Whether itโs real estate, support for working capital, or another partner to work through growth opportunities, Penn Community Bank commercial lender Tony Santoro is ready to help as Leipzigerโs relationship manager.
โOver the years, our collaboration has transcended the conventional client-lender relationship. Robโs commitment to excellence and ethical business practices have left an indelible mark on our team. His dedication to putting the customer first aligns seamlessly with our values at Penn Community Bank.โ
โThe banks have been bought out time after time, but I havenโt moved because there was always a lot of trust here, and the trust is probably the biggest thing for me,โ Leipziger explains, highlighting the importance of a reliable banking relationship in navigating the challenges and seizing opportunities throughout the companyโs evolution.
โAs his commercial lender, Iโve witnessed firsthand the incredible growth story Rob has authored,โ adds Santoro. โRobโs success is a testament to the power of authentic relationships.โ
The Road to Business Success
When asked to distill his advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and fellow business owners, Leipzigerโs message is clear: embrace risk, think big, and never stop growing.
โYouโve got to be aggressive. You canโt be afraid, and youโve got to take chances in life because thatโs what itโs all about,โ he asserts, emphasizing the importance of calculated risks and a willingness to step out of oneโs comfort zone.
Robertโs philosophy extends beyond mere financial growth; itโs a mindset rooted in valuing people as assets rather than liabilities.
โYouโve got to treat them – and pay them – like assets,โ he advises. โYou canโt overpay what you canโt afford, but youโve got to take care of the good ones. Thatโs why my first two employees are still here with me today, decades later.โ
By fostering an environment where hard work and dedication are rewarded, Robโs Automotive has cultivated a team that takes pride in their craft and shares a commitment to customer satisfaction. As the business world continues to evolve, Leipzigerโs advice serves as a reminder that success often lies in the willingness to adapt, innovate, and never lose sight of oneโs passion.
โIf you have a two-bay mechanical operation, thereโs only so much you can do in a day,โ he cautions. โYouโre limited in what youโll be able to afford. The more people doing the right thing for you, the more those pennies add up.โ
Leipziger also stresses the importance of continually reinvesting in the business to facilitate growth.
โWeโve always spent the money on the right things,โ he says, โlike the certifications, training our employees, and getting them the equipment they need to properly service our customersโ investments.โ
With a legacy spanning over four decades, Robโs Automotive stands as a shining example of what can be achieved through determination, strategic partnerships, and a commitment to excellence. But the journeyโs not over yet. As Leipziger looks to the future, his sights are set on further expansion of divisions like Capacity Trucks, driven by the same passion that fueled his journey from a humble home garage to the helm of a thriving automotive empire.
โI still love what we do,โ he beams. โI couldnโt retire. This is what itโs all about.โ
For more customer success stories like this one, read Mutual Interest, our quarterly business magazine that embodies our institution’s steadfast commitment to fostering innovation, driving economic vitality, and empowering businesses that create the fabric of our local communities. Within these pages, you’ll find success stories of businesses right in our area, as well as best practices and market insights to help navigate your growth.
