Blog

City Automotive

Atlanta, GA

Ashley Richardson, owner of City Automotive turned his interest in repairing automobiles into a drive and passion for growing the family business…

Ashley has been involved in the automotive industry in some capacity for as long as he can remember.  This family-owned business was started by Mr. Richardson’s father 32 years ago.

With the help of Atlanta Micro Fund, Ashley has been able to grow the family business by expanding his operation.¬† He is now able to repair automobiles more efficiently through new equipment purchased with the help of AMF’s loan.

In the 70’s as a student at Morehouse, Ashley developed an interest in automobile repair. His interest initially began as a hobby and a means to earn extra money, as he would occasionally repair and work on the vehicles of family and friends. Over the years this hobby evolved into a passion and a desire to maintain the family business.

Mr. Richardson acquired much of his skill and knowledge of vehicles through real hands-on experience. The skill and knowledge that he offers to his customers is further enhanced by having foreign and American car specialists as part of his automotive repair team. City Automotive specializes in computer diagnostics to determine drivability problems.

Having family involvement is important to this business, as Mr. Richardson’s wife Patricia works at the shop and his son Byron is currently a mechanic trainee doing emissions and minor repair work.

Mr. Richardson came to the Atlanta Micro Fund via a referral by the Atlanta Development Authority (ADA). ADA felt Ashley’s business needs were more compatible with the AMF’s lending program.

After attending AMF’s loan program orientation and completing the application process, City Automotive received a $3,500 loan to purchase a vehicle lift.  Having this additional equipment was instrumental in increasing business and making the repairing of the vehicles more efficient. With additional funding from AMF,  Mr. Richardson plans to add two more car lifts to increase productivity and the number of vehicles that can be served at one time by 30%. The new funds will also assist with remodeling.

City Automotive is located in the neighborhood of Ben Hill at 3761 Campbellton Road, SW, Atlanta, Georgia 30331. To reach the shop by phone the number is 404-344-9770.