Sun staff
Matt Peterson, owner of Batavia Automotive, prides himself on never upselling a customer.
Peterson, an Owensville resident, opened his store on November 1, 2014 and held a grand opening the week of April 6.
Peterson modeled Batavia Automotive off of a 1950s or 1960s garage because a lot of shops now try to make customers pay for more than they need. He said he refuses to use such scare tactics.
“We’re not looking to get rich, we’re just looking to make a living and to supply good service to the local community,” Peterson said.
When Peterson was looking for a location, he had the option of being closer to the city, but said he prefers the more rural setting and the people in this area.
Batavia Automotive offers any services except bodywork, Peterson said. He offers tires and alignments, but uses an outside service rather than doing them on site.
Business was slow until after the holidays, Peterson said. From January to February business doubled and from February to March business increased by 60 percent. He expects a similar increase from March to April.
He has been building business with repeat customers and word of mouth, which has been working well, Peterson said. In addition, the grand opening has brought in new customers.
Peterson believes Chad Million, his mechanic, is one of the best mechanics in the county, not just for knowledge, but also for honesty and integrity, he said.
Right now, Peterson and Million are the only two employees of Batavia Automotive. Peterson may hire another mechanic in the future, he said.
Peterson plans to run Batavia Automotive until he retires.
Batavia Automotive takes walk-ins, but Peterson recommends making an appointment for bigger jobs.
Customers can make appointments at www.bataviaautomotive.com or by calling 513-767-8899.
Batavia Automotive is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, although Peterson can come in earlier if customers need him to, he said.
Customers can find specials on the Facebook page or the Google Plus page, or in The Clermont Sun or Reach Magazine, Peterson said.
Batavia Automotive is located at 549 W Main St. in Batavia.