How Jon Rowcroft’s financial lens drives CARSTAR success
An accountant by trade who had never fixed a car, CARSTAR multi-shop owner Jon Rowcroft shares how a focus on data and detail helps his Buffalo team go the distance.
In 1998, Jon Rowcroft had a conversation that would change his life. At the time, he was a tax accountant working as a consultant to help a local collision center get its books in order. That’s where he met Dave Snell, owner of a CARSTAR location.
“I had fun being there instead of sitting in a cubicle,” Jon recalled. “I walked in and said, ‘Dave, I quit my other job.’ And a couple of days later, I was coming on board.”
It was a bold transition for someone who admitted to never having fixed a car in his life. Jon came from a world of accrued payroll and work-in-process entries, so he saw a path to success that others might have missed. And he realized quickly that if you master the numbers, you will master the shop.
This approach has supported him through a more than 25-year career, including majority ownership of CARSTAR Collision of Amherst, POW Collision CARSTAR, and CARSTAR Eastern Hills.
Setting a foundation for growth
When Jon first arrived, the shop was facing a common industry paradox: they were working harder than ever, but the bank account didn't reflect it.
“We were getting busier and busier, and there was no more money in the bank,” Jon said. “We needed some solid financials.”
This is where Jon leaned into his knowledge and training as an accountant while also learning the ropes of the new industry. He traveled to CARSTAR corporate training to master their management system and aligned the shop's books with specific accounting entries like work-in-process and accrued payroll. This helped to create a roadmap for expansion, and that financial clarity allowed the business to grow from one store to two, and eventually three.
Proof in the performance
A common challenge facing Jon’s CARSTAR locations is getting signed onto insurance direct repair programs. According to Jon, that’s the golden ticket.
But getting on their radar isn’t enough. It’s equally important to deliver quality work once you’re given a shot with one of them.
“Performance is the name of the game,” Jon said. “If you don't show them you can do it, you're not going to get the work. You’ve got to show up every day and prove that you’re the best at what you do.”
His efforts have led to successful contracts with insurance direct repair programs that have fueled the business’s growth. But it’s also led to a place Jon never envisioned himself: center stage at the 2023 Driven Brands U.S Collision Conference, where he and Dave were honored as CARSTAR Franchisee of the Year.
This was a proud moment in his career, but Jon recognizes that it was only possible because of his team.
“You surround yourself with great people and teach them well enough so they can lead,” Jon said. “That’s what we did, and it paid off.”
Staying ahead of the curve
Jon’s background with computers made him willing to embrace new technology as it became available. And that willingness has kept his shops at the forefront of the Buffalo market. He was one of the first in the network to transition his team to using tablets on the shop floor to increase efficiency.
That forward-thinking mindset continues today as his shops tackle the shift toward electric vehicles (EVs). By securing Tesla and Rivian certifications, Jon is ensuring his team is ready for the next generation of repairs.
“You have to stay in the know,” Jon said. “If you aren't looking at what’s coming next—whether it’s new tech or new certifications—you’re falling behind. We’re always looking for that momentum forward.”