Like many mobile tool distributors, Gary Granados worked as an automotive technician before making the switch. However, when he ended his wrenching days, selling tools didn’t cross his mind. Instead, he took on a new line of work as a project manager for a business.
It wasn’t long after though, that his passion for working on cars and motorcycles, along with his desire to run his own business, brought him back to the automotive industry.
“My hobby has always been to work on them and to use tools, so that’s how I got interested in the [tool-selling] business,” he says.
Granados is now going on seven years as a Cornwell Quality Tools distributor with a route in Northwest Austin, Texas, and enjoys every day.
“I like to talk with the guys,” he says. “I meet a lot of people, and I have some amazing shops.”
The need for more space
After being on the road for four years, Granados knew it was time for a bigger truck. He upgraded his 2002 22’ International 4300 for a custom-built 2021 24’ Kenworth 270.
Having that extra 2’ makes a big difference, Granados notes. If he could’ve, he would’ve gone bigger. However, in the city, there’s not a lot of space.
So, he also expanded widthwise — from 96” to 102”.
“Those 6” make a difference too,” he says.
Aside from gaining more space, Granados made additional upgrades as well, such as a more powerful engine, disc brakes, underbody LEDs, security cameras, and a strobe light for emergencies.
As for the inside, he made the cab “more luxurious” by adding comfortable leather seating and a wood dash, as well as blue accents, a chrome ceiling with blue laces, and all custom storage and shelving in the back.
One of his favorite features would have to be the wrap. It’s the first truck Cornwell authorized a different color, dark grey, than its traditional white background with the flames, he notes.
The winning combo
Granados knows that to be successful in this career, it’s not all about the tools.
“It’s a combination of things: do you have the tools, do you have the better price, and do you have the better attitude?” he notes.
But keeping a well-stocked truck sure does help.
“My truck is completely full,” he notes. “When they need something, I have it.”
A top seller that Granados makes sure to keep a good stock of is Milwaukee Tool products.
He also always makes sure to stock one toolbox (up to 84”) and two carts at all times.
When asked about his future plans, he would like to add another truck, "But that’s too much of a headache, and I don’t need that right now,” he said laughing.
