(Feedback) A new Finishline type store.

[Buzz]

For years Finishline was one of the shining stars of the Cobra/replica industry. Enzo Alibrandi and his wife Paula, who kept Finishline going for a bit after Enzo passed away delivered stellar service and if they ever erred, it was often to the benefit of the customer. I placed several orders from way down here in the Caribbean back in the day and like many others, I always got what I ordered - and sometimes more. In one parts order I was sent two cowl mounted mirrors instead of one, and when I notified Enzo, he said "Well now you have a spare!" Fully understanding the questionable value of shipping it all the way back; he still refused to process the extra charge, even when I placed subsequent orders. They were fast, pleasant, communicative and always expressed their appreciation of the support of the Club Cobra community. While it saddens me to see what it's come to today, I still have a positive reaction to the Finishline company name and I have a feeling that due to years of top-notch service to hundreds of customers over the years, the name still carries with it some valuable goodwill.

[patrickt]

If you don't need the money, go for it. It's like buying your wife a dress shop. It'll never make money, but it'll give her something to do.

[Bulldog]

Tom this is Bulldog down in Texas , I will buy from you guys!

[HealeyRick]

Originally Posted by Buzz

For years Finishline was one of the shining stars of the Cobra/replica industry. Enzo Alibrandi and his wife Paula, who kept Finishline going for a bit after Enzo passed away delivered stellar service and if they ever erred, it was often to the benefit of the customer. I placed several orders from way down here in the Caribbean back in the day and like many others, I always got what I ordered - and sometimes more. In one parts order I was sent two cowl mounted mirrors instead of one, and when I notified Enzo, he said "Well now you have a spare!" Fully understanding the questionable value of shipping it all the way back; he still refused to process the extra charge, even when I placed subsequent orders. They were fast, pleasant, communicative and always expressed their appreciation of the support of the Club Cobra community. While it saddens me to see what it's come to today, I still have a positive reaction to the Finishline company name and I have a feeling that due to years of top-notch service to hundreds of customers over the years, the name still carries with it some valuable goodwill.

In trying to build a period-correct "poor man's Cobra" Healey, I had to search for the right parts to carry out the look, which included a "lift for reverse" shift lever that would fit the T5 transmission. I still remember how kind Enzo was in taking time to take measurements for me for what was not a particularly expensive part.

Re: a "new" Finishline. How do you make a million dollars selling Cobra parts?

[Mark IV]

Originally Posted by HealeyRick

Re: a "new" Finishline. How do you make a million dollars selling Cobra parts?

Start with TWO million!

[EM-0785]

Originally Posted by HealeyRick
Re: a "new" Finishline. How do you make a million dollars selling Cobra parts?

Originally Posted by Mark IV

Start with TWO million!

Hi Rick,

I like that adage you indicate, referring very simply and elegantly to the concept of financial business risk.

Just wanted to share how it reminds me of years ago I put on a seminar on construction joint ventures to an industry group and led off with something like the following caveat to break the ice.

“A joint venture often begins with the 1st party bringing the experience and the 2nd party bringing the money. Unfortunately, all too often, it ends up with the 1st party getting the money and the 2nd party gaining the experience!” ☺☺

Thanks for sharing...

Brent