Dealer Services opens performance parts shop

The brand new, soon-to-open performance parts shop at Dealer Services is something Frank Russo Sr. has looked forward to unveiling for a long time.

“It’s something we’re doing to offer back to race, off-road, jeep and show car enthusiasts,” said Russo, owner and operator of the Boutte automotive repairs and collision center. “Nobody really does it (locally). This is my love.”

Russo doesn’t have the time to race anymore, given the time he devotes to running his business, but still has a passion and appreciation for the pastime and others who do it, be it old friends or potentially new acquaintances.

“This is my way to stay involved with the races,” Russo said. “I’ve always wanted to do it. Now I can scratch it off my bucket list.”

The shop is already fully stocked and is set to officially open Aug. 1. Hours will be 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday.

A grand opening celebration is planned for Aug. 11 and will offer visitors a free car show, food, drinks and giveaways. Along with that comes the chance to meet a racing icon, as Angelle Sampey will be in attendance and signing autographs. The Luling native is the winningest female driver in the history of the National Hot Rod Association and in professional motorsports as a whole.

Benefits of the shop, Russo notes, is that it’s a chance to immediately see what one is purchasing vs. ordering online. The central location of Boutte in relation the region’s major racetracks is another plus.

Russo has been in the automotive repair business for 36 years, 15 of those running Dealer Services in his home region. Prior to opening the shop, he worked as a dealership technician, and then as its parts and services director. His is a very similar background to those on his Dealer Services’ staff. That experience on the staff, as well as its versatility, enables Dealer Services to assist customers in a wide variety of ways and they are able to handle virtually any job in house.

Dealer Services can be reached at (985) 785-7144.