Since 1945, when Bazinet & Sons Garage opened, three generations of mechanic-bodyworkers have experienced the most significant developments of 80 years of evolution in this Eastern Townships workshop.

Time has little hold over what has been solidly established and passed down through generations.

Whether their names are François, Denise, Claude, Jean-Marie, Winston, Sébastien, Meghan, Alphonse, Charles or others, they feel at home at Bazinet & “Grandson’s” Garage.

Now sporting 2024 colours, this place where one could once fill up with gas or buy a Ford holds historical significance for anyone who remembers the golden age of automobiles.

During the first 25 years, Mederic and Fernand, his son, saw countless American vehicles pass through.

It was an era when cars were ordered with a wide range of options: colours, engine, automatic transmission, air conditioning, radio and driving aids such as right-side mirror, power steering and power brakes.

1970, Year of Choice

Third-generation owner Eric Bazinet barely knew this golden age when staff would “break their legs” at the pump to serve customers better than royalty, as they stopped selling gas in 1970.

While the family took pride in their service station, which earned five stars from the oil company for its absolute priority on service to fuel-guzzling customers, there was a downside, he says.

The more the bell rang, the more mechanical work had to be interrupted, often requiring evening completion – particularly counterproductive. A choice had to be made.

The Old-Timers’ Club

Another period feature: his grandfather, who even issued driver’s licences, hosted his own “old-timers’ club” with four reserved rocking chairs.

Quite the friendly relations program, Eric Bazinet recalls with humour – a tradition his father maintained until his passing in 2019 at age 85.

For many years, Bazinet & Sons Garage was the kind of passionate gathering spot still found in some village and neighbourhood restaurants… and rare workshops.

Better Than 1,000 Surveys

Approaching 60, Eric Bazinet believes that quality reception and service are major factors in the loyalty of families who have formed the core of his clientele for three, even four generations.

This brings him undeniable pleasure, since in a community of 5,000 residents, one cannot stay in business if people doubt a merchant’s services or integrity.

There’s no need to wonder what rating this shop would receive on social media. The 80 years of customer loyalty, and even more considering the original location, are worth more than a thousand surveys.

Although customer loyalty is inseparable from the trade, it was never addressed during his automotive and diesel mechanics training, which his guidance counsellor had recommended when DVS programs were just beginning.

Towards 2045

Since becoming sole owner, Eric Bazinet has invested heavily in cutting-edge equipment, including alignment and body shop gear, following the tradition of the most versatile and skilled garage owners of the past.

This recalls the time when customers paid cash with thick rolls of bills. An era when the shop also extended credit to certain customers.

Times have changed, but the common denominator remains the same regarding customer satisfaction from clients still coming from the Eastern Townships and neighbouring regions, as well as Montreal or Ottawa, he notes.

Finally, among professionals, Bazinet Garage is synonymous with education, given the number of apprentices who have benefited from excellent and unforgettable introduction to the fine points of mechanics.

As for the 80th anniversary gift, it consists of investing in the future with a 1,000-square-foot addition.