Pro 1 Auto Parts

When faced with a problem concerning your auto, Shamrock is fortunate to have Pro 1 Auto Parts as a member of the community’s small businesses. I dropped in for a visit with the owners, Ritchie and Sammi Caldwell, to investigate the services they have to offer.? They informed me that their journey in the auto parts business began in McLean in 2014 when they purchased the Parts Plus store.? They said their time there was positive and rewarding, but they had always wanted to own a business in Shamrock because it was home to them. They said that originally, they intended on having two businesses, but when weighed against their busy schedules, they sold the McLean store and prepared to be solely located in Shamrock.? They decided to build a structure on Route 66 and even had a survey done. However, just at the perfect time, the building that they occupy at 1209 N Main Street became available and the rest is history. They opened their doors for business in September 2023.

Ritchie said that his dad, and others he considered role models, educated him about cars and that has been all he has wanted to do. He wants to restore old cars and work on his own cars, but along with that, he wants to provide a source and service for local people who need it. His parts store is the only one in Shamrock. Sammi remarked how busy they had been since the holidays. While talking with them, a customer came in to say that he would be moving his truck from Amarillo to Shamrock and parking it on the property. Caldwell’s gave him permission to do this to aid in the selling of the vehicle. Ritchie pointed out the advantages of being an independent owner. He said that when working under a franchise, he was often required to stock parts that would not sell in our location. He said that he still buys from the same suppliers, but he has the discretion of which parts would work best for his customers, plus he is not locked into franchise fees. He feels that is another advantage of being independent for his customers.

The Caldwell’s have created an inviting and welcoming atmosphere for their family owned business. When you walk in the counter is set up like a bar where you can sit, get what information you need, what customer service you need, or just visit and chit-chat with friends. Ritchie said his favorite part of the day was talking to customers. He loves hearing their stories and hearing about what they have going on. Sammi added that she missed the farmers who would come by just to visit. She said that some of them drive to Shamrock just to say hello and visit awhile.

I told them that I hear people say to go to Pro 1, that they will work with you and help you. Then I asked if I had a problem with my car and described it to them, could they help me? Ritchie said that they definitely could. He said they could scan it if it was an engine or sensor issue. He said then they had several mechanics they send business to. They try to send people to the one who would best fit the situation, but they try to help out everyone because they are all small businesses of the community, and as small businesses in a small community it is important to spread the wealth. He also said cars have changed so much with them being so computer oriented today. Mechanics must have the proper equipment to work on them.

I learned that back in the shop, there is a “family affair” going on with different members engaged in various projects. Sammi said she does a great deal of detailing, mentioning that if she is too busy or too booked up she will recommend Quick Lube and Calvin and Peggy Devereaux’s businesses also.

I would encourage you to drop by and visit Pro 1 Auto Parts and become acquainted with the Caldwell’s. Theirs is a small business valuable to our community and who wants to support the community members and meet their needs.