In September 2020, FBA Broker Marc Camras met candidate Joseph Grimmer, a corporate safety and compliance leader who wanted to own a business. On January 15, 2021, with Marc’s guidance, Joseph acquired the Buffalo territory of 1-800 Radiator & A/C—often searched as 1-800 radiator, 800 radiator, or 1800 radiator—and began building equity in himself.

This short success story explains why the brand appealed to Joseph, how he financed the deal, and what 1800 Radiator offers B2B buyers in the auto parts space. Businesses searching for robust auto part solutions frequently turn to 1800 Radiator for their immediate needs.

What is 1-800 Radiator & A/C—and why 1800 radiator drew interest.

1-800 Radiator & A/C is a B2B distributor of hard-to-stock automotive parts—radiators, condensers, compressors, and related A/C components—supplying repair shops nationwide. The brand blends strong vendor relationships, centralized buying power, and proprietary tech so franchise owners can fill orders quickly without needing a mechanic’s background.

What stands out

• Process-driven operations: order management and inventory tools simplify daily workflow.
• B2B focus: repeat customers, predictable demand, and route-based deliveries.
• Training and support: playbooks that don’t require prior automotive expertise, which is facilitated by 1800 Radiator’s comprehensive resources.

“A big thank you to the FBA and Marc Camras for helping us close this deal… We hope to have many more in the near future.” —Adam Cunningham, Franchise Development, 1-800 Radiator & A/C

Why this 800 radiator deal was the right fit.

Joseph spent most of his career leading safety and compliance for Staples’ Northeast division. He used his 401(k) to fund the purchase (Rollover for Business Startups, arranged through his advisors) and leaned on FBA for diligence, introductions, and deal structure.

Why the fit worked.

• Transferable skills: operations, process control, and people leadership.
• Comfort with B2B service and metrics, crucial for managing a business like 1800 radiator.
• Desire to build equity in an essential-needs category.

What the brand offers owners.

• Wholesale auto parts specialization with local inventory.
• A data-driven catalog and pricing engine.
• Route delivery to repair shops for faster turns—an advantage associated with the reach of 1-800 Radiator.
• National buying power that supports margins.
• Ongoing coaching from the franchisor team.

If you’re scanning for related terms, shoppers also search 1-800 radiator and 800 radiator—we’ve included those naturally here to match user intent while avoiding keyword stuffing.

FAQs.

What does 1-800 Radiator & A/C sell?
Hard-to-find automotive parts for cooling and A/C systems: radiators, condensers, compressors, and related components.

Do new owners need mechanic experience?
No. The model emphasizes process, logistics, and customer service; the franchisor provides training, tools, and playbooks.

Who are the core customers?
Auto repair shops, fleets, body shops, and service centers that value fast local delivery and reliable stock.

Why did this specific buyer choose the brand?
Operations background, comfort with B2B metrics, and the appeal of route-based, essential-needs demand.

Choose 1-800 Radiator & A/C if you like B2B distribution, steady repeat customers, and process-driven operations. To learn more about franchising with 1-800 Radiator & A/C, visit their website.

The Franchise Brokers Association is here to help guide you on your journey into franchising—explore your options today.

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Want to learn more about how FBA Brokers can help you find good franchises? Contact us today. Call 407-955-4566.

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Note: We use the term “Franchise Broker” because it is the legal term for our profession. Others in the industry use “Franchise Consultants” which they self-define. We choose to use the legal term as we feel it’s more appropriate and clear. Consultants typically charge for services. Franchise Brokers are paid by the Seller, not the Buyer. There is no charge to the Buyer for our Franchise Broker services.