West Houston Subaru: Do the Right Thing

Doing things right is important to Frank Meszaros, dealer principal at West Houston Subaru. It’s something he says applies to all aspects of the business, from the way customers are treated to how the organization is run — and even environmental efforts.

“Our philosophy is always ‘do the right thing,’” explains Meszaros. “Having [an] eco-friendly business was a no brainer and a win for the environment, our dealership, employees and customers.”

Meszaros has taken on a major remodel and new building project in the last couple of years, and he placed a big emphasis on environmental stewardship.

“We updated our existing building in 2015 and used as many eco-friendly fixtures as possible,” says Gloria Meszaros, special projects coordinator at West Houston Subaru and Frank Meszaros’ wife. “We built a new pre-owned building this year and incorporated as many eco-friendly components as we were able.”

Gloria Meszaros adds that sustainable building practices are “much easier to incorporate in a new building than an existing building."

Collaboration is essential

With the goal of being as green as possible, West Houston Subaru relied on the help of outside expertise during the planning and construction phase.

“Involve your contractor and consult with the Green Dealer team,” recommends Gloria Meszaros. “Communicating with Chuck Golden of Green Dealer Support was instrumental in interpreting and understanding what qualified for an Eco-Friendly dealership and understanding the difference that eco-friendly features can make.”

She added that the project’s contractor was also a valuable resource and willing to research options. “He even came to our inspection and met with the Green Dealer team to review all of the eco-friendly features in our new building.”
 

Surprised by recycling

Many retailers expect a cost increase when adding a recycling program. When West Houston decided to go with a mixed recycling dumpster, the retailer was able use a smaller trash dumpster. Downsizing reduced trash costs and offset the added recycling cost.

“So, essentially, it does not cost any more to recycle,” said Gloria Meszaros. “This was a nice surprise.”

In the community

West Houston Subaru has a deep connection with Citizens for Animal Protection, a local animal shelter. Pet adoptions, donations and fundraising are part of the partnership, but there’s an environmental element as well. Through a partnership with Trees for Houston, 15 trees were planted at the shelter last year.

Planting efforts continue this year with a project at a local elementary school. West Houston’s green team is working on plans to plant 23 trees at the school to increase shade and privacy. Previous work with the school included creating a wildlife habitat for monarch butterflies.