Maplewood auto repair shop John Stricker Automotive is moving to Brentwood. Owner John Stricker has sold the building at 7416 Manchester Road to developer, David Schlafly. Schlafly said he plans to renovate the building, with a new glass storefront replacing the garage doors, creating an open space for either retail or studio. He said it’s approximately 1,900 square feet.
Stricker’s last day at the Maplewood shop will be Jan. 14. He is in the process of going into business with his cousin Debbie Croghen-Stricker, who owns Stricker Auto Repair at 421 Hanley Industrial Court in Brentwood.
Their dads, Homer and Melvin, ran a repair shop behind the Esquire Theatre. They moved from there in 1986, John said. It’s a parking lot now.
John Stricker’s employee Rick Scott retired last week.
It will be a big improvement to the streetscape. A small transformation like this can be very effective particularly when the building is already placed near the curb and encourages people walking to stop in. Hopefully there is a tenant lined up. Intaglia at Bellevue and Manchester is set to close and also a former mechanic so there is one competitive spot. Lots of potential in these type of spots and the right size for newer businesses that don’t need huge amounts of square footage