Motor memories of a man with a passion
Frank Keane, whose Motor Import Ltd has the Irish franchise for BMW cars and bikes, celebrates his 25th year with the franchise this summer ... and he was a full 50 years in the motor business last January. Coming to the age of 69 this autumn, it is a good time to look back.
Frank had always been fascinated with cars, but didn't get into the business until - while he was working for 30 shillings a week at the paint counter of Brooks Thomas Ltd - his father finally said 'would you for God's sake stop talking about cars and do something about working with them!'
The following RealAudio clips are extracts from a conversation which Frank had with Brian Byrne and Trish Whelan, in the preparation of an article for Irish Car magazine.
Starting the Engine - First years in the motor business, before he won the franchise for BMW in Ireland.
Getting into Gear - The early difficult years of making BMW an accepted brand in Ireland.
Making the Turn - When all had many times seemed lost, the business finally began to make good.
Stepping on the Gas - Frank's decade and a half of motor racing, which helped him make a profile that also assisted in him selling cars.
Hitting the Brakes - in the early 80s, the business was almost ruined by the stroke of a Finance Minister's pen, and Frank Keane had to make the most difficult decision of his life, to cut his staff from 64 to 38.
Luck and the Sale - Frank Keane is a firm believer in luck, but it is something that has to be worked with.
Working with People - When anyone comes into contact with Motor Import staff, they immediately feel that it is almost a 'family'.
A Private Passion - Like a number of people who have made their careers in the motor business, Frank has a particular collection of old cars. But space to keep them is becoming a problem.
©2002brianbyrnetrishwhelan/irishcar.com
