French Lake Auto Parts, a name synonymous with quality used auto parts, has seen a significant surge in popularity, thanks in large part to national television exposure. This family-run business, deeply rooted in the community, has expanded its reach and reputation, becoming a go-to source for Frenchlakeautoparts Car Parts nationwide. Their story is a testament to hard work, expertise, and the unexpected power of reality TV.
National TV Spotlight Shines on French Lake Auto Parts
For those in the know, French Lake Auto Parts was already a trusted source for quality used car components. However, two appearances on the Discovery Channel’s hit show “Fast and Loud” catapulted them into the national spotlight. “Fast and Loud,” known for its high-octane restorations at Gas Monkey Garage in Texas, showcased French Lake Auto Parts not once, but twice, introducing their vast inventory and expert knowledge to a massive audience.
Their first appearance on March 24, during the “Mustang Mania” episode, featured the sale of a prized Boss 429 Mustang from owner Skip Nolan. This initial feature piqued national interest, but it was their second segment on October 13, titled “The Shorty Short VW Bus,” that truly solidified their national recognition. This longer segment highlighted a rare 1966 mini Volkswagen bus sourced from French Lake Auto Parts, further emphasizing their ability to locate and provide unique and sought-after car parts. Filming for this episode took place in May, allowing viewers to witness the sprawling salvage yard and meet the team behind French Lake Auto Parts.
Skip Nolan explained that the second appearance was a natural progression after the positive experience of the first filming. The “Fast and Loud” crew was impressed by the scale of French Lake Auto Parts and quickly established a good working relationship. Nolan mentioned, “We hit it off,” highlighting the ease of communication and mutual respect. He proactively suggested the VW bus, knowing its appeal to the show, and bypassed typical lengthy contact procedures due to their established connection. This direct line of communication is a far cry from the hundreds of daily inquiries the show receives, demonstrating the unique position French Lake Auto Parts now holds.
The initial connection with “Fast and Loud” came through a customer from Monticello, proving that word-of-mouth and local reputation played a role in this national breakthrough. After an initial scouting visit confirmed the potential, the film crew arrived for the first shoot during a particularly cold winter. Nolan humorously recounted the Hollywood crew’s unpreparedness for the Minnesota chill, contrasting it with the more comfortable conditions of the second filming, which allowed for more extensive shooting around the expansive facility.
Skip Nolan, owner of French Lake Auto Parts, a premier supplier of frenchlakeautoparts car parts, featured on Discovery Channel's Fast N Loud.
Business Booms as Demand for Frenchlakeautoparts Car Parts Soars
The impact of these “Fast and Loud” features was immediate and substantial. Following the airing of the second episode, French Lake Auto Parts experienced an overwhelming surge in inquiries. “We couldn’t keep up,” Nolan admitted, describing the deluge of calls and emails from across the country. The demand for frenchlakeautoparts car parts was so high that their existing infrastructure was stretched to its limits.
Nolan had anticipated increased website traffic after the first show, recalling the “crazy” spike in website hits that night. However, the response to the second, more prominent feature exceeded even those expectations. To manage this explosive growth, French Lake Auto Parts proactively expanded their online presence and sales capabilities. They launched a new eBay store specifically designed for online sales and established a dedicated shipping department to handle the increased volume of orders for frenchlakeautoparts car parts.
Recognizing the long-term potential of online sales, French Lake Auto Parts had already hired a new online sales specialist in April after the first “Fast and Loud” appearance. With the continued growth, a second online sales representative was brought on board shortly after the second show aired. The company, which employs 33 people, continues to see steady growth, with Nolan projecting further expansion of their online sales team in the coming year.
French Lake Auto Parts’ impressive growth is reflected in their vehicle acquisition numbers. Last year, they processed around 9,000 vehicles, and they are on track to surpass that figure this year. While a typical annual growth rate was around 10 percent, this year is projected to be closer to 20 percent, showcasing the significant “Fast and Loud” effect. Skip Nolan and his brother Shawn are actively involved in vehicle acquisitions, ensuring a constant flow of inventory to meet the growing demand for frenchlakeautoparts car parts. “We have to keep going because we sell so much that we have to keep the stock coming in as it’s going out,” Nolan explained, emphasizing the dynamic nature of their business.
A Family Legacy in Auto Parts
Beyond the excitement of television appearances and business growth, French Lake Auto Parts remains rooted in its family history and values. Founded in 1956 by Nolan’s father, Floyd, and initially with a partner, Floyd Nolan became the sole owner in 1967. In 2007, Skip Nolan and his four brothers took over, and Skip eventually bought out his brothers in 2010, becoming the sole owner. For Skip Nolan, joining the family business was never a question. “It’s the only thing I’ve ever done, and my goal was to someday own it by myself,” he shared, highlighting his lifelong dedication to French Lake Auto Parts.
Today, while only his brother Shawn remains as an employee, and his sister Denis Ellis is also involved, the family spirit remains strong. Even Floyd Nolan, the founder, is still a regular presence at the business, demonstrating the enduring family commitment. “My dad is still here every day too,” Nolan said. “It’s still fun. That’s why we’re still doing it.” This passion and dedication, combined with their expanded national profile, positions French Lake Auto Parts for continued success as a leading provider of frenchlakeautoparts car parts for years to come. Their journey from a local salvage yard to a nationally recognized name is a remarkable American success story.
