Date of Degree
5-2026
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)
Program
Business Administration
Advisor
Ernesto Escobedo
Advisor
Bob Kiser
Advisor
Arthur Hernandez
Abstract
Research Focus. The COVID-19 pandemic triggered a significant crisis for the quick-lube sector in 2020 and 2021. As nationwide shutdowns were implemented, restrictions on social gatherings and non-essential businesses led to a sharp decline in customer foot traffic. This downturn severely impacted quick lube services, which primarily depend on in-person visits for oil changes and maintenance services. Many quick-lube establishments faced unprecedented challenges, including reduced revenue, layoffs, and even permanent closures. As a result, the pandemic highlighted not only the vulnerabilities of the quick-lube industry but also the broader challenges faced by small businesses nationwide. Most research conducted in the automotive field has predominantly concentrated on automotive manufacturing. However, this body of research neglects to address the unique challenges and experiences faced by Hispanic-owned quick-lube business owners in South-Central Texas during crises, such as a pandemic. This phenomenological study aims to acquire a more profound comprehension of the experiences of Hispanic-owned quick-lube business owners in South-Central Texas during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study will utilize two theoretical frameworks: the organizational learning theory, which examines how businesses adapt and evolve based on experiences, and protection motivation theory, which looks at how individuals make decisions to protect themselves from perceived threats. By applying these frameworks, the study aims to uncover the financial and operational impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on these quick-lube facilities and the adaptive measures they took in response.
Research Methods. The study will focus on the following research question: “What operational strategies and financial resources did Hispanic-owned quick-lube business owners use to adapt and persevere during a crisis such as the COVID-19 pandemic?” The participants in this study will be selected from a selective sample of Hispanic quick-lube business owners across South-Central Texas, specifically in Comal County, Guadalupe County, and Bexar County. Academic ethical guidelines will be adhered to during the collection of narrative data through individual one-on-one, semi-structured interviews with each of the participants. The data will be examined using NVivo 15 software. An examination of strategic leadership throughout the pandemic will identify key themes when exploring the experiences that quick-lube business owners encountered during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Research Findings. The findings of the study indicate that Hispanic-owned quick-lube facility owners successfully persevered through the challenging circumstances imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, largely due to support from family, friends, and their community. The main factor that influenced Hispanic-owned quick-lube owners during the COVID-19 pandemic was their ability to adapt to challenging conditions. The study further demonstrated that the Hispanic-owned quick-lube facilities that effectively adjusted their standard operating procedures to counteract the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic were able to sustain their business operations.
Conclusions from Research. The findings of the study substantiate the theoretical framework, indicating that Hispanic-owned quick-lube facility owners adapted effectively to the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic. This was accomplished through the recognition of motivational factors, the integration of organizational learning components, and the development of operational strategies to ensure operational continuity. The study emphasizes the critical significance of financial resources, along with flexible and proactive operational strategies, in sustaining operations during a crisis such as the COVID-19 pandemic. The Study offers important insights into crisis management for quick-lube facilities, especially by examining the motivations of quick-lube owners to persist during the difficult periods. Its findings can help other quick-lube business owners gain knowledge and develop a sustainable business approach.
Recommended Citation
Galindo, Eric A., "The Impact of COVID-19 on Hispanic-Owned Quick-Lube Facilities in South-Central Texas: A Qualitative Study" (2026). Theses & Dissertations. 486.
https://athenaeum.uiw.edu/uiw_etds/486