After living in the Houston area for 30 years and running a manufacturing business that eventually expanded into six countries, Mike Humphrey and his wife decided to sell the company and retire in 2012.

“Within a year we knew that was not the case, and we had one more business in us,” he said. “We wanted more of a retail business where we could do more in the local community with nonprofits, charities and Christian ministries.”

Humphrey signed an agreement to become Texas’ master franchisee for Auto-Lab car care center. Within the last year, he opened a shop at 14904 Spring Cypress Road, Cypress as well as a location at 9625 Spring Cypress Road, Spring as the company’s “flagship stores.”

The store specializes in oil changes, air conditioning, alignments, brakes, engine repair, transmissions, suspensions, electrical systems, diagnostics, state inspections, tire repair and more.

Humphrey said community engagement is a primary goal for him and his wife. The couple has already partnered with Reach Unlimited and Cy-Hope.

The business will host an anniversary celebration featuring discounted specials, music and food from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 22 at 9625 Spring Cypress Road, Spring. Humphrey said this is a way to give back to the customers who supported the business in its first year.

“We’re grateful for the support we’ve had in the community,” he said. “Our repeat customers are now the vast majority of the business.”

Officials with Auto-Lab said some land off FM 1488 in The Woodlands has already been purchased for a third location, set to open in 2017. From there, Humphrey said he would like to franchise the store and grow across the state in the next decade.

281-746-3320. www.autolabtexas.com