Corvette Specialty, located along El Cajon Boulevard in Normal Heights, is winding down operations after owner Dave Meyer put the property into escrow.
Meyer said the decision comes with mixed emotions, but he knows it’s time to move on.
“A little sad… but that’s all part of it,” Meyer said.
Meyer has spent much of his life building the business, which became a passion as much as a career. He first opened the business in 1977 in La Mesa, and later moved to the Normal Heights neighborhood.
“And the old saying is, ‘if you do something you love to do, then you’ll never work a day in your life,'” he said.
As he transitions into retirement, Meyer plans to spend more time volunteering and with his family.
Jason Hanks, owner of Cal Auctions, is helping Meyer sell off the shop’s inventory through an online auction. Hanks and his team have spent the past several weeks sorting through the collection of vehicles, parts and equipment.
The inventory includes specialized equipment for Corvettes and Chevrolet vehicles, along with general automotive repair equipment.
“Dave is just a great guy. He’s a hard worker, and he shows you hard work and determination is what has made his business be what it is,” Hanks said.
For Meyer, the closing also offers a chance to pass along some advice to the next generation of entrepreneurs.
“Because the opportunity may never show itself again. Ever. You have that opportunity one time,” he said.
After nearly 50 years in business, Meyer says he’s ready to close this chapter.
“It’s time,” he said.
A public viewing of the auction items is scheduled for Monday from 9 a.m. to noon at the shop, with Tuesday marking the final day to place bids. Meyer expects escrow on the property to close within the next few weeks.
This story was originally reported for broadcast by NBC San Diego. AI tools helped convert the story to a digital article, and an NBC San Diego journalist edited the article for publication.