New Owners Keep Glass Pros Rolling in Benkelman

Tallan and Chloe Schrader are the newest business owners in Benkelman, having purchased Glass Pros, an automotive glass repair and replacement business.

Glass Pros was previously owned by Jimmy Mullanix, who bought the business in 2002, from Rod Ochsner. Ochsner founded the business in 1987.  In 2004, Mullanix built a metal building for the company along Highway 34 in Benkelman, which remains its current location.

Both Tallan and Chloe are graduates of Dundy County Stratton High School in Benkelman. After high school, Tallan attended McPherson College in Kansas for a couple of years to study automotive restoration. He then worked at Valley Farm Industries’ trailer manufacturing plant in Benkelman for three years before returning to work full-time on the family farm. Chloe has been employed at the billing office of Dundy County Hospital since graduating from DCS.

Tallan mentioned that the idea to approach Mullanix about taking over the business originated from his dad. “So we stopped in one day and talked to him (Mullanix) about it,” said Tallan.

Mullanix shared that he had been considering selling the business after nearly 25 years of operation. “I am very excited about it, and I’m glad the ownership is staying in town,” he expressed. He is also pleased that the business will support a young family in Benkelman. Mullanix is assisting with the business transition, saying, “He’s done great; I’m very impressed.” In addition to running Glass Pros, Mullanix previously served as the Benkelman Golf Course Superintendent for many years but has since stepped back from that role. He described himself as semi-retired, as he continues to mow at the golf course and delivers mail part-time for Janice Stroup.

Tallan stated that they plan to operate Glass Pros in the same manner as Mullanix, with it serving as a side business. He intends to continue working on the farm, while Chloe will keep her job at the hospital. Mullanix noted that winter is typically the slow season for the business, with two to three jobs done each week. Business usually picks up in the summer, particularly after hailstorms.

Tallan confirmed that they will maintain the Glass Pros name and continue offering the same services, including automotive glass repair and replacement. They have also expanded their offerings to include interior and exterior vehicle detailing. They can service all makes and models of vehicles, including farm machinery, and they also work with insurance companies on claims.

To arrange an appointment or obtain a free quote, you can call Tallan at 308-737-8102 or the shop at 308-423-2161.