Ryan R.
Yelp
I'm not entirely certain why there are so many negative reviews and complaints, but after years of watching Fast 'N Loud, Misfits Garage, et al,. But I believe it comes down to people's expectations, and hopefully this information is helpful.
I finally had the chance to visit GMG and its Merch Shop while my wife and I were home shopping in Dallas and Austin. Knowing that the garage itself is still an active filming location/studio, I set my expectations using the Interwebs to visit their website. Those expectations were exceeded! Immediately upon entering the Merch Shop, a staff member greeted us. People unfamiliar with Texas (I used to live in Dallas) need to know that it is a very different culture. Local folks are all very nice, polite, and they live a more laid-back, healthier pace. No business or person are perfect, so not trying to take away others' feelings if they were treated rudely, but I got the impression that to continue being successful, management runs a tight ship.
We were checking out some of the gorgeous GMG-built cars inside and in the lot, and a staff member came over to let us know about a raffle (no cost to enter, but took the time to explain that purchases translate to points, and therefore additional entries). After telling him I was interested, he said he'd meet us at the front counter to register us, then asked if we needed help finding anything. He did exactly that, and the store was fairly packed with other customers, so we felt some "white glove, red carpet" treatment.
Be aware that the store has a limited amount of space, however, they have at least 75% of the items on the shelf from their online store (which was awesome). We went on a Saturday, so I did not expect to see/meet Mr. Rawlings or his Monkeys. But they do have two large TVs with a feed to the garage. Since the garage was closed, they were playing clips from recent YouTube shows.
Other reviewers who complained about no autographs, tours, what have you, should have called ahead or as I did, check out the Interwebs for details. Tours aren't offered and shouldn't be expected, and the GMG website accurately represents what is and is *not* open to the public. Also because of its TV fame, you can't just walk in and demand to have your car built. I asked the store manager about commissioned builds out of curiosity, and he gave me a direct phone number and email address to inquire. He politely said there was a waitlist, which again, is not a surprise. As a comparison, I visited a different DFW-area custom car shop, and they have a 3-year backlog/waitlist for commissioned builds. That shop is only known to locals and others plugged into the industry, they don't have a TV show or any national ads.
I enjoyed the visit and talking with the Merch Store staff, and they deserve 5/5 stars for running a clean store with very helpful, polite staff. As a personal rule, I generally do not post reviews, but after seeing so many negative comments, I was compelled to set the record straight. Anyone planning to travel somewhere to visit a specific place of interest should at least make a phone call or check the Interwebs. Yes, another reviewer pointed out that Kount's Kustoms in LV offers tours, but that is clearly spelled out on their site (or if you call them), but you have to make reservations and pay for that. Just because both shops had/have a TV show, an "apples to apples" comparison that does not make!
Here's my final takeaway: If you are a GMG fan like me, and you are going to be in the DFW Metroplex, it's worth the visit just to grab some Merch and epic photos. Some visitors who went during the week (including a friend and colleague of mine) have been fortunate to meet Mr. Rawlings and/or other folks in the garage. However, and I realize I'm repeating myself (that's intentional), I implore folks to set appropriate expectations. If you are in Dallas and looking for a "full experience" tour, then I highly recommend the JFK Museum in the Historic West End District. That site has been developed specifically for access to the public. GMG is still filming and posting to YouTube (check it out if you haven't seen it!), so be aware that for obvious reasons, the garage itself isn't open for tours.
One helpful suggestion about seeing the garage and their high-end collection: If you are a serious buyer, reach out to Tony and his sales team through GMG's website, and they might consider a limited tour, if you're serious about buying one of their listed vehicles. No one buys a $50,000+ vehicle sight unseen.
I hope this Bible-length review is helpful to at least one person, if not more. Stopping by while in town was definitely worth it, and I will do so again next time I'm in DFW!