For Raul and Megan Larez, Batteries Plus represents growth, community impact and a family legacy in the making.
Raul Larez started working at a Batteries Plus location in Albuquerque, New Mexico in 1997 while still in high school. Years later, when the store’s original owners were ready to step away, Raul and Megan made a bold move: they purchased the business outright. Cash sale, 60 days, and right in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We jumped in and haven’t looked back,” they shared. Megan, who came from a background in private counseling, had to quickly learn everything from payroll to hiring, invoicing, and national accounts. But the couple embraced the challenge, giving themselves a year to figure it out, and then kept growing.
Today, the Larez family owns two Batteries Plus stores in Albuquerque and Rio Rancho, with plans to open a third next year and a long-term goal of four total locations. After buying out the original territory holders in 2023, they now own the rights to their entire regional market.
Building a Business Beyond the Storefront
While retail is part of the equation, Raul and Megan have leaned heavily into B2B relationships. Their client list includes the local school district, hospitals, utility companies, and even federal government contracts like a Waste Plant in their area.
“B2B is where we are putting our focus,” said Megan. “We go to networking events, build relationships, and make sure our brand name stays top of mind.”
One of their most meaningful partnerships has been with 8 Gradys Performance Center, a massive youth sports facility in Albuquerque. The Larez family sponsors youth basketball teams, one of which their son plays on, supplying backpacks, jerseys, and even travel funds for kids who wouldn’t otherwise be able to participate.
“Without Batteries Plus, some of those boys wouldn’t be able to be on the team,” Megan said. “That matters to us.”
That partnership has grown to include a two-sided billboard along one of the busiest roads in the state, regular radio advertising, and a strong brand presence throughout the facility. Their 9-year-old son even made local headlines as one of the youngest athletes in the state to sign an NIL deal!
Community Roots, Entrepreneurial Drive
Raul and Megan are both from the area and come from families deeply embedded in the community. Their business success has created opportunities not just for themselves, but for those around them.
“This is our community,” said Megan. “So as much as we can do to give back, we will.”
The Larezes sponsor high school sports teams, donate Batteries Plus swag, and prioritize hiring and supporting great staff. And while owning multiple businesses is demanding, it also gives them the flexibility to be present for their two boys, whether that means traveling for games or just being home together after work.
“It’s important for our sons, as biracial kids, to see what’s possible,” Megan added. “That they can own a business, be successful, and build something meaningful.”
Insights for Aspiring Owners
Their path has not been the easiest, but it’s one they’ve embraced with full commitment. And their advice to current and future franchisees reflects that mindset.
“Being a present owner, someone who really knows the system and the products, is crucial,” said Megan. “And so is taking care of your employees, providing holidays, benefits, celebrations, everything. It can make all the difference.”
Raul echoed the sentiment: “Being hands-on is key. It’s very worth it.”
The Larez family proves that when you combine experience, heart, and hustle, there’s no limit to what you can build with a Batteries Plus franchise.
Become a franchise owner with Batteries Plus today!