- 16 June, 2006 -

While many fledgling business owners leave their 9 to 5 jobs in order to start their own businesses, Clyde Raghunath of Rockville this month celebrates the one-year anniversary since he purchased his former employer. Raghunath, a native of Trinidad and Tobago, worked for the Rent-A-Wreck car rental location in Rockville located at 615 Hungerford Drive, at first working alongside of the previous owner Jonathan Kramer. After five years, Clyde was given responsibility over the day-to-day operations of the growing car rental business. In time, Clyde became so acquainted with the business that he offered to purchase the franchise from Kramer, who agreed to sell. The transition has proved easier than what Clyde had anticipated. Over the time he spent working for Jonathan he has gotten to know the staff and ins and outs of the business. Clyde gives Jonathan credit for leaving the 15 year old store in great condition. "Everything was so great the way John had left it, I didn't need to make any changes," says Clyde, who also mentions that he and John keep in touch regularly. As for his future plans, Clyde hopes to expand his reach and open another Rent-A-Wreck store. Rent-A-Wreck is a 30-year-old car rental company that was founded by a young, southern California entrepreneur named Dave Schwartz. Dave pioneered the concept of renting "clunkers", used cars for less than the competition. The idea gained widespread popularity as celebrities such as Paul Newman, Henry Fonda, Bob Newhart, Ringo Starr and three James Bonds have rented the older cars in order to preserve their anonymity. Today, Rent-A-Wreck franchise owners worldwide like Clyde Raghunath rent newer model cars, trucks, sport utilities and vans. Rent-A-Wreck is an independently owned and operated franchise of the nationwide Rent-A-Wreck network of vehicle rental locations. Rent-A-Wreck of America was recently acquired by JJF management, a subsidiary of Fitzgerald Automotive group whose new and used car dealerships are well known in the DC metro area. Clyde and JJF are looking forward to continued growth under the company's new ownership. To reach Clyde Raghunath and Rent-A-Wreck of Rockville , please dial (301) 309-8856

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