COEUR d'ALENE - Barry Curry handles the buying and the selling.

He's the numbers guy.

Bernie Curry focuses on the rental aspect and focuses on personnel, public relations and marketing.

She's the people person.

Together, they've guided Thrifty Car Rental and Car Sales to continued growth in North Idaho and Eastern Washington.

"Somehow, his personality and mine have done well with the roles we've played," Bernie explained. "It's worked out. He does his part, I do mine."

It recently expanded its rental locations in Spokane and Idaho to five locations, including its latest one in Coeur d'Alene at 1503 N. Fourth Street.

Bernie Curry said she and Barry attribute their ability to stay in business through difficult economic cycles to their loyal repeat customer base.

"If you do not take care of your customers, someone else will," she said.

The Spokane couple got its start in the industry because Barry Curry, an accountant, often traveled and rented cars early in his career. He looked at a business model for the car rental business, and believed he and his wife could steer it straight.

"He knew this was one we might have a chance at," Bernie said.

They opened their first lot with 30 cars on Sunset Highway in Spokane in 1978. It was Barry, Bernie and one employee.

Today, their inventory ranges from 600 to 1,000 cars that they rent and sell. They employ about 70. Thrifty has three locations in Spokane, one in Sandpoint and one in Coeur d'Alene.

They'll continue to consider expansion opportunities, Bernie said.

Bernie raves often about their employees, their customer service and of course, key to their success is the cars.

Most vehicles for rent are newer, no more than two years old. They are meticulously maintained, with frequent inspections of the engine, the interior and the exterior, she said.

Generally, once a car reaches the 30,000 mile range, it is offered for sale. Thrifty takes trade ins, has warranties and offers low interest financing

"We feel it's a good value," Bernie said.

Thrifty, which has been in business nearly 35 years, has survived five recessions and a few close calls when costs climbed faster than revenue.

But Bernie thrives on what she called a fast-paced, challenging environment.

"I think it gets in your blood," she said. "It's all we've ever done from the time we were married."

"And I love people. I love the people part of the business."

Information: 765-2277