Fix Auto move saves 25 jobs

The Fix Auto franchise is increasing with the launch of Fix Hertford, saving 25 jobs in the process.

Marshall Panel Craft was in the hands of the liquidators when Matthew Wright, owner of two Fix Auto bodyshops, and fellow director Grant Ealey, stepped in to take over.

The 17,000 sqft site complements Matthew’s existing sites Fix Auto High Wycombe in Buckinghamshire and Fix Auto West Hampstead in North West London

The move takes his group’s total workshop space to close on 40,000 sqft and a total workforce of 72, with the overall capability to repair over 650 vehicles per month.

Matthew said, ‘Taking over the Hertford bodyshop is a huge opportunity for us as a regional group and further increases our footprint.

‘While some may see it as a bold move, I viewed the situation as too good an opportunity to pass on, particularly as the workforce and existing facilities are well established.  My intention now is to transfer our successful operating formula and management style to make Fix Auto Hertford a high performing Fix Auto repair operation.’

Apart from safeguarding the jobs, Matthew and his team has also pledged to maintain a night shift operated at the business to ensure the operation will continue to repair up to 80 vehicles a week for a number of motor insurer clients.

Ian Pugh, of Fix Auto UK, said, ‘It’s pleasing to see another existing Fix Auto franchisee investing and expanding his business to assist our creation of a fully-branded, national bodyshop network.  Thankfully, Matthew and his team have been able to safeguard the jobs of 25 skilled people, and at the same time provide repair capacity in a strategic location to enable us to support the needs of our clients.’