Fix celebrates franchisee double

Fix Auto UK has announced two new franchisees joining the network.

Grimsby-based Wilson & Co and C&M Bodyshop Ltd of Coventry will now operate as Fix Auto Grimsby and Fix Auto Coventry respectively.

Robin Wilson, owner of the Grimsby bodyshop is no newcomer to the network after joining with his first repair centre as Fix Auto Bolton in 2016. Both of his repair centres are connected to his new and used Vauxhall car dealerships and are located in the heart of each town. Fix Auto Grimsby spans 6,000 sqft, hosts two spraybooths and is capable of repairing up to 150 vehicles a month.

Robin said, ‘Before I joined Fix Auto UK I was considering scaling back my vehicle repair operation and concentrating more of our efforts towards our new and used car sales. However, our Bolton bodyshop is now performing exceptionally well thanks to all the help, advice and guidance we’ve received from the Fix Auto UK team. While Grimsby is working well, I believe with the support and guidance Fix Auto UK provide, it will swiftly perform at its true potential.’

Coventry-based C&M Bodyshop Ltd is a 14,000 sqft repair centre owned by Kevin Rae and John Hingley. It hosts two spraybooths and a workforce of 10 is currently repairing up to 40 vehicles a month.

John said, ‘I believe we are yet to reach our full potential but by joining Fix Auto UK, they will provide the help and confidence we need.

‘Kevin built up the business after borrowing some money from his father at a very young age. Rightly or wrongly, he has been holding onto being a solely independent business but things have changed so much in this industry of ours. It’s clear if you want to progress you need to be part of a group, a network, and Fix Auto UK provides that and yet ensures we keep total ownership. I’ve driven the decision to join but, like me, after experiencing the brilliant 2018 Fix Auto UK National Conference, Kevin is 100 per cent on board.’

Mark Hutchins, head of franchise development for Fix Auto UK, said, ‘We are always looking to increase our geographic position in the UK, in Fix Auto Grimsby we have further established the network on the east coast, while Fix Auto Coventry increases our presence in the Midlands.

‘While Robin, Kevin and John had previously committed to joining the network, the setting at St George’s Park was the obvious one for them to put pen to paper and officially join the network.’