The Car Craft network continues its nationwide expansion with the addition of four new members in Sydney, building on the original members of L&M Smash Repairs and Len Hollis Repair Facility. The group has welcomed Callaghan Collision Centre in Miranda, Cary’s Panelbeating in Bondi, SR Autobody in Hornsby and Keith Burrows Auto Body Repair in Brookvale. The new businesses have all expressed a desire to be part of an independent network and to build on the 30 years of experience that being part of Car Craft brings with it.
Matthew Perkins of Cary's Panelbeating in Bondi was attracted by the idea of creating a national network which could be an attractive option to work providers and yet retain independence for the business: "I like the concept that businesses can only be invited to join which ensures similar values throughout the network." Cary's Panelbeating was established in 1955 and Perkins' father worked there back in the 1970s. Perkins took over the business in 2005.
Patrick Melograna from S&R Autobody in Hornsby was also drawn to the idea of a national network and the benefits it could bring to his business. "I've seen the direction the industry is heading and you have to move forward. It's a challenging industry to be in. I also like that the shops in the group are a similar calibre to mine and that I can still stay at the helm, steering my business." S&R Autobody was founded by Patrick's father over 45 years ago and holds OEM approvals for Subaru, VW and Peugeot.
Keith Burrows Autobody Repairs is run by Sharon Bendall and Rob Floyd and is also a Subaru badged shop. Bendall has worked at Keith Burrows for 29 years and Floyd for 18 years. They took over the business eight years ago when Burrows retired. Bendal says: "Car Craft supports the independent repairer and will give us better buying power. I also like that the group is working towards every member having I-CAR Gold accreditation like we do."
Callaghan Collision Centre is located in a shiny, new workshop in Sydney's Shire. Director Jason Hornby has been with the 25 year old business for 22 years and became a majority shareholder eight years ago, eventually owning 100 percent. The business has a great reputation for quality and has OEM approvals for Lexus, Toyota and Subaru. "It is becoming increasingly difficult to compete as a single entity, joining a group like Car Craft offers many benefits over and above buying power" said Hornby.
Car Craft Group’s Peter McMahon said: “All of the new members have a high standard of quality workmanship and customer service and a passion for our industry and, with their name on the door, have skin in the game.
“We have specifically taken our time in Sydney to ensure we invited the right kind of business, in the right areas, with owners who can connect with the Car Craft vision. I have to say, it’s been well worth the wait’.