Fix Auto Australia Head of Business Terry Feehan proudly announces the addition of Fix Auto Lake Macquarie, owned and operated by Jason Whittaker, to the Fix Auto network, effective June 2018.
Kel Whittaker Smash Repairs was established in 1979 by Jason’s father and has been an integral part of the Lake Macquarie community ever since. In 2007 the Pasha Bulker June long weekend storm hit Newcastle and the workshop had about 1.4 metres of water through the entire facility, destroying everything.
The family resolutely rebuilt the business and Jason began his apprenticeship as a motor mechanic at the local Holden Dealer, Brian Kelly Holden. After finishing his apprenticeship Jason sold cars, travelled the world and joined the family business in 1999 and has been involved in all aspects ever since, culminating in taking over as Managing Director last year.
Changing the name of a much loved and respected family business was a huge decision for Jason and one he did not take lightly, however the rapidly changing pace of the industry, the focus on consolidation from work providers and the positive commercial trend of franchising in many industries persuaded Jason to make the switch. “What I really like about the Fix Auto model is that we have full control over how we operate our own business. Fix Auto also adds several benefits that allow us to focus on our business whilst they look after potential work providers, and follow the latest industry trends, which are then passed onto us. Being part of the Fix Auto family, gives us a competitive advantage because of the national coverage of the brand which our customers know as a trusted company, and who’s standards are world class. I believe that multi-national companies will want to deal with a national network, getting the same service in Lake Macquarie as they do in Perth. Being owners of the business, we have our own personal goals – let’s face it, it’s our money on the line.”
Jason is also excited by the potential offered by combining the striking Fix Auto branding with the existing businesses exceptional reputation. “The presentation of our shops will also set us apart. Our reputation and the fact we have been in business for over 38 years is a big thing in a community such as Lake Macquarie. We now have third generation families coming to us and we treat all our clients the same.”
Fix Auto Australia Head of Business Terry Feehan concludes “We are delighted to have Jason and his skilled team join the Fix Auto network. For such an established family business to change its name and join the Fix Auto network shows just how influential Fix Auto has become in just over a year. Collaborating with driven, enthusiastic individuals such as the Fix Auto Lake Macquarie team is key in our plans to grow into the ultimate collision repair solution in Australia. We proudly welcome Fix Auto Lake Macquarie to the Fix Auto family and wish them much continued success.”
For more information on Fix Auto Australia, please visit Fix Auto