Whilst the pandemic may continue to create uncertainty, there is no doubt in the mind of Rick Norris, owner of Classic Bodyworks in Rockhampton QLD, about the future of the industry. This is why he made the decision to join the expanding Fix Auto network in Australia and couldn’t be happier with his decision.
Having been in the industry for 30 years, 12 of which as owner operator of the Rockhampton based Classic Bodyworks, Rick has seen a lot of change in the industry no more so than in the last 5 years. He became aware of the Fix Auto model over 2 years ago as an option to push back against consolidation by the big corporates, but he, like many wanted to wait and see how those corporates would go, and more importantly whether this new arrival in Oz would stay the course and stay committed.
This proved to be a sensible strategy for Norris as he was able to see first-hand the impact of a contracting repairer base as shops closed around him to make way for consolidators, but more importantly he saw that Fix Auto has prevailed and is delivering on its promises to its network.
When asked what finally tipped him over the edge Rick said: “It was a number of things coming together at once that ultimately convinced us it was the right time and the right move. I was reluctant to entrust my family-owned business to a new start company in Australia when they first arrived, I didn’t know if they would be here tomorrow if things got difficult, and I didn’t know just how tough things would get for me as an independent. Two years after my first discussions with Fix Auto, the network has grown, its team has grown and it is not giving up on its vision, despite the fact that the last two years could not have been a more difficult. The final piece of the puzzle for me was the endorsement of the work providers about how the model can really support our business. The team at Fix Auto make a real difference to the operations of the business, improving efficiency, driving up margins and providing much needed commercial support.”
Commenting on the latest signing, Scott Holden, State General Manager for Fix Auto, NSW & QLD said “Rick is so passionate about everything he does, he puts his heart and soul into making sure he runs the best business he can. I am so excited to start working with him and support his aspirations for growth and affirm his position as the repairer of choice in Rockhampton”.
[quote size=”large” title=”- added Stuart Faid, Regional Vice President & Head of Business Asia, Australia and NZ.“] Rick is no different to several repairers who have been waiting to see if Fix Auto has the staying power to deliver on its promises to the independent repair industry, and more importantly that we are committed to this market for the long term. I totally understand that position, especially when we are dealing with family businesses that are multigenerational and institutions in their local communities. Nobody makes the decision to join our network lightly and nor should they, but once they do, they have that peace of mind that their future is secure. We’ve been around since 1992 and are now present in 13 countries worldwide. We are here to stay!” [/quote]