There are an increasing number of multi-site operators in the market and they are having a positive effect on creating a more diverse industry.
WGBW, VIC, QLD, NSW
Western General Bodyworks has recently achieved I-CAR Gold Class at all 11 of its sites and is in expansion mode with a new shop and mega shop in construction. The vision statement for the business is “to redefine the automotive repair industry by providing unmatched quality and service”.
WGBW owner Danny Buzadzic is a die-hard Tesla fan and being appointed to the Tesla repair network was a ‘Christmas Day’ moment. The group leverages their EV expertise in their marketing.
WGBW’s recruitment strategies are designed to attract top talent and nurture a skilled workforce. They encourage current employees to refer qualified candidates for open positions within the company and these referrals often result in high-quality candidates who are a good cultural fit.
Sustainability initiatives are integral – the company prioritises energy efficiency throughout the network by investing in energy-saving technologies and equipment. The entire group meets regularly over Zoom to share best practices. WGBW says its business culture is characterised by a familial atmosphere, where employees are valued and supported in a nurturing, safe environment with opportunities for career growth and training for all of the team.
There is a recognition and reward program with staff receiving bonuses as a show of appreciation for their contributions. Managers receive performance-based bonuses for surpassing monthly goals.
Operationally the company excels in key areas such as key-to-key times, customer satisfaction, and profitability. Quality control measures and thorough double-checking processes are integral to WGBW’s operations, minimising the need for reworks.
Fortress Collision Repair Services, QLD, NSW
Fortress Collision Repair Services specialises in high-severity collisions, taking on the challenges involved in complex, non-drivable, stolen/recovered and mechanical repairs.
In 2023-24 the group has focused on consolidating its 10 sites, ensuring metrics are good, for the quality of their work and volumes, and building a sound operational base. There has been a drive to embed systems and process; implementing a financial system, human resource system, site resources structure roles based on type and volume of repairs; People Planning/Talent Management process and SOPs.
A new marketing strategy launched in 2024 focuses on three main areas: recruitment, a commitment to customer service and a guaranteed quality of work. Fortress has invested heavily in a “grow your own” strategy since inception, producing trained and ready talent with apprenticeship and future leaders development programs. Its approach is not to attract with remuneration alone, but rather retain team members by placing them first, making them feel valued, satisfied and challenged.
The Fortress philosophy is “if you grow, we grow. If we grow, you grow”. It has developed an internal training system with a customised Learning Management System. Formal mentorship programs have been established to support a range of development initiatives for apprentices and future leaders. There’s a strong focus on WHS and mental health too for the whole team and a program to nurture women in the group.
Sheen Panel Service, VIC
Sheen has won this category before and has been kicking a lot of goals in recent years. The recent opening of a towing depot in Box Hill brought a new influx of vehicles into the south east region and increasing business to the surrounding Sheen shops.
The company has an impressive and successful marketing strategy and has developed a strong brand. The entire network of 27 shops is being given a refresh in branding to modernise customer service areas.
Sheen is heavily involved with Australian Collision Industry Alliance (ACIA), its operations managed on the board. The group is proactive in promoting careers in the trade at careers expos and has a strong apprentice program with a dedicated manager to oversee it.
This is a highly professional outfit which covers bases such as cybersecurity, stringent WHS, industry-leading staff benefits and support structures and a focus on training and leadership opportunities. Its 4.8 Google rating is highly impressive for a large organisation that still manages to be, at heart, a family business. ●