CARSTAR Auto Body Repair Experts is expanding with the addition of CARSTAR Andy’s Auto Body in Alton, Ill. The shop, located just across the Mississippi River, is now the tenth CARSTAR in the greater St. Louis market.
CARSTAR Andy’s Auto Body is owned by Mark Anderson, and located in Alton, Ill. The facility covers the entire side of one city block and has a layout that features six separate buildings, each with its own specific purpose. The buildings include a main office, frame shop, body shop, paint shop, mechanical shop and overflow. Anderson is in the process of converting his overflow building into an aluminum repair shop.
Anderson has been in the automotive business since graduating high school 40 years ago. Even though he has had tremendous success on his own, he chose to join CARSTAR to be able to stay competitive in the current collision repair market.
“CARSTAR gives me the opportunity to still own my company, but still be a part of something bigger,” said Anderson. “With the way that consolidators are coming in right now, it’s possible for the little guy to get pushed out. I still want to own my business, but I would like to be part of a bigger group, too.”
One thing that sets Anderson apart in his community is how much he gives back. He and his shop have been honored with multiple awards and recognitions for their charitable efforts. Anderson is actively involved in food drives, feeding the homeless, clothing drives and more. His upcoming golf tournament, which has already raised more than $80,000 over the last nine years, benefits a local no-kill animal shelter.
“We know that Mark Anderson has been a great businessman and leader in his community,” said Michael Macaluso, president, CARSTAR North America. “We are pleased to have CARSTAR Andy’s Auto Body as part of the CARSTAR network and look forward to doing our part in helping with their continued success.”
In addition to the main shop in Alton, Ill., Anderson also has a satellite location where they can write estimates and perform minor body repairs before moving larger jobs to the main location. The satellite shop is located in Wood River, Ill.
