Fix Auto Arvada (Mahnke Auto Body) has been named 2010 Business of the Year by the Arvada, Colo., Chamber of Commerce. Owner Gary Mahnke and his family were recognized for their ongoing commitment to the Arvada community at the Arvada chamber’s annual awards dinner, which took place on Jan. 21at the Arvada Center for the Arts.
For the past 35 years, Mahnke Auto Body, which became a Fix Auto franchisee in January, has continually proven itself a valuable asset to its community and customer base, the Chamber says. This trait surfaced not long after the business opened its doors in 1975. In those days, industry health and safety regulations were not as established as they are today, but Gary took a proactive approach and implemented them at his business.
This kind of forward thinking was also evident in the facility’s willingness to create relationships with local dealerships through which Mahnke employees could receive factory training as soon as it became available. In addition, the company provided ongoing training for employees, something it continues to offer today at its four Denver-area locations: Arvada, Brighton, Frederick and Golden, which are all Fix Auto franchises.
“We realized early on that continual training and education is a key factor to providing a consistent, quality repair,” said Mahnke. “The benefits far outweigh the cost. With every new class we’re raising skill levels and repair quality expectations.”
Mahnke likewise has played a vital role in improving the standards and accountability of the collision repair industry in Colorado. He has been the president of the Automotive Service Association (ASA) of Colorado and has served on the national board of the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS). Gary also participated on a panel of shop owners for the Colorado Health Department Board to establish rules for best practices in auto body shops.
The Mahnkes’ beneficial impact extends beyond the collision repair industry to their community. They have supported local schools with donations, as well as sponsoring softball teams, Eagle Scout projects and church events. Over the past 10 years, they have participated in the Arvada Festival Parade, Historic Old Town Arvada events and sponsored Arvada Chamber Golf Tournaments. Mahnke has also donated to Ralston House, a child advocacy center, and has supported Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth (AWRSAY), a program that recognizes and provides programs for youth that have overcome a major obstacle or adversity.
“We want to do whatever we can to help this community flourish,” said Mahnke. “We are very thankful for this award, but more than that we’re thankful to have had the opportunity to operate our business in Arvada. We will continue to do our part to make Arvada a great place to work and live.”
“The Mahnkes serve as a role model for the auto repair industry,” said Fix Auto President and COO Paul Gange. “They have managed to achieve a good balance between making a profit and making a difference. We’re proud to have them as members of Fix Auto.”
More information:
Fix Auto
