Fix Auto USA announced the addition of five franchise locations. The company says these new locations represent Fix Auto’s expansion in the San Diego market to eight locations and the strengthening of its presence in Southern California. Fix Auto USA, which added a franchise model to network membership in January 2011, currently has 39 franchise locations operating in three states: California, Colorado and Oregon.

The new Fix Auto locations include:

• Fix Auto El Cajon, formerly East County Auto Collision
• Fix Auto Escondido, previously Henson and Son
• Fix Auto La Mesa, operated at Drew Collision Repair Center
• Fix Auto Mira Mesa, formerly Miramar Collision Center
• Fix Auto National City, previously owned by Ball Auto Group

Greg Carter, owner of Fix Auto National City, Fix Auto Santee and Fix Auto Mission Valley, said the power of a larger network, powered by independent owners played a big role in his decision to franchise.

“A group of high-performing, independently owned shops that work under a common brand to compete against other multi-shop operations (MSOs) is a good business model,” he said. “Knowing the repairers that we’re adding to this network, we’re all bringing something to the table and it’s helping us improve and grow our individual businesses. As we expand our footprint, the brand will become that much more influential. I think it’s going to be fun to watch this network grow.”

“Being part of Fix Auto enables the independent shop owner to remain independent, while reaping the benefits of shared best practices, pooled resources, expansive reporting tools and back office support,” added Paul Gange, president and COO of Fix Auto USA.  “We are pleased to expand our franchise group with these operators in San Diego.  They are a great representation of the high caliber, market leading repairers that make up Fix Auto USA.”