Annapolis, Md.-area collision repair facilities can expect more competition soon now that a car dealershop has announced it will open a $7-million, 44,000-square-foot body shop on Nov. 1, which would be one of the largest in the region.

Criswell Performance Cars’ shop will reportedly feature 60 bays and include three drive-through paint shops, four prep stations and six detail areas. Owner George Criswell said he anticipates that the center will see 500 cars per month within the next two years and plans to employ 44 individuals by 2010.

Asked why he decided to open the shop, Criswell said he saw a need for a larger shop in the area. He said the goal is also to boost poor sales at the Criswell Acura and Audi dealerships, which will remain open.

The company will service cars from its Acura and Audi dealerships, and the collision center also will offer maintenance and mechanical services for cars being repaired.

In the past, the company contracted with third-party entities to handle repairs for collision-damaged cars bought at those dealerships, he said.

Criswell said he expects revenue to jump 25 percent for the dealerships once the body shop opens. Sales declined about 8 percent the past year.