Mark Wahlin was ABRA’s first franchisee in 1987 and grew to three locations before being tapped to enter corporate for 25 years
Charlotte, N.C.—Former ABRA franchisee, and most recently, ABRA’s vice president of franchise services and operations, Mark Wahlin, has announced his retirement.
Wahlin has been working in the collision repair industry for almost 50 years. In December of 1987, he signed to be the first ABRA franchisee and grew his operations to three locations until selling them to ABRA corporate in October 1998. Wahlin subsequently accepted a position with ABRA’s corporate team where he has spent the last 25 years.
Through his tenure with ABRA, he has enhanced the operational processes within the ABRA network, aided in the overall growth and success of this brand, built relationships with owners and more.
“Mark’s commitment to this brand and network of owners is unmatched,” said Chris Dawson, collision and paint president. “He has been an incredible leader throughout his entire career with ABRA and it’s demonstrated in the results of the business as it persevered through countless challenges, always coming out on top. I admire his determination and perseverance and wish him the best in his retirement.”
Wayne Kelly, most recently the vice president of eastern operations for CARSTAR, will assume Wahlin’s role to serve as the vice president of operations for ABRA. Kelly began his career in the automotive industry working as a tech in one of Wahlin’s ABRA facilities and then grew within the industry.
“I have loved every bit of my time working for the ABRA brand,” Wahlin said. “This franchise family is in a great position to continue to succeed and now is the perfect time for me to enter retirement. I’m thrilled to pass the torch on to Wayne and watch as he continues to shine and support this family of owners.”
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