Schaefer Autobody Centers reaches out to the collision repair industry to expand locations
St. Louis—Schaefer Autobody Centers, which was founded in 1985, presently has 12 shop locations in the greater St. Louis area, as well as in Columbia, Mo., and O’Fallon, Ill. — and today seeks further expansion opportunities to grow its business.
“We have interest both inside Missouri and in neighboring states,” said founder Steve Schaefer. “We want smart business growth that will allow our established management and customer service systems to be replicated to additional facilities.
“We don’t just want to acquire shops — we want to build the company,” added Schaefer, who can be contacted by phone, 314-378-6809, or email, steve@schaeferautobody.com, for shops that have interest in learning more about acquisition opportunities.
Schaefer Autobody Centers employees earn well above industry averages, its customers report satisfaction ratings of more than 98 percent, has a respectful working relationship with insurance companies, and maintains the tools and technology required for proper repairs with OE certifications for most car manufacturers.
The company features a strong employee training program for all levels and positions, including technician apprenticeships and estimator training. “We actively promote from our entry-level positions, from receptionists and parts coordinators to detailers. Our in-house training programs are for those who are motivated and seek career growth — there’s a lot of opportunity here.”
Schaefer Autobody Centers also works closely with trade school apprenticeship programs and supports their efforts and job fairs, he added.
“Half of the locations were started from scratch and half were acquisitions of established businesses,” said Schaefer, whose son, Scott, now owns and operates the business. “All were accomplished without outside investment, allowing freedom to make decisions that continue to positively impact employees, customers, and suppliers, especially during the challenges of 2020.”
Calls are welcome from any shop owner considering retirement or a life change and interested in selling their collision repair business. “Or, calls to just soundboard ideas regarding growing or passing on your own company, are fine too,” Schaefer said.
Steve can best be reached by cell phone at 314-378-6809 and will treat all conversations confidentially.
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