Fix Auto USA recently celebrated the grand opening of its 200th store, taking the opportunity to reflect on its progress since its founding in 2011 while looking forward to its next goals.
The 200th store is Fix Auto Palm Desert South in Palm Desert, CA, owned and operated by Henry Arroyo, a multi-store owner. Arroyo now owns five locations in California -- one each in Cathedral City, Indio and Palm Springs, and two in Palm Desert.
Fix Auto USA was founded in 2011 to create a network of high-performing, independent body shops to ensure the best quality repairs and customer service. The first 30 locations banded together to bring the mission to life, quickly transitioning from a locally-known business to an industry-leading collision repair family.
“When Fix Auto USA joined the Driven Brands collision group back in 2020, it was clear that this group of owners was determined to be the best of the best,” said Sabrina Thring, collision president, Driven Brands. “The dedication to their craft, customers and one another has laid the groundwork of this thriving network. Reaching this milestone is just the beginning, and I can’t wait to be a part of this continued growth.”
During a media roundtable May 3, Driven Brands executives said they decided in 2018, when Fix Auto had 111 stores, to celebrate No. 200. They got there by adding 20 to 25 stores every year, which they aim to do again by the end of 2025. Fix Auto now has locations in 13 states.
Thring said the growth has been propelled by franchisees, many of whom have opened multiple locations while running the kind of businesses that attract new owners.
"Our owners built this brand, positioning us an industry leader in collision repair," Thring said.
Arroyo said he was honored to open Fix Auto's 200th location.
“I joined the Fix Auto USA network in 2014 and haven’t looked back," he said. "Today, I own five locations, with Palm Desert South being my most recent opening. This network has given me so much and I can’t wait to continue building my business and representing the Fix Auto USA brand.”
Arroyo is deeply rooted in the communities around his facilities, giving back to the children, the homeless and any person in need through hosting toy drives, collecting coats, clothing, toiletries and more, working with Martha’s Kitchen. Arroyo is also an active member in the National Auto Body Council, participating in the Recycled Rides program to gift multiple vehicles to families and veterans in need. Most recently, Arroyo and his team donated two vehicles to local families in January.
“With owners like Henry leading the way for this brand, I have no doubt that we will continue to reach new heights,” said Brian Newberry, vice president of collision development, Driven Brands. “Opening the 200th location is just one step in our growth, and I am thrilled to see what is in store next for this brand!”