FIX AUTO HUNTINGDON BACK REPAIRING CARS JUST DAYS AFTER ARSON ATTACK

“It’s business as usual.” That’s the defiant message from the owner of three Fix Auto bodyshops Phil Whitaker just four days after arsonists completely destroyed his Fix Auto Huntingdon bodyshop last weekend.

After more than 50 firefighters had extinguished the blaze, Phil and his team immediately implemented their disaster recovery plan, and have since worked around the clock to ensure customers are not inconvenienced while the main bodyshop is fully restored.

While the fire destroyed the 10,000 sq ft building used by Phil’s paint and panel technicians, a secondary building close by which operates a strip and fit centre was undamaged.  To ensure productivity levels are maintained, Phil has bought a new lorry to transport vehicles to and from Huntingdon to his Peterborough bodyshop for painting and refinishing.

A major IT investment 12 months ago which involved creating a centralised computer system to serve his three sites in Spalding, Peterborough and Huntingdon, ensured the safety of all vital data and no interruption to the site’s customer service facilities.

Phil Whitaker said: “I refuse to be a victim, that’s just not me. The building and all its contents were destroyed but I am fortunate to have a strong team around me and we have all set about making the most out of a terrible situation by ensuring that it is business as usual.

“All of my customers, insurers and staff have been incredibly supportive and I have received numerous emails and calls offering support from fellow Fix Auto franchisees. It’s a question of focussing now on ensuring productivity and rebuilding the Huntingdon bodyshop.”

Ian Pugh, of Fix Auto UK, said: “It’s at times like these when you find out who your friends are and Phil knows only too well he has the full support of the network. His positive approach is admirable, and I am confident that Phil and his team will emerge even stronger from this difficult situation.”

Notes to Editors:

• Fix Auto UK is part of a global franchised network of more than 422 bodyshops.
• Fix Auto UK carries out more than 120,000 body repairs per year for leading motor insurance companies, fleets, and retail customers.
• Fix Auto UK, Lyndale House, Harcourt Way, Meridian Business Park, Leicester, LE19 1WL. Tel: 0116 3265401.

Please Note:
For further information please contact Mark Richards on 07774 861596.
Email: mark@mrpr.co.uk