Fix Auto UK has given its full support to Apprenticeship Central, the unique recruitment organisation dedicated to serving the vehicle repair sector.
The endorsement could not have been better timed as across the country businesses are celebrating the 18th annual National Apprentice Week (February 10-16). The national campaign echoes the wider need for employers to fill skills gaps to help grow their business.
Fix Auto UK was the first organisation in the industry to partner with Apprenticeship Central under the ownership of the late Bob Linwood. Bob was a tireless advocate for young people, dedicating his time to creating clear pathways into the industry for them. His loss was profoundly felt by many, and his unwavering commitment continues to inspire our passion for carrying forward his legacy. The partnership formalises the Group’s focus on recruiting and retaining apprentices.
Apprenticeship Central and Fix Auto UK are now building on Bob’s legacy following the announcement the business is now led by Eleanor Baker Barnes as Commercial Director and Fix Auto Dagenham’s Director Chris Oliver. Together, the two businesses will strive to bring the next generation of talent into the group and showcase the opportunities within the industry that offer skills for life.
Cheryl Chung, who is leading the development and delivery of Fix Auto UK’s ESG strategy, said: “The future of the vehicle repair sector depends on our commitment to investing in the next generation of technicians, Fix Auto UK fully endorses Apprenticeship Central and its recruitment platform. Young talent is the backbone of our industry, and through our nationwide network of Franchise Partners, we’re dedicated to creating opportunities that develop the next generation of top-tier technicians.”
Operations Director Mark Hutchins commented: “Similarly to when Bob was at the helm, our focus hasn’t changed and Apprenticeship Central, under Eleanor and Chris’s ownership, has our full support.
“Recruitment, particularly apprentices, is vital to the future of the industry. Recruiting and managing apprentices has its challenges and we are pleased to have Apprenticeship Central in our corner to guide and drive our apprenticeship goals. Bob’s sudden passing stunned us all, but we are delighted the business is in the safest hands possible as we and our Franchise Partners look to bring new talent.”
Eleanor said: “The Apprenticeship Central Team is delighted to be re-establishing our relationship with the Fix Auto UK network. Bob had previously laid the foundations, and we’re excited to build on that momentum to support the network’s goals of bringing more young people into the industry. As industry leaders, Fix Auto UK and its Franchise Partners offers an inspiring environment for apprentices to launch their careers and we’re proud to play a part in nurturing the next generation of talent.”
Chris concluded: “Everyone who knows me knows just how passionate I am at constantly identifying and bringing new talented young people into the industry. It really cannot be understated just how important it is for the future of our industry. Partnering with Eleanor and building upon Bob’s legacy really is a privilege. Receiving the full support of Fix Auto UK is a significant endorsement.”
Notes to Editors:
- Fix Auto UK is part of a global franchised network of more than 780 bodyshops.
- Fix Auto UK carries out more than 150,000 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.
- Fix Auto UK’s Portfolio of wholly owned repair centres comprises Fix Auto Daventry, Fix Auto Colwyn Bay, Fix Auto Barnsley, Fix Auto Crawley, Fix Auto Paignton, Fix Auto Liverpool South, Fix Auto Castleford, Fix Auto Newport, Fix Auto Henley-on-Thames, Fix Auto Blackpool and Fix Auto Edinburgh West. The Network also holds a majority shares in Fix Auto Goole and Fix Auto Cheltenham.
ABOUT FIX AUTO
Fix Auto Collision is part of the Fix Network which is Canada’s largest automotive aftermarket services provider. Celebrating more than 30 years of excellence, each Fix Auto Collision centre is owned and operated locally offering hassle-free care and services that return vehicles to their pre-collision luster and performance. With more than 285 locations in Canada and 675 points of service worldwide, Fix Auto Collision is the premier global body shop network. For more information, visit www.fixauto.com.
ABOUT FIX NETWORK
Fix Network is a global leader in the automotive aftermarket services sector, consisting of Fix Auto Collision, Fix Auto Service, NOVUS Glass, ProColor Collision, Speedy Auto Service, Speedy Glass USA and SRP brands. Our locally owned and operated collision, glass and mechanical repair facilities offer hassle-free vehicle care and services. Our company and our network continue to grow nationally and globally, thanks to a solid foundation based on entrepreneurship and innovation. With more than 2,000 points of service around the world, Fix Network is the premier global automotive aftermarket services solution. In the United States, Mondofix Inc. has granted an exclusive license to 79411 USA LLC to the Fix Auto Collision brand. For more information, visit www.fixnetwork.com.
MEDIA CONTACT
Mark Richards
07774 861596
mrichards@fixauto.co.uk
