Fix Auto Australia Adds Somerville & District Panels

Fix Auto Australia has partnered with a new Victorian panel shop, its second appointment in the region in the last month. Somerville & District Panels is the latest independent repairer to join the network which has been expanding rapidly recently.

Bill Kubeil, owner of Somerville & District Panels, said he knew for some time that things are changing for independent repairers, and felt that being part of a network would bring scale and sustainability for those that otherwise find it difficult to stay relevant. Kubeil said his issue was being sure that the group or network he joined would deliver real value, so he looked at several options and decided the Fix Auto model to be the best choice.

“Fix Auto is not just a buying group, they are not motivated or rewarded by what I do or do not buy from them, that is not their model,” said Kubeil. “They are focused on making my business better and more profitable and giving me a voice in the industry that I would not have here on my own. They give me systems, support, training and coaching that makes a real difference to my day-to-day business and of course they act on behalf of the whole network, providing those consolidated services to work providers. It really is the best of both worlds for an independent business.”

“There is a deliberate and recurring theme with the partners we select,” said Stuart Faid, Vice President for Asia, Head of Fix Auto Australia. “Bill yet again represents exactly what we are looking for in our network in terms of values, underpinned by integrity and a passion for delighting customers, delivering quality workmanship with a genuine locally focused service.”

Fix Auto Australia said it will have several more shops to be announced in the coming months.