Fix Auto Australia has added its second new location for the year – Wadleys Panel Beaters, located in the coastal town of Rockingham, Western Australia.
The 50-year-old business was owned and operated by Julie Wadley, but having decided to retire from the industry, Fix Auto Osborne Park owner Steve Lopresti acquired the business and will rebrand it as Fix Auto Rockingham.
The acquisition follows Lopresti’s search for “just the right business” as he expands his footprint south of the river.
“I have been looking to add a second location for some time now – there are always options, but finding the right business in the right location, and that has a significant opportunity for growth, is always the challenge,” said Lopresti. “With Wadleys, I have secured a business with a strong reputation and legacy, a great team in the shop, and a location that is bound for expansion in the coming years.”
Lopresti said Fix Auto has supported his ambition since joining the network more than five years ago.
“I renewed my franchise agreement with them for another five years in 2022, so it was obvious I wanted and needed their support in this new venture. They are hands-on with me already, helping me get the shop set up, the systems and processes installed and, of course, helping the team transition from the previous ownership into the Fix Auto family.”
Stuart Faid, Vice President of Fix Auto in Asia and head of the Australian business, said: “Steve has been keen to expand his interests for some time now – we have a concentration of shops north of the river and were looking to expand south of the river to better serve our insurance customers.
“This opportunity was great for Steve and for us. We are very keen to support him in any way possible to grow his footprint and help him expand his operations.
“Buying a well-established business comes with both challenges and opportunities but I am confident that Steve has what it takes to bring this business into a new age and drive it forward, and we will be with him every step of the way.”