CARSTAR launches its 600th North American collision repair facility

CARSTAR continues to lead the industry in annual sales, total locations, customer satisfaction and premier collision repairs. With no plans to slow down any time soon, this brand new massive 20,000 square foot state-of-the-art facility is an excellent representation of the behemoth CARSTAR has become. “Our network is filled with incredible teams across North America who consistently raise the bar, paving the way forward for higher industry expectations,” says Michael Macaluso, CARSTAR President. “Focused on finding new ways to boost franchise partner profitability while also remaining humble is how we got to where we are today, and how we will hit our goal of 1,000 locations in the U.S. and Canada.” After the store ribbon cutting on July 19, Macaluso reflected on the "tremendous milestone" in the company's 30-year history. "Being the largest collision group across North America is something we are proud of, but we are most proud because we feel we have the strongest and best partners across the country."

By the end of the year, Macaluso says CARSTAR aims to reach 660 stores. "We want to partner with the right franchises in the right markets at the right times," he said. "It is not a mission to grow at all costs. It is a mission to grow the CARSTAR brand in the right way."

Striving for operational success and providing premier customer experiences are no easy feat in the collision repair industry. With the support of the proprietary EDGE Performance Platform, CARSTAR is able to uphold its high standards, while simultaneously driving the business forward.

“CARSTAR has a powerful reputation, and for us it just made sense to join this premier collision repair brand as their values align with ours,” says Vince Pollesel. “Being so involved in the local automotive industry here, with seven dealerships in the Sudbury market, it’s important for us to uphold our reputation by joining a prestigious force like CARSTAR.”

Fighting cystic fibrosis is the North America cause with both U.S. and Canadian locations committed to donating to both the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and Cystic Fibrosis Canada.

“Celebrating this monumental moment for CARSTAR is incredible for us, because as their network grows, so does their commitment to the fight to end cystic fibrosis,” says Christine Martysiewicz, Director Corporate Partnerships, Cystic Fibrosis Canada. “This partnership started over 20 years ago when a franchise partner’s granddaughter was diagnosed with CF and now CARSTAR has raised over $3 million for Cystic Fibrosis Canada.”

Founded in 1989 by Lirel Holt, CARSTAR operated under the belief that a network of high-quality collision repair facilities would benefit consumers and insurance companies. The network quickly grew and in 1994, CARSTAR expanded to Canada with master franchisee Sam Mercanti. Joining the Driven Brands in 2015, CARSTAR has reached new heights as one official North American organization.

Now, CARSTAR and its franchise partners employ more than 8,000 people with locations in 34 states and 10 Canadian provinces, including skilled technicians, automotive professionals and corporate team members. Having repaired millions of cars over the years, CARSTAR remains North America’s top choice for premier collision repairs and is steadfast in its commitment to stay humble and hungry.