AutoCanada has expanded its Ontario collision repair network with the acquisition of a Stratford, Ont., collision repair business, continuing its strategy of building regional repair capacity to support its dealership operations.
The Edmonton-based retailer announced July 2 that the facility, formerly operating as Fix Auto Stratford, has been rebranded as ACX Stratford. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
The approximately 20,000-square-foot repair centre serves Stratford and Perth County and maintains direct repair program relationships with insurers including Intact, Definity and DGIG.
AutoCanada said the acquisition complements its existing collision operations in nearby London by adding repair capacity within an hour’s drive of 10 of its dealerships. The company said the location will also support its regional “hub-and-spoke” collision strategy by increasing dealership referral opportunities and operational scale.
“ACX Stratford is an excellent addition to our growing collision platform,” said Samuel Cochrane, CEO and interim Chief Financial Officer of AutoCanada. “The business expands our presence in Southwestern Ontario, adds an experienced team, and creates meaningful opportunities to grow through operational improvements, additional OEM certifications and stronger integration with our dealership network.”
While the facility does not currently hold OEM certifications, AutoCanada said it is equipped to qualify for several non-luxury certifications, with luxury and electric vehicle certifications expected to be added over time.
The company said the repair centre will continue operating under its existing local management team while gaining access to AutoCanada’s national operating platform, insurer relationships and OEM partnerships. It also identified the Stratford location as a foundation for future expansion across southwestern Ontario and the Kitchener-Waterloo corridor.
