The Fix Network World Convention took place in Orlando, Florida from October 4 to 6, offering industry players an opportunity to meet up and share informative, engaging content.
This major event brought together bodywork, auto glass and mechanics franchisees from the four corners of the world under the theme “Shaping the future.”
The ambitious theme was underpinned by conferences given by specialists and Fix Network members who briefed entrepreneurs on how to approach market changes, as well as how to evolve their business.
Steve Leal, Fix Network World President and CEO, set the tone with his opening remarks. “We’ve just gone through a difficult period which has delayed our organization’s progress,” he said. “But today, we can stride forward confidently into the future. We plan to banish silos and broaden our network—the only one to offer comprehensive automotive aftermarket solutions on a global scale.”
Fix Network operates Fix Auto, ProColor Collision, Speedy and Novus Auto Glass franchises in Canada. The Fix brand is used throughout the world with the exception of the United States where development activities take place under the ProColor banner.
In the big leagues
Leal insisted on the network’s strength and stated his ambition to ensure its growth not only in Canada, but also in currently buoyant markets such as the United States, Europe and the Middle East, as well as Oceania, before announcing to everyone’s great joy that the Fix Network has partnered with Alfa Roméo for the Formula One World Championship. The news was met with high praise from participants, who see this partnership as a remarkable opportunity for enhancing brand visibility worldwide.
Leal’s vision is to decompartmentalize the automotive aftermarket industry by increasing the number of franchisees who offer auto bodywork, maintenance and repair services, as well as auto glass repair or replacement services under a single roof. This formula, which allows franchisees to position themselves in their markets, also meets consumer demands for access to professionals who can ensure all aspects of vehicle maintenance.
A round table of entrepreneurs shared their experiences with this combination franchising approach with a view to illustrating its effectiveness. Among them were: Valérie Véronneau, President of Véronneau Group in Estrie which operates 3 out 4 workshops that offer combined bodywork, mechanics and auto glass services.
“We wanted to be the go-to specialists for customers and to be able to do everything on their cars,” she explained. Diversifying our services in the midst of the pandemic was no easy task, however. I nonetheless am a firm believer in the one-stop shop concept. The biggest lesson that I learned from my experience is that in order to succeed, you can’t be afraid to ask for help.”
