Fix Auto UK signs up for the Kitemark®

PRESS RELEASE

20 December 2006

Today, 20th December 2006, Fix Auto has become the first Network of Independent Body Repairers in the UK to sign up all of it’s locations to attain the Thatcham BSI Kitemark® accreditation.

The move is in line with Fix Auto’s commitment to become the network of choice for insurers and consumers, offering integrity and transparency to all those using its services.

In just over two years, the UK arm of global Fix Auto Brand has grown to become the second largest independent operator in the country at 23 shops and Fix Auto’s long term objective is to have over 200 franchised bodyshops covering the country. 

Fix Auto has submitted an application on behalf of all of its franchisees following extensive discussions with Thatcham, BSI and its insurer partners. All shops will now undergo pre assessment to establish their status in relation to the PAS 125 standard and it is hoped that several will achieve their full Kitemark® licence before the official launch on 21st February 2007.

Jason Mosely, Director of Quality and Business Systems at Thatcham said, “Thatcham has worked with Fix Auto since they entered the UK market and it has always been clear that they are focused on uniting the highest quality repairers under their brand and working with them on “raising the bar” of the industry. This is why we are not surprised that they are amongst the first to commit nationally to the Thatcham BSI Kitemark® scheme”

“We are delighted to see the response from the industry and welcome all applications for this important Kitemark® scheme. By taking this initiative, Fix Auto has clearly shown their commitment and determination to prove their service quality by applying for the Kitemark® licence so swiftly,” said Claire Lynam, Marketing & Communications Manager, BSI Product Services

John Matthews, Head of Fix Auto UK commented “While we expect the Thatcham BSI Kitemark® to become the standard that all insurers insist on within their chosen supply chain, it is Fix Auto’s own desire to commit to a defined quality standard within our Network which has led us to mandate the achievement of the Thatcham BSI Kitemark® within six months of becoming a Franchisee.

I believe that this initiative will succeed where others have failed because it is driven by for insurers’ increasing need to address liability exposure and customer retention issues. The benefit of embracing the change now is to position Fix Auto as the first national chain to offer insurers and consumers the Kitemark® accreditation and therefore total peace of mind when choosing their repair facility.”