Stephen Kendrick JR. got a nice 75th Anniversary present heading into the holiday week.
Classic Collision, one of the fastest-growing auto body repair and collision companies in the U.S., acquired Kendrick Paint and Body.
Kendrick, who purchased ownership in 2008 and ended his tenure as sole owner and CEO, communicated to staff on Thursday morning that the deal was done.
The acquisition affects more than 190 employees who operate the nine locations on both sides of the Savannah River.
There’s some confusion as to how many employees will be affected since Classic Collision already operates four locations on its own, including the one (above) on Washington Road in the former Bourne Toyota building.
Several cryptic posts appeared on Facebook on Thursday with specific concerns about administrative employees losing their jobs at the locations.
Classic Collision runs operations differently than Kendrick—with a more centralized approach.
“We would only let go of employees as a last resort,” said Jeff Benavides, area Vice President for Classic Collision operations in Georgia.
He said Classic Collision is excited about growing the footprint in Augusta and that they now own more than 350 locations in the U.S.
Benavides says after a transition period at the end of 2025, he expects the existing locations to be re-branded as Classic Collision in early 2026.
The Kendrick name will live on in the story of Augusta’s history. The first location opened on Jones Street in 1950 with one bay, according to the Kendrick website. Stephen Kendrick JR.’s father and Uncle Jimmy Kendrick led expansion efforts. Stephen started working in the family business in High School and joined the family business full-time in 1994. His last 35 or so years were spent at Kendrick Paint and Body.
Classic Collision was founded in 1983 in Atlanta, which remains its corporate headquarters.
After our top story was produced, ABD received a statement from Stephen Kendrick JR., who some employees affectionately call “Stevie.”
Here are his unedited comments in its entirety.
“In 2008, I purchased my family’s business, Kendrick Paint and Body, which began as a single location with 40 employees. Over the years, we have grown to nine locations and expanded our capabilities with the launch of Blue Automotive Technologies, bringing our total team to 190 talented and dedicated employees.
At this stage in our company’s journey, Classic Collision, with over 300 locations across the United States, is uniquely positioned to support the continued growth and advancement of our employees, our customers, and the communities we serve. I believe this transition will elevate opportunities for everyone involved and take the organization to the next level.
I wish our teams and partners the very best and sincerely envision a bright and successful future for all. Thank you.“
