New vehicle repair venture aims to create 200+ North West jobs

More than 200 jobs will be created following the launch of a new vehicle accident repair business in Manchester this week.

HB Accident Repair Network opened its first body shop in Swinton, creating 45 jobs at the 23,000 sq ft facility.

However, the company aims to create more than 200 jobs across the North West over the next three years through a programme of expansion throughout the region.

Three former directors of Wirral car repair business Howard Basford are behind the new entity.

Howard Basford grew to become Britain’s largest privately-owned accident repair group, with sites at Manchester, Stockport, Crewe and Warrington, and a turnover of £20m before it was sold in 2014.

Original chairman, Tracy Howard, finance director Nick Orr and operations director Martin Isaac, have reassembled after a five year interlude having spotted a gap in the current market.

They said they plan to demonstrate their commitment to the region by expanding the HB Accident Repair Network to five sites over the next three years and will focus on building the business in the North West.

Tracy Howard said: “We see a great opportunity in the North West market to provide choice for our customers, and as an original team of directors and huge ambassadors of the industry, it’s our intention to continually evolve the market proposition.

“It’s our vision to be recognised as the leading accident repair network in terms of service, quality, innovation and respect for the environment – all being delivered through a skilled and professional team.”

She added: “We are overwhelmed with the early support we are receiving from all areas of the industry, and we have already secured several key relationships with like-minded organisations that share our vision.

“Our ambition is to continue to invest in the North West with the right sites, the right technology and the right people.”