1Collision announces the addition of Kepner’s Precision Auto Krafters in Benton Harbor, Michigan.
Founded over 50 years ago, Kepner’s Precision Auto Krafters is a family-owned business located southwest of Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids. The company prides itself on repairing vehicles to the highest standards and providing excellent service.
1Collision’s Director of New Location Development John Hollingsworth said:
Kepner’s owner and CEO, Connie Kepner, learned about 1Collision from another collision repair facility in Grand Rapids that was facing the same challenges as Kepner’s in the industry. Connie decided to partner with 1Collision for the support they provided in finding technicians and learning new business programs and processes.
Connie’s husband, Rich, opened the body shop in the early 1970s when he was 18. As the business grew over the years, Rich invested in technology and tools to provide the right repairs and maintain top quality work. Connie joined the company in her 1990s.
“My husband is a great body man and has restored cars,” said Connie.
This included Muhammad Ali’s Rolls-Royce, now at the Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville, Kentucky.
Since Rich died six years ago, Connie and the front office staff have run the business office, while son Ryan Kepner and son-in-law Jesse Holmes help with quoting and manage the body shop.
Many employees have been with Kepner’s for 20-30 years. “We probably have the best technicians in town,” Connie said. “We don’t have a large turnover rate, so we don’t train new people every six to eight months.”
“Connie has created a great work environment and culture for her staff,” says Hollingsworth. “In turn, that staff has supported customers in an extraordinary way.”
Business has continued to grow since the pandemic. “We are very busy, literally every hour someone is calling or taking a quote,” she said.
As a result, she plans to continue educating her staff on new repair methods and hire additional employees to manage the business.
“Rich was great at making sure the cars looked the best they could when they left the shop. Just like my husband, I enjoy making people happy,” said Connie. rice field. “When all our customers are happy and there are no comebacks, it’s a really good day.”
Connie said the family continues to operate on Rich’s principles. He repairs it right, finishes it well, and consistently pleases his customers with his expert paintwork and bodywork.
“His impact on the business continues to guide employees to this day,” she said.