Sterling Autobody Centers said it plans to increase its current store count.
The primary growth of the new Sterling locations will be an expansion of existing markets, including Illinois, Georgia, Florida and Colorado, the company said. According to information on its Web site, Sterling has 61 stores in 16 states.
State legislation in some markets, such as Texas, prohibits Sterling from opening new stores because it is owned by Allstate Insurance Co. Allstate appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court last year for the right to expand its Sterling Autobody Centers in Texas. The insurer lost the case. Click on U.S. Supreme court refuses to hear Allstate appeal for information about the Texas case.
NACE 2009 exhibitors are expected to play a role in Sterling’s growth because the company needs to purchase approximately $300,000 in equipment and supplies for each new store. Equipment purchases for each store will include frame machines, measuring equipment, spray booths, mixing rooms, spray guns, gun cleaners, lifts, resistance spot welders, MIG welders, hand tools and supplies.
“It is exciting to be adding Sterling Autobody Centers,” says Nick Notte, president of Sterling Autobody Centers. “Sterling sees this as an opportunity to grow and enhance our store presence in the marketplace and the timing couldn’t be more perfect. With NACE just months away, all the equipment, products and supplies we will be looking to purchase will be showcased in one place, at one time. NACE provides extreme value by providing a one-stop shopping experience and the exhibitors better be ready. Our buyers will be looking for volume discounts and show specials.”
NACE, also known as the International Autobody Congress & Exposition, and the Congress of Automotive Repair & Service (CARS) are sponsored by the Automotive Service Association. The two shows are co-located Nov. 4-7 at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas, and take place during the second annual Automotive Service & Repair Week (ASRW). Auto Glass Week also is co-located during ASRW and features exhibits, education and competitions for the auto glass professional.
