Over the past decade, Maryland Collision Center has experienced significant growth, expanding from a single shop to a network of nine locations, with plans to add even more in the near future.
From 2024 to 2025, the number of shops under this MSO will go from six to nine.
Jim Mudgett, along with his two sons, founded Maryland Collision Center after selling their shares in a family-owned shop. With a clear vision and a ten-year plan, they set out to establish a successful MSO.
“We made a 10-year plan to get to 10 shops within 10 years,” Mudgett explained. Despite facing challenges along the way, they have managed to stay on track and are now on the verge of achieving his goal. Mudgett is only one shop short of his goal, but he’s still proud of what they have accomplished.
Mudgett diversified his MSO growth strategy between building shops from the ground up to even converting mechanical shops to body shops. This is partially driven by his preference to assure that every Maryland Collision Center is owned and not leased. They own seven out of nine properties, which allows them to control rent and avoid eviction. Owning property, according to Mudgett, is also a wise investment.
Growing Through Apprenticeship
“The industry changes almost daily,” he said. “We have a lot of young guys that are pretty sharp at that stuff.” Maryland Collision Center has successfully obtained certifications from various manufacturers, ensuring they remain at the forefront of industry standards.
One of the key factors behind Maryland Collision Center’s success is its proactive approach to addressing the technician shortage.
“We have our own apprenticeship program for the office, paint, and body,” Mudgett said. By mentoring and training young individuals, the company has created a pipeline of talent that contributes to the company’s growth as well as the whole industry since they can carry the skills they attained anywhere they go.
Efficiency is a cornerstone of Maryland Collision Center’s operations. Mudgett emphasized the importance of having efficient processes and a dedicated team. This efficiency has allowed Mudgett to expand his network of shops while maintaining high standards of service.
Recent Developments
Although Mudgett and company are working on construction in Owings Mills and Timonium, the MSO has also acquired running shops. It recently acquired John’s Auto Body in Linthicum.
They integrate their systems, staff, and branding into these shops to ensure a smooth transition. John’s Auto Body completed its first full month with good numbers and retained all employees.
Timonium will open on November 5, and Owings Mills is expected to be completed in May 2025.
10 More!
As Maryland Collision Center approaches its goal of 10 locations, Mudgett remains optimistic about the future. While he envisions retiring in the coming years, he believes the company will continue to thrive under the leadership of his sons.
“Maybe in 10 more years, there will be 20 of them,” he said.
Mudgett acknowledges the potential for further expansion. “If we found the right shop in another state, we would still call it Maryland Collision Center,” he said. “My boys are younger than me, and they have a little bit more ambition. So, you might see more than 10.”
