Maaco, America’s body shop and the leader in the $38 billion automotive paint and collision industry, surprised residents and deserving members of their communities by paying for their automotive repairs as a ‘summer surprise’ to kick off the new season.
Maaco New Port Richey gifted their ‘summer surprise’ to a local pastor, Lorelei Melfi.
“Lorelei came in for an estimate on a paint job and we were moved by her story,” says Beth Berger, owner, Maaco New Port Richey. “The car belonged to her son, whom she lost to COVID-19. She also lost her partner to COVID-19, but she has not let these setbacks affect her community outreach efforts. This car is currently the only vehicle available to carry out their programs like taking parishioners to get groceries or to doctor visits. It was our pleasure to offer this gift to such an inspirational person.”
Dale and Regina Blankenship, owners of Maaco Hampton, recently surprised retired airman and Purple Heart recipient Paul Blais by not charging for his car repairs, to thank him for his service. The now-retired airman spent five weeks in a coma after the terrorist bombing of Khobar Towers in 1996. After spending several years attempting to regain his ability to walk, speak and reintegrate into civilian life, Paul documented his experience in the acclaimed book, “Tragedy to Triumph.”
"Paul’s story is nothing short of remarkable and it has become my pleasure to get to know him both as a customer and a national hero,” says Dale Blankenship, owner, Maaco Hampton. “I read his book several years ago and his story has always stuck with me. I consider this an honor to be able to gift Paul with a free repair. It is a privilege to serve those who have done so much for us.”
Local veteran, James Fiori, went to pick up his vehicle from Maaco Lancaster and he was met with a surprise as he learned his vehicle repairs were free.
"James came in for an estimate on his 15-year-old Buick Lacrosse, a car he has always loved and cared for since the day he bought it new,” says Rob Taylor, owner, Maaco Lancaster. “Having served in the Korean war and volunteering at the Veterans of Foreign Wars, James has given a lot back to his country and community. With his wife passing last year, we hoped this small gesture would bring joy to an incredibly deserving and inspirational man.”
Maaco Mesquite gifted its ‘summer surprise’ to a local customer at the time of their vehicle return to celebrate the new season after an incredibly challenging year.
“Surprising a customer with a free repair was our way to express gratitude to the Mesquite community and thank everyone for their continued trust,” says Helmuth Mayer, owner, Maaco Mesquite. “We have grown close with our community in the four years we have been here and giving back to the people we serve is one of our core business values.”
Independently owned and operated, Maaco franchisees care about the communities they work and live in. Visit Maaco.com for more information.
About Maaco
Maaco is North America’s body shop, with almost 50 years of experience in providing affordable auto body repair and car painting. Maaco, with more than 400 independently owned and operated franchises across the United States and Canada, has been named a top automotive franchise numerous times by Entrepreneur Magazine in its Annual Franchise 500 ranking and Franchise Times’ list of Top 200 franchises. Maaco is a member of Driven Brands, the largest automotive services company in North America. For more information about Maaco, visit Maaco.com.
