Auto, towing companies merge in New Richmond

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Star Automotive & Collision owner Kent Elkin stands in front of his business located at 1379 Carlson Ave., New Richmond.

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When great minds collide, great business ventures happen. At least that’s the case with the blending of Star Automotive & Collision and Jerry’s Towing in New Richmond.

Star Automotive & Collision owner (formerly Auto Tech) Kent Elkin and Jerry’s Towing owner David Wilkens worked together for about two years as Elkin helped cover some of the company’s towing in the New Richmond area.

Last spring they decided to blend their businesses, in October they moved to a vacant building at 1379 Carlson Ave., New Richmond.

“Over the two years we figured we should find a way that we could put our businesses together. Nobody can do everything, so we decided to blend. It’s worked out really well,” Elkin said. “We have the same business philosophy: service, service, service.”

Combined, the businesses offer services like 24-hour towing, full collision repair, paint and glass repair and replacement, auto and recreational vehicle detailing, deductible assistance programs and U-Haul vehicles and trailers.

“It’s like a one-stop shop for all your transportation and repair needs,” he said of the plethora of offerings. “We have loaner cars and we offer ‘free’ towing on all vehicles we repair.”

The businesses are part of the Midwest Star Group LLC.

Elkin said Star stands for service, transportation and recovery.

Elkin said many of the business’ employees are cross-trained.

“We have some employees that kind of do both. They work in the body shop some and then go on a tow call, if needed. It works pretty well because you’re not always on tow calls, but if there is one, you need to be able to go right away,” he said.

Elkin said he hopes residents look to Star Automotive & Collision and Jerry’s Towing for all their collision and towing needs.

“One thing I always remind customers: you get to choose where you get your vehicle repaired, no matter what your insurance company may tell you. It is the law that the vehicle owner always has the authority to decide where their vehicle gets repaired,” he said.

Elkin said Star Automotive & Collision has a workmanship warranty on every vehicle it services.

For more information about Star Automotive & Collision, call 715-246-4042 or email Elkin at kente@jttr.net.

Tags: new richmond, business