Featured image: The team at Bishops Collision Repair is celebrating 30 years of service. From left: Ruben Hollowell, Mike Marotti, Trent Brucher, Clay Mack, Teresa Brown, Karen Neal, Bryce Bishop, Brenden Bishop, Kerwin Bishop, T.J. Bishop, Sam Davidson, Lance Curnutt, Heath Bishop, Michael Hertz, Willie Ward, and David Miles.
Feature article by Emily Wang, White River Now
Bishops Collision Repair Center is marking a significant milestone this year, celebrating 30 years of service to the Batesville community. Founded by two brothers with a passion for repairing vehicles, the business has grown from a small garage on Ruddell Hill to a well-established repair center that serves the region with collision and mechanical services.
The inspiration for the business began with necessity. Brothers Brenden and Kerwin Bishop shared they were not always able to take their vehicles to a repair shop. Instead, they learned to fix them on their own—an experience that sparked their careers. Brenden pursued formal training in collision repair, and after gaining industry experience, the brothers opened their shop.
“After working in the field for around five years, we had many friends that wanted us to repair their vehicles in our shop in Brenden’s backyard,” Kerwin said. “Therefore, we started our business in a small three-car garage on Ruddell Hill.”
Among their proudest achievements, the brothers highlight the trust they have built with both customers and insurance companies. They also take pride in their dedicated team, which has grown from just three employees to a family-like workforce committed to quality and service.
What started as a backyard operation quickly expanded, eventually leading to the current Lawrence Street location of the Bishops Collision facility and the addition of Bishops Auto Clinic, which offers mechanical work, alignments, and diagnostics.
The early years were marked by long hours and dedication. For the first five years, the brothers and their employees worked from sunrise to sunset, often returning to the shop after dinner to ensure customers received their vehicles as quickly as possible. That commitment to customer service helped build a reputation that has sustained the business for three decades.
Throughout the years, community support has played a vital role in Bishops Collision’s success. When asked how the community has supported their business, Kerwin said, “Community plays a large role in supporting small businesses, especially in the collision repair industry. We work on any make or model, from small vehicles and school buses to large emergency response vehicles. We sponsor all local schools, whether it’s monetary donations or silent auction items. We are also supporters of small groups in the area, such as John 3:16, Special Olympics, and the Arkansas Sheriffs’ Youth Ranch, to name a few. We are able to support and help our community the same way they support us.”
Several milestones have defined the company’s journey. The transition from handwritten to computerized estimates improved efficiency, the purchase of a downdraft paint baking booth sped up the repair process, and becoming a direct service shop for insurance companies streamlined operations for customers.
Among their proudest achievements, the brothers highlight the trust they have built with both customers and insurance companies. They also take pride in their dedicated team, which has grown from just three employees to a family-like workforce committed to quality and service.
Reflecting on the impact of their business, the founders emphasize the importance of supporting local businesses by sourcing materials and supplies within the community. They credit their employees and loyal customers for their continued success.
When asked what keeps them motivated after 30 years, the brothers said, “The pride we take in our work and seeing the smiles on our customers’ faces when they pick up their vehicles.”
“Honesty, perseverance, and hard work can make dreams come true,” Kerwin said. “There will be ups and downs, but if you build a good team, your business will grow.”
Above all, they express deep gratitude to their customers:
“Thank you for your support and for standing behind us throughout the years. We look forward to another 30!”
Kerwin and Brenden Bishop
Images: Gena Tate, White River Now
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