For Jay Ford, working on cars is all he’s ever known. Starting at the age of 13, Ford spent his time painting cars. His knowledge, experience, and connections led him to open up Bath County Collision Center in May 2002. Highlands Community Bank has been honored with the opportunity to help him expand his business with new service lines, equipment, and properties.
“Working on cars is all I’ve ever done, so running a business is definitely a new aspect for me,” says Ford. “Luckily, working with Highlands [Community Bank] makes it easy.”
About three years ago, Ford found out the local bank he worked with was closing their branch. It was time to find a new financial partner for both his business and his family’s accounts. That choice was easy once he talked with his lifelong friend and Hot Springs Branch Manager, Missy Shifflett.
“Highlands was naturally my first choice because I already had an established relationship there,” says Ford. “Once I learned more about the products, people, and the ways things worked around there, I was even more certain I made the right decision. The extended hours really sealed the deal.”
Ford moved his accounts for Bath County Collision as well as his family’s personal accounts, including money market accounts, childrens’ savings accounts, loans, lines of credit and more. He was surprised about how seamless the process was.
With the strategic mixture of accounts and support of his community bank, Ford has been able to expand his business. After doing everything himself for a long time, he now employs three full time workers and one part time worker. He has also expanded his services from paint and body work to include towing, basic mechanics, and tires.
The busier Ford gets, the less time he has to conduct transactions in the branch. He has also been appreciative of the new online banking features that allow him to make payments online and manage his money markets.
Bath County Collision Center has big plans for growth over the next few years and we’re thankful for the opportunity to provide the right products and local service he’ll need to make it happen.