Customers and employees are enjoying the new Jarrett-Scott Ford body shop after the old shop was torn down in favor of a more modern space.
The old body shop, located on the same site as the dealer at 2000 E. Baker Street, was built in the 1970s. It was characterized by a number of inconveniences, such as the lack of a restroom, and by this decade, parts of the structure had started to rust.
“It was dated, and we just needed a better facility,” Carl DeMuth, body shop manager, said.
In early 2014, the old body shop was leveled and construction began on a new shop in its place. The new shop has been open for about four months, but the Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony Friday, Feb. 13.
Another factor that led to the decision to build a new shop was that the 2015 Ford F-150 is an all-aluminum model. To work on this model, Jarrett-Scott Ford needed an isolated area.
“Working on aluminum is entirely different than working on steel,” Jim Scott, general manager, said. “You can’t work on aluminum next to steel, because it causes erosion.”
Now that the body shop has an area designated for aluminum models only, the technicians will be certified by Ford to work on the new F-150.
The office has had huge improvements. The technicians now have showers in their locker room. And though it used to be difficult for them to find somewhere to rest or eat, the office has a kitchenette and break room.
The 7.5-foot ceilings have been replaced with those of standard height, creating a bright, airy atmosphere.
After being involved with a crash, drivers are usually not in the best of moods. But Scott said he hopes the friendly staff and welcoming new body shop will help to lift those customers’ spirit.
INFORMATION
Jarrett-Scott Ford Body Shop
Address: 2000 E. Baker Street
Phone: (888) 690-1633
Website: JarrettScottFord.com/BodyShop
Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday