Merlin exec buys pair of 200,000 Mile Shops

CARPENTERSVILLE, Ill. (Jan. 31, 2013) — Merlin Corp.'s director of franchising, Timothy Williams. has left the firm's executive ranks and become a franchisee, buying Merlin 200,000 Miles Shops in Carpentersville and Elgin, Ill.

"I'm very excited to be a part of the Elgin and Carpentersville community and offer customers professional vehicle repair and maintenance that can help their automobiles reach their full life potential," Mr. Williams said.

The shop in Elgin was a Merlin company store. Mr. Williams bought the Carpentersville location from the previous owner Tom Keavy, Merlin said. Financial terms were not disclosed.

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"I hope to help the Elgin and Carpentersville community understand the true mileage potential of today's passenger vehicles by introducing them to Merlin's 'Drive For 200,000' during the course of every business day," Mr. Williams said.

Merlin 200,000 Mile Shops said Mr. Williams began his automotive career in 1979 at Bud Richter Automotive, where he advanced to general manager. In April 1984, he joined the Merlin corporate staff as senior manager and advanced through the corporate ranks throughout his 29 years with the company.

Among his positions were manager, franchise services to director, retail operations (1990-1995); director, marketing/special projects (1995-2006); director, market development (2006-2010); and most recently, director franchising.

He also served as lead executive in the development and rollout of Merlin's 200,000 Mile Shops rebranding and Drive For 200,000 proprietary product strategy, as well as nine other major strategic programs and operational initiatives during his time on the Merlin corporate staff, the franchiser said.

"Merlin 200,000 Mile Shops have a commitment to long-term customer relationships, and I look forward to meeting and serving the people of the Elgin and Carpentersville area," Mr. Williams said.

Merlin 200,000 Mile Shops has named Gregory Zera to succeed Mr. Williams as director, franchising; he previously was director, support services. Also Raymond Munoz was promoted to manager, program development.