Hayes’ Body Shop sold in Sycamore as owners retire after 36 years

SYCAMORE – After 36 years in business, Hayes’ Body Shop Inc. has transitioned to Gerber Collision.

“The name on the sign may change, but the excellent staff will still be there,” said Christy Hayes, former co-owner and Chief Financial Officer of Hayes’ Body Shop Inc.

Hayes and her husband Randy, the former owners of the body shop, founded the business in 1985, and after 36 years have decided it was time to retire Hayes’ Body Shop Inc. at 2170 Oakland Drive, Sycamore.

The shop first started in a garage at their farm house in Kirkland, then shifted to a location in downtown DeKalb and has resided in the present facility for two decades behind Hy-Vee since moving there in 2000.

The transition from Hayes’ Body Shop to Gerber Collision successfully took place on Oct. 22, 2021, according to a Facebook post from the business.

Founded in 1937, Gerber Collision provides collision and glass repair services. What started in Chicago as a small trim shop transformed into one of the largest auto collision and glass repair companies in North America.

Mark Wheeler, an employee at the repair shop for more than 20 years, will be assuming the role of General Manager, effective immediately.

“The entire staff will still be here to continue serving the DeKalb and Sycamore area with your collision repair needs,” Hayes said. “They will be providing the same excellence and quality service through the repair process.”

Hayes said the staff at the body shop will continue under new ownership.

“Our business would not be what it is without the staff, skilled technicians who worked with us,” Hayes said. “They will continue to be here and serve you when the need arises.”

The couple is looking forward to traveling, working in their yard, spending more time with their family and friends and getting involved in the community volunteering activities.