The auto glass repairer moves into Alice Springs with its latest acquisition

One of Australia’s largest independent auto glass repairers and ADAS calibration companies, National Windscreens, has expanded its footprint with the acquisition of WB Windscreens and Tinting in Alice Springs.
It is the fourth acquisition by the group in the past 12 months following Alpha Bus Glass in Melbourne, Phoenix Glass in Brisbane, and Top End Windscreens in Darwin.
It takes the number of National Windscreens’ company-owned locations to 12, and total operating locations to around 150.
WB Windscreens and Tinting is the largest automotive glass business in Alice Springs and has been operating for nearly 30 years.
It was started by Wayne Brazel, who owned it for 18 years, before selling to current owners, brother and sister Leanne and Stephen Hampel.
National Windscreens Chief Executive Officer, Campbell Jones, said the acquisition is part of the company’s strategy to significantly grow its nationwide footprint.
“WB Windscreens and Tinting is a great business in an area where we did not have a company-owned location,” Campbell said.
“Due to the geographical location and the transit nature of those travelling through Alice Springs, this means someone with an issue with their windscreen will want it fixed quickly so they don’t have to change their schedule and can continue their journey, whether it be for business or holiday.”
WB Windscreens and Tinting reportedly has the largest stock holding of auto glass in Alice Springs, enabling the company to replace windscreens and service customers at short notice without the need to wait for deliveries.
Last year, National Windscreens secured investment from private equity firm Nash Capital.
“This has provided us with the backing to aggressively expand our network through company-owned branches,” Campbell said.
“We will invest heavily in people and ADAS equipment to further improve the business’ capability especially in relation to ADAS calibrations for the auto repair industry in town.”
Campbell said the current owners would continue in the business for three to six months to ensure a seamless handover.
He said National Windscreens – which started in 1987 – had ambitious plans to cement its place as one of the fastest growing companies in the auto sector, with more company news and expansion announcements expected in the coming weeks.

For more from National Windscreens, visit www.nationalwindscreens.com.au