Owner: Mike Caruso

Yrs. In Business & number of employees: 25 years, and 42 employees

Business History: Central Collision Center opened on May 12, 1981 with 6000 square feet of space. We have grown to 12,500 sq. ft. of space at the Peotone location, while adding 3 additional locations. On December 12, 1995, Central Collision of Mokena opened and is located at 9646 W. 196th St. Central Collision of Crete opened on May 12, 1999 at 1048 West Main St. in Crete, IL, and Central Collision Center of New Lenox opened at 112 One St., New Lenox, IL. Central Collision now consists of 4 locations occupying approximately 70,000 sq. ft. of space all together.

Best business advice: We have shared much advice with local business people. The most consistent has been to “treat others the way you would to be treated”.

Secret to their success: There is no secret. Our success is attributed to the great people that we have working with us, hard work, and strong business ethics.

Memorable moment in company’s history: With 25 years of business, there are many memorable moments. Some of these are all the years participating in the Demo Derby at the Will County Fair, and the Open House we held for our 10 Year Anniversary, that included the Jeff Gordon NASCAR, and an appearance by Tom Waddle of the Chicago Bears. It was also great to work with the EPA and participate in their Clean Air Act for which we received an award. By far, the most memorable moments are those connected to the charitable contributions to families within the communities we serve.