At its Impact 2026 conference, CARSTAR Canada recognized two franchise partners with awards highlighting their performance, leadership and contributions to the network.
CARSTAR Markham, owned by Tom Siu, received the 2026 Rookie of the Year Award, while The Manitoba Group, led by Dan Jonsson, Skye Grexton and Jim Bethune, received the inaugural Larry Jefferies Road Warrior Award.
The Rookie of the Year Award recognizes franchise partners following their first year in the CARSTAR network. CARSTAR Markham is a modern, fully fenced and gated facility with capacity to service up to 80 vehicles and provides a full range of collision repair services.
The facility’s team has Axalta Coating Approvals across a wide range of vehicle brands and has focused on repair capabilities, operational performance and customer service during its first year with the network.
"We are incredibly honoured to be recognized as CARSTAR’s Rookie of the Year," Siu said. "This recognition means so much to our team and reflects the hard work, pride and care they bring to every repair and every customer interaction. Joining the CARSTAR network has been an incredible opportunity, and we are excited to continue building on this momentum while serving the Markham community."
Dave Foster, SVP, CARSTAR Canada, said the award recognizes franchise partners that make an immediate impact on the network.
"CARSTAR Markham has shown outstanding dedication to quality, customer care and brand engagement in its first year," Foster said.
The Manitoba Group was recognized with the first Larry Jefferies Road Warrior Award, which honours franchise owners who support fellow franchisees, contribute to network initiatives and promote collaboration.
The award is named for Larry Jefferies, a longtime CARSTAR Canada leader who was known for travelling across the country to build relationships, mentor franchisees and support owners. He was also recognized for promoting collaboration, shared success and continuous improvement within the collision repair industry.
The Manitoba Group has been involved in network initiatives and is known for sharing knowledge and best practices with other franchisees.
"We are incredibly honoured to receive an award that carries Larry's name and legacy," Jonsson said on behalf of The Manitoba Group. "Supporting fellow franchisees and contributing to the success of the CARSTAR network has always been important to us. We are grateful to be part of such a collaborative community and will continue to share, support and help wherever we can."
Foster said the group reflects the qualities associated with Jefferies' approach to leadership.
"The Manitoba Group embodies those same qualities every day," Foster said. "Their leadership, willingness to support fellow franchisees, and dedication to strengthening our network make them exceptionally deserving recipients of the inaugural Larry Jefferies Road Warrior Award."
