By Mike Davey
Toronto, Ontario — January 13, 2013 — QEW Collision Centre in Oakville, Ont., recently celebrated its 30th anniversary with champagne, great food and a gathering of friends and long-term clients. The facility was founded by Jameel Ali and is currently managed by his son Omar. The business repairs all makes and models, but has a special focus on luxury vehicles.
In addition to the clients, staff and friends of the facility, several local notables made an appearance at the festivities. Attendees included Oakville’s mayor Rob Burton, MP Terence Young, MPP Kevin Flynn and town councilors Ralph Robinson, Dave Gittings and Max Khan.
The facility started life as Ali’s Autobody in 1984 at 142 Cross Avenue. Jameel’s career started in his native Trinidad in 1962, where he specialized in British sports cars. He immigrated to Canada in 1971 and was joined by his wife Pamela the following year. The business soon outgrew its original location and relocated to its current facility at 1021 Industry Street in 1987.
QEW Collision Centre may focus on luxury vehicles, but they bring the same level of care to all the cars they repair.
“We work on all cars, but treat everything with the quality and precision we would an exotic or luxury car,” says Omar Ali.
Jameel retired a few years ago, and his son Omar has since taken over the reins. Omar is highly experienced in the collision repair business, with some of his earliest memories being of helping his father in the shop and handing him tools. He is a graduate of both Mohawk College’s Autobody & Collision Damage Repairer, scoring well enough to earn his inter-provincial license. In addition he obtained a business management degree from Sheridan College where he majored in small business.
“QEW Collision Centre is a family run business that was built on honesty, integrity, and old fashion service,” says Omar Ali. “A successful business is built on a vision, and passion turns that vision into reality. I am very passionate about what we do.”
A round of toasts made by guests in attendance at the 30th anniversary party made it clear that the shop has a strong reputation in the local community. In addition, MPP Kevin Flynn presented an award to Omar on behalf of Premier Kathleen Wynne and all members of the Ontario Legislative assembly. In presenting the award, MPP Flynn said of the family, “The number of neighbours that know you and that you have done work for is an incredible testament to your honesty. You provide something of great value, so for that, thank you so much.â€
The facility also received awards from MP Terrence Young on behalf of the Members of Parliament and from Mayor Burton on behalf of the members of council and The Town of Oakville.
For more information on QEW Collision Centre, please visit the facility on Facebook at facebook.com/QEWCollisionCentre.
