The KLST Abra franchise proudly marked its 30th anniversary in business on June 13, a major milestone for one of the longest standing and most trusted names in Minnesota’s auto body repair industry.
Founded in 1995 by Kedrick and Louann Johnson, along with their sons Scot and Todd, the KLST Abra franchise began with a single shop on Carson Avenue in Elk River, MN. The business has since grown into a multi-location enterprise, known for its unwavering commitment to quality repairs, community service and family values. The KLST name itself, derived from the initials of the Johnson family, reflects their personal investment in the business and their customers.
“We treat everything we do, from our team members to our repairs, with honesty and integrity,” said Kedrick Johnson. “If we conduct ourselves by these simple principles, we hold the keys to success”
After opening their first Abra location in Elk River, the Johnson family quickly expanded their footprint to now five locations: Abra St. Cloud, Abra Cloquet, Abra Elk River, Abra Duluth, and Abra Princeton.
“The key to our success is our people,” said Todd Johnson. “From our technicians to our office staff, we have an incredible team that shows up every day committed to doing great work. They are the backbone of everything we do.”
KLST Abra’s expansion also includes a thriving glass division, which began in 1994 with a single van and now operates a fleet of 12 vehicles, serving customers across Minnesota and western Wisconsin. In recent years, the division has expanded with new locations in Lake Elmo and Hermantown.
"Reaching 30 years is an incredible achievement and KLST Abra has done it with integrity, grit and a true focus on people,” said Damien Reyna, COO, U.S. Collision. “Kedrick, Louann, Scot and Todd exemplify what it means to lead a business with heart. They’ve built something truly special, and we’re proud to have them as part of the Abra family.”
As KLST Abra looks to the future, the mission remains clear: keep raising the bar, growing with purpose, and continuing to serve customers with the same care, precision and pride that’s defined them since day one.
