The Riverside Company has acquired Certified Collision Group (CCG), the subscription-based membership network for independent collision repair shops, from Incline Equity Partners. Terms of the deal, announced January 6, were not disclosed.
CCG, founded in 2014, provides independent collision repairers with access to insurance programs, OEM certification support, performance management consulting, and vendor rebate programs. The network includes affiliates in all 50 U.S. states and Canada.
"The collision repair industry is large, highly fragmented and experiencing both consolidation and professionalization, with independents seeking to compete with national multi-shop operators," said Riverside Partner Drew Flanigan in the press release. "CCG is positioned to continue growing in its core market given its unique business model, unmatched network of affiliates, insurers, vendors and distributors and a highly scalable asset-lite operating structure."
Sullivan continues as CEO after leading growth
Michelle Sullivan continues as CEO. Sullivan joined CCG as CEO in early 2024 after a career that included roles at Superior Auto Paints, AkzoNobel, and FinishMaster.
In a separate announcement, Incline said CCG more than doubled revenue during its hold period through organic initiatives and two strategic acquisitions.
"During our hold period, CCG more than doubled revenue through organic initiatives and two strategic acquisitions," said Tom Ritchie, partner at Incline. "We worked closely with Michelle Sullivan and other key hires to strengthen the leadership team, invest in technology and expand sales capabilities, positioning the company for its next phase of growth."
Network built to level playing field for independents
CCG was founded by four collision repair industry veterans: Marc Sebastian of Blake's Auto Body, Bill Lawrence of 1st Certified Collision, Luis Alonso of Pan American Collision Centers, and Tom Adams of TAG Marketing. The network was built on the premise of leveling the playing field for independent collision repair operators through OEM certifications and performance improvement.
The network has grown to more than 1,100 independently owned and operated shops. CCG places a strong emphasis on OEM certifications, requiring all affiliates to hold at least some form of OEM certification.
Riverside said it has completed more than 400 platform and add-on investments in the business services sector. The firm said it plans to work with CCG to accelerate affiliate growth, deepen vendor and carrier partnerships, and expand service offerings through both acquisitions and organic strategies.
