A FRANCHISING company is all revved up following management changes.

Established in 1994, ChipsAway International is a localised automotive body panel repairs operation, based in Kidderminster.

It is set to grow as an international franchising operation now that Steve Bignell and Roger Wild have joined Nick Bicknell, who has been involved with the company since its inception.

The duo, who are previous winners of the Franchisor of the Year award, bring expertise in franchise development, the automotive sector and international expansion to the mix.

Mr Wild said ChipsAway was a "franchising phenomenon".

"Single-handedly, it has developed the market for localised automotive body panel repairs in the UK and Europe.

"It is a highly successful, market-leading brand and has achieved tremendous growth over a relatively short period - thanks entirely to its unique products, systems and training programmes. The company is now ready for further development and our plan is to build on existing strengths and dominate the sector."

The team is backed by Barclays Ventures and HSBC.

ChipsAway International operates under a Master Licence from ChipsAway Inc of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and has exclusive rights to develop the business around the world.