-
Outlook 2023: This Springfield auto body shop is probably best known for its billboards
Great customer service and a special guarantee on workmanship for the life of a car fueled the popularity and growth of Rick’s Auto Body in Springfield over the years. But, it was a sharp wit that also proved a stellar marketing tool for Raymond “Rick” Recor. The owner’s warranty and wordsmithing began in the mid-1990s. Recor was working out of a shop on Verge Street then and was embroiled in conflict with insurance providers over reimbursements. His response to the conflict was the creation of one hand-painted billboard. It featured a blue 1957 Chevrolet with the words, “Classic Quality. Lifetime Warranty.” Recor also ran a full-page advertisement in the Sunday…


