Christian Brothers Automotive (CBA), an auto maintenance and repair franchise with a guiding principle to “love your neighbor,” is celebrating a remarkable milestone: the opening of its 300th location in Charleston, South Carolina on October 28, 2024. This accomplishment underscores not only the rapid expansion of the brand but also the trust CBA has fostered nationwide, built on a commitment to integrity and exceptional service. Founded in 1982 with a vision rooted in faith and transparency, CBA has grown from a single shop in Mission Bend, Texas, to a recognized leader in aftermarket full-service maintenance and repair, ranked #1 for Customer Satisfaction among Aftermarket Full-Service Maintenance and Repair Providers by J.D. Power five times in a row*.
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The new Folly Road location, operated by first-time franchise owners Jake and Kara Reedy, showcases how CBA nurtures talent from within. Jake’s journey with CBA is emblematic of the brand’s commitment to fostering career growth and dedication to service. Starting as a service writer at the Grand Parkway location under then-franchise owner Brad Fink, who is now CBA’s Chief Growth Officer, Jake built his expertise over nearly a decade. Working his way up from service writer to franchise performance coach and manager of franchise operators at the CBA Home Office, Jake’s path is a true full-circle moment, exemplifying how CBA supports upward mobility and career development. Now, he brings his extensive experience to Charleston, looking to make an impact on the community through trustworthy car care and value-focused service.
To commemorate the 300-location milestone, CBA launched a brand-wide campaign centered on giving back. For the first 300 business hours at the Folly Road shop from October 28 through December 10, 2024, CBA will donate $1 for every oil change conducted at any of its shops nationwide to TechForce, a nonprofit organization that provides career resources and support for technicians. This initiative underscores CBA’s commitment not just to its guests but to the automotive repair industry as a whole by supporting the next generation of technicians. In addition, 42 team members from shops across the franchise network will receive $300 each in celebration of the brand’s 42 years of operation, reinforcing the brand’s dedication to its people.
“Reaching 300 locations is more than just a milestone—it’s a testament to the trust our guests place in us and the passion that drives franchisees like Jake Reedy,” says Donnie Carr, CBA’s President and CEO. Carr emphasizes that Jake’s career path from service writer to franchise owner highlights the growth opportunities available within CBA, and points to the organization’s unwavering principles as a foundation for success.
These principles, rooted in the philosophy “Love your neighbor as yourself,” have become synonymous with CBA’s brand identity. Guests at CBA locations can expect transparent service recommendations backed by an industry-leading warranty, as well as guest-focused amenities like complimentary shuttle rides, a clean and comfortable waiting room, and free courtesy checks with every service. This comprehensive approach has been instrumental in winning guests’ loyalty and ensuring CBA stands out in a crowded market.
The Charleston community has already begun to feel the impact of CBA’s people-first approach. Jake and Kara Reedy, who call “The Holy City” home, view their new shop as a platform for service beyond just vehicle maintenance. “Opening the 300th Christian Brothers Automotive location is an honor and the highlight of my journey with this incredible brand,” says Jake. “What started as a job grew into a passion for serving people and their cars with care and excellence. Now, I’m thrilled to bring that same commitment to Charleston and make a lasting impact in our community.”
While the Folly Road location marks an important milestone, it’s also part of a broader trajectory of growth for CBA. With a footprint that now spans 30 states, the brand has been able to expand steadily without sacrificing its core values. Each franchise owner, whether a seasoned business owner or a longtime CBA employee like Jake, brings a shared dedication to quality service and community support. For CBA, this consistency is more than a business strategy—it’s the backbone of its brand promise.
As CBA continues to expand, its leadership team remains focused on supporting franchisees with the resources they need to thrive. The brand’s commitment to high standards is evident in its training and support infrastructure, designed to ensure each shop operates with the same dedication to integrity and service that began at the first location over four decades ago. This support system has proven invaluable to franchisees, helping them build successful businesses and create meaningful careers.
As a testament to its commitment to excellence, CBA’s Folly Road location provides the same comprehensive suite of services offered at every CBA location, from simple repairs to preventive maintenance, covered by a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty. These services are designed to meet a range of customer needs while promoting transparency in every interaction.
As a trusted name in car care, CBA has achieved a rare distinction: a brand-wide reputation for integrity and quality. As the company celebrates 300 locations, it reaffirms a commitment to its founding principles—principles that franchisees like Jake Reedy live out every day in their shops. With each new franchise opening, CBA takes another step toward proving that it’s possible to grow while putting people first.
For the latest updates on Christian Brothers Automotive and to learn more about prospective franchise opportunities, visit cbac.com.
*Christian Brothers Automotive received the highest score for aftermarket full-service maintenance and repair in the J.D. Power 2019, 2021-2024 Aftermarket Service Index (ASI) Satisfaction Studies of customer satisfaction with automotive aftermarket service providers. Visit jdpower.com/awards for more details.