Due to a rise in demand and changing consumer needs, Shavano Park-based Cavender Auto Group opened in September a new 50,000-square-foot, fully air-conditioned, state-of-the-art Cavender Collision Center at 10601 Wetmore Road, San Antonio.

According to a news release, the new location is three times the size of the previous location at US 281 North near Loop 1604. The new full-service repair center is an iCAR Gold Class-certified and a GM-certified collision repair, auto body paint and detailing facility.

Cavender Collision has seven full-time certified technicians and is looking to grow to 18, the release said.

Company representatives said with increasing production of aluminum vehicles, the shop has added a dedicated area for aluminum repair.

Cavender Collision will become aluminum certified on a wide range of brands to include Jaguar and Land Rover, the release added.

Cavender Auto Group President Bobby Cavender said the new Wetmore Road location near the San Antonio International Airport makes Cavender Collision Center services more accessible to a wider number of new and longtime customers.

“In designing our new shop, great thought went into ensuring we were creating as environmentally friendly a facility as possible. That includes the generous use of solar panels for energy efficiency and the use of top-of-the-line PPG-brand water-based paint for a lower environmental impact,” Cavender said.

The larger workload and space have increased the demand for employees. Cavender is now hiring body technicians, painters and estimators, the release said.

Cavender Collision Center accepts all models, makes and insurance payments, and has a lifetime guarantee for all paint and bodywork. The shop also offers free estimates with appointments, the release said.

Hours of operation are 7:30 a.m.-9 p.m. weekdays, and 9 a.m.-noon Saturdays.

210-298-2834. www.cavendercollision.com