Don Hankes opens new Merlin 200,000 Mile Shop
On Friday, April 28, 2006, Mr. Don Hankes became Merlin's newest franchisee and opened the Merlin 200,000 Mile Shop franchise located at 1222 South Route 12 in Fox Lake, Illinois (phone no. 847-973-8100). As an industry veteran with more than 12 years of technical and training experience in the automotive service industry with General Motors and Chrysler dealerships, his assignments have included store manager, service writer, lead technician, and line technician. Prior to joining Merlin, he held the positions of assistant manager and lead technician at the Midas Auto Service business in Lake Zurich. From 1996 to 2004, Mr. Hankes owned and operated a mobile windshield repair service franchise and was heavily involved with sales, marketing, and customer service. Mr. Hankes attended the University of Wisconsin in Whitewater where his primary area of study was business. As well, he has successfully completed 19 technical classes with General Motors and 11 technical classes with Chrysler. His credentials also include ASE Certifications in Engine Repair, Brakes, Electrical/Electronic Systems, and Heating & AC. A participant in Merlin's FASTRAK program, Mr. Hankes qualified for $15,000 in equity assistance which helped facilitate his Merlin business acquisition.