The History of Martin Auto Color

Martin Auto Color – History

Glenn Martin

Martin Auto Color began as a humble startup, driven by a passionate group of dedicated individuals who aspired to be the most trusted supplier of auto body shop products on the West Coast. Founded in 1989 with just two locations, the company has grown to 31 distribution centers serving Northern and Southern California, as well as Western Nevada.

At the helm of this journey is Glenn Martin, who entered the automotive industry in 1971 as an energetic nineteen-year-old, delivering supplies for a family-owned auto parts and paint store. Over the next nine years, he immersed himself in every aspect of the business, ultimately purchasing the store chain from his employer and embarking on his entrepreneurial path. Through relentless dedication and hard work, Glenn expanded the business to 26 locations in just seven years. However, as the company grew, so did Glenn’s vision and goals.

Recognizing the importance of personal customer service, Glenn made the bold decision to sell the business and start anew. Partnering with respected industry colleagues—including Daryl Fielder, Lisa LaMacchia, Rich Mathiesen, and Fred Gebert—he founded Martin Auto Color with a mission to provide not only quality products but also comprehensive training and operational services to help customers enhance profitability and streamline their operations.

To realize this vision, Martin Auto Color became a PPG Platinum Distributor, leveraging PPG’s high-quality products and support. With this partnership, Glenn and his team transformed their operation from a modest staff of six in 1997 into a thriving multi-million-dollar enterprise with over 200 associates, solidifying their position as California’s largest PPG distributor. This expansion also marked Martin Auto Color’s evolution into a multi-state firm, becoming a PPG distributor in Nevada.

Despite this remarkable growth, Glenn and his team remain committed to a tight-knit organizational culture that prioritizes personal customer service above all else. At Martin Auto Color, the focus is not just on products, but on building lasting relationships that empower customers to succeed.

LATEST UPDATES

Post Image

Auto Events in Southern California in February

Take a peaceful drive around Southern California and partake in some of these exciting auto events. Whether it’s going back in time or heading into the future, you’ll enjoy doing what you love the most. We all need some car therapy. Please call before attending any community events. It is [...] Read More..

Post Image

Auto Events in San Diego, CA and Surrounding Areas in February

Get your keys and visit some of these car enthusiast events in San Diego and surrounding areas. Whether you like classic cars, custom paint, exotic cars, or hot rods…these events have it all, including donuts and coffee! Please call before attending any community events. It is likely that they will [...] Read More..

Post Image

Auto Events in Northern California in February

Northern California has a lot of exciting auto events to choose from. If you are looking for an early morning brisk drive with coffee, donuts, and cars or an evening night out with entertainment, raffles, and food…choose from any these car enthusiast events. Yep! Cars…cars…and even more cars! Please call [...] Read More..