R and R Auto offers body work, detailing in Monona
Owner Randy Richard (left) and Chris Colsch offer body work and detailing at the recently-opened R and R Auto, in Monona. (Photo by Audrey Posten)
By Audrey Posten, North Iowa Times Editor
People living in and around Monona now have another option for auto body and detailing work, with the opening of R and R Auto at 305 Franklin St.
The business will hold its grand opening Friday, June 30, from 3 to 6 p.m. Snacks will be provided and door prizes will go to anyone who arrives at the event in a classic car.
“I’ve always liked working on cars,” shared owner Randy Richard. Growing up, he noted, “I was always curious to know what it took to make a car that’s been in an accident look like it never happened.”
After earning a degree in auto collision repair from Kirkwood, Richard has spent the last 20 years honing those skills. He served the last two years as the body shop manager at Birdnow, after some time in car sales.
“Even when I did car sales, I did auto body on the side,” Richard said. “I got back into it because I missed it.”
When friend and partner Nick Palmer, who owns the building on Franklin Street, gave Richard the opportunity to open his own business, he jumped at the chance.
R and R Auto, which is a play on Richard’s name, opened two months ago. Richard said the services he and employee Chris Colsch offer include body work—typical insurance work, deer hits and rust repairs—as well as detailing.
“Anything body and paint,” Richard added. “We also do some restoration.”
Down the road, he said there are plans to sell low-price used cars, as well.
Richard said he hopes his experience and good reputation will draw people to R and R Auto for their auto body needs.
“People can always expect quality work,” he said.
R and R Auto is open Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon.
