A family-owned auto service business has moved to a significantly larger Macomb location, expanding its services in a renovated building 10 times the size of its previous space.
Tillitt Collision and Service Center, owned by Kerry and Karla Tillitt, relocated to 2800 E. Jackson earlier this spring from the former Butternut Bread store building where it had operated since 2013. The new location, a former John Deere implement dealership, allows the business to offer expanded collision repair and complete automotive services.
'We've been dealing with people all our lives, and that's what I enjoy most about this business—meeting new people,' said Kerry Tillitt, who worked in the automotive industry before starting his own business.
The expanded space features two new paint booths, including one with a high entry for larger vehicles. Tillitt divided the workshop between collision repairs and auto service areas, with additional space for storage and special projects.
Tillitt has painted and modernized the building, creating clean and spacious work areas throughout.
The business now operates three locations across central Illinois with 35 employees total. The original Quincy location opened in 2011 and is managed by Kerry's brother Kurtis Tillitt, who specializes in semi and heavy-duty equipment repairs. The Jacksonville location, managed by nephew Michael Tillitt, opened in 2020 and focuses on collision repairs and towing services.
The Macomb location offers collision repair, towing, complete automotive services, oil changes, brakes, batteries, tires, alignments and storage.
Kerry Tillitt said the automotive industry has changed significantly since he started the business, particularly with new safety features in vehicles. However, he said the biggest challenge facing the industry is attracting young technicians.
'Getting young techs into the industry has been our biggest challenge,' Tillitt said.
The company plans to continue growing its current three locations rather than opening new ones.
Tillitt Collision and Service Center can be reached at 309-421-0030.
