Leif’s Auto Collision Center in Tigard, OR, America’s largest independent body shop, is preparing to close its doors in April, marking the end of a 33-year legacy.
Leif Hansen, founder and owner of the expansive facility, which covers 5 acres and includes 130,000 square feet, confirmed the closure, which was first reported by The Oregonian.
“We are retiring here,” Hansen told KOIN 6 News. “Last cars will get out of here at the beginning of April.”
The shop, which opened in 1991 in a 2,000-square-foot building in Portland, has been a cornerstone in the Northwest auto repair industry, serving a wide clientele over the decades.
According to the shop’s website, Hansen’s professional background in customizing, repairing and restoring cars dates back to 1973. He opened his own shop after he recognized the market for high quality collision repairs, applying custom and restoration levels of perfection to the industry.
As part of the retirement plan, the business has stopped accepting new customers and is focused on completing the remaining 150 vehicles currently in its care.
Hansen declined to disclose the number of employees who will be affected by the closure, but he did confirm the business will not be sold or transferred.
