Relay Hill Auto, a Denver-based automotive repair enterprise, has expanded its footprint in the Denver metropolitan area by acquiring Applewood Automotive, a Lakewood, Colorado auto repair shop with a 35-year history. This acquisition not only broadens Relay Hill Auto's operational base but also secures the future of a community staple under the stewardship of Shiju Thomas, who leads Relay Hill Auto.
The significance of this acquisition lies in the strategic location of Applewood Automotive at the corner of 6th Avenue and Garrison, a spot known for high traffic and development potential. This move aligns with Relay Hill Auto's vision to enhance service capacity by leveraging prime locations and integrating skilled professionals with top-notch facilities. Thomas highlighted the acquisition as a step towards merging technical expertise with exceptional customer service, a response to the evolving demands of the automotive industry.
Steve Halliday, the founder of Applewood Automotive, expressed his confidence in the transition, ensuring the community that the shop's legacy of honesty and quality service would continue. The shop, now rebranded as Applewood Auto Care, remains a testament to the value of local businesses in the automotive repair sector.
With this acquisition, Relay Hill Auto now operates seven businesses across the Denver area, including notable names like Advanced Transmission Center, Arvada Square Auto, and Hotchkiss Auto Repair. This expansion reflects a broader trend of consolidation in the automotive repair industry, aiming to combine the strengths of local establishments with the resources of larger enterprises to better serve the community.
The acquisition of Applewood Automotive by Relay Hill Auto is a pivotal moment for the local automotive repair industry, showcasing how strategic growth can preserve community trust while adapting to industry changes. For Lakewood residents, this means continued access to reliable auto repair services, now backed by Relay Hill Auto's expertise and vision for the future of automotive care.

