NATIONWIDE Crash Repair Centres is planning to double the size of its accident repair business. The company, owned by Perry Group, is aiming to increase the size of its 35 strong accident repair centre network through both acquisitions and start-up ventures.

The Hertford-based company is advertising for a business development manager to help expand the operation. The move comes as the accident management industry attempts to rebuild confidence following two years in which it has been rocked by the collapse of FleetCARS and Drivemaster, and in a period when the profitability of bodyshops has come under serious pressure.