By Sean Delaney
From vintage Alfa Romeos to modern insurance repairs, Ricci Auto Collision continues to earn the trust of the community, one car at a time.
In Emery Village, few businesses tell a story quite like Ricci Collision. Known for blending modern collision repair with traditional restoration techniques—especially on classic Italian cars—this family-run shop is celebrating 25 years.
Founded in 1999 by Candido Ricci, it was born out of a dream to run a family operation with sons Rocco and Paolo. After parting ways with Trento Motors, Candido opened the doors to Ricci Collision and started from scratch. 
“We didn’t inherit a client list—we built one,” Paolo said. “We took whatever work we could get and proved ourselves, one car at a time.”
From humble beginnings doing small jobs for friends, family, Ricci Collision earned early fleet contracts—including work for the City of Toronto—before evolving into a go-to shop for both everyday collisions and high-end restorations.
“I came home from the hospital in an Alfa Romeo,” Paolo said. “These cars have always been part of our lives. We were raised around them, and eventually, restoring them became part of what we do best.”
The passion shows in their work. From sourcing parts overseas to fabricating and hand-forming sheet metal, Ricci Auto Collision takes great care to honour each car’s heritage.
“We know the problem areas. We strip every vehicle down to the metal now—no shortcuts. It’s about doing it right,” said Paolo. “We deal with high-strength steel, aluminum, and new welding techniques—so while we might be restoring a GTV in the morning, by the afternoon, we’re diagnosing a 2023 model. It keeps things exciting.”
The Ricci family takes pride in their customer service, rooted in strong family values. “We were raised to be tidy and respectful. That reflects in our shop—our work is always clean—and in how we treat our clients,” Paolo said. “We talk face-to-face, shake hands, and make things right. That’s how my dad did it, and how we still do it.”
Paolo also spent over 14 years with the Emery Village BIA, helping shape many of the initiatives that have transformed the neighbourhood into the vibrant business district it is today. His deep connection to the community is evident—not just through his involvement, but through the long-standing trust the business has earned. “We’ve repaired vehicles for countless local businesses-big and small—and it’s a privilege to be trusted by our neighbours,” Paolo added.
As the neighbourhood continues to evolve and demographics shift, the Ricci family sees ongoing growth in both restorations and everyday repairs. If you want your vehicle repaired by trusted, experienced professionals, you have every right to request Ricci Auto Collision through your insurer. Supporting local doesn’t mean settling—it means choosing one of the most respected collision centres in the city.
On behalf of Sandra Farina, Executive Director of the Emery Village BIA, and myself, Publisher of the Emery Village Voice, we offer our warmest congratulations to the Ricci family. For 25 years, you’ve honoured your craft, served with heart, and stayed true to the community. Here’s to the road ahead.