Maaco West Springfield Owner Wins Tony Martino Hall of Fame Award

WEST SPRINGFIELD — At the 2024 Maaco convention, Maaco franchise partners, corporate team members, and vendors attended a mainstage session emceed by John Di Domenico, award-winning actor and comedian, to learn more about Maaco’s strategic vision for 2025 and how Maaco and its franchisees will ride the wave to get there.

As part of the mainstage session, Maaco announced the 2024 recipient of the Tony Martino Legendary Hall of Fame award, presented by this year’s title sponsor, Sherwin Williams. Joe Houghton, veteran and owner of Maaco West Springfield in Massachusetts, was selected for this honor.

The award was created to recognize individuals who exemplify Maaco’s values as a retail brand. It celebrates someone who is not only an exceptional brand ambassador, but who also consistently operates with excellence and serves as a positive influence for both the brand and their local community.

As a veteran, Houghton’s commitment to service extends beyond his business. He selflessly devotes his time to supporting fellow veterans in his community. When a local veteran’s car was vandalized, he stepped in to refurbish it, ensuring that this veteran had a reliable vehicle. And last winter, he organized a coat distribution drive for military members and their families.

“I feel privileged to honor a franchisee who has been with the brand for over 30 years — 34 years, to be exact, of dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment to their team, their customers, and their community,” said Dave Gross, interim president of Maaco. “Joe and his wife, Kris, are a remarkable example of what it means to represent Maaco — individuals who embody positivity, resilience, and a constant drive for excellence.”

The center was also recently recognized in the Springfield Regional Chamber’s Super 60 awards.

“We take great pride in serving our community, and none of this would be possible without the unwavering support of our amazing customers,” Houghton said. “I owe so much to my incredible managers, Ashley and Chris, whose dedication and leadership make our business what it is today.”