Springfield, Ill. – The former Hiller Automotive building on MacArthur Boulevard is set for a fresh start. Kenton Childs, a Springfield‑area businessman who has operated Midas franchises across the country, completed the purchase of the vacant lot on Sept. 30.
From Hiller to Midas: a local transition
Hiller Automotive shut its doors at the end of last year, leaving the MacArthur property empty for months. According to Springfield Business Journal executive editor Michelle Ownbey, the site is already undergoing renovations under Childs’ direction.
Childs’ background in the auto‑repair industry is extensive. Over his career he has owned as many as 33 Midas locations nationwide. In recent years he has streamlined his holdings, selling the majority of those stores and retaining only two – one in Rhode Island and another in Connecticut.
Potential expansion with a New Jersey partner
Childs told WTAX Morning Newswatch that he is currently negotiating with a New Jersey‑based company that recently acquired many of his former franchisees. That firm already operates a Midas shop on Stevenson Drive in Springfield, and its representatives have expressed interest in adding the MacArthur location to their portfolio. Childs estimates the deal is “about 99 percent done” at this stage.
Should the partnership materialize, Springfield could see an expanded Midas presence, offering residents more convenient access to tire services, brake repairs, and routine maintenance. The additional shop may also create new jobs and contribute to the local tax base.
Community impact
Local business leaders have welcomed the news, noting that a thriving auto‑repair shop can support both commuters and the city’s broader economic health. “Having a reputable service center on MacArthur is a win for drivers and for Springfield’s downtown revitalization efforts,” said a representative from the Springfield Chamber of Commerce.
Residents who have driven past the empty Hiller lot have expressed optimism that the property will soon be active again. “It’s good to see that space put to use again,” one longtime Springfield driver commented.
What’s next?
Renovations are expected to continue through the fall, with a tentative opening date aimed for early next year. Childs plans to retain the Midas brand, ensuring continuity of service standards that customers have come to expect from the chain.
As the project moves forward, the Springfield community will be watching for updates on job creation, service offerings, and any further collaboration with the New Jersey partner. The transition from Hiller to Midas reflects a broader trend of local entrepreneurs investing in Springfield’s commercial corridors, reinforcing the city’s commitment to economic growth and family‑friendly business development.
Original reporting: Capitol City Now (WTAX 1240 Springfield) — read the source article.
