History of Dixie

Four Generations of Family Excellence Since 1926

Our Story Begins in 1926

When Italian immigrant Giuseppe Traina from Sicily opened Dixie Paint & Body Shop in 1926 with his sons, Tampa was a very different place. There were only 5 or 6 auto body shops in the entire city, and every vehicle was painstakingly painted by hand with brushes. What started as a small family business has grown into Tampa’s most trusted name in auto body repair – nearly 100 years later.

Three Generations, One Commitment

Today, Dixie is proudly run by third-generation owner Angelo Traina Jr., who literally grew up in the shop. Angelo started working at Dixie at just 10 years old, learning the trade from his father and grandfather. Over the years, all of his children and nephews have worked here too. When we say “Your Family in the Body Shop Business,” we truly mean it – this isn’t just our slogan, it’s our heritage.

Keeping Family Traditions Alive

Some things never change, and we wouldn’t want them to. Angelo Sr. started the tradition of beginning each workday with coffee and Cuban bread from La Segunda Bakery for his staff, and today, Angelo Jr. carries on this same tradition. It’s these personal touches that make Dixie feel like home – because for the Traina family, it truly is.

Mary Traina, Angelo Jr.’s mother, dedicated over 50 years of her life to Dixie Paint & Body Shop, embodying the work ethic and family values that define who we are.

What Makes Us Different

We are successful because we do good work, we keep our promises with people, our prices are fair, and each job is personally checked by Angelo himself. In an industry full of corporate chains and fly-by-night operations, we remain a family business where quality and personal service come first.

Our Promise to You:

Personal attention

Angelo personally inspects every job

Fair pricing

No corporate overhead, just honest value

Quality work

ASE certified with guaranteed repairs

Keeping promises

Your estimate is our commitment

Family treatment

You’re not just a customer, you’re part of our extended family

Nearly 100 Years Strong

From hand-painting cars with brushes in 1926 to today’s advanced collision repair techniques, Dixie Paint & Body Shop has evolved with the times while never losing sight of what matters most: treating every customer like family and delivering exceptional results.

Experience the difference that four generations of dedication makes.

Ready to see why Tampa families have trusted us for nearly a century?

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