Automotive paint needs for body shops and individuals in the Picayune and surrounding area are filled by a local business, Pro Color Auto Paint and Supply.

Owner Josh Bergeron said he bought the business from its previous owner about six years ago. Prior to taking ownership of the business, Bergeron said he worked for a number of other auto paint businesses in various capacities, including sales at Valspar. In all, he’s been working with automotive paint for about 17 years.

When he heard Pro Color Auto Paint and Supply was available, he took advantage of the chance to own his own business. 

Business has been good, so much so Bergeron moved it from West Canal Street to a brand new building located at 601 S. Main Street in January of this year to keep up with the growth.

Bergeron’s business is centered on being a wholesale distributor of automotive paint, meeting the needs of more than 90 percent of the local body shops, in addition to those in south Mississippi and south Louisiana. He said he also provides paint to several light industrial companies. Some of those companies produce things as large as cranes or smaller products such as electrical boxes.

He and his staff can mix the paint for a specific job, or provide the raw ingredients to repair shops that would rather mix the colors themselves.

Bergeron said he keeps three vehicles running deliveries full time. His business employs a total of seven people, three part time and four full time.

One of his favorite aspects of the job is watching customers restore their dream car. Bergeron said he also enjoys supporting the community through car shows and is interested in sharing his love of automotive paint with the local youth.

Customers not only have access to all of the automotive paint supplies they need, from the paint to the equipment, but Bergeron and his staff also offer training to help his clientele increase profit. About twice a year he also offers hands on training in applying paint.

Anyone interested in learning how to paint a vehicle at home can also attend one of his annual or biannual clinics, Bergeron said. To find out when the next class will take place, check the business’ Facebook page or give them a call.

The business is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and can be reached by calling 601-798-2386.