Stuart Wilson's Velocity Restorations revives classic vehicles with modern flair, revealing success amid risks and a drive to innovate in a flourishing market.
Cantonment, a small town in the Florida Panhandle, is undergoing a remarkable transformation, led by Stuart Wilson and his company, Velocity Restorations. The story began with the Southern Plywood Corporation, which opened its doors in 1962 and provided many locals with jobs. However, after changing hands several times, the facility fell into disrepair and sat vacant, an unwanted 20-acre eyesore until Wilson purchased it in September 2020.
Upon visiting the dilapidated factory, Wilson witnessed firsthand its dire state: stripped power lines, a missing roof, and extensive vandalism. Yet, he decided to buy it and initiated the significant task of restoring it to support Velocity Restorations. Just a week after moving in July 2021, the team was up and running, quickly establishing a name in the Bronco restoration space. Remarkably, five years later, the company's operations have expanded to necessitate an additional 30,000 square feet, especially after acquiring Texas-based Classic Recreations, known for its Ford Mustang restorations.
A New Foundation for Reinvention
Velocity Restorations not only revitalizes vehicles but also breathes new life into abandoned structures. The executive offices are situated above a small pond, showcasing an unexpected charm during lunch breaks. Wilson’s background, including a stint in the Navy where he specialized in nuclear propulsion, equipped him with a unique skill set for his entrepreneurial journey. After realizing the housing market was more profitable than his military salary, he retired early from the Navy, only to face significant personal setbacks.
Returning to Pensacola at 30, Wilson found himself with nothing aside from a partially restored 1976 Ford Bronco. With a loan from his mother, he completed the Bronco and flipped it for a $21,000 profit—funds that launched his restoration business. Over the years, Stuart refined his process, morphing a modest venture into a thriving operation.
The Foundational Team
Wilson initially partnered with Brandon Segers, a fellow Bronco enthusiast, but after Segers departed in March 2022, Wilson took full control of Velocity. With a committed team led by Cody Dabney, who specialized in paint and body work, Wilson anticipates the brand’s further evolution. Velocity’s product lineup now includes eleven models of classic cars and trucks, moving beyond the original Bronco, allowing the company to expand its reach.
Restoration at Velocity is meticulous and driven by research. Their initial query revolves around the availability of the vehicles they can restore. Each vehicle must still exist, and the essential part is maintaining the original vehicle information number (VIN) plate. The team actively sources first-generation Broncos and other models to keep production flowing.
Breaking Down the Restoration Process
The overhaul process often entails utilizing modern parts and components while retaining the vehicle's historic essence. A typical Velocity build might incorporate entirely new bumpers alongside original parts, which distinguishes it from OEM offerings. This approach sidesteps certain federal regulations that new vehicles are subject to, allowing for greater flexibility in design and engineering.
The current offerings at Velocity cater primarily to Ford enthusiasts, beginning with the beloved Bronco and expanding to classic Ford F-Series pickups, Mustangs, Chevrolet C/K pickups, and more. The 1978 F-350, the company’s latest release, starts at a remarkable $459,900 and can often exceed half a million dollars due to the rarity of suitable donor vehicles.
Expanding Horizons with New Models
Velocity’s foray into the Ford Mustang realm includes a 1967-68 model, available with a supercharged 800-horsepower engine. The anticipated pricing for this iconic vehicle begins at $384,900, with production slated to ramp up in late 2026. Moreover, the company is testing the waters with new iterations of the 1987-1989 Fox-body Mustang, a nostalgic venture priced from $279,900 and targeted at a unique collector base.
Alongside the Fords, Velocity embraces Chevrolet’s legacy with builds like the 1967-1972 C/K pickup, marked by a contemporary twist in performance and style. Buyers can opt for variations that feature modern amenities while still capturing the classic aesthetic. Velocity's K5 Blazer and International Harvester Scout II also significantly benefit from this model expansion, aligning with the desires of collectors seeking restoration options without sacrificing modern enhancements.
Experiencing Velocity's Masterpieces
Driving various Velocity offerings reveals a thrilling experience marked by the power of their mighty V8 engines combined with modern drivetrain technologies. Though the rainy weather during my visit limited test drives, it highlighted the significant integration of modern features within the classic vehicle framework. From handcrafted interiors to updated infotainment systems, each Velocity vehicle preserves its heritage while providing captivating drivability.
Workforce Considerations and Production Targets
Running operations at Cantonment's sprawling site presents its own challenges, especially regarding staffing. Wilson estimates that building the desired number of units will require around 350 employees. Currently housing about 180, Velocity is on a mission to attract skilled artisans amidst a national narrative of labor shortages in the automotive sector.
Velocity’s assembly line resembles those of major manufacturers, focusing on efficiency. Each build adheres to a rigorous 14-week production schedule, with a designated manual guiding workers through specific assembly steps. Each team member specializes in a unique assembly station, ensuring that the workforce is optimized for productivity.
Acquiring Classic Recreations
A strategic acquisition of the remnants of Classic Recreations aims to boost Velocity’s portfolio and capacity. While Classic filed for bankruptcy, Wilson’s foresight in purchasing assets enabled him to explore new offerings within the Shelby Mustang lineage. This initiative caters to a dedicated customer base, addressing their needs with an allure of quality and exclusivity.
Continuing the legacy of previously promised builds, Velocity intends to facilitate the completion of Custom Classics for past customers. This two-part solution ensures that existing clients receive vehicles that honor their initial contracts while assuring a continuity of quality associated with Velocity's high standards.
Looking Ahead
Fast-forward to Wilson's aspirations for the future, where he envisions a factory reaching 165,000 square feet, housing plans to produce 300 to 400 Velocity vehicles and an additional 60 to 70 Classic Recreations each year. The desire for continued growth is palpable, fueled by a blend of passion and strategic foresight.
With his family by his side, Wilson stands at a crucial intersection of personal and professional development. As his daughter grows alongside his expanding business, he balances familial responsibilities with his ambition. The Velocity journey is a reflection of both Wilson’s tenacity and the ongoing maturation of the classic vehicle restoration market.
Ultimately, Velocity Restorations is more than a personal venture; it's a commitment to quality craftsmanship, a culture of restorations, and an ongoing dialogue with nostalgia. The journey not only celebrates classic vehicles but also positions itself to leave an indelible mark on automotive history—showcasing the potent blend of dreams, risks, and rewards.
