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American Honda Releases Consumer-Oriented Video Describing Hazards with Substandard Repairs American Honda Motor Company Inc. has launched on a consumer-oriented educational video titled “ProFirst—Quality Collision Repair.” The
See the video at http://collision.honda.com/ profirst-collision#.VztXZuSrF6I
video can be seen at American Honda’s consumer web site, collision.honda .com. The 4:14 minute video compares two Acura MDX vehicles and stresses reducing the uncertainty of collision repair. One is a normal production vehicle while the other is a vehicle that was previously damaged and repaired incorrectly. The two vehicles were crashed according to IIHS protocols, and the video explores the differences between the two collisions as well as the deliberately substandard repairs. The difference between how each veSee American Honda, Page 13
Results of Refinish-Related “Who Pays For What?” Survey Available Online For Free Nearly 7 out of 10 shops say they need to ‘denib’ or ‘finish sand and buff’ at least three-quarters of the vehicles they paint, yet nearly one-third of shops believe that the top eight in-
surers “never” pay for the extra time it takes to do it. “Not true,” says Mike Anderson of Collision Advice. “Other shops report being paid by the top eight insurers for these operations, according to the results of our ‘Who Pays for What?’ survey series.” Each of the four different “Who Pays for What?” surveys, conduced by Collision Advice and CRASH Network, explores a different area of shop operations, including “Who Pays for What?” in terms of aluminum repair and “not-included” body labor operations, refinish operations, and strucSee Who Pays for What, Page 32
VOL. 34 ISSUE 6 JUNE 2016
Homeland Security’s Bruce Foucart Talks to ABN about Counterfeit OEM Parts by Stacey Phillips, Assistant Editor
With the number of OEM counterfeit parts cases on the rise, Autobody News talked to Bruce Foucart to learn more about where these parts are coming from and what collision repair shops should be aware of. Foucart is the director of the National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center for Homeland Security Investigations in Arlington, VA. He has 30 years of experience as a leader and manager at both the headquarters and field activities of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and its predecessor agency, U.S. Customs Service.
What types of counterfeit parts Q: have you seen during your investigations?
Bruce Foucart,director of the National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center for Homeland Security Investigations
What we have found is that A: every part that goes into a car, whether it is interior or exterior, it’s all being counterfeited now—smart keys, air bags, fuel filters, window shields See Counterfeit Parts, Page 22
CIC Finds More Questions Than Answers as it Begins Look at the “alt-OE” Parts Category
livering those brand new parts to the body shops as ‘alt-OE’ or in some Preliminary discussion at the recent cases as used parts,” Stabler said. Collision Industry Confer“They are brand new in a ence (CIC) held in Seattle, box from the dealer. I think Wash., seemed to indicate that is a worthy item to have there are more questions than as a discussion point. I know answers when it comes to the I get confused when an aftertopic of “alt-OE” or opt-OE” market part supplier deliver parts. a brand new OEM part in an “Have we reached a OEM box to our shop.” Chris Northup point where we need an imStabler said he believes proved definition of what these parts some dealers who sell some of those are?” Chris Northup, chairman of the parts are then applying for the priceCIC Parts Committee, said, in asking matching rebates some automakers CIC participants if it was a topic woroffer to help dealers compete with althy of more work by the committee. ternative part suppliers. For his part, CIC Chairman and “Quite frankly, as an OEM, I’d California shop owner Randy Stabler be feeling a little violated, because supported the committee digging into I’m basically helping an aftermarket the topic. parts supplier or used parts supplier to “There are aftermarket and used make margin,” Stabler said. parts providers purchasing brand new Representatives of a number of See alt-OE Parts Debate, Page 21 OEM parts from the dealer then deby John Yoswick
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COLUMNISTS Attanasio - Indoor Advertising Engages Consumers in Prime Locations . . . . . . 44 Attanasio - Mixing Paints During the Day and Cocktails at Night . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Attanasio - New CAA State President Ted Stein Discusses Industry and its Future . . 17 Luehr - Quality Control in 6 Easy Steps . . 38 Phillips - CA Body Shop Owners Recognized for Achievements After Risking Everything. . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Phillips - CO Shop Manager Shares Thoughts on Aluminum Repair, OEM Certifications & DRPs . . . . . . . . . 26 Yoswick - Northern NACE, Risley Hired by SCRS, Collapse of M2, Insurance Advertising . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
NATIONAL 3M Kicks-Starts CREF Drive for Donations . 57 ABRA Auto Body & Glass Announces Succession Plan, Commences CEO Search . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Aftermarket Parts Disclosure Legislation Passes NH Legislature, Bill is Before Governor for Signature. . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 American Honda Releases ConsumerOriented Video Describing Hazards with Substandard Repairs . . . . . . . . . . . 1 ASA Collision Leaders Hold Meetings on Capitol Hill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Audatex and Driven Brands Announce Strategic Relationship . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 AutoBodyguard Obtains Exclusive Rights to Zavada Odor Elimination Technology . . 59 Autonomous Trucks Conference in
Las Vegas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Axalta Announces 2016 “Paint Outside the Can” Contest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 BASF New National Strategic Accounts Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Blackburn OEM Wheel Solutions New Employee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 CAPA to Form Foundation of Chinese Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Change Can Be Scary but Can Take You to the Next Level in Your Business . . . . 41 CIC Finds More Questions Than Answers as it Begins Look at the “alt-OE” Parts Category . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Collision Repairers Provide Recycled Rides™ Vehicles for First Responders and K9 Partners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 David Luehr Presents Twice at WIN Conference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Environmental Initiatives at CA Body Shop Lead to Cost Savings & Recognition. . . 50 Equalizer Hires Market Development Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 ETI Congratulates New Officers and Board Members for 2016-2017 . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Europe Plans Autonomous License Tests for Cars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 FinishMaster’s Michelle Sullivan Honored as WIN’s 2016 Most Influential Woman . 48 Florida Judge Dismisses “Price Fixing Claims” in MDL Case. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Ford Approves Two U-POL Aerosols for Shops . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 GFS’s REVO Systems Included in Ford Program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 GM Manager Addresses State of Collision Repair Business; Considering Certification Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Google, Uber & Others Form Coalition for Self-Driving Cars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Homeland Security’s Bruce Foucart Talks to ABN About Counterfeit OEM Parts . . . . . 1 House of Kolor Announces New Products for Spring 2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Jeff Peevy Recounts History of Training in the Industry at WIN Conference . . . . 53 June 3 Deadline for CREF & AkzoNobel Grants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Mike’s Auto Body in CA Participates in Every 15 Minutes Program. . . . . . . . . . 24 Mitchell Appoints Debbie Day as General Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Most Decorated Olympic Gymnast Presents Keynote ‘Gold Medal Mindset’ at 2016 WIN Conference. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Motor Guard Introduces Aluminum Spot Repair Tool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 MSO Symposium Reveals Latest Industry Insights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 New SATA Dry Jet 2 Introduced . . . . . . . . 52 Police Officer Found Guilty of Accepting Kickbacks from Local Repair Shop in MD. 55 Poor Road Maintenance Baffles Driverless Cars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Power of the Past, Force of the Future: WIN's 2016 Educational Conference. . . 42 Results of Refinish-Related “Who Pays For What?” Survey Available Online For Free. . 1 Steck Manufacturing’s Antenna Wrench II. . 59 Team Penske’s Simon Pagenaud Races PPGPainted Chevy to Victory in Alabama . . 51 Ultravent: INDASA’s New Multi-Hole System. 59 Vehicle Repair Installment Plans For Sales Growth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 WIN© Honors 2016 Scholarship Recipients at Gala Awards Ceremony . . . . . . . . . . 49
Google has joined forces with Ford, Uber, Lyft and Volvo to help speed autonomous cars to the market. The companies announced the new coalition in April, which will be known as the Self-Driving Coalition for Safer Streets. David Strickland, formerly of the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), will be the coalition’s spokesman. The group will work with regulators and the public to realize the safety and societal benefits of autonomous vehicles, according to a statement released. The market acceptance of semi-autonomous vehicles has been growing in recent years, and this is causing a surge in demand for related products like automotive sensors. These sensors will aid the autonomous vehicles in making appropriate driving decisions, and the market for sensors is expected to grow at a rate of 6.92% by 2020. The connected car market is also growing significantly, with a raft of deals between car manufacturers and tech companies. There is a rising demand from consumers for smart-
Publisher & Editor: Jeremy Hayhurst General Manager: Barbara Davies Assistant Editor: Stacey Phillips Online Editor: Victoria Antonelli Contributing Writers: Tom Franklin, John Yoswick, Janet Chaney, Toby Chess, David Brown, Rich Evans, Ed Attanasio, Chasidy Sisk, David Luehr Advertising Sales: Joe Momber, Sean Hartman, Bill Doyle, Norman Morano (800) 699-8251 Office Manager: Louise Tedesco Content/Social Media Specialist: Cass Heckel Art Director: Rodolfo Garcia
phone features such as making and receiving calls, music on demand, voice messages and infotainment in vehicles. The value of this market is estimated to reach 95.75 billion by 2020. Uber and Lyft said they are keen to get involved in the ride-hailing market by introducing semi and fully autonomous vehicles. The radio taxi services market in the US is forecast to grow 6.6% in value over the next five years, with e-hailing and ridesharing apps transforming the taxi industry. In 2014, NHTSA says about 94 percent of all traffic crashes were caused by human error and this is leading to them seriously considering autonomous technology. They hope to release guidance to states, policymakers and companies on the subject by July. It has previously said that AI system piloting a Google self-driving car could be considered a driver under federal law. For information, visit the Telematics and Vehicle Electronics section at http://www.researchandmarkets.com /rm/OHNJ.
Audi South Austin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Audi Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . 56 AutoNation Chevrolet . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Axalta Coating Systems . . . . . . . . . . 5 BMW Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . 55 Bob Howard PDC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Car-Part.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Certified Automotive Parts Association (CAPA). . . . . . . . . . . 39 ChemSpec USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Chevyland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Chief Automotive. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Classic Auto Group. . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Classic BMW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Classifieds. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Dallas Dodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Dent Magic Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Don Carlton Auto Group . . . . . . . . . 20 Eco Repair Systems of North America, LLC . . . . . . . . . . 37 ECS Automotive Concepts . . . . . . . . 6 Equalizer Industries, Inc . . . . . . . . . 33 FBS Distribution Co., Inc. . . . . . . . . 29 Finnegan Chrysler-Jeep-Dodge . . . . 2 Flatirons Subaru . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Ford Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . 47 GM Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . . 53 Herkules Equipment Corporation. . 26 Honda-Acura Wholesale Parts Dealers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-31 Huffines Chrysler-Jeep-Dodge Lewisville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Serving Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, New Mexico, Arkansas, Colorado and adjacent metro areas. Autobody News is a monthly publication for the autobody industry. Permission to reproduce in any form the material published in Autobody News must be obtained in writing from the publisher. ©2016 Adamantine Media LLC. Autobody News Box 1516, Carlsbad, CA 92018; (800) 699-8251 (760) 603-3229 Fax www.autobodynews.com Email: news@autobodynews.com
Southwest
REGIONAL 20 Under 40: Greeley Auto Spa in CO Takes Top Spot as Top Performer. . . . . . . . . . 18 ASA Vehicle Safety Inspection Forum in TX . 8 ASA-CO Members Learn about Performance Reviews . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Auto Collision Student Surprised with 3M™ Scholarship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Bell County, TX, Shop Busy After Hailstorms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 CARSTAR to Hold MSO Network Event in New Orleans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Casa Kia Joins El Paso Family of Dealerships . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Chaney - Auto Body Association of Texas Regional Meetings a Success . . . . . . . 14 Collision Industry Regional Golf Fundraiser Paves Way for Increased Impact of NABC Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Dent Zone in TX Launches AutoBodyguard Division; Acquires Trident Protection Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 FinishMaster Acquires Gladwin Paint Company in TX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 HABA Encourages Shops to Band Together . 13 Knowledge Exchange Conference Held in LA . 8 New Polyvance Sales Rep for AK, OK, LA & TX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 NWLCRA May Meeting Highlights Include SKILLS USA Winners & Keeping Your Computer Safe. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Phillips - Wisconsin Auto Body Shop Creates USO Mobile Canteen for Troops . . . . . . 34 Service King CFO Formally Recognized . . . 8 TTDA Expands, Rebrands and Honors Tire and Automotive Professional of the Year . . 6 TX Golfers Play for American Heart Association . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 World’s Largest Maaco Holds Grand Opening. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Google, Uber & Others Form Coalition for Self-Driving Cars
Indexof Advertisers
Contents
Hyundai Wholesale Parts Dealers. . 52 Kia Motors Wholesale Parts Dealers. 43 Killer Tools & Equipment. . . . . . . . . . 4 Mazda Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . 50 Mercedes-Benz of Houston Greenway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Mercedes-Benz Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Mike Calvert Toyota. . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Miracle System / Equipment Gateway, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Mitsubishi Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 MOPAR Wholesale Parts Dealers . . 35 NACE / CARS Trade Show . . . . . . . 23 North Freeway Hyundai . . . . . . . . . 36 O’Reilly Auto Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Orio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Polyvance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Ray Huffines Chevrolet . . . . . . . . . . 45 SATA Spray Equipment . . . . . . . . . . 7 South Pointe Chrysler-Jeep-Dodge . 8 Subaru of Little Rock . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Subaru of Pueblo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Subaru Wholesale Parts Dealers . . 51 Toyota of Laredo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Toyota Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . 51 U-POL US . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Volkswagen Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Young Chevrolet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
www.autobodynews.com | JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 3
Poor Road Maintenance Baffles Driverless Cars
Volvo’s North American CEO Lex Kerssemakers reportedly lost his cool as the automaker’s semi-autonomous prototype occasionally refused to drive itself during a press event at the Los Angeles Auto Show writes Alexandria Sage for Claims Journal. “It can’t find the lane markings!” Kerssemakers complained to Mayor Eric Garcetti, who was at the wheel. “You need to paint the bloody roads here!” Decaying infrastructure has become a roadblock to the development of self-driving cars, vexing engineers and adding time and cost. Poor markings and uneven signage on the 3 million miles of paved roads in the United States are forcing automakers to develop more sophisticated sensors and maps to compensate, industry executives say. Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently called the mundane issue of faded lane markings “crazy,” complaining they confused his semi-autonomous cars. An estimated 65 percent of U.S. roads are in poor condition, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation, with the transportation infrastructure system rated 12th in the World Economic Forum’s 20142015 global competitiveness report. Tesla, Volvo, Mercedes, Audi and others are fielding vehicles that can drive on highways, change lanes and park without human help. But they are easily flummoxed by faded lane markers, damaged or
noncompliant signs or lights, and the many quirks of a roadway infrastructure managed by thousands of state and local bureaucracies. In other developed countries, greater standardization of road signs and markings makes it easier for robot cars to navigate. In the U.S., however, traffic lights can be aligned vertically, horizontally or “doghouse” style in two columns. Pavement markings use paint with different degrees of reflectivity—or don’t exist at all. “If the lane fades, all hell breaks loose,” said Christoph Mertz, a research scientist at Carnegie Mellon University. “But cars have to handle these weird circumstances and have three different ways of doing things in case one fails.” To make up for roadway aberrations, carmakers and their suppliers are incorporating multiple sensors, maps and data into their cars, all of which adds cost. Mercedes says its “drive pilot” system works even with no lane markings. The system—which incorporates 23 sensors— takes into account guard rails, barriers, and other cars to keep cars in their lanes up to 84 miles (135km) per hour, under “suitable circumstances.” Estimates are that initial semi-autonomous features add $4,000 to a car’s price and that carmakers will have to spend more than $1 billion over the next decade in research investment for even more sophisticated autonomous features.
The European Transport Safety Council (ETSC) has used a new report to urge for an upgrade of the European Union’s safety homologation standards for new cars to include a driver’s license test for autonomous vehicles. While automated and fully autonomous cars are increasingly headline news, the ETSC has argued that EU legislation is a long way from where it needs to be to allow them to be widely used. “Automated vehicles are already starting to appear on Europe’s roads, but regulators are still stuck in the slow lane,” the ETSC’s Executive Director, Antonio Avenoso, said. “It is crucial that we get a much greater understanding of what the realworld safety benefits would be and what new risks would be introduced before these vehicles are put on sale,” he concluded. The report, “Prioritising the Safety Potential of Automated Driving in Europe,” admits the theoretical benefits of autonomous cars are huge, but cautions. “Other road users, such as cyclists and pedestrians, will not become automated – how will they manage in a world where they can no longer establish eye contact with drivers before crossing the road?”
An autonomous trucks conference was held in Las Vegas, NV May 16-18. Attendees had the opportunity to learn about the upcoming regulations, technologies and hear from states that have fully adopted the idea. With the potential cost-saving opportunities with autonomous technology, commercial trucks are now looking into advancing their systems to autonomous driving or semi-automated technology. Commercial trucks include fleets, OEMs, and Tier 1/2 companies researching and developing the technology to completely take the driver out of the car or at least provide an alternative to a human driver in the vehicle. This is done through a number of technologies installed in the truck using: sensors, cameras, “platooning,” LiDAR, RADAR, connectivity, hardware, software, and of course, security. For more information, visit www.autonomoustrucksevent.com.
Europe Plans Autonomous License Tests for Cars
Autonomous Trucks Conference in Las Vegas
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4 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
Celphy Deals with Bad Road Maintenance
www.autobodynews.com | JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 5
TTDA Expands, Rebrands and Honors Tire and Automotive Professional of the Year Recently, the Texas Tire Dealers Association (TTDA) excitedly announced that the Board of Directors and association members approved a name change to the Texas Tire and Automotive Association (TTAA) as they strive to include more areas of the automotive
TTDA President, Jim Ramsey, owner of Lamb’s Tire & Auto Centers in Austin is on the left and the 2016 Tire & Automotive Services Professional, Raymond Klingemann, owner of Klingemann Car Care Centers is on the right
industry. Executive Director Chuck Space explains, “For the past several years, TTDA leadership has recognized the rapidly changing operation of the independent tire and repair business. Member surveys indicated that a large portion of the membership is increasing their auto repair services as part of
the business diversification plan. The first step in meeting the changing educational and business needs of the membership was in 2014 with the creation of the Texas Tire and Automotive EXPO. Now, as a continuation of this effort to be relevant to member and industry needs, the name change to Texas Tire and Automotive Association will provide a broader umbrella to be more representative of the evolving industry.” This rebranding follows similar business diversification models that have enjoyed success in other regions, such as VA, OH and New England. Jody Jarvis, President of TTAA, states, “The new TTAA Board and management are now charged with the development of new programs and resources that will keep our members on the leading edge of the industry and the car care marketplace.” At TTAA’s 2016 Convention, held in Houston, the association honored Raymond Klingemann as the 2016 Tire and Automotive Professional of the Year. Klingemann and his son-inlaw, Rob Teston, own Klingemann Car Care in Austin, a three-location familyowned business specializing in tires and standard automotive services. Klingemann founded his first tire and automotive business in 1972 and has
CARSTAR to Hold MSO Network Event in New Orleans
CARSTAR Auto Body Repair Experts is celebrating a milestone year in its more than 25-year history this July with the collision repair industry’s largest MSO network event. Themed the “Power of One,” this year’s CARSTAR Conference will be held July 9 to 11, 2016, at the Roosevelt Hotel in the French Quarter. It will open with its annual awards presentation Saturday night to recognize the top-performing franchisees, then shift gears to focus on strategic planning, management and technical education sessions, panel discussions, vendor partner networking events, motivational speakers and an insurance industry forum. “Over the past year, CARSTAR has expanded its presence as the most dynamic company in the collision industry. Our conference will reflect this with an event where store owners, business leaders, vendor partners and insurance companies come together to help build the collective industry for the future,” said Michael Macaluso, President, CARSTAR North America. “This is the largest MSO network event of the year, with an incredible lineup of speakers, education events and networking opportunities exclusively for the CARSTAR store owners. This is just one of the many resources we provide
store owners in the CARSTAR family, and a powerful tool for them to help them gain the edge, grow their business and improve their operations.”
Automotive celebrity Chip Foose, founder of Foose Designs and founder of TLC’s “Overhaulin”, will headline the event. The keynote speaker will be Mark Scharenbroich, motivational speaker and author of “Nice Bike,” who will join Mike Anderson, founder of Collision Advice.com, for several sessions. For more information on the MSO, visit www.carstar.com.
6 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
since supported TTDA (now TTAA) through his leadership as a Board member and by serving as TTDA President in 1993-1994. Also active with the association’s scholarship program and legislative activities, he actively supported
2015-2016 TTDA President Jim Ramsey is on the left and 2016-2017 TTAA President, Jody Jarvis, owner of Jarvis Tire, Wheel and Auto Center in Navasota, Texas is on the right
TTDA’s legislative effort regarding scrap tire issues, rallying tire dealers from around the state to address the industry’s concerns. TTAA’s Tire and Automotive Professional of the Year award is designed to recognize “an individual who has provided exemplary service and dedication to our organization as well as the greater tire and automotive industry,” Space states.
New Polyvance Sales Rep for AK, OK, LA & TX
Polyvance announced the recent hiring of a new full-time company sales representative in the southwest, Jeremy LeMire. LeMire will represent the company in Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. LeMire has six years of sales experience in the automotive collision repair industry. Most recently, he was a regional representative for a major paint company and prior to that was in national sales for a manufacturer of polishes. He began his career with his own construction company in Minnesota and also had a brief stint in retail sales. “Jeremy’s well-rounded background and handson experience will be a benefit to Polyvance’s customers and distributors all over his territory,” said Kurt Lammon, president of Polyvance. LeMire recently received factory training on Polyvance’s I-CAR Industry Training Alliance course. Warehouse distributors, jobbers, and body shops are invited to call Polyvance to request his assistance. Questions? Contact Kurt Lammon at 800-633-3047.
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World’s Largest Maaco Holds Grand Opening
Some say that everything is bigger in Texas. At more than 20,000 square feet, Maaco McKinney is not just the biggest in Texas, it is the largest Maaco facility in the world based on square footage. The shop held a grand opening celebration Friday, May 13. The event featured the No. 88 Axalta Chevrolet SS racecar, driven by NASCAR driver, Dale Earnhardt Jr. Denison-based 97.5 KLAK was on-site with giveaways during the entire event. Maaco McKinney also used the grand opening as a way to support several local charities. With a small donation to the McKinneyBoyd High School Engineering Club’s Living Roof project, customers could enter to win a free paint service. In addition, the Community Lifeline Center was on site to raise awareness about the programs they provide and collect toiletries and canned goods. The shop is located at 190 Industrial Blvd., McKinney, TX 75069. For more information, contact 972-833-2039.
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Knowledge Exchange Conference Held in LA
The Automotive Content Professionals Network (ACPN), a segment community of the Auto Care Association, held its 43rd Knowledge Exchange Conference in New Orleans, LA, May 15-18. Key industry leader presentations, awards ceremonies, a vendor trade show, a town hall, and professional development sessions highlighted the four-day event. Industry executives who participated include Stan Gowisnock, president and CEO, CARDONE Industries; Greg Henslee, president and CEO, O’Reilly Auto Parts; Mark Seng, IHS Automotive; Susan Ulrey, executive director of customer experience, Tenneco; and Bill Hanvey, president and CEO, Auto Care Association. “This year’s conference delivered a robust agenda of learning and networking opportunities for our members in one of American’s most exciting and colorful cities,” said Doreen Slayter, ACPN president and director, content services, Advance Auto Parts. “The vendor trade show and learning lounge, featuring 35 exhibiting content management professionals, demonstrated new technology and solutions and fostered vendor collaboration.” For information, visit www.auto care.org.
8 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
Service King CFO Formally Recognized
Service King Collision Repair Centers’ Chief Financial Officer, Michelle Frymire, was formally recognized in April as a finalist for Outstanding CFO of the Year at D CEO Magazine’s 2016 Financial Executives of the Year awards banquet. The event, hosted inside the Hilton Anatole in Dallas, brought together 24 of Dallas-Fort Worth’s most accomplished financial executives from the last year, spanning a vast array of industries. Frymire was selected from a field of more than 200 original candidates before she was named one of three finalists for the CFO of the Year award in the large private company category. Frymire, who joined Service King in early 2015, helped guide the organization through the industry’s current consolidation movement. As the company’s top financial executive, she oversaw more than 25 mergers and acquisitions in the last 12 months. During that time, Service King grew to more than 6,000 teammates in 23 states while the company officially eclipsed the $1 billion annual run-rate mark for the first time.
ASA Vehicle Safety Inspection Forum in TX
The Automotive Service Association (ASA) will hold the third Vehicle Safety Inspection Forum in Houston, Oct. 19, 2016. The purpose of the forum is to bring together shop owners, industry leaders and policymakers to discuss the importance of periodic motor vehicle inspection (PMVI) programs and what can be done to protect these programs. ASA will publish more information about the program, including registration information, soon. Last December, ASA held its second annual PMVI event in St. Louis, MO. If interested, you can see the recording on ASA’s YouTube Channel. The event is divided into three parts: Part 1: https://youtu.be/GfQsuJ8o30E Part 2: https://youtu.be/5fyTtgfz4hE
Part 3: https://youtu.be/Zkhzq-oTWrc For information about ASA, visit www.ASAshop.org, or ASA’s legislative website at www.TakingTheHill .com.
Collision Industry Regional Golf Fundraiser Paves Way for Increased Impact of NABC Programs A full field of golfers representing all facets of the collision industry, with Enterprise Rent-A-Car as presenting sponsor and 33 additional industry leaders as sponsors, joined forces in Dallas, Texas. The event is one of several regional golf fundraisers by the National Auto Body Council (NABC) to increase awareness of its community service programs in local communities across the country, and to provide NABC members and supporters a fun, casual way to build and enhance their network of regional connections and relationships.
fundraising and industry awareness event. The generosity and enthusiasm from so many of our industry partners underscores the true commitment to the National Auto Body Council’s mission to showcase the professional-
Representatives from Service King-Euless and Allstate teamed up on a Recycled Rides vehicle for a Family Promise of Irving recipient
Toyota of Dallas, a Berkshire Hathaway Automotive company, refurbished a vehicle from State Farm, for Elizabeth Gomez and her daughters
Quisha Darcus with her family’s new vehicle from Caliber Collision-Coleyville and State Farm
“We are elated with the support and collaboration for this regional
ism and integrity of the collision industry,” said Domenic Brusco of PPG Automotive Refinish and NABC chairman. According to Brusco, proceeds from the golf fundraiser will help to ultimately change and save lives through increased delivery of the NABC’s signature Recycled Rides™ program, First Responder Emergency Extrication (FREE™) program and the Distracted
Driving Initiative in cooperation with AT&T. To showcase the impact of Recycled Rides, NABC members presented newly-refurbished vehicles to three Dallas-area families. The vehi-
cles were donated by State Farm and Allstate, repaired by Service King-Euless, Caliber Collision-Coleyville and Toyota of Dallas, a Berkshire Hathaway Automotive company, with contributions of parts and services by numerous NABC members. “Each one of us who witnessed the joy and relief as these families received keys to their new Recycled Rides vehicles are now even more committed to collaborating with our industry colleagues to make an impact in our local communities,” said Darren Huggins of Berkshire Hathaway Automotive and chair of the Dallas golf fundraiser. “The regional golf event was an opportunity for many individuals and organizations who previously were unaware of NABC’s programs to join the growing momentum generated by NABC members across the country.”
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Casa Kia Joins El Paso Family of Dealerships
Casa Ford Lincoln and Casa Nissan, a third-generation family-owned and operated dealership group, located in El Paso, Texas, has opened a third dealership, Casa Kia. “Our new Casa Kia dealership, formerly Integrity Kia, will serve El Paso and the surrounding region under the same set of principles that guide each of our Casa dealerships: Redefining the car business with humility, integrity, respect and strong moral values— the Casa way,” said Vice President and General Manager, Luke Lowenfield. It’s how we run our business every single day. We believe the Kia brand has substantial growth opportunity in this market and will complement our other dealerships by offering more choices under the highly-respected Casa brand.” Casa Kia is now a part of the Casa Ford Lincoln, Casa Nissan group of dealerships founded by Wallace Lowenfield in 1969, now in its third generation of local, family ownership. For information, call Luke Lowenfield at 915-248-3521 or visit www.CasaKiaElPaso.com today.
Dent Zone in TX Launches AutoBodyguard Division; Acquires Trident Protection Systems Dent Zone Companies has announced the creation of AutoBodyguard, Inc., a division offering automotive appearance programs and vehicle protection products. The products, which include interior and exterior vehicle protection, also encompass additional consumer coverage benefits such as tire and wheel, windshield, automobile deductible reimbursement and dent protection. “The creation of this division puts us in a position to provide a comprehensive portfolio,” explains Troy Good, Dent Zone President and CEO. “We are now able to offer a full suite of products designed to provide consumers with the best vehicle protection available while supporting dealers’ profitability objectives.” In preparation for this launch, AutoBodyguard acquired Trident Protection Systems, a pioneer in the use of nanotechnology for interior and exterior automotive protection products. AutoBodyguard now manufactures all chemicals for its automotive protection products in their facility in Irving, Texas, which has the capacity to support large volume custom or-
ASA-CO Members Learn about Performance Reviews
ASA-CO members learn all they need to know about performance reviews with Stacia Hamp
On April 11, the ASA-CO held a Learning Circle on Performance Reviews at Community Auto in Fort Collins, CO, which was attended by 14 automotive service professionals. The meeting was facilitated by Stacia Hamp, ASA board director and
Free
general manager of Community Auto, who explained, “We discussed performance reviews, including how to conduct an effective review and how it can enhance your staff’s personal and professional development, as well as your relationship with them.” Hamp said the meeting exceeded her expectations. She noted, “It was a facilitated group discussion. Everyone had input and shared their experiences as well as ‘little nuggets of information’ that you can get from a book or formal training. I had an outline to guide us, but the real learning came from everyone’s input.” She said ASA-CO’s Learning Circle format is beneficial to members because it provides an opportunity to learn from one another using realworld examples. “There is strength in numbers,” Hamp stated. “Top notch service and success for all is a byproduct if we band together.”
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ders, including private label opportunities for vehicle manufacturers, large dealer groups and third party administrators.
Dent Zone is headquartered at Las Colinas, Texas
Seasoned industry expert John Martin has been named President of AutoBodyguard. Martin has spent nearly 40 years in the business, working first for his father’s company, which became a distributor for CalTex Protective Coatings and later sold to the chemical provider. He ascended in leadership to become the Executive Vice President of Corporate Development and later served on the company’s Board of Directors as Chairman. “Trident was a great addition for us in many respects,” said Martin.
“Not only did they have a loyal customer base with strong revenues, their non-toxic product formulations, particularly in nanotechnology used in exterior paint protection, have been consistently among the best in the industry. “ AutoBodyguard is developing an indirect distribution channel through top performing agents and building its national network under the leadership of Christine DeGuglielmo, their Vice President of Sales. DeGuglielmo brings over 30 years of industry experience in automotive sales and F&I, including 14 years in the chemical protection business. “We now have the right products to complete the AutoBodyguard brand and the right leadership in place to drive it,” said Troy Good. “We are expecting growth in the next year to be exponential.“ In addition to the automotive industry, AutoBodyguard products will be available for the recreational vehicle and power sports marketplaces. For more information, contact Susan Neuhalfen by phone 832-4654762 or by email susanneuhalfen@ gmail.com
www.autobodynews.com | JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 11
FinishMaster Acquires Gladwin Paint Company in TX
On May 4, Gladwin Automotive Paint and its eight locations were acquired by FinishMaster, Inc, a subsidiary of Uni-Select, Inc. FOCUS Investment Banking represented Gladwin in the transaction which is one of the largest ever in the jobber industry. Gladwin is located throughout Texas with over 130 employees, providing automotive refinish paints
quisition process as well.” David Roberts, Managing Director and Automotive Group team leader for FOCUS Investment Banking, commented, “FOCUS is proud to have assisted Gladwin in successfully achieving this impressive liquidity event. As one of the premier jobbers in the US, they have demonstrated how to grow and adapt in a rapidly changing industry.”
and supplies as well as comprehensive training, consulting, and software services. Larry Pyle, Gladwin President and CEO commented, “Finding a new home with FinishMaster will allow our team to continue its rapid growth and provide enhanced services and value to our customers. FOCUS helped provide a deal beneficial to all parties involved after years of hard work by all of our teammates and partners over decades of building the business. FinishMaster was a great partner throughout the ac-
Managing Director Rick Thomas who led the transaction for FOCUS added, “Larry Pyle and Layla Maus and the entire Gladwin team really impressed us with their professionalism, drive and knowledge.” Gladwin Paint Company is the latest in a number of high profile paint jobber transactions represented by FOCUS, including Kayfield Automotive of Delaware, Painter’s Supply of Colorado and Refinish Solutions of Virginia. For more information on FinishMaster, visit www.finishmaster.com.
12 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
Bell County, TX, Shop Busy After Hailstorms by Amanda del Castillo, KCENTV.com
The last major hailstorm to hit Central Texas was in March 2014. Back then, Cliff Coleman’s auto body shop repaired 363 cars from hail damage.
Credit: KCENTV.com
By noon on April 29, C.A.R.S Collision Center had already received close to ten calls regarding overnight damage. People were calling with questions about dents- nothing too substantial or significant. However, the trail of hail dam-
age reached far past Central Texas. Coleman said his shop is seeing vehicles from both Dallas-Fort Worth and San Antonio, as those areas have also seen plenty of hailstorm damage in the recent weeks. Coleman said there is a current back-order on car parts including hood and roof replacements. Getting parts sent in could take anywhere from four to five weeks. Good news for people living in Central Texas though, the anticipated minimal damage is allowing for quick repairs. KCEN spoke with Bell County residents who took their own preventative measures. Some even covering their cars with blankets and towels. Belton resident, Mark Harmsen said the hail concerned him most about the recent storm. He pointed us in the direction of Tiger Car Wash in Belton. He said when the surrounding neighborhood is expecting hail, people park their cars underneath the awning to prevent hailstorm damage. We would like to thank KCENTV .com for repint permission.
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TX Golfers Play for American Heart Association A sold-out course of 144 golfers played at the inaugural Caliber Classic to raise nearly $60,000 to help the American Heart Association fight heart disease.
The inaugural Caliber Classic Golf Tournament in Dallas, Texas, raised nearly $60,000 to benefit the American Heart Association.(l to r) Dave Smith, Caliber VP of Procurement, Steve Grimshaw, Caliber CEO and Tim Walsh, CEO of AutoWorks PDR
Proceeds from the golf tournament, hosted by Caliber Collision at The Tribute at The Colony Golf Club in May will go towards a $4 million fundraising goal for the 2016 Côtes du Coeur event series, a premiere fundraising campaign held annually in Dallas, TX to benefit the American Heart Association. The event series culminated May 14 with a wine and dinner gala at the Dallas Omni Hotel. The 2016 Côtes du Coeur
fundraiser was chaired by Caliber Collision CEO Steve Grimshaw and his wife Melissa, who have been supporting the American Heart Association for over 10 years. Grimshaw has served on the board of the American Heart Association for the past two years. “It’s my honor and privilege to serve as chair of this year’s Côtes du Coeur,” said Grimshaw. “Caliber Collision is dedicated to restoring the rhythm of lives in every community we serve. I am humbled and grateful to all of our many colleagues, partners and teammates at Caliber Collision, who have so generously stepped up to pledge their support to the American Heart Association.” Key sponsors of the 1st Annual Caliber Classic Golf tournament included: ● Presenting Sponsor – ProTech Electronics ● Gold Sponsors – LKQ Corporation, PWC and AJ Bart ● Silver Sponsors – Dent Wizard, Garmat, AutoWorks PDR, Global Finishing Solutions and AutoNation Chevrolet ● Over 35 additional local and national business sponsors also signed up to support Caliber’s efforts.
Continued from Cover
American Honda
hicle fared is dramatic and accentuates the need for proper repair using the correct tools, equipment and procedures. The video also highlights American Honda’s network of ProFirst certified collision shops and the fact that they have the right skills, training, equipment, and information to make proper vehicle repairs. “The use of high strength steel, ultra-high strength steel, aluminum, and other exotic and innovative weight-saving materials will only increase as we moved towards ever-increasing CAFE standards” said Leigh Guarnieri, American Honda’s manager of the Collision Marketing group. “Making proper repairs on these vehicles is crucial to the safety of our Honda and Acura customers. This will continue to be the driving force behind our ProFirst program.” The video highlights American Honda’s ProFirst collision repair network and the difference it can make in repairing a vehicle.
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HABA Encourages Shops to Band Together
The Houston Auto Body Association (HABA) held its sixth annual Body Shop Owner & Manager Appreciation event on May 10 at the Cadillac Bar. Greg Luther, body shop operations director at Helfman Collision Center, said it was the largest event to date. In additon to body shops, industry-supporting vendors and sponsors also attended the event. Following the meeting, Luther commented, “HABA feels shops should band together, stop fearing competition from each other and embrace other shops as industry partners. We can work together standing up for the consumer, performing proper repairs and getting paid to do so. We believe shops can work with the insurance companies but should not cater to them. Shops must remember to put the vehicle owner first because they are the customer. The Houston Auto Body Association believes we can create an environment where shops and insurance providers will co-exist in a mutually-beneficial partnership serving our customers. We have a long way to go but we will not give up.”
www.autobodynews.com | JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 13
Associations Update
Janet Chaney has been a long-time contributor to Autobody News. She’s a former shop owner and now owns and operates Cave Creek Business Development in Stevensville, Montana. Janet supports many auto body associations can be reached at jchaney.cavecreek@gmail.com
Auto Body Association of Texas Regional Meetings a Success with Janet Chaney
The Auto Body Association of Texas (ABAT) second quarter regional meetings were held May 4 in Plano, TX and May 5 in Tyler, TX. The well-attended meetings brought three highly respected industry leaders to Texas. Ken Boylan, global training manager, Chief Industries, Carl Dumele, Aeromotive and Jake Rodenroth, Collision Diagnostic Services, all focused on the ‘new’ future of the collision repair industry. The May 4 meeting was held at the new Collision Diagnostic Services (CDS) center in Plano, a surburb close to Dallas. Collision Diagnostic Services is the company that brings the As Tech scanner to the collision repairer. This recently-opened facility is the second CDS service center following the corporate headquarters in Jacksonville, Florida. Attendees watched the ‘online’ technicians in action as they were remotely scanning cars from anywhere in the country. ABAT, as everyone in Texas calls the Auto Body Association of Texas, is an enthusiastic, driven young association. They are focused on the success of the collision repair facility, doing the job right and getting paid for it. President Burl Richards, Burls Collision Center, Henderson, Texas, opened the meeting with a State of the Association report. ABAT is beginning the legislative process, working with the Texas Auto Dealers Association. As a first legislative effort, they may look at a database manipulation initiative, similar to laws passed in Minnesota and Montana. Richards reported that the ABAT board is working on a Trade Show and Education Days, featuring Mike Anderson, September 16 and 17 of this year. “This is so exciting,” he said. “It will be the first auto body expo in Texas since NACE, 2003!” He was also happy to report that association membership is growing and encouraged all shops to participate in their future with this association. The three presenters covered a lot of ground, each topic blending into the other, focusing on the in-depth critical importance of the new learning curve. Significant industry change was the message. Boylan opened the presentation with an overview of new materials and
repair processes, highlighting the critical and rapid change of materials and processes being built into today’s new cars without the repairer knowing of the changes. “The critical piece to every collision repairer needs to start with training and education,” stated Boylan. He spoke of the potential for dangerous repairs when the repairer assumes materials will be the same on vehicles as it has been in the past. “OEM recommended repair procedures, training and education are the key to a safe and proper repair. Continuous training and education for technicians,” he said. Carl Dumele, Aeromotive, brings another efficient and useful process to collision repairers. Aeromotive specializes in repairing damaged wire harnesses and pigtails. How many times are people waiting on a wiring harness, maybe totaling a car? Dumele offered, “Aeromotive is always working on innovative designs to assist the collision industry in overcoming automotive electrical obstacles.” ABAT member Chad Kiffe of Berli’s Body Shop in Austin rented a van and brought several shop owners with him to Plano. Kiffe, who already has multiple OEM certifications, was encouraged from the information this meeting offered. Here is what he said: “After attending the ABAT meeting last Thursday, I made a change in our repair procedures effective the following day. During the Astech2 presentation by Jake Rodenroth, a 2015 Mustang was used as an example of the importance of looking up OEM repair procedures. On the new 2015 Mustang body design, when replacing a quarter panel, the roof must also be replaced. Jake made a statement that hit home during his presentation. Jake brought up a situation that he had with one of his technicians when he worked in the body shop business. Jake said he asked his technician if he knew the proper way to repair or replace an item on a repair that the tech was working on. The tech responded that, ‘I have been doing this for 30 years; I think I know what I’m doing.” The truth is in today’s repairs what may be approved by one manufacturer may not be approved by another. What may have been approved on last year’s model may not be ap-
14 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
proved on this year’s model. We, as repair shops, are ultimately responsible for our repairs and we cannot rely on our technicians to know everything concerning the vehicles we repair. Come to find out on a 2014 Mustang, Ford has a sectioning procedure on the quarter that allows the quarter to be sectioned in at the sail panel. This is a normal procedure that technicians have been doing for years on most makes. However, on the new 2015 Mustang this is not an option. I wonder how many quarter panels have been replaced on the new Mustang body design based on the previous model’s recommendations. Our market is changing so rapidly that we cannot take the chance of being wrong. Although we found ourselves looking up OEM procedures often we now look up OEM procedures for ALL weld or riveted on replacement parts along with any electrical resets that may be required. This is just another example of how the ABAT meetings are helping
2118 South Padre Island Drive Corpus Christi, TX 78416
Texas shops fix vehicles correctly. In the past year I have been able to build a repair network with individuals that are trying to fix vehicles properly and it has been awesome thanks to ABAT!!” The commitment of the ABAT board of directors and membership commands respect from the rest of the industry. They are fierce in their dedication to each other, to fixing the vehicles properly and managing a sustainable business. Board member Chad Neal, Paint Works, Tyler, Texas, has been a driving force in the success of ABAT and shared these thoughts, “I left the meeting thinking about Burl’s statement. ‘If you think you know, you don’t know.’ That’s more relative in our industry than ever! Without organizations like ABAT, it would be very difficult for shops to stay informed. I thought the last meeting was an excellent eye opener for those who attended. We need more training and information than ever.”
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Western Associations
Ed Attanasio is an automotive journalist based in San Francisco, California. He can be reached at era39@aol.com.
New CAA State President Ted Stein Discusses Industry and its Future with Ed Attanasio
Ted Stein, 52, has been an officer for the California Autobody Association (CAA) for many years, and for 201617, he is the organization’s State President for the second time. Stein is the Fixed Operations Director at Penske
The new State President for CAA Ted Stein (left) is pictured here with Alan Mulally, the former CEO of Ford Motor Co.
Ford in La Mesa, CA and has a total of 38 years in the industry. Autobody News sat down recently with Stein to discuss the state of the collision repair
industry in California and nationwide.
of available technicians.
What are some of the obstacles So have you had any problems Q: Q: that body shops are encounterwith anybody trying to take your ing now? employees?
So the struggles today are the Somebody once said that the A: A: same as they were 20 years ago. reason body men have wheels Getting paid for everything you need on their tool boxes is because they jump
to do in order to return these cars to their pre-accident physical condition is still the main issue. Today’s cars are so sophisticated and training is ongoing and continuous if you want to stay upto-date. The expenses keep going up and yet our rates are the same after twenty years, so we’re being held back that way when all we want to do is a good job. People say there are not enough trained technicians, but I don’t believe there is a shortage. I think there is an over abundance of repairers. There’s too much capacity, so if 30 percent of the shops in the country closed tomorrow, we’d have an ample supply
ship so much, but we’ve been blessed with a lot of longevity. We haven’t had that problem. I’m told it seems like if you have one slow pay period, technicians are looking to move on. It’s tough and other shops often tell me that the loyalty just isn’t there. That’s one of the strange things about this dealership, we’ve had so many employees with 2530 years of service here and everybody that comes to visit says that’s just unheard of. You can take care of your people and weather the storms and sometimes it’s not all about the paycheck. My son wanted to go into body and paint and I just wasn’t going to hear of it. It’s not the same business it was when I got into it. His argument was that I’ve had a great life and it provided well for all of us. And then I told him that’s why you’re going to college and you better stick with it.
What do you think about the Q: “Rush to Aluminum” that has been a big deal for the past 2-3 years
while shops gear up for these new vehicles?
There’s a race to make the car A: stronger and lighter. And if there’s somebody with that technology that can bring it to an auto manufacturer —that’s your next billionaire. That race continues. What the auto manufacturers are spending to save ounces on a vehicle and still make it safe—it’s jaw dropping. So I think you’ll continue to see material changes, and I believe many of them haven’t even been invented yet.
Avery from State Farm, said that in a world where it’s all autonomous vehicles—do they still need me and you? And it was a great question because these vehicles don’t get into accidents. So, I told him that there will always be shopping carts that run into cars and trees and hailstorms that fall on vehicles. There will always be body shops, but not as many once self-drivers become prevalent.
What would you tell somebody Q: considering entering this industry now—either as an owner, technician or estimator?
To someone who wants to own a A: shop, I would tell them that there is still opportunity for the stand-alone collision repairer to make it and be successful, but they’re going to have to know their numbers. I would strongly urge them to be involved in a trade association. They need to be an active participant in their facility and work on the business as much as they work in the business. For someone entering the industry as a tech or estimator, I think it’s a great business. It has its ups and downs—it’s a retail business and there are all those challenges in the retail world but there’s always somebody coming up with a niche. The cars are safer today and they just don’t wreck as frequently. There’s crash avoidance technology like crazy and it’s only going to increase at a high rate. And I see consolidation, but I actually believe that it’s going to peak at some point. I don’t think that’s a viable book of business for any insurer to have all their eggs in two or three consolidators’ baskets. That’s just my personal opinion.
People say that prior to 1990 Q: was the Golden Age of collision repair, but now many shops say they’re
chronically underpaid by the insurance companies. Do you agree with that?
Do you think self-driving cars Yes, that’s the case because it’s Q: will hurt the collision repair inA: back to the capacity issue. dustry? There’s always the guy down the street
A:
I have to admit that I’m a little nervous about these autonomous vehicles. A friend of mine, George
that’s willing to do it for less to get the volume because he can’t get the volume otherwise. In many ways, it feels like a See Ted Stein Discusses, Page 33
www.autobodynews.com | JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 17
20 Under 40: Greeley Auto Spa in CO Takes Top Spot as Top Performer work for free. “I literally worked for free,” he said. Zack Wirth has some clear motiva- Wirth, who didn’t finish school past tion. It dates back to the time he left the ninth grade, has earned his educahome at 15 and worked for free to get tion in business through the years. his feet under him in a trade. He lived After those humble beginnings, he in a shed in his friend’s backyard for a moved to Nebraska, where he opened few months because he couldn’t af- a window-tinting business with a ford rent anywhere else. friend. That business continues to op“I don’t want to go back to that erate today. shed,” said Wirth, sitting comfortably There, he met Ricque, who was — now 17 years later — with a place selling cars. to call home, his own business and a In 2014, he and Ricque moved to future worth savoring. Colorado, with their three kids and with dreams of starting another business. “I’m one of those who firmly believes if you want something, you figure out how you’re going to get it,” Wirth said. “You make a plan and set goals.” The couple started the Greeley Auto Spa in a 1,400square-foot shop; within Zack Wirth, right, and his wife Ricque buff a Lamborghini months, they doubled their on Wednesday at their detailing shop, Greeley Auto Spa, size. That first year, the com3620 35th Ave., in Greeley. The Wirths were chosen for pany did roughly $37,000 in the Tribune’s 20 Under 40 contest, which recognizes the top business performers younger than 40 in Weld County. sales; by year two, they were Credit: Joshua Polson, The Greeley Tribune up to $218,000, Wirth said. He and his wife, Ricque, own the “I want to hit a half a million by Greeley Auto Spa, 3620 35th Ave. They next year,” he said. recently received the most votes in The He wants to open a third location, Tribune’s 20 Under 40 contest, which as well, but he estimates he’ll have to recognizes the top business performers gross $5 million before that happens. younger than 40 in Weld County. Having only spent two years in Those nominating the couple laud Greeley, without gaining work from them for rising high in such a small auto dealerships to boost customer voltime, after starting the business just umes, the Wirths have had to work two years ago. Today, they have six hard to sell their detailing, tinting and employees and two locations. glossing services. “I’m excited,” Wirth said. “It’s definitely something that is amazing to be recognized for the short period of time we’ve been here — only two years. “For people to be saying the things they’re saying, it’s an honor, without a doubt. I’m kind of speechless.” Both are 33. The business gene came to Wirth early. He left his mother’s home in Pharr, Texas, when he was 15. He Zack Wirth cleans off a mirror as his wife lived in that shed at his friend’s house Ricque peers over his shoulder on Wednesday while at their detailing shop, Greeley Auto Spa. for a good six months before he could Credit: Joshua Polson, The Greeley Tribune raise enough money to pay rent on some decent living quarters. They enter their own cars in car It was then that he approached a shows, and let the interest come to man who detailed cars and asked to them. The shine off their cars brings in learn the trade. the curious. It’s not wax that makes the “I knew nothing at all,” he said, cars so shiny. It’s a coating — Ceramic looking back. “I went to him and told Pro — that only Greeley Auto Spa has him I wanted to learn how to make the rights to sell in northern Colorado. these cars look proper, and I said I’d The coating, which he equates to putby Sharon Dunn, The Tribune
18 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
ting a layer of glass on top of a car, is impervious to bugs, tars, tree saps or bird droppings. Frankly, he said, the Ceramic Pro is a selling point, as it eliminates the need to wax. When people at car shows ask about his corvette, he gladly tells him the secret to the shine. Then the money rolls into his Greeley and now Loveland shops. He routinely works on high-dollar sports cars, such as Lamborghinis and Porsches. He’s done it all by the sweat of his brow. His drive keeps him working six days a week, most days from 7 a.m. until midnight — the body shop by day, the computer and marketing stuff by night. “People tell me I’m crazy all the time,” Wirth said. “But just watch. I’ll show you. The biggest thing is when people doubt me. I’m like, ‘You want to doubt me now? I’m going to come back 10 times harder.’ I don’t like to be told, ‘You can’t do that, there’s no way.’ “I’ll find a way. I have to,” he said. “I don’t know what I’m trying to prove. But that’s my fuel.” He and Ricque are raising three kids and will delight in the day their son runs the business and feeds them their
pills (presumably to deal with old age). Wirth taught Ricque the ropes, and she works right alongside him. They are working on ways to donate and help others, and create a charity for veterans.
Zack Wirth sprays off a Lamborghini on Wednesday at the Greeley Auto Spa. The spa occasionally handles super cars such as the Lamborghini. Credit: Joshua Polson, The Greeley Tribune
While he wants to grow, and grow big, he says he’ll never lose that family atmosphere. “I hate corporations. I will never work for a corporation, and I will never become corporate. No matter how big I grow,” Wirth said, “I will stay small, family-oriented. In a corporation, you’re just a number. My people are not just numbers.” We would like to thank The Tribune for reprint permission.
www.autobodynews.com | JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 19
NWLCRA May Meeting Highlights Include SKILLS USA Winners & Keeping Your Computer Safe The Northwest Louisiana Collision Repair Association (NWLCRA) meeting was held on May 3 at the Country Tavern Barbecue. The meeting was called to order by Chris Shepherd, NWLCRA president, by reading the antitrust law. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Abigail Shepherd. Some of the winners of the 2016 SKILLS USA High School competition were at the meeting including Austin Wallace, Automotive Refinish Technology Gold winner, and Levi Glasgow, Collision Repair Technology Gold winner. Clete Stewart, Automotive Refinish Technology Silver winner, was not present. However, Joshua Jackson, Collision Refinish Technology Gold winner for the Post Secondary SKILLS USA competition, was there. Jackson won Bronze in the 2015 competition.
From left to right, Austin Wallace, Mark Monroe - Instructor, and Levi Glasgow
The NWLCRA said it is fortunate to have this local talent and congratulated all who competed. The high school winners will be going to Nationals in Louisville, Kentucky, June 20-24. A motion was made by Jackie Boyd of Holmes Auto Group for $100 to be given to the local winners from SKILLS USA heading to nationals, to help with costs. This motion was seconded by Kevin Adams of Krystal Auto Collision. The motion passed unanimously. Other news discussed was grant money that has been obtained to help with local work force development. There will be a meeting on May 20 at Caddo Career and Technology Center from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. to discuss the particulars of this grant program. Those interested or wanting more information should contact Gary Weese at (318) 834-6633. All Data sent promotional items to the meeting to be
Free
given to all who attended. Thank you to All Data for the mugs, mouse pads, and other items. Daniel Wheeler with Software Works Consulting was the guest speaker. He discussed four major things to keep in mind in order to keep your computers safe. The first step is the user. No matter how great your security software is, if someone allows the attack by opening an email that has an attachment without verifying the email was sent from a trusted source, the computer can become compromised. Educating the computer user on the proper way to use business computers is of the utmost importance. Keep your employees who use computers up-to-date on the latest methods hackers use to try and trick people. Next, keep all of your software current. Not only the software you use from your venders, i.e., Mitchell, CCC, etc., but even your browsers, operating system, and offline email readers, to name a few. He demonstrated how to update Google Chrome as an example of updating the browsers. Wheeler also told the association of a company that will do all the updating for you automatically. It’s free for personal use, but could possibly slow the system down as it runs in the background. For those interested, this software can be found at www.secunia.com. Passwords were discussed as being the most sought-after by hackers because most people use very simple passwords, and the same password for every account needing a password. If hackers learn the password, they will have access to all accounts of that user. Once that happens, the user is in for a nightmare, trying to get new accounts established and canceling the old accounts before damage can be done. He gave a demonstration of a free password management program called Keepass. This program generates secure passwords for you or allows you to use your own passwords. It also can open your browser to the login page and type the user name and password for you. Some simple steps had to be completed before Keepass would do
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this. The official website for Keepass can be found by going to http://keepass .info/. From there, you can read how to install and operate Keepass. The last thing to keep your computers safe is to always back up your systems. Wheller stated that things happen that might not be a result of a virus or malware, but could just be an equipment failure of some type. A hard drive
Joshua Jackson - Post Secondary SKILLS USA winner
could fail, and without a backup, everything would be lost. You might be able to re-install the software you were using, but the data the software created will be lost. The only safe way to keep this from happening is to always have a backup. There are companys that make backing up an automatic process. If you use an automatic process, you still need to verify that the process completed.
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Some businesses have set up automatic processes and then had a failure and learned the process wasn’t completing properly. Therefore, if you have automatic backups, verify they are in fact backing up your data. Wheeler said the most important way to keep your computers safe is to use a security program. He said that smartphones are computers and should have security programs too. Many security software programs slow computers down when they scan for viruses. Wheeler said that he learned of a security program called ESET from an engineer with Mitchell. ESET is known for having a small footprint, which allows the computer to be used without the slow down seen with most other security programs. He stated he has used ESET for years and has seen how ESET has successfully kept viruses from spreading from an infected computer on a network to the other computers on that network. ESET also has security for smartphones. Wheeler said he didn’t receive anything for recommending ESET, he just knows they offer great security software. They can be found at www.eset.com.
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he said. “We can’t get involved in what the dealer does, how he sells, what discount he offers to the marketplace, nor how he has created a [parts] category automakers at CIC seemed to have with the information providers and just as many questions about “alt-OE” who he’s trying to sell to.” parts as other CIC attendees. But Eck did say GM has “outlet “I can tell you that I’ve been tryshop parts” sold by some dealers. ing to find out what opt-OE is myself,” “Those parts are non-installed Ben Cid of Mercedes-Benz said. “That excess inventory from our plants,” designation didn’t come from the OEs. he said. “They might be scratched, We don’t know what that is. slightly blemished, missing We’re trying to find the same some trim work. Any of our thing out.” dealers can participate in Gary Ledoux of Amerithat if they choose.” can Honda concurred. “Honda Whether those parts are doesn’t have ‘opt-OE parts’, being sold as “alt-OE” or “optwe don’t have ‘blem-parts’, OE” seemed unclear. Eck said we don’t have ‘second’ parts,” he “believes” they are in the Bill Eveland he said. “I’ve heard there are estimating systems as “OE ‘opt-OE’ Honda parts out there, but I surplus” and have different part numdon’t know where the heck they are bers to identify them as surplus. coming from or how they are getting out Knowing What To Expect there. I’m in the dark about that.” But this kind of confusion and inconJohn Eck of General Motors sistency led Brett Bailey of A&B agreed that the “alt-OE” or “opt-OE” CARSTAR in Missouri to point out categories have not been established that one of the biggest challenges for by the automakers, but he also doesshops is not knowing what to expect n’t think “conquest” parts-matching in terms of the different types of parts rebates are involved. listed in the estimating databases as “The distribution network has “alt-OE” or “opt-OE.” created this category, not the OEMs,” Continued from Cover
alt-OE Parts Debate
“If I get an estimate from an insuran opt-OE part, we are selling that as a ance company that says ‘alt-OE,’ it can brand-new OEM quality, unblemished mean a plethora of different things,” packaged part just like an OEM would,” Bailey said. “I don’t have the option for Bryan Mandell of B&R Auto Wreck‘OEM-blem’ or ‘OEM-overrun’; they ing said. “But the vetting process is reall get lumped into one category. But ally up to the suppliers because we have that scratch or nick or whatever the case to provide that information to the estiis has to be repaired, which is additional mating systems. There’s a very big diflabor that we struggle to get compenference…in the types of parts that seem sated for. These parts are not being catto fall into this category. And that’s a big egorized in the right manner and placed problem. We need to do a strong job of on the estimate in the right classifying those parts at our manner. This problem needs end and selling them transparto be fixed, and needs to be ently, as what they actually fixed quickly.” are.” Bill Eveland of Eveland The discussion in Seattle Bros. Collision Repair Cenmade it clear that it’s a topic ter agreed. the CIC Parts Committee will “The database times are be addressing at future meetKye Yeung predicated on a new, undaming. aged panel, a part that out of the box Need to Measure Every Vehicle can be scuffed and painted and put on Also at CIC in Seattle, California shop the car” he pointed out. “I’ve yet to owner Kye Yeung used slow-motion get [an opt-OE part] that meets that video of vehicle crash-testing to show qualification The insurance company how vehicle design is increasingly may win price-wise; we lose on our transferring the energy forces from a end. And it disrupts the workflow and crash over, around or under the occuincreases cycle time.” pant compartment of the vehicle. That One supplier of “opt-OE” parts at transfer can result in collision damage CIC agreed with Bailey and Eveland. at the opposite end of the vehicle from “If we’ve going to be advertising See alt-OE Parts Debate, Page 26
www.autobodynews.com | JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 21
Continued from Cover
Counterfeit Parts
and tires for example. Anything that they can counterfeit for profit, they will.
Are you finding this is a growQ: ing trend and what is being done to combat these crimes?
A:
The breadth of the problem was brought to our attention by the automobile industry. Individual auto makers came to us and said, “It’s a problem, they are counterfeiting our products.” They asked if we would shepherd them along to develop a coalition. I’m happy to say that since then we assisted with organizing a coalition. They call themselves the Automobile Anti-Counterfeiting Coalition —the A2C2. It’s made up of almost every automobile manufacturer and they meet four times a year. We generally attend those meetings as well. They regularly provide intelligence and lead information to us. They’ve been very good partners. Last year alone based on our work with that coalition we opened up 35 cases. We had 12 criminal arrests, 16 indictments and 15 convictions. The 130 seizure incidents were worth an estimated $5.59 million MSRP. Where are the counterfeiters Q: based? What we have found is that 85A: 95 percent of all counterfeit goods are coming from China. They
are either coming from China or transshiped to Hong Kong or to other countries. Just under 50 percent of counterfeit goods seized last year came directly from China. Just under 35 percent came from Hong Kong and five percent came from Singapore. We believe that all those goods are originating from China because Hong Kong and Singapore don’t have the manufacturing capabilities that China does, but the goods are transshipped through Hong Kong and Singapore where the manifest is being changed in order to trick U.S. customs. I happened to be in China last September visiting with the Chamber of Commerce, various companies, embassies and Chinese law enforcement. There was a case where the Chi-
nese Ministry of Public Security took down an operation involving counterfeiters in China who were selling counterfeit Ford brake pads and air bags. Counterfeiting is a global issue. It’s very easy for the counterfeiters to start up websites and sell things online. The operators of some of these websites are to deceive the public. Sometimes the intent is to just sell to people who know they are going to get a counterfeit part, hoping that they believe the consumer feels the counterfeit part is doing their job. It varies who they target. Potentially, criminals could be doing this until the automobile manufacturer serves a cease and desist order or civilly take these websites down. It’s a trademark violation to represent a counterfeit good as authentic on copyright-infringing websites. It’s so easy these days to start websites. They have very good webmasters who put these things together; they are very advanced. Sometimes a site is up for a month, and then it gets shut down and they are ready to go with another illicit website.
Q:
What should collision repair shops be aware of in regards to counterfeit parts?
What we try to tell the conA: sumer is to make sure they are buying OEM parts. If not, it should be
from a reputable distributor that can be confirmed with the manufacturer. If there is a doubt, there should be a legitimate phone number to call. Go that extra mile when purchasing these parts for customers to ensure these are legitimate parts. A lot of it comes down to buyer beware. If it’s too good to be true, it usually is.
What is the biggest concern in Q: regards to counterfeit parts? Certainly the consumers’ health A: and safety is at risk anytime they get into a car with a counterfeit
part. We’ve seen counterfeit safety belts that weren’t secure and air bags that have exploded so dramatically they probably would have done harm had they gone off. Some of them even failed to deploy. We actually investigated someone who was illegally smuggling counterfeit airbags into the United States. Along with the National Highway Transportation Safety board, we
22 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
seized 10 of them. Eight failed to deploy and two would have deployed in a manner that would have harmed the consumer. Those are the kinds of things that keep me up at night. It’s the consumer’s health and safety, especially when you have family members and kids and everyone else getting into a vehicle with counterfeit brake pads. It’s maddening.
facility and made four or five arrests. They also seized the counterfeit air bags, and US and Chinese currency. It was an extremely successful operation.
smuggling them into the United States. They thought they were being cute by driving them down from Canada into Northern WA; then they would mail them via US mail to repair shops. They did that because they thought they could disguise that they were coming from the United States versus coming from overseas. We arrested one as he was smuggling a batch coming in. It led to his brother being indicted. We shared the information with the Chinese Ministry of Public Security in Beijing and they shut down a manufacturing
issues when they are procuring items. We have a general procurement product that we can share as well as awareness training. It is called Acquisition Professional Training: Counterfeit Awareness, Mitigation, Identification and Reporting from the National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center. For more information about this issue, visit www.iprcenter.gov or email iprcenter@dhs.gov.
How should shops get in touch Q: with you if they suspect they have accidentally purchased any coun-
terfeit goods and want to report it?
Do any specific cases come to They are absolutely welcome Q: mind A: that you can share? to contact us. We’ve heard from them in the past. We’re always Two summers ago a couple of open to sharing information with anyA: Canadian citizens were pur- one about counterfeiting. We can cerchasing air bags from China and tainly help them with supply chain
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Mike’s Auto Body in CA Participates in Every 15 Minutes Program drunk driving related accident in which two Monte Vista students were Earlier this year, Mike’s Auto Body, killed. The memorial car was on diswith 13 locations in northern Califorplay at the front of the school for stunia, participated in the Every 15 Min- dents to walk by and view as a utes Program on the campus of reminder to what can happen when Monte Vista High School in Danville, you drink and drive. CA. Marketing Coordinator, Sal Contreras, was Mike’s Auto Body’s representative at the Every 15 Minutes program and saw the event’s impact on students and teachers alike. “When the program began, you could hear loud noises from the 2,500 students while they were walking and running to the football field to settle into the bleachers,” The Every 15 Minutes Program offers real-life experience Contreras said. “But once we without the real-life risks, by staging a realistic reenactment removed the giant tarp reof a serious accident vealing the accident scene of By working with one of their in- the two wrecked cars and the frantic surance partners to acquire a totaled 911 phone call was blasted over the car for this event, Mike’s Auto Body sound system, there was dead silence played an integral role for this from the students. Their expressions demonstration that is held every two of disbelief and sadness that someyears at different Bay Area high schools and throughout the rest of the country as well. The Every 15 Minutes Program offers real-life experience without the real-life risks. This emotionally charged program is an event designed to show teenagers the potentially dangerous consequences of drinking alcohol or texting while driving. The program challenges students to think about drinking and texting behind the More than a dozen local organizations wheel by stressing the personal safety participated to make the scene look real and responsibility associated with making mature decisions when lives thing like this could happen to their are involved. friends was shocking and highly In conjunction with Mike’s Auto emotional.” A tragic accident that took the Body, CSAA Insurance Group donated a total loss car to represent the lives of two Monte Vista High School vehicle that was involved in a tragic students earlier this year added a new level to the reality behind the reenactment. “One student died on impact by going through the windshield and another student was air lifted by helicopter to the hospital, but died later,” Conteras said. “It is a tragic story in more ways, because one brother was driving from a party and hit a truck head-on with his non-drinking brother’s friends in the vehicle. The In conjunction with Mike’s Auto Body, CSAA other brother who was not drunk was Insurance Group donated a total loss car to sitting in the passenger seat and represent the vehicle that was involved in a ended up going through the windtragic drunk-driving related accident in which two Monte Vista students were killed shield, killing him on impact. The by Ed Attanasio
24 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
parents were obviously torn with grief and disbelief. The desks of the students who died in the accident were left empty for the whole week and the funeral was held the next day. “ The event included the participation of the local Police and Fire Departments, High School staff, the local Hospital, a video production crew, community officials, the District Attorney’s Office, funeral homes and a wide cross-section of the community at-large. The ultimate goal of the Every 15 Minutes Program is to utilize the strength, talent and resources of business and industry to prevent drunk driving and texting while driving. The day’s activities were chronicled in a short video. “To watch the video of the Monte Vista High School’s 2016 event, go to You Tube and search under Every 15 Minutes, Monte Vista HS 2016,” Contreras said. “If you don’t get chills and goose bumps when you watch this, you better get your pulse checked, because it is powerful to say the least.”
The memorial car was on display at the front of the school for students to walk by and view as a reminder to what can happen when you drink and drive
With young lives being taken every day nationwide due to drunk driving, distracted driving and reckless speeding, Contreras sees the value of presentations such as Every 15 Minutes. “Mike’s Auto Body is proud and prepared to serve the communities in which we do business, because saving these teenagers is not just a goal—it’s a priority,” he said. “We all have kids here at Mike’s, so this cause is very close to our hearts.”
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Florida Judge Dismisses “Price Fixing Claims” in MDL Case by Stacey Phillips, Assistant Editor
A Florida judge ruled in May that the price fixing claims brought forward in the multi-district lawsuit were not enough to reconsider the antitrust claims, which were dismissed earlier this year. The new evidence was presented to Judge Gregory Presnell in March by Eaves Law Firm of Jackson, Mississippi on behalf of five states: Indiana, Mississippi, Louisiana, Tennessee and Utah. Earlier this year, Presnell dismissed the plaintiff’s antitrust claims with prejudice (meaning that the claims cannot be refiled). Following this decision, Eaves Law firm submitted new evidence to the Florida courts asking Judge Presnell to reconsider the dismissal of the antitrust complaints. Allison Fry, of Eaves Law Firm, said there are limited grounds in which a court can reconsider an order, including the availability of new evidence. According to Judge Presnell, the plaintiffs made no such showing that the evidence was previously unavailable.
“Where a party attempts to introduce previously unsubmitted evidence in support of a motion to reconsider, the party must make some showing that the evidence previously was unavailable,” Presnell wrote in court documents. “The closest they come is a statement that the new evidence was unavailable at the time their Second Amended Complaint was filed. However, the Second Amended Complaint was filed on March 21, 2015, while the Order was not entered until nearly a year later—on February 22, 2016. The Plaintiffs offer no explanation for their failure to bring this information before the Court during that time.” He continued that, “Even if they had provided a legitimate justification for their delay in raising it, the Plaintiffs’ ‘direct evidence of price fixing’ would not suffice to save their antitrust claims, which were dismissed due to a failure to properly allege the existence of a collusive agreement to fix prices.” Presnell said that the statements provided did not identify any defendants that allegedly participated in the agreement to fix prices and said, “These vague assertations do not add
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any weight to the Plaintiffs’ existing allegations.” The following statements he was referring to were submitted to the courts by Eaves Law Firm: “Plaintiffs obtained a statement from a Progressive employee who stated unequivocally that body shops have no say in the setting of their own labor rates, that the insurance companies ‘get together at big meetings’ to set body shop labor rates, and that the insurance companies uniformly apply the labor rates agreed upon at these meetings. This representative even identified when the next such meeting was going to occur. “Plaintiffs additionally obtained a statement from a State Farm representative who stated State Farm intentionally suppresses and fixes body shop labor rates, and that State Farm’s labor rate survey is a sham to justify its intentional fixing of labor rates.” The anti-trust lawsuit was first filed in Mississippi by 20 auto repair shops in February 2014 against 39 insurance companies. Eaves Law Firm subsequently filed more than 20 others. The lawsuits were eventually consolidated for pretrial purposes and the
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law firm now represents 500 shops across the country. In the lawsuits that have been filed, the plaintiffs allege that the defendants, “engaged in an ongoing, concerted and combined intentional course of action and conduct to improperly and illegally control and depress automobile damage repair costs to the detriment of the plaintiffs and the substantial profit of the Defendants.” The plaintiffs also claim that the defendants engaged in price fixing, compulsory use of substandard parts and boycotting shops that refuse to comply. Autobody News will continue to keep readers informed about this lawsuit.
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Shop Strategies CO Shop Manager Shares Thoughts on Aluminum Repair, OEM Certifications & DRPs with Stacey Phillips - ASSISTANT EDITOR
Autobody News spoke to Jeffery Thompson, the production manager at Phil Long Collision Center in Colorado Springs, CO. He shared his thoughts about aluminum repair, OEM certifica-
Phil Long dealerships throughout Colorado and New Mexico.)
How long have you been certiQ: fied by Mercedes and Audi, what did it entail and what is the ben-
hicle to the customer quicker, thus reducing cycle time and creating a happier customer in what is a very trying time to some people. It returns the
efit to your shop?
We have been certified for sevA: eral years by Mercedes Benz and Audi in the repair of these vehi-
The front of the Phil Long Collision Center building in Colorado Springs, CO
tions and being part of a DRP. Established in 1945, the dealership shop has 37 employees. Although they repair all makes and models of domestic/imported cars, trucks, vans and SUVs, Phil Long primarily focuses on Mercedes Benz, Audi and Ford aluminum trucks.
cles. We were certified through our dealer partners and through Mercedes Benz USA and Audi. In 2014, when Ford introduced the Aluminum F-150s we knew that we needed to be onboard and took the opportunity to get the necessary training to allow us to be the only certified Ford aluminum repair shop in the area. The process of being certified ensures that you follow the manufacturers’ tolerances and specific equipment that is needed in order to make the proper repair.
What prompted the decision to Q: get certified in Ford aluminum What are some of the advantages you have found being a repair and what did it entail? Q: DRP shop as well as some of the issues We are aligned through a net- you deal with? A: work of dealerships, both new As a DRP for our insurance and used vehicles. Two of these locaA: partners, you have the ability tions are Ford dealers, and who better and the trust to move forward with the to repair your vehicle than the techni-
cians who are trained by the factory in proper procedures. It also really helps to service what you sell. (There are 13
repair without needing to wait for an adjuster to arrive to look at the vehicle. This allows you to return the ve-
Continued from Page 21
load path for the crash forces.” “These extra parts, added to protect the occupants from a small offset collision, can result in the vehicle moving in a different direction than expected,” the I-CAR document states. “A collision in the front left, for example, may result in unexpected damage to the right rear. This makes it even more important to do three-dimensional measuring on every collision scenario.” John Yoswick, a freelance writer based in Portland, Oregon, who has been writing about the automotive industry since 1988, is also the editor of the weekly CRASH Network (for a free 4-week trial subscription, visit www.CrashNetwork.com). He can be contacted by email at jyoswick@ SpiritOne.com.
alt-OE Parts Debate
where it was hit. “Estimators have a tendency just to look at the point of impact, and not follow that load path of energy that continues along the vehicle,” Yeung said. “You basically need to check the whole vehicle.” Yeung said insurers need to understand this requires additional labor. He shared a page from I-CAR’s new “Vehicle Technology and Trends 2016” course that addresses this topic. It explains that the automakers, for example, are adding new structures to engage the barrier in small overlap crash-testing, “creating an additional
26 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
A view of the waiting area for Phil Long Collision Center
customer to a sense of normalcy. Another benefit of being a DRP is a marketing relationship. The insurance partners help market your business in order to satisfy theirs.
What are some of the compoQ: nents of your shop that contribute to its success?
By having certified and knowlA: edgeable technicians, you can achieve the ultimate goal of providing
world-class service for the customer, your insurance partners and the dealer networks. We strive to ensure that each customer is happy to the best of our ability, whether that is from the waiting room in the office to the guys that wash up a vehicle to return to the customer. We want them to be pleased with our service.
From your experience over the Q: years, what advice can you share with readers? Listen to your technicians, for A: they are the ones who work on the vehicles on a daily basis and know the brands inside and out. This is how you provide world-class service. Jeffery Thompson, production manager at Phil Long Collision Center, can be reached at 719-667-2900.
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Shop Strategies
Stacey Phillips is the assistant editor at Autobody News magazine. She has more than 20 years of experience writing for a variety of publications. She can be reached at sphillips@autobodynews.com.
CA Body Shop Owners Recognized for Achievements After Risking Everything with Stacey Phillips - ASSISTANT EDITOR
With only a toolbox and $800 to cover his first month’s rent, Francisco Mayoral opened JC Collision Center in Bakersfield, CA in 2007. After many years of hard work and dedication, his body shop was named Family Owned Business of the Year as part of the
Elizabeth and Franciso Mayoral, owners of JC Collision in Bakersfield, CA, received a certificate of recognition in May
2016 Kern County Small Business Success Awards. The award was presented on May 5 during National Small Business Week. Francisco and his wife Elizabeth operate the body shop, which expanded last year into a 58,000-squarefoot facility that sits on a 2.5 acre lot with the capacity to repair 100 vehicles. Autobody News reached out to the Mayorals to find out more about JC Collision (JC stands for Jesus Christ) and what makes their business so successful.
Q:
Congratulations on receiving the award. What was your reaction when you found out you were going to be honored and what does the recognition mean to you and your shop?
We were shocked. My husband A: and I couldn’t close our mouths. Then I noticed tears were coming from Francisco, the founder. Suddenly, we started calling our friends and family. Hearing that news meant so much for us. After so much effort and sacrifice, we realized it was worth it.
us about the dream helping a CEO buy a new Ferrari for nice vacation and to send our kids to Q: toCanopenyouJCtellCollision? college without having to ask for any his wife. government loan. Growing up in a destroyed How have you built a successA: Q: ful business through reinvest- Q: would Is there anything else you family and in a bad neighborlike to add about your hood, at the age of 18 I immigrated to ment and not borrowing? business or the industry in general? the United States in search for a better It hasn’t being easy, especially future. I started working in a body A: I believe success is not a deshaving no working capital or shop cleaning the bathrooms, then I saving in a reserve account. Every dime A: tiny; it is a journey along with became a painter’s helper and later an
auto body technician. It was then when I knew what I wanted for my future—to one day have my own shop. I had a vision to help many children to reach their dreams. So I started working on my project by spending most of my paychecks buying all of the necessary tools to fix the cars. In 2007, I decided to take the risk and opened my own auto body shop. My wife was really scared because even though she had being a business- and financiallydriven woman, at this time the country was going through the worst economic time ever. But my vision and faith was stronger than anything else. (Francisco) I clearly remember his first customer. It was an insurance job of about $3,500. Suddenly, more cars started coming. It was then when I decided to leave the real estate business and joined him to help him make his dream come true. Francisco wanted to show the community what he was able to do, by offering “The Best Job at the Best Price.” A year later, we moved into a better location with more traffic and seven years later we opened our new and bigger facility. (Elizabeth) What do you tell your customers about the importance of supporting small, local businesses and the ability to choose the shop of their choice?
that we would generate has being reinvested back into the shop to buy equipment such as two frame machines, two spray booths and one welder machine as well as continuing to educate ourselves and our employees to help manage our shop more efficiently. For at least five years we showed no profit at the end of the year. I remember Fridays after paying everyone else, we’ll keep just enough to cover our household expenses. During all these years, we have learned to live under a budget, having the vision that one day we’ll have enough to take a
many challenges, but the key to succeed is having faith in God, and truly believe in what your vision is. Stay fo-
The collision repair shop expanded last year and now has the capacity to repair 100 vehicles
SUBARU of Pueblo
Q:
What I love most about my job A: is not just repairing the vehicles, but educating our community about their rights as consumers. I dislike the power insurance companies have when they try to steer customers away from their shop of choice and take it to their DRP shops. I clearly let them know that by supporting small local businesses, they are helping a kid go to soccer camp and putting food on a family’s table, rather than
28 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
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cused on your goals because during the journey you’ll find many obstacles, but as long as you maintain your focus, you will get there. Don’t be ashamed to ask for help. Find a mentor or consultant. There are many companies out there that are willing to teach shops how to manage and be successful. (Elizabeth) I believe that every child of the world deserves an opportunity to have a better life. Some come from good families but many come from destroyed families like me. This is the main reason for wanting to own a business, to be able to support any child of the world in reaching their goals by sharing the blessings God has given me. (Francisco) To contact JC Collision, email info@jccollisioncenter.com or call 661-398-1819.
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Auto Collision Student Surprised with 3M™ Scholarship by Amanda Sotelo, TSTC STAFF
Texas State Technical College Auto Collision Technology student Javier Rey received a surprise recently at a presentation hosted by his program and 3M, a global science company and TSTC industry partner. Rey, who is pursuing a Certificate 2 in Auto Collision Generalist Specialist, became the recipient of the 2016 Collision Repair Education Foundation’s 3M Hire Our Heroes Scholarship. With this scholarship, the United State Navy veteran received $1,000 for college tuition and costs, $1,500 for 3M tools he needs while in school and another $3,000 for additional tools upon employment in the collision industry. “I never expected my name to be called, I was shocked,” said Rey. “The extra time I took to fill out the application was definitely worth it now. This is a huge load off my shoulders.” Auto Collision Department Chair and Instructor Jose Vargas, TSTC Provost Dr. Stella Garcia, 3M Account Representative Fernando de la Garza and O’Reilly Territory Sales Manager Juan Guzman presented Rey
with the award. “I am proud that one of our own veteran students received this award,” said Vargas. “We support our veterans and are appreciative of everything they have done for our country. This gentleman is very deserving of this award and I hope with this he is able to fulfill his dreams.”
Rey who served in the Navy for six years as a mechanic and military police officer, said when he returned to civilian life he did not know what profession he wanted to pursue, but finding TSTC and the Auto Collision program gave him the opportunity at a new career. He added this scholarship now gives him the chance to be successful in the industry. “Tools are very expensive, but necessary if I want to work in the industry,” said Rey. “These tools are what helps me make money and now
I can get exactly what I need. This is a tremendous help and I’m so grateful to 3M for this award.” Rey is set to graduate in August and already has a full-time job waiting for him at a local Brownsville dealership he currently works at parttime. “TSTC and my instructors have really shown me the path I need to take in this industry,” said Rey. “Having this job opportunity is reassuring my future and has given me the foundation to keep going.” Garza explained how this scholarship is for students, like Rey, who exemplify a commitment and dedication to a career in the auto collision industry. “The importance of this scholarship is to give funds to those students who are looking to take advantage of a career in the auto body collision industry,” said Garza. “We’re glad we can help students who are serious about making this a profession with the monies to help them succeed.” Garcia and Vargas encourage students to apply for scholarships and See Student Surprised, Page 46
www.autobodynews.com | JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 29
30 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
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Dept. Hours: M-F 7-6; Sat 8-4 joe_benson@pikespeakacura.com www.autobodynews.com | JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 31
Day Job/Night Job
Ed Attanasio is an automotive journalist based in San Francisco, California. He can be reached at era39@aol.com.
Mixing Paints During the Day and Cocktails at Night with Ed Attanasio
Sean Fitzgerald, 33, has a busy work schedule as he balances two jobs—as a body shop owner and a bartender— but he makes it all work because he
is off to work as a bartender to help him pay the bills. Fitzgerald started working initially in the printing industry, but he always had his sights on painting cars and making them look spectacular. “I was working as a printer during the day when I was 18 and 19 and then in the evenings and on the weekends I was building street race cars,” he said. “We would install turbo kits and do everything we could to make them as fast as we could. All of my friends had their own cars, so we had Sean Fitzgerald is only 33, but he’s already owned Phantom this group that would work on Autobody in Jeffersonville, IN for three years now each other’s vehicles.” stresses quality in everything he does. With bigger plans and a drive to get there, Fitzgerald decided to go back to While running the show at Phantom Autobody in Jeffersonville, IN, he is a school to get a degree in collision repair. hands-on owner who still paints most “I went through UTI’s one year program of the vehicles that come into his at their school in Houston, TX,” he said. shop. And after his 10-12 hour days “It was intense with more than 9-10 fixing cars and doing custom paint, he hours of instruction and lab work every
Continued from Cover
Who Pays for What
tural/frame and mechanical operations. Anderson is making the 60-page results of the “refinish-related” survey, completed by more than 870 shops back in February, available to shops at no charge. “The survey results are always free to the shops who participate, but I’m making the refinish-related ‘Who Pays’ survey results available for free to all shops because I believe when more shops see the kind of information the surveys offer, they will participate in our future surveys,” Anderson said. The survey results, for example, show that a third of shops are routinely paid for ‘denib’ or ‘finish sand and buff.’ On a national basis, across all insurers, 39 percent of shops that bill for ‘denib’ are paid “always” or “most of the time,” while 31 percent are paid “always” or “most of the time” for ‘finish sand and buff.’ Perhaps equally as valuable, the survey results also reveal just how often these operations are required. “In fact, over a quarter of all
shops surveyed (28.5 percent) say they perform these procedures on 100 percent of the cars they paint,” Anderson pointed out. “And another 41 percent say that at least three-quarters of the cars they paint require at least one of these procedures.” Results of the previous surveys are available at https://www.crashnetwork .com/collisionadvice. The 60-page report breaks the survey findings down by region, by insurer and by DRP vs. non-DRP, and includes analysis and resources to help shops better understand and use the information presented. “Participating in the surveys can be a good reminder to shops of ‘not-included’ operations that they are doing so they can decide whether to include them as line items on their estimates,” Anderson said. Collision Advice (www.Collision Advice.com) is an independent training and consulting firm featuring some of the most respected and experienced experts in the collision repair industry. Mike Anderson and his team offer real-world, cutting edge training and guidance both in the classroom and one-on-one in the shop.
32 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
day, but when I graduated from there, I was ready to get a job at a shop.” Returning to the Louisville, KY area where he grew up, Fitzgerald started working at a local shop to learn more about the trade. “I worked as a prepper for four years and they never let me paint an entire car, mostly door jambs and things like that,” he said. “It
Known for his custom paint jobs on motorcycles, Phantom Autobody gets rave reviews on choppers, hogs and even a few newer foreignmade bikes
was a very competitive environment there, so all of the painters were fighting for work.” Because Fitzgerald was crosstrained as both a painter and a metal technician, he decided to start working at another shop in Louisville as a body tech, he explained. “I did that for 2-3 years, but it never really became full-time, so that’s when I started bartending. It helped to pay the bills and it also allowed me to sock away some money, because I started thinking about possibly opening my own shop around that time.” At first, he didn’t have a permanent location and that’s why people began calling it Phantom Autobody. “I started by doing side work in the evenings and on the weekends,” Fitzgerald said. “We would do it at the shop I was working at or anywhere we could. We really didn’t have a real location, so I named it Phantom Autobody and it became an inside joke.”
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their own collision center a few years back,” Fitzgerald said. “Now that we have a permanent location, things are really picking up.” At first, things were a little rocky, so the bartending became a way to keep the bills paid. “I was working at the shop all day long and then bartending at least three nights a week to make ends meet,” he said. “I still work on the weekends as a bartender, because it’s easy money. Occasionally, one of my customers at the bar By bartending at night and on the weekends, Fitzgerald will become a customer at the was able to get some of the seed money he needed to shop-either for collision repair open his shop or a car restoration or even cility and an address in 2013, he said. some custom paint.” “I put together almost $25,000, with Although Fitzgerald is a skilled some savings from the bartending painter and does a lot of motorcycle thrown in there too. We started on a builds featuring his custom paint, he very small scale first and now we still feels like he wants to get better have four employees and operate out and grow as a painter. “Some people of a 10,000 square foot facility. We do say I am an artist, but I don’t think of full collision repair, but we don’t have it that way. I just enjoy doing custom any DRPs, so it is pretty much word work and that’s where my interests reof mouth.” ally lie. We fit it in, but we make sure By knocking on doors and stressthat it does not interfere with the coling excellence, Phantom Autobody has lision repair or overwhelm our progrown steadily. “We do a lot of work duction by doing it.” for a local car dealership that closed Does Fitzgerald have a five-year After borrowing some money from his friends and selling three of his beloved cars, Fitzgerald got his fa-
plan for himself and his growing business? “We want to grow and fix more cars,” he said. “There is a lot of competition in this area, with shops that have been around for 15-20 years. So, I am still the new kid on the block.” Will he ever be able to step away from the bartending and be able to enjoy his weekends every once in a while? “I don’t know, I like doing it
Continued from Page 17
Ted Stein Discusses
race to the bottom. It simply cost more to repair today’s vehicles compared to yesterdays’. But there are some insurers that are more concerned with CSI and quality repairs and retention—right? Retain that insured so he renews his policy. Now of course they all have to be cognizant of claim costs—right? But I think at some point retention becomes more important than claim cost.
What would you say to shops Q: that are thinking of getting involved in the CAA?
Well, you wouldn’t be a doctor and not be a member of the A: AMA, right? I don’t know if people
Thrasher gets tired during motorcycle builds, but he is a valued member of the crew at Phantom Autobody
and I’m good at it, so no—I will still be working at that bar mainly on the weekends until I decide it’s enough. The bartending helped to get me here, so I’m not ready to retire just yet.”
understand the value that the CAA brings to their facility. This is my second time as State President, because I believe that this industry can exist where shops can be profitable. There’s a triangle here (insurers, vendors and repairers) and I believe we can achieve a triple win and everyone can succeed. Some folks tell me I’m crazy, but I believe it can happen.
www.autobodynews.com | JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 33
Body Shops Giving Back
Stacey Phillips is the assistant editor at Autobody News magazine. She has more than 20 years of experience writing for a variety of publications. She can be reached at sphillips@autobodynews.com.
Wisconsin Auto Body Shop Creates USO Mobile Canteen for Troops with Stacey Phillips - ASSISTANT EDITOR
A Wisconsin body shop has transformed an old bread truck into a USO mobile canteen that will serve troops at Fort McCoy Total Force Training Center. Richard Kalashian, a service writer at S/S Research Body Shop & Auto Repair Center in Genesee, Wisconsin, oversaw the unique project. Earlier this year, Kalashian received an email from Dan Toomey, president of the USO of Wisconsin, seeking his help. He asked Kalashian to spruce up a worn out, damaged truck and turn it into a gathering place for service men and women. The goal was to create an information center that would provide snacks and drinks as well as entertainment. “Fort McCoy does not really have a terminal to assist our troops,” said Kalashian. “The canteen truck would be able to travel around the airport.” Kalashian, a Vietnam veteran, is no stranger to working on these types of projects. In 2014, he built a military casket cart for fallen soldiers, which is being used at the Southwest Airlines’ airport in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. “I asked Dan, ‘Why me?’” said Kalashian. “He replied that they were very impressed with the building and design of the military casket cart that was transformed from an airport baggage cart at not cost to Southwest Airlines.”
The USO of Wisconsin wanted to transform an old bread truck into an information center for servicemen and women
Kalashian decided to take on the challenge and do something similar for the USO of Wisconsin. The USO (United Service Organizations) is a nonprofit, charitable corporation chartered by Congress that offers a variety of programs and services designed to support service members and their families. Every president has been an honorary chairman of the
USO since it was established in 1941. The project took approximately three months to complete with the assistance of the local community. Robert Williams at S/S Research Body Shop &
They also manufacturered a removable hitch for the front of the vehicle so a power source could be added. Retired marines put in LED lighting. “I truly believe that the veterans
S/S Research Body Shop & Auto Repair Center spent about three months working on the project with the assistance of the local community
Auto Repair Center was responsible for the major body work and painting, and Ron Scheel at Modern Ink Signs & Graphics applied the graphics on the truck. Others involved included Wildon Woods at Woody’s Lock & Safe; Chuck Gosh at C&M Auto Parts; Bill Lemke at Lemke Photography; Local 494 Electrical Union; and VFW Post 5158 Hartland, Wisconsin. “By fundraising in the community and participating in their events and giving back, it bonds us all as one happy family,” said Kalashian. “There’s no limit of what we can do.” In addition to the help from the local community, Kalashian said that he is very grateful for the support of his boss, Robert Williams, owner of S/S Research Body Shop & Auto Repair. May 1 marks the Wisconsin shop’s 40th year in business. In addition to collision repair, Williams also runs a fullservice department. “Rich seems to find the projects and then we follow up and put them into the shop and make sure they get done,” said Williams. “We’re very proud of what we do.” Williams said three of his employees were involved in repainting the green truck white, doing some minor body work and adding chrome wheels.
34 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
don’t get enough acknowledgements,” said Williams, who served two years in the Air Force and six years in the Wisconsin National Guard 128th Air Refueling Wing for the Air Force. “I feel it’s my part to try to do as much as I can to help them.” Kalashian agreed. He served in Vietnam as a platoon sergeant with the 9th infantry division, 3rd battalion 47th infantry from 1968 to 1969 as combat infantry and tunnel rat. “Some came home and some died in Vietnam—I was one of the lucky ones to survive and carry the memories and share the stories of a war that was unpopular and returning veterans were not welcomed home,” said Kalashian. “I was very bitter for many years, but as the years went by I decided to take my anger and turn it into a positive force by working with the community so that together we can support our troops and veterans and make America great.”
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www.autobodynews.com | JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 35
Historical Snapshot
—John Yoswick is a freelance writer based in Portland, Oregon, who has a body shop in the family and has been writing about the automotive industry since 1988. He is the editor of the weekly CRASH Network (for a free 4-week trial subscription, visit www.CrashNetwork.com). Contact him by email at jyoswick@SpiritOne.com.
Northern NACE, Risley Hired by SCRS, Collapse of M2, Insurance Advertising with John Yoswick
20 years ago in the collision repair industry (June 1996) The Automotive Service Association (ASA) is calling its first but controversial Northern Autobody Congress and Exposition a success. The event, dubbed “NACE Jr.” in the industry trade press, was held in Chicago and drew about 6,380 attendees—a respectable-sized showing, although fewer than the 8,000 attendees organizers had predicted. Like the annual ASA-sponsored International Autobody Congress and Exposition (NACE), the Northern Autobody show combined technical and management training sessions, motivational speakers and social events with a large trade show. The new show was designed to attract those in the north central region of the country who may be less likely to travel to the southern locations at which NACE is held. While many of the speakers and classes during the show had low attendance, nearly all the shop owners interviewed at the event had positive comments about the 522-booth trade show itself. ASA sources say dates and plans for a 1997 Northern Autobody show have not been finalized. – As reported in Autobody News. The Chicago show was controversial for ASA because some vendors didn’t like the idea of having two major trade shows a year, and because even some ASA state associations felt left out of the decision to hold the event, which some of the groups felt could impinge on their own regional trade shows. While the number of trade show exhibitors and the announced attendance at the event were larger than NACE itself is is today, it paled in comparison to the size of NACE in those days, and that combined with negative feedback from some vendors and state affiliate groups led ASA to shelve the idea of “Northern NACE.”
15 years ago in the collision repair industry (June 2001) The Society of Collision Repair Specialists has hired Dan Risley of Oak Lawn, IL, as its new executive director.
“After an exhaustive, national search, the board of directors has chosen Dan Risley,” SCRS Chairman Don Keenan said. “The sheer volume and caliber of the applicants necessi-
In 2001, Dan Risley became the executive director of the Society of Collision Repair Specialists, only the second person to hold the post since the association was founded in 1982. Risley later went to a job with Allstate Insurance, and in 2013 became the executive director of the Automotive Service Association
tated the almost 2-year search for the right person. The board and I believe we have found the right person to continue the legacy of SCRS as the leading collision repairers’ association.” “It is an opportunity that I longed for,” Risley said. “I am very passionate about the industry, and look to build upon that which John Loftus dedicated 18 years.” – As reported in Autobody News. Risley worked for SCRS until 2008, when he left to accept a position with Allstate Insurance, saying that decision was not an easy one but “would be best for him and his family.” Five years later, he was back representing the industry, becoming executive director the Automotive Service Association in 2013.
10 years ago in the collision repair industry (June 2006) “I think the insurance companies at this point are realizing there’s some real ills to having all their eggs in one basket,” March said. “They don’t want to be in that position again. So I think at least for now they are looking at any larger players real skeptically and making sure they have some back-up positions.” – California shop owner Dave March, speaking about a year after he
36 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
took back over the 50,000-square-foot shop he had previously sold to M2, an MSO that collapsed suddenly in the spring of 2005, locking the doors of its 27 shops and leaving a trail of creditors, vehicle-owners and insurers hanging. March continues to own and operate his shop. He’s also developed multiple models of the Watercar, billed as the world’s fastest amphibious vehicle (www.watercar.com).
5 years ago in the collision repair industry (June 2011) One reason motorists shopped and switched auto insurers more aggressively in 2010 may be that auto insurance advertising soared 22.6 percent to a record-high $5 billion last year, according to analysis by Dowling and Partners Securities. That reversed a 4.2 percent decline in advertising in 2009. Prior to 2009, the industry had increased advertising spending for seven straight years. In the past decade, in-
surance industry advertising—the vast majority of which focuses on auto insurance—has grown 211 percent from $1.6 billion in 2001. The biggest jump in advertising last year was by Farmers Insurance, which spent $505 million, up 125 percent from the previous year. – As reported in CRASH Network (www.CrashNetwork.com), June 6, 2011. The growth in insurer advertising didn’t end in 2011; it reached a record-high of $6.4 billion in 2014, up 28 percent from the 2010 total.
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Thursday, August 11th | Anaheim Convention Center | Anaheim, CA Noon: Private Networking Lunch 1:00 PM: MSO Symposium Program 6:00 PM: Private Reception
The closed and exclusive program is limited to: ● Qualified multi-shop owners/operators/management ● Large independent shops planning for growth or divestiture ● Insurance professionals
If You Qualify, Register TODAY to Save Your Seat at the MSO event of the YEAR. Featured Vital Topics: Industry Update | Insurer Panel | A Capital Markets View of Collision Around the World |
MSO Panel | OE Panel You’ll Hear the Latest from these Industry Experts: ● Vincent Romans, The Romans Group ● Marcy Tieger, Symphony Advisors, LLC ● Russ Hoffbauer, State Farm ● Clint Marlow, Allstate ● Chris Andreoli, Progressive
● ● ● ● ● ●
Russell Thrall, CollisionWeek John Eck, GM Gary Ledoux, Honda Mark Allen, Audi Jeff Hilton, Toyota Rex Green, Jefferies LLC
5 Key Takeaways You can ONLY GET by Attending the 2016 MSO Symposium: 1. Moving to the Next Level – What do shops need to consider before growing from 1 shop, 3 shops,
10 locations, and beyond? How do you overcome a plateau in growth?
2. Insurer Panel on the Latest Trends and Plans, topics include: ■ Long term direct repair program strategy ■ How they plan on working with the large MSO’s ■ Evolution of self-managed programs, short and long term
3. OE Panel Discussion on the Newest Technology & the Repairability of their Vehicles, topics include: ■ Driving certified repair programs, training, and equipment requirements ■ Sustainability of these programs to the collision repair industry 4. International Outlook bringing the Worldwide Trends to the US, topics include: ■ 3 mega trends impacting the industry globally, and, specifically, trends that could have an impact in the U.S. marketplace ■ Discussion on how these global panelists found opportunities and solutions to these major shifts in regulatory and economic trends
5. MSO Growth and the Strategy Behind It – This panel of the leading MSO’s explores the challenges of growth, and the steps taken that facilitated their rise to the top of the industry. Topics include:
■ How did they plan for: capital requirements, proof of concept, business planning ■ How do you show progress to validate the model internally and externally to bankers, capital venture partners? ■ Overcoming inefficiencies and legacy systems ■ Insight on what they would do differently with the experience and knowledge they’ve gained
Your leading source for SOUTHWESTERN Collision Repair News! southwestern.autobodynews.com
www.autobodynews.com | JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 37
Lean Operations
Quality Control in 6 Easy Steps with David Luehr
With increased pressure for improved quality from both the consumer and insurance partners, systems must be put in place to ensure a higher quality standard. Complexity of the modern vehicle is radically different than it was even a few short years ago and new considerations for verifying proper electrical and mechanical operations is critical. Both insurance partners and OEM Certification programs are also demanding that better quality control practices are abided by. Insurance company DRP inspectors are quick to “write you up” for discrepancies on the estimates (work bid, not performed) and can have dramatic consequences to your relationship of trust, and your placement on the referral list. I want to start out by helping redefine what quality control really means. To many, it is simply an inspection done after a vehicle repair is complete to ensure everything looks good before giving the vehicle back to the customer. The problem with this simplistic approach is that because the vehicle is already assembled, it is impossible to inspect hidden repairs and it becomes difficult to re-repair defects. A system that inspects repair quality during the repair process is much more desirable.
David Luehr is the owner of Elite Body Shop Solutions, LLC, a collision business consulting firm based in Nashville, Tennessee. He is a 30 year veteran of the collision repair industry. David is an expert in Body Shop Operations and specializes in Lean, and Theory of Constraints methods. Email him at dluehr@msn.com
Secondly, quality control is not only about the physical qualities of the repair, there are several other factors to meet if we are attempting to maintain the standards. For example, consider inspecting a vehicle for work bid, not performed (WBNP) at certain stages of repair. Check for parts and sublet status. Check also for diagnostic trouble codes at this stage. Addressing these considerations are quality control too.
QUALITY CONTROL
qual·i·ty con·trol noun: quality control 1. a system of maintaining standards in manufactured products by testing a sample of the output against the specification.
Based on this definition of quality control there two things I want to point out. First, in order to be successful with any quality assurance program it is imperative that first everyone knows what the quality standard is. The shop must make the time to properly define what is expected as a quality standard if it is to be met. Is the repaired panel straight? Has corrosion protection been applied? What is our standard for finishing out filler work? 80 grit, 180 grit?
The 6 Steps: The 6 step program I am sharing with you is used by many of my Elite clients and has proven to be highly effective.
Step 1. Vehicle Check-in Quality also involves discovering what happened during the accident, what damage is related to the loss and which is prior. Another part of quality involves finding out how to best to communicate with the customer during the repair process and even how you expect to get paid when it’s finished. At this stage you are building quality into the customer experience and gaining valuable information to build quality into the actual repairs.
Step 2. Blueprint Building a blueprint is where you begin building the quality into the repair itself. Using the information obtained during the check-in process you build your repair plan and then you QC it! Everyone agrees that the blueprint largely dictates how well the repair job will travel through the workflow, so why not make sure it’s right? My favorite way to perform this is by loading the parts cart with the items I am checking off my printed estimate. If you have checked everything off your estimate and there are still items not loaded on the parts cart, what does that tell you? I feel it is also important to mention that with the complexity of today’s vehicles, it is important that most vehicles be scanned for diagnostic trouble codes at this stage even if a lamp is NOT present on the instrument panel.
38 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
Step 3. Prior to Paint Inspect vehicles prior to paint every time. Major expense is incurred by those that have to re-do something after it is already painted. These re-dos must be avoided at all costs. At the step 3 QC point, you will want to look at everything very carefully using a checklist. Again, you are not only inspecting for the physical quality of the repair but for the procedural quality too. This stage is where you make sure that everything on the estimate has been performed and everything performed is on the estimate. This stage is also a great place for the inspector to verify that all the parts needed for paint are on hand and the parts needed for reassembly will be available in time.
Step 4. Prior to Assembly A quick inspection should always take place to inspect paint quality and color match prior to assembling the vehicle. Verify that everything on the estimate has been painted as planned. For example, ask was the radiator support repair fully painted like it was estimated, or did the painter just touch it up? This is usually a very quick inspection, but a very necessary one.
Step 5. Prior to detail After a vehicle is assembled and prior to getting the detailing done, it is important to take the vehicle on a test drive, recheck for diagnostic trouble codes
(DTCs) and then perform a comprehensive quality control inspection using a checklist. A growing concern in the industry is the number of trouble codes being discovered after repair completion caused by trim panels and other components being removed while the vehicle is being driven from department to department. Many of these trouble codes do not trigger an indicator lamp on the dash and can only be discovered by using a scan tool. This is the QC step where you will want to also recheck all of the electrical and mechanical components, panel fit and operation, fluid levels, and so on. Make sure that all promises made to the customer have been completed. Once everything checks out, it is time to get the car cleaned up.
Step 6. Final QC Final QC is usually performed by the person that was handling the customer file and will be going over the repairs with the customer during delivery. It is simply a quick re-check using a checklist and verifying everything was done as promised and the car is cleaned properly and ready to go. Also some shops may consider file management, final bills, etc. as part of the final QC too. For a free copy of the QC inspection sheet used by Dave’s Elite shops, contact him at david.luehr@elitebodyshop solutions.com.
David Luehr Presents Twice at WIN Conference
by Chasidy Rae Sisk
David Luehr of Elite Body Shop Solutions took the stage to discuss “Mastering Implementation.” Performing at world class levels requires implementation skills which take leadership skills to the next level, but it all begins by changing how you think about leadership. Quoting Zig Ziglar, Luehr told attendees, “Anything worth doing is worth doing poorly until you learn how to do it well.” Luehr identified three things he’s learning the hard way: the use of authority is not a reliable way to influence lasting change, manipulation is different than influence, and using fear as a motivator does not work long-term. Before making a decision, Luehr encour-
aged the audience to ask if it is worth it and if they are able to do it. He then identified three key steps to success. The first step is to determine what needs to be achieved and how to measure it, and Luehr warned, “If you don’t measure it, you can’t improve it.” Next, it is necessary to find vital behaviors which are high leverage acts that happen at crucial moments and have a big impact on the desired result. In covering the final step, determining how to motivate and enable change, Luehr identified six sources of influence: personal motivation, personal ability, social motivation, social ability, structural motivation, and structural ability. Luehr said, “People want the same outcome but sometimes disSee Luehr at WIN, Page 45
www.autobodynews.com | JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 39
Most Decorated Olympic Gymnast Presents Keynote ‘Gold Medal Mindset’ at 2016 WIN Conference On the second day of WIN®’s 2016 Educational Conference in Tampa, Shannon Miller, Olympic Gymnastics Champion, delivered the event’s Keynote Address: “The Gold Medal Mindset.” Miller is the most decorated gymnast in American history, having won seven Olympic gold medals and been inducted into the U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame twice. After beating cancer in 2011, Miller became a motivational speaker, and on May 3, she brought her brand of optimism and inspiration to WIN members who learned about her winning mindset. Reminiscing about her gymnastics career, Miller observed that it is easy to remember the good times, but it is just as important to recall the chal-
are today and where you want to be tomorrow. Very few successes just happen, and while dreams are necessary and fantastic, achieving them requires a specific plan involving SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-based) goals. Dreams serve as motivation, while goals establish the steps necessary to reach the dream. Miller stressed that goals being specific is imperative to define what needs to be accomplished. She said, “Wrap your mind around exactly what you want to achieve and then figure out what you need to do to make it happen. If you don’t take the steps to make your dream a reality, it’ll always be just a dream.” When Miller suffered a knee injury in 1992, she had to decide whether to give up or to fight, and she
lenges. “Remember those troubles because it is those mistakes, those obstacles, which have taught us how important it is to keep trying and to get back up when we do fall. I learned that I could not succeed if I wasn’t willing to do the work and able to believe in myself that I could reach my goals. We can’t give up every time we reach a rough patch, not if we went to truly succeed. I learned that I have to analyze my mistakes so I can learn from them and move forward.” During her Olympic career, Miller often heard that she was too young, too old, too short or too weak, but she believes in using the power of past lessons to become more knowledgeable as she forges into the future. She says, “If you listen to everyone else, you’ll never win. You have to possess the will to succeed against all odds.” These lessons, which help in all aspects of life, make up what Miller calls “The Gold Medal Mindset” which she describes as “an attitude of going out and winning the day, no matter what life throws at you. What you do today matters. You must remain positive and commit yourself to excellence.” Setting goals is critical for successfully achieving your dreams as it helps close the gap between where you
is glad she chose to fight. She worked hard at practice each day so she could enjoy the competition. “I just wanted to live in that moment; I didn’t know about the scores or the medals. When you’re prepared, you have to just go for it, enjoy the moment, and have some fun.” Miller is grateful to her team, including her parents, coaches, doctors, teachers and fellow athletes, who was there to rally her during the bad days; however, she also stressed the need to contribute to the team. “You need to rely on your team to achieve your dreams. Utilize the amazing resources around you. Find out how to make more of a difference and work together to achieve your dreams.” Admitting that she lost the concept of teamwork after retiring from gymnastics, Miller stated that she rediscovered its importance when she was diagnosed with cancer. At first, she was overwhelmed by the fear of the unknown and the loss of control, she established knowledge of the steps needed to recover after her surgery, allowing her to move from a victim mentality back to her competitive nature. Miller’s belief that she could defeat cancer faltered after her first week of chemo, but her team of doctors, nurses, family and friends rallied
by Chasidy Rae Sisk
If you think you can’t, you won’t; if you can’t even see yourself achieving your goals in your own mind, you never will. — Shannon Miller
40 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
believing. If you think you can’t, you won’t; if you can’t even see yourself achieving your goals in your own mind, you never will. A negative attitude will prevent you from reaching your dreams, so you have to combat negative thoughts with positive ones, especially when you have a bad day.” Noting that a negative attitude will bring you down quicker than anything else, Miller finds power in seeing barriers as opportunities and focusing on solutions instead of problems. “Having a posiSeven-time Olympic Gold Champion Shannon Miller tive attitude is a choice you shared her secrets to “The Gold Medal Mindset.” have to make each day, and when you need it because that’s why though it can be a challenge, it makes they are there. This summer is the you an asset, helping you develop bettwentieth anniversary of my Olympic ter relationships and inspiring those wins and the five year anniversary of around you. Life is only as good as being cancer free. If I can help just you make it—choose to be positive!” one woman focus on her health, that Although Miller was not the means I’ve turned my experience with most talented gymnast, she believed cancer into something positive.” in hard work, always going above and According to Miller, “Many sucbeyond her coach’s requirements. cessful people rely on positive mental “Work ethic is an essential ingredient images to reach their goals. Seeing is See Most Decorated, Page 51 around. She says, “I was inspired by their positive attitude and wanted to learn from their example. Your team matters; don’t be afraid to ask for help
Change Can Be Scary but Can Take You to the Next Level in Your Business by Mike Lanza, Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes
Let’s face it, change can be scary. From collision shop owners making adjustments to the front office, shop floor or staffing – it can be challenging. But, what if these changes would mean even higher revenue and take the shop to the next level? The collision industry is full of change. Days, weeks and months go by with every customer that comes through the shop – vehicles are repaired and there’s a continual fight to be compliant with insurance partners. An owner may view setbacks as, that’s “the way we’ve always done it,” but there may be a better way of doing business. However, it’s not always so simple to initiate change. The issues arise when you try to define these solutions and put some type of order, process or accountability to it. When that happens, a shop owner might shut down since change can be hard work. Plus, it’s proven that most people don’t resist change, for the sake of change, rather, they resist being changed.
That’s according to a study conducted by Dr. Peter Senge, director of the Center for Organizational Learning at MIT. Dr. Senge concluded there are nine types of fear relating to change, including: 1.
2.
Fear of failure
Creatures of habit
3.
No obvious need
5.
Close minded
4.
6.
7. 8.
9.
Loss of control
Unwillingness to learn
Fear the new way isn’t a
better way
Fear of the unknown
Fear of personal impact
Now, owners shouldn’t be discouraged about their business and think they’re the only one who can’t
seem to make changes stick. Many are overwhelmed by their facilities and how they are run becomes the reality. Shop owners attend trade shows, like SEMA or NACE, and leave with so much new information. Or, they may be reminded of great ideas. Often, owners will even start off with good intentions: going back to work full of eagerness and excitement with plans to implement all these wonderful, new ideas. Well, that was when they started the day at 8 a.m. – but two hours later, the day just got hectic and plans of a new, fresh start just went out the window. Most business owners know change has to happen to stay relevant in the fast-moving collision repair industry but don’t know where, or how to start. Ultimately, everyday life gets in the way and that owner may just give up and say, “It’s the way we’ve always done things.” Don’t feel bad … it happens to everyone. In 1899, the commissioner of the United States Patent Office Charles H. Duell said, “Everything that can be invented, has been invented.” That seems pretty close-minded, right? Well it was, but
in 1899 he didn’t have the access to the world as people do today. He only knew what was in “his circle,” kind of like when owners are in their own circle … such as their own body shop. Change is hard. Getting everyone in the organization to see the big picture is extremely difficult. So often compensation (or rather, lack thereof) is the true fear. An employee/owner might ask themselves, “If I change and follow this new way, how will it impact our bottom line? Or, me personally?” Employees know the way they’re doing things today may not be the best way, but at least they can depend on it. During my 30 years in the collision industry, which I’ve been privileged enough to work with hundreds of savvy operators throughout the country, one thing has always held true, “You can’t eat an elephant in one bite.” Simply put, if you truly want to change the way you do business in one swift blow, it will never work. You need to change the culture of your organization through leadership. Employees look for leaders to feel secure See Change Can Be Scary, Page 51
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www.autobodynews.com | JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 41
Power of the Past, Force of the Future: WIN's 2016 Educational Conference by Chasidy Rae Sisk
Excitement and positive energy filled the room as 188 attendees gathered at the Women Industry Network’s (WIN®) 2016 Educational Conference themed Power of the Past, Force of the Future. On the ten year anniversary of WIN’s inception, association members from around the country met in Tampa, FL to honor the
Petra Schroeder, Incoming WIN Chair welcomes members to the conference
past that has led to the present and learn how to best prepare for the challenges on the horizon. WIN’s 2016 Educational Conference was held on May 2-4 at the Hilton Tampa Downtown which contributed an air of elegance to the proceedings. During registration and orientation, attendees had a chance to get to know each other, and additional networking opportunities were offered between sessions throughout the conference. For new members, WIN offered a chance to attend a Member Orientation session, hosted by Michelle Sullivan, WIN’s 2016 Most Influential Woman (MIW) recipient, and Petra Schroeder, Incoming Chair of WIN, who encouraged members to get engaged by joining a committee. After introducing WIN’s 2016 scholarship winners, Sullivan encouraged the industry professionals to mentor young people. Marcy Tieger and Frederica Carter took the stage to go over the agenda and recognize WIN’s founders, past chairs, scholarship recipients, Board of Directors and sponsors. In between educational seminars, attendees also heard updates from WIN’s Committees. Throughout the conference, Tieger and Carter provided tidbits from WIN’s decade-long history, Carter noted the good energy present from WIN’s first meeting as women gathered without feeling the need to prove themselves in
a male-dominated industry. Tieger reScholarship Walk. This year’s Schol- to WIN has benefitted each of them. calls WIN issuing the challenge for arship Walk raised $3100 towards The founders praised the camaraderie women to “be bold.” WIN’s Scholarship Fund. of WIN members and stressed the imFrom the beginning, WIN strove Tuesday morning’s Key“to make sure members felt invited, note Address entitled “The warm and safe,” Carter noted. Tieger Gold Medal Mindset” which encouraged attendees to reconnect and was presented by Olympic establish new relationships. Champion Shannon Miller. The first presentation of the event Reminiscing on her career as was “Guess Who’s One of the Most a gymnast, Miller recounted Strategic Links in the Automobile her successes as well as her WIN’s founders met for a “Power of the Past” panel Value Chain?” by Susan Lombardo, failures. Emphasizing the im- discussion Senior Vice President of Acquisitions portance of setting goals, for Enterprise, who shared informamaintaining a positive outlook and portance of strategic planning as the tion on the rental car industry and her being committed to excellence every association grew before Caspersen inown career, and she noted that colli- single day, Miller advised attendees to troduced Incoming Chair Petra sion repair operators are a strategic develop a “Gold Medal Mindset” Schroeder and Jaclyn Byers from link in the automotive value chain. To which is simply an attitude of going WIN’s Technology Task Force. attendees hoping to be successful in out and winning the day, no matter After Schroeder explained WIN’s their careers, Lombardo advised, what life throws at you.” See related past initiatives, she noted their current “Don’t take things for granted, and al- article this issue. initiatives are to grow WIN’s network ways ask about opportunities. You are After lunch on Tuesday, Chair and to build organizational capacity to the driving force of the future.” Denise Caspersen introduced WIN’s better serve that growing network, In “Getting Personal with Social founders for the “Power of the Past” which begins with a focus on technolMedia,” Kristen Felder, ogy which is an internal component of Owner and CEO of Collision WIN’s Force of the Future goals as Hub and Engage Target Byers attempts to make the associaMedia, addressed using sotion’s website easier to use and to incial media in marketing camcrease WIN’s online presence. paigns. Today’s consumers Next, Jennifer Solcz from and on are often less interested in the behalf of AkzoNobel awarded WIN a product than the people beTechnology Initiative Founders Scholhind that product, so Felder arship of $12,500. provided advice on the best The afternoon ended with three ways to use social media to breakout sessions. Colette Bruce of advantage. She also cautioned Team Safety presented a seminar on Throughout the conference, numerous networking opporattendees about the dangers tunities allowed members to make new friends OSHA regulations and safety requireinherent in social media posts, ments. but her overall messages reiterated: panel discussion. The founders in atAMI’s Jeff Peevy led “The His“Companies don’t do business with tendance included Frederica Carter, tory and Evolution of Training in the companies; people do business with Marcy Tieger, Geralynn Kottschade, Collision Repair Industry,” stressing people.” Kathy Mello and Trish Serratore. that training focuses on specific Monday evening concluded with From there, the panel of WIN tasks while education is more gena Welcome Reception on the Hilton’s founders explained that they strove to eral knowledge. See related article patio which allowed attendees to create a safe harbour for collision rethis issue. enjoy the beautiful weather, appetiz- pair industry professionals from all Following the educational porfacets and levels of the industry. Mello tion of Tuesday’s proceedings, WIN explained, “These were people who members gathered that evening for the go through the same things as us every MIW and Scholarship Awards Gala day—it makes us better personally where WIN’s 2016 scholarship recipand professionally.” ients were recognized and WIN memWhen Caspersen asked the founbers honored Michelle Sullivan, ders about their proudest WIN moWIN’s 2016 MIW honoree. ments, Kottschade said, “Being a part During the General Session on of this group has been one of the best Wednesday morning, Caspersen beexperiences in my life. People step up stowed WIN’s Cornerstone Award where there’s a need, and there should upon Shelly Andrews and Katie Shannon Miller the most decorated US gymbe no fear to get involved. I’m proud Henwood. The award honors a Board nast, explains the “Gold Medal Mindset.” to be a part of this organization.” of Directors member who exemplifies ers and beverages while engaging in The ladies continued to discuss extraordinary service, and Caspersen the scheduled networking opportunity. their efforts to plan WIN’s first Edualso recognized new Board of DirecTuesday began early for the 116 cational Conference with an all-voltors members Denise Kingstrom, See WIN Conference Page 45 WINners who joined the annual unteer group as well as how belonging
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Media and Publicity for Shops
Ed Attanasio is an automotive journalist based in San Francisco, California. He can be reached at era39@aol.com.
Indoor Advertising Engages Consumers in Prime Locations with Ed Attanasio
Body shops are always looking for a better and affordable way to keep their name in front of their customers. Since purchasing collision repair is rarely an impulsive decision, shops should focus more on branding and less on conventional forms of advertising. Indoor advertising is widely recognized as an extremely targeted medium. It reaches a captive audience while people engage in social settings at high traffic locations, such as restaurants, bathrooms, night clubs, sports bars, arenas and other venues. Indoor advertising reaches consumers from an uncluttered eye-level vantage point, making it literally unavoidable. Traditional forms of advertising, such as television commercials, magazine ads, and Internet pop ups have become less effective for smaller, local businesses. With so much advertising jammed into our brains every waking minute, more and more consumers have chosen to mute, click away, fast-forward, or completely opt out. For example, DVR systems make it easy for people to avoid TV commercials, and many do. I have quite a few friends who will wait 10 minutes after their favorite show starts so that they can watch it uninterrupted and commercial-free. By utilizing new advances and implementation of digital technology, indoor advertising continues to engage its audience. The stats support its effectiveness: 84 percent recalled seeing specific advertisements in the restrooms and movie theaters and 92 percent were able to name specific advertisers without prompting. Chuck Jessen, the owner of PreFab Ads in San Francisco, CA produces award-winning TV commercials for body shops all over the country. Although he has carefully been watching the evolution of indoor advertising, he still believes that old school TV broadcast is king. “When it comes down to advertising, it’s all about aggregation—how
many people you can reach with the media you’re using,” Jessen said. “With TV, we know that we reach a large number of consumers with each 30-second commercial. But, with
different than conventional retail advertising? “Body shops cannot do sales or promotions, so in the end their ads have to focus on branding and name
indoor advertising, the numbers are tough to accurately gauge, so smaller companies might be less attracted to it.” Now that indoor advertising is in public bathrooms, movie theaters, airports, sports stadiums and other places where people regularly visit and interact, what does the future of indoor advertising hold? “There is probably no limit, so will we likely be seeing more indoor advertising--anywhere and everywhere? I would say yes, definitely. Indoor advertising reminds me of the movie Blade Runner, where ads were displayed on the sides of buildings and literally in the air.” Jeff Siegel is a 40-year-old veteran of the Silicon Valley advertising game and is known as one of the original Mad Men-types. As a former radio rep who worked for more than a dozen stations during his illustrious career, Siegel has seen the rapid evolution of indoor advertising firsthand. “As a broadcast veteran, I still believe in the power of radio and TV,” Siegel said. “But, the vibe out there about indoor advertising is very positive. I tell my people that if you use some movie screen advertising, and possibly some mall kiosk advertising in conjunction with a broadcast schedule, the odds for a good response is high. I never want anyone to ever put all of their eggs in one basket and that’s why all of my clients do a mix of different things.” How is advertising for body shops
recognition,” Seigel explained. “A body shop’s image should be based on things like transparency and accountability, just like with a bank, a hospital or an insurance company.” The statistics about indoor advertising are compelling and that’s why more and more businesses are jumping into the fray. First, it’s in your face, because indoor ads are normally strategically placed where they’re virtually impossible to ignore. Even then, you only have roughly 1-4 full minutes of
“A body shop’s image should be based on things like transparency and accountability, just like with a bank, a hospital or an insurance company.” — Jeff Siegel
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your prospective customer’s attention while they’re physically idle, yet mentally engaged without interruptions or distractions. So, your message has to be short, direct and engaging while entertaining people as well. In addition, indoor advertising is well-known for getting the viewer’s undivided attention for an extended period of time. Since people are seeing your message in a location where they aren’t typically bombarded by advertising, indoor advertising statistics show that consumers will remember yours longer. It also offers a wider range of targeting opportunities, based on specific demographics such as gender, income, lifestyle and age. As a result, you can spend less of your advertising dollar and still reach a much higher percentage of your desired target market. So, when you’re looking at different forms of marketing, why not choose indoor?
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WIN Conference
April Lausch, Debbie Menz, and Jenny Anderson before discussing the association’s recent accomplishments and upcoming initiatives. Event emcees provided some history about WIN’s early years with Tieger noting, “We’ve come a really long way, and we’re extremely proud of how far we’ve gotten.” Next, Karen Fierst, owner of KerenOr Consulting, presented “Lessons Learned on My Journey to and Through the Collision Repair Industry: Next Stop: China.” Fierst began with a personal biography, sharing information about her youth and her education. She advised attendees, “You need to have a vision, identify your core values, go for it, exude confidence, seek growth opportunities, find mentors, start networking, and evaluate. Have a vision to find your path.” Fierst identified how to approach each of these steps. She also explained the importance of the four domains that define an individual: self, home/family, community and work. She encouraged everyone, “You have got to be
yourself. Somehow, you have to figure out how to operate in your own personal sphere of comfort and according to your core values.” Laurie Altman from 3M then presented “What’s Next? From the Eyes of an Industry Leader” which she began by sharing information about 3M’s vision and strategy as well as her own career. She discussed the rapid changes currently impacting the collision repair industry, such as MSOs, autonomous vehicles, OEM-certified parts, and a variety of other issues related to technology. Altman advised attendees to “make change your best friend, but stay true to what you believe. Don’t let others tell you what you can or should do—you’re probably capable of more than even you believe!” During the last educational session, Mark Claypool, President and CEO of Optima Automotive, presented “Lions and Tigers and Millennials... Oh My!” Claypool defined the millenials as those born after 1980, and he listed some of the stereotypes associated with this group of young adults. Claypool’s presentation focused on millennials as customers and the best ways to market to them. He outlined some of the challenges employers
may experience with this generation who puts less focus on work and more on having a personal life. As a WIN founder, Claypool also praised WINners: “What you’ve accomplished in the last ten years is nothing short of miraculous, but there’s still a lot of work to be done. If it doesn’t challenge you, it doesn’t change you; let’s see what your best can do over the next ten years for WIN, your business and the collision repair industry. You are the force of the future.” As the conference ended, Debbie Clark announced that WIN’s 2017 Educational Conference will be held on May 8-10, 2017 in Denver, CO. WIN’s 2016 Educational Conference sponsored included AkzoNobel, Axalta, BASF, DCR Systems, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, PPG, ASE Certified, 3M, Allstate, Caliber Collision, Insurance Auto Auctions, Service King, State Farm, Valspar Automotive, ABRA Auto Body and Glass, AudaExplore, CAPA, CARSTAR, CCC Information Services, Copart, FinishMaster, Fix Auto, GEICO, Gerber Collision & Glass, Hertz, MetLife, Mitchell International, OEM, The Romans Group, The Villacorta Law Firm PC, and Safelite Solutions.
Continued from Page 38
Luehr at WIN
agree on the steps to get there. If you keep score, it makes everything more interesting. The important thing to remember is you’ve always got to keep learning. The best way you can predict your future is to create it. You have the power to set your own destiny.” In his presentation titled “Dealing with Fear: A Secret to Success,” Luehr defined success as an affirmative answer to the following: Did I live? Did I love? Did I matter and make a difference in the world? He explained that everything an individual wants is on the other side of fear; each person needs to learn to get out of his or her own way. He stressed, “Fear is not a bad thing if you frame it right in your mind. Get comfortable being uncomfortable!” Luehr advised attendees to deal with fear with practicing awareness, visualizing the desired outcome, associating without a higher quality of people and embracing the opportunity to learn new things. He ended with “Quit letting your mind control you automatically. The more you do it, the less you’ll fear it!”
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GM Manager Addresses State of Collision Repair Business; Considering Certification Program collision repair facility feels the pres- other worry is whether or not the sure in how a safe, quality repair is training that is taking place is actually During a recent Verifacts Guild 21 completed,” said Eck. being replicated in the shops. “We Economics plays a key role in this; have to leverage existing technologies webinar, General Motors manager John Eck talked about the however, he said the concern and use some technologies that are in complexity of the collision is the point of balance when other industries to help audit and verrepair industry, the imporeconomics overrule certain reify repairs,” he said. tance of quality repairs and pair decisions. He mentioned there are additional how the company is considEck said that OEMs can factors causing change in the industry, ering the possibility of estabassist in the following areas: such as MSO growth with the rise of lishing an OEM collision ease of repairs, actual quality consolidations. In response, GM is repair certification program. John Eck, manager of repairs, and technician working with MSOs to understand Eck said the ultimate of wholesale dealer readiness for new technolo- their concerns in order to help better goal is a quality, safe repair channel for General gies. meet their needs. Motors Customer for the customer. “That’s who When it comes to the ease “The industry has already chanCare & Aftersales I work for,” said Eck, the of repairs, he said that OEMs ged,” said Eck. “We see an industry manager of wholesale dealer channel can help improve repair procedure that needs to expand and grow and be for General Motors Customer Care & content to make it easier to access. In ready for the challenges that I see comAftersales. “We want the outcome to addition, OEMs can take the repair ing down the pike from the OEMs’ be a satisfied customer driving away learnings from body shops and share perspective.” in a vehicle that has been repaired to them with the teams that work with To respond to some of these pre-crash conditions using the right vehicle development engineers. changes in the industry, GM recently procedures, parts, processes and qualEck is finding that the actual redesigned its website (www.genuine ity checks. There is no alternative.” quality of repairs is an area that colli- gmparts.com) to better support colliWith more than 25 years of autosion repairers are looking to OEMs for sion repairers. There is now content motive aftermarket experience with General Motors, Eck has held numer“We see an industry that needs to expand and grow ous field, marketing and management and be ready for the challenges that I see coming positions in several business segments down the pike from the OEMs’ perspective,” in the United States, Canada and South — John Eck, manager at GM Africa. “Vehicles are complex, the dynamics of our stakeholder relation- support and said OEM certification is for both consumers and professionals. ships are complex, and the repair a step in that direction. GM is also currently looking at process is as well,” said Eck. “SomeDuring the webinar, he shared the impact on the industry in the foltimes it’s interesting and even neces- data with attendees on repairs that were lowing areas: sary to take a step back and all of the done on GM mid-size SUVs over a ● OEM certification programs; changes we have seen and the rate of three-year span. Looking at the per● Cost to shop for tools and training; change that will clearly indicate that centage of vehicles that were being re● Proliferation of collision crash this is clearly not going to slow down paired versus replaced, it was found avoidance and telematics; on us.” that over 50 percent of the time they ● OEM repair procedure requirements He said there are several areas of were being repaired. “We are very conand influence; concern currently working against cerned about the repair quality of the ● Change from just selling OEM parts collision repair shops. vehicle coming out,” said Eck. to focus on the customer and a quality One of these is that the equity Technology readiness is another and safe repair. balance of influence of a repair is in big concern for the industry, espe“The solutions we may come to flux, whether that involves managing cially for OEMs, according to Eck. In find out may not necessarily be what relationships, metrics or costs. “The addition to industry age numbers, an- some want to hear,” said Eck. “At least by Stacey Phillips, Assistant Editor
Continued from Page 29
Student Surprised
grants such as the one presented to Rey by 3M. They explained there are thousands of dollars in student assistance available and only hundreds of students apply. “There a lot of scholarship opportunities that go unawarded,” said Garcia. “It’s important that students realize the help is there, they just need to try.
We are so grateful for 3M making this opportunity available to our students and we are thankful for this award.” Auto Collision Technology is offered at both Harlingen and Waco campuses. Registration for Fall 2016 is in progress. Apply or register anytime online at tstc.edu. For more information on the local Auto Collision Technology program call 956-364-4659. We thank the TSTC Staff for permission to reprint their article.
46 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
if we acknowledge these points, we can then collaborate together, on ways to minimize the negative impact that they might have on the collision repair business.” With the overwhelming speed of change, Eck said that stakeholders need to work together and collaborate to better understand the issues at hand. This includes repairers, insurers and OEMS. “We can’t do this alone,” said Eck. “We see huge benefits of collaboration and integration.” Eck said GM is planning to put more emphasis on tech repair and support. By understanding the repair procedures up front, it will help drive the correct parts decisions to ensure vehicles are being repaired to OEM standards. In regards to General Motors’ plans for a possible certification program, Eck said the company agrees with certification but wants to ensure there is a focus on the output. He said it will take some time and stressed the importance of having discussions with stakeholders about how to best move forward. “We can’t look at it from just GMs perspective,” said Eck. “We need to look at the rest of the stakeholders involved.” Eck said the requirements to become a certified/authorized repair facility include tools, training, facilities, processes, tracking and OEM specific requirements. Areas that GM will be focusing on include a combination of industry outreach, repair procedures, training and verification. The desired outcome is a quality, safe repair that restores the vehicle back to pre-crash condition. “You and your repair facility want your output to be a product you would put your family in without question or concern,” said Eck. “You want your customers to be satisfied.”
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FinishMaster’s Michelle Sullivan Honored as WIN’s 2016 Most Influential Woman by Chasidy Rae Sisk
industry leader. WIN is honored to recognize Michelle and looks forward to a future where every woman in the collision industry finds and fulfills her place of influence.”
As part of its goal to “enhance the role of women in the collision repair industry,” the Women’s Industry Network (WIN®) honors at least one woman each year for enriching the industry through their leadership, vision and commitment to excellence through their Most Influential Women (MIW) program. This year, WIN chose to honor Michelle Sullivan, Regional Vice President of FinishMaster, as the 2016 MIW. When asked how it feels to be honSullivan attended the first WIN ored as WIN’s 2016 MIW, Sullivan reconference in 2007 and has been insponded, “I am excited, grateful and volved ever since. humbled. I have held leadership posi“I was attracted to WIN because tions throughout my career that have althis is an organization that is dedicated lowed me to identify, advance and retain to encouraging, developing and cultitalent in the collision repair industry. vating opportunities to attract women Great mentors inspired me, and I have a to collision repair,” she said. “They strong desire to do that for others. Winalso recognize excellence, promote ning the MIW award means that I have leadership, and foster a network of a responsibility to continue that advowomen who are shaping the industry. cacy and ‘leave it better than I found it.’” I wanted to be part of that!” Sullivan began her career in the In 2013, Sullivan was elected to collision repair industry in 1994 as a WIN’s Board of Directors. She also Human Resources Manager for a Bal- participates as the co-chair for the timore distributor. Membership and Industry Outreach She explained, “I was working for committees. Sullivan is involved in a large corporation and was attracted other organizations, representing the to a smaller company where I could collision repair industry at national make a great impact.” events. She enjoys speaking to various The next eight years of Sullivan’s segments of the industry and raising career were spent working in marketawareness of the opportunities within ing, operations, sales and management collision repair. in order to learn every aspect of the When asked about why it’s imporbusiness, before she became President tant for women to be involved in the of that company in 2002. She continued collision repair industry, Sullivan rethere for another ten years. The comsponded, “The collision repair industry pany went on to win the 2007 continues to face a shortage of Distributor of the Year award people to fill critical positions, under her leadership. Sullivan such as technicians, managers then worked for paint manuand executives. Recruiting facturer for several years, winand retaining talent becomes ning their Leadership Award essential for the long-term in 2015. Sullivan joined Finsustainability of our industry. ishMaster as Regional Vice We are seeing more of that Michelle Sullivan President in January 2016. talent in women that are enSullivan stated, “Most of my career tering our industry or who are embrachas been spent championing change, ing leadership roles. It is important for developing talent, and driving results. I women to be involved to bring addihave been elected to various councils tional talent and diversity to work enviwhich have provided many opportunironments.” ties, particularly to be part of shaping Sullivan offers some advice for the direction of the organization.” young women interested in pursuing a Denise Caspersen, WIN’s Chair, career in the automotive industry: said, “Being selected as an MIW not “Don’t let preconceived notions only reflects on Michelle’s past ac- limit your thinking. Most people don’t tions but also sets the future stage for realize the various career paths within her as a mentor to others in the colli- the automotive field. If you are a stusion repair industry and as a continued dent, join an industry organization and
48 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
connect to the industry. Explore, question, engage! The more that you can get involved early on, the more opportunities will appear. Stay positive and adaptable, and find a mentor. Women who are part of industry organizations make great mentors; they typically had someone who promoted their development and were important to their journey, and most are looking to pay it forward.” The MIW program was established in 1999 by AkzoNobel and has recognized nearly 85 women whose leadership, vision and commitment to excellence has enriched the industry. Since acquiring stewardship of the MIW program in 2013, WIN continues to evolve the program to align with the organization’s mission to “enhance the role of women in the collision repair industry.” The leadership of women who received the MIW Award focuses on four areas: industry influence, professional accomplishments, mentoring and supporting others in the collision repair industry, and going beyond the requirements of their professional lives to give back to their communities. Amidst resounding applause, Sul-
livan said, “It is with great excitement, gratitude and humility that I accept this award. I want to thank WIN and its founders. Ten years ago, they had a vision, and they and many others along the way have worked tirelessly to engage women in the collision repair industry. They have provided a platform for me and many others to do what we love in an industry that we are so passionate about and to ensure that women have a seat at the table.” Sullivan continued, “I want to thank FinishMaster and the many other organizations that sponsor and support WIN. I want to thank my parents for giving me a solid foundation, and to the many friends, colleagues and mentors who have helped me along in my journey. Most of those mentors are in this room tonight, and I want to thank you; they have inspired me and coached me along the way.” Denise Caspersen, Outgoing Chair for WIN and 2008 MIW Honoree, led a toast to Sullivan, the scholarship recipients and all WINners, noting, “We are all MIWs. Maybe we haven’t been given the title, but by being a leader in the industry, we are all most influential!”
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WIN© Honors 2016 Scholarship Recipients at Gala Awards Ceremony by Chasidy Rae Sisk
On Tuesday, May 3, during the 2016 Educational Conference, WIN members took a break from the informative sessions to honor the 2016 Most Influential Woman (MIW) honoree as well as this year’s scholarship win-
WIN presented their 2016 post-secondary scholarship recipients. (from left to right: Beverly Rook-Twibel, Krystyna Zak, Chelsea Bonds, Tristen Berlin, Jasmine Storey, Petra Schroeder; scholarship winner Nancy McInerney could not attend the conference)
ners. The MIW Reception was held outside and attendees were dressed to the nines as they sampled hors d’oeuvres while networking with their collision repair industry peers. Cheryl Boswell welcomed attendees and introduced Beverly RookTwibell and Petra Schroeder, co-Chairs
of the Scholarship Committee. Recipients of the scholarships are required to possess a 3.0 GPA, provide school involvement, engage in community service, bring a recommendation from their instructor, and submit an essay describing their goals and reasons for joining the collision repair industry and to try to ensure that they plan to stay in the industry. In 2016, WIN awarded ten scholarships: five to high school students and five to post-secondary students. Winners of post-secondary scholarships were Nancy McInerney, Tristen Berlin, Chelsea Bonds, Jasmine Storey and Krystyna Zak. Each of the young women were introduced and their goals shared before their mentors were announced. Berlin plans to work in a body shop or be an adjuster, and RookTwibell will mentor her for next year. Storey plans to own a collision repair shop and will be mentored by Debbie Menz. Bonds hopes to work for Service King and will be mentored by Petra Schroeder. Zak, who wants to be a body technician or estimator, was assigned Michelle Sullivan as her men-
tor. Although McInerney could not be present, her goal is to paint cars for a living; Yen Hoang was assigned as her mentor. Speaking on behalf of the scholarship recipients, Zak admitted that they didn’t know what to expect before attending the Educational Con-
Cheryl Boswell welcomed attendees to the MIW and Scholarship Awards Gala.
ference, but they were all pleasantly surprised by how warm and welcoming WIN members treated them. “We’re used to being alone or among few women, and we are relieved to find a network of women in this industry. We are grateful for this experience and the scholarships which provide so many opportunities. We are all elated to be part of something as
great as WIN. Thank you for your time, energy, leadership and support.” Boswell introduced Trish Serratore, one of WIN’s founding members and a 2000 MIW Honoree, who emphasized the importance of being involved with local schools and the future generation. Looking at the term “Most Influential Woman,” she noted that each word is significant and represents someone truly incredible “whose actions and leadership provide a strong influence.” Since the inception of the MIW Award by AkzoNobel, the program has honored 88 women in celebration of their leadership, mentorship and inspiration. Serratore believes, “It is essential for women in our industry to support other women. We can change the world by speaking out.” Serratore went on to recognize all women who contribute to the success of the collision repair industry, stating that making a difference, staying true to their values, and using their actions to create a positive influence makes each one of them “most influential.” She then introduced MIW Awardee Michelle Sullivan. See story this issue.
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Environmental Initiatives at CA Body Shop Lead to Cost Savings & Recognition by Stacey Phillips, Assistant Editor
A California body shop was recognized for its commitment to a climatefriendly environment and its efforts to reduce its carbon footprint. Luxury Auto Body was presented with the CoolCalifornia Small Business of the Year Award by California Air Resources Board in March. “When we found out that we won the award, we were thrilled and honored as we are the only San Diego business to have ever received the CoolCalifornia Small Business of the Year Award, let alone an auto body repair facility,” said Ron Melanson, general manager at Luxury Auto Body, which was established in 1999 and has two facilities. Judy A. Nottoli, Air Resources Engineer at the California Air Resources Board, said the CoolCalifornia Small Business Awards program was initiated in 2009 and honors small businesses that take voluntary actions to reduce their carbon footprint, “Luxury Auto Body was selected as a Business of the Year because they have taken a proactive approach in the areas of compliance and conservation and were able to demonstrate their cost savings and reductions for the actions they implemented to reduce their carbon footprint,” said Nottoli. She said there are over 3.6 million small businesses in California, and they can have a tremendous impact in helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save water, improve energy efficiency, and reduce/recycle/repurpose water. “Sustainability improves business profitability and is good for the environment,” said Nottoli. “Luxury Auto Body serves as an example of a sustainable business for others to follow.” Some of the environmental improvements Luxury Auto has implemented include:
■ installation of a wash mat wastewater collection and recycling system to prevent run off and ground contamination; ■ skylights in the body shop to reduce the use of overhead lighting during daylight operations; ■ an energy-efficient rotary air compressor system; ■ a new energy-efficient spray booth equipped for the waterborne paint process, which reduces the use of ma-
terials and energy; ■ additional recycling for waste items such as aerosol containers, paint lids and liners; ■ a dedicated recycling container for all vehicle debris and contracted with a hauler for proper disposal;
Early in 2011, Melanson decided to take initiative and ask Eric Luther, the small business liaison, to inspect and review the processes conducted at Luxury Auto. “We found that we were not only doing a great job but also identified areas of improvement to put
Luxury Auto Body was presented with the CoolCalifornia Small Business of the Year Award by California Air Resources Board. (l to r) Lydia Vargas, Carlos Vargas, County Supervisor Ron Roberts, Ron Melanson and Stephanie Melanson
■ turf irrigation was shut off and hardscape installed with drought-tolerant plants; and ■ a rain barrel was added for watering drought-tolerant plants and vehicle paint preparation.
The total investment of the shop’s water conservation equipment was approximately $4,000, which Nottoli said resulted in a 30 percent decrease in water usage, saving the company $1,050 per year. The additions of skylight windows saved the company more than $900 a year. “Regardless of what side of the argument you are one with respect to climate change, it is important that our industry recognize what we do every day does have an impact on the environment,” said Melanson. “We can all do more to reduce our carbon footprint; being a clean operator doesn’t happen without added costs and effort, but just being compliant isn’t enough.” Several years ago, the Air Pollution Control District (APCD) set up a small business assistance program to educate the auto body industry and offer guidance in regards to compliance and record keeping. “As most shops do in our industry, we relied on the annual inspection process to learn of the latest compliance issues and whether we met the standards,” said Melanson. “We wanted to be proactive and go above and beyond just being compliant.”
50 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
ourselves in better standing without respective governmental agencies,” he said. Partnering with APCD, Luxury Auto created compliance training videos
during the summer of 2011 for San Diego County repair facilities. They are also utilized by APCD for classroom training. The company received the Blue Sky Leadership Award that same year to honor its efforts in maintaining a clean environment and utilizing resources to ensure a sustainable future. Over the years Luxury Auto Body has continued to implement changes to its business to reduce energy; conserve water; re-use ink and toner cartridges, lids and liners in the paint department as well as sand paper; and recycle. “It’s not often that our industry is looked at in a positive way with respect to the environment,” said Melanson. “We have had a great response from our customers regarding the award; it just shows if you care about the environment, then you care about the consumer.” To apply for a CoolCalifornia Small Business Award, visit www.Cool California.org (under the small business tab). To become a certified green business in California, visit www.green businessca.org.
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Continued from Page 40
Continued from Page 41
in the recipe for success. Each little effort adds up and makes a difference, and you never have to second guess the outcome when you’re committed to excellence because you’ve done everything possible to succeed. When you look at winners, what separates them is follow through, not talent or effort—they focus on winning every single day,” Miller emphasizes. Before exiting the stage to a standing ovation, Shannon Miller stated, “It’s important to keep moving in a positive direction every day. When you’re repairing a vehicle, it’s not just a car—it’s that person’s livelihood, where they spend time with family, and how they protect their loved ones... Or maybe it’s a dad taking his little girl to the gym so she can pursue her dream of winning an Olympic gold medal. Each time you commit yourself to excellence, you are creating a winning aspect for everyone.”
that a new, better way will not be detrimental to their livelihoods. You must start with small and simple tasks and decide how to improve them. Get key people involved so they feel their roles within the company are valued. Receive feedback and input and you’ll see them beginning to row in the same direction. Communicate daily, set goals and time frames on achieving them. Create and understand a baseline on where you are and what success looks like. It’s important to celebrate even the small incremental gains along the way. After you’ve achieved the desired change, celebrate and deliver the results to the entire team. This is leadership, not management, so don’t get the two confused. After you have achieved the new state, then it can be managed to adherence and compliance. Henry Ford once said: “Whether you think you can or can’t, you’re right.”
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Team Penske’s Simon Pagenaud Races PPG-Painted Chevy to Victory in Alabama
Driving his PPG-painted car, the No. 22 PPG Team Penske Dallara/Chevrolet, Simon Pagenaud took the checkered flag in the Honda Indy Grand Prix of Alabama on April 24 at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham.
Pagenaud’s car is the latest of Team Penske’s cars to wear a PPG coat. PPG has been a longtime major sponsor of Team Penske with an overall business relationship extending more than 30 years. The race car features a blue and white PPG water-based finish, and, like other PPG-sponsored Team Penske cars, it prominently displays the PPG logo. “It’s exciting for us to see Team Penske and Simon Pagenaud do so well on the race course,” said John Outcalt, vice president, global automotive refinish. “We’ve had a strong relationship with Penske Racing for several decades and that’s based on a mutual commitment to deliver exceptional performance and exceptional Simon Pagenaud, driving his PPG-painted car products. Neither Penske nor PPG will It was Pagenaud’s second con- settle for anything less.” secutive Verizon IndyCar Series win. PPG has become Penske CorpoThe previous week, Pagenaud, a native ration’s exclusive supplier of refinish of France, raced to victory in the Toy- coatings for its racing, truck leasing and ota Grand Prix of Long Beach, also automotive collision repair subsidiaries while carrying the PPG colors. and facilities. Pagenaud now has captured two To learn about PPG products, victories and two second-place fin- call (800) 647-6050 or visit www.ppg ishes for Team Penske in the first four refinish.com. For info about Team racesPromote of the 2016your season. His sizzling business with Penske, visit www.teampenske.com. pace has put him at the top of the seFor additional information, conexclusive articleinfeaturing ries’an driver point standings just his tact Cynthia Schauer, schauer@ppg your products orPenske. services. .com (440) 572-2800. second season with Team
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House of Kolor Announces New Products for Spring 2016 House of Kolor by Valspar announced the spring launch of eight new products, including four limited-edition colors that debuted at SEMA Show 2015 in Las Vegas. The limited-edition colors — Black Forest, Blue By-You, Blood Orange and Righteous Rojo — are available as a factory pack for a limited time. They are also available to be mixed in the Shimrin2 Intermix System.
The Spring Launch includes factory pack colors, clears and sprayable primer
“What’s fun about these colors is that you can easily get the look and depth of a kandy with the ease of applying a basecoat clearcoat,” said Jon Kosmoski, founder of House of Kolor. “These four uniquely crafted limited edition colors will provide you with the look of a custom color in no time.” House of Kolor has also released a new urethane flat clear (FC21.001), a low-VOC, flat finish clearcoat that
Ford Approves Two UPOL Aerosols for Shops
Ford Motor Company’s Toxicology and Environmental Quality Office has approved the use of U-POL ACID#8™ and GRIP#4™ aerosols in any of their facilities—manufacturing, design and body shops. The official identity of U-POL in the Ford GSDB (Global Supplier Data Base) is AJR6A. ACID#8 Acid Etch Primer promotes paint adhesion and corrosion protection to difficult substrates, like galvanized steel and aluminium. The company said ACID#8 offers superior adhesion and fast drying properties, making it ideal for bare metal areas prior to application of primers and top coats. (U-POL Part UP0741V, Ford Part 196377. GRIP#4 Universal Adhesion Promoter is an all-in-one adhesion promoter for paints, adhesives and sealants. The company said it promotes proper adhesion on all automotive surfaces, from plastics to aluminum to painted surfaces. (UPOL Part UP0799, Ford Part 19642. “We are very proud to hear that Ford confirmed what we already knew. UPOL products are made to the highest quality standards and designed to save the professional time and money,” said Mike Sanders, VP, U-POL, North America.
can be used over all solvent-based basecoats. The clear sprays easily, dries quickly and is mixed with the new KUF21.HP1 catalyst. The new Urethane Rocket Klear. (URC01.Q01) is ideal for those small pieces that need to look show ready in quick time. URC01 does not require any flash time between coats. House of Kolor introduces a new sprayable primer (SP1600.G01), a premium, low-VOC, high-build polyester primer surfacer that provides excellent adhesion to fiberglass and primed surfaces such as aluminum and steel. “From the trend-setting limitededition kolors to the incredible clears, these products have something for everyone,” said Gina Mahan, House of Kolor brand manager. “We take pride in offering products to better serve our customers through advancements in color and technology, and the products in the spring 2016 launch are no exception.” The products are available immediately and comply with the U.S. National Volatile Organic Compound Emission Standard for Automobile Refinish Coatings. For more information or to order, please contact your House of Kolor representative, or customer service at 1-800-4442399.
GFS’s REVO Systems Included in Ford Program
Global Finishing Solutions (GFS) announced its inclusion in the Ford Rotunda Dealer Equipment Program with its REVO Accelerated Curing Systems. The REVO Systems, which use short wave electric infrared technology, can improve paint shop throughput up to 80 percent, according to a company press release. “Global Finishing Solutions is excited to work with the Ford Rotunda program to provide customers with products that can be game changers for the industry,” said Brandon Lowder, vice president of auto refinish sales at GFS. “With the REVO Systems, GFS is proud to be the sole provider of infrared curing equipment to the program.” Introduced in 2014, GFS’ REVO Accelerated Curing Systems leverage electric IR technology to significantly reduce curing times for both prep and paint phases of repairs. Available in multiple models ranging from a handheld unit to larger systems that integrate into paint booths and prep areas, the REVO Systems are designed to fit a variety of needs while working within a shop’s current footprint.
Vehicle Repair Installment Plans For Sales Growth
Collision Financial Services, a company that specializes in creating flexible installment vehicle repair payment plans, announced that its clients are finding additional sales by using, “InHouse Loans.” Collision Financial Services said that smart companies realize that being payment-flexible can lead to major sales growth. “In-House Loan implies ‘special’ to the customer and could be a benefit when CSI surveying is done. Who does not appreciate special treatment? Can you say ‘referral customers,’” said Jeff Steigerwald, Collision Financial Services chief financial manager. He said within many collision repair businesses, a rule of 75/25 applies. This means 75% of a shop’s customers arrive from insurance contacts shops commonly work with. The other 25% are from small and unfamiliar insurance companies or customer pay opportunities. These often will provide the smaller portion of a shop’s sales volume. The company said a willingness to offer flexible vehicle repair installment plans can often be key to bringing these customers on board. Visit www.collision financialservices.com or email info@ collisionfinancialservices.com.
New SATA Dry Jet 2 Introduced
To ensure a fast drying process following the application of waterborne paint, it is vital to apply as much air as possible within a short period of time onto the painted object. To achieve this objective, the new SATA dry jet 2 also relies on the Venturi principle like its predecessor: In addition to the compressed air feeding
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the system, a multiple of ambient air is drawn in that serves directly to accelerate the drying process. The new design incorporates a flat fan nozzle. The SATA dry jet 2 has an extra large air footprint, which the company said further increases the drying efficiency, helping reduce the flash-off time and enhance the quality of the drying process at the same time. The recommended inlet pressure is 29 to 35 psi and uses 8.2 to 9.35 CFM; with the Venturi principle design the CFM is magnified x10 to give a 92.35 CFM output.
52 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
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Aftermarket Parts Disclosure Legislation Passes NH Legislature, Bill is Before Governor for Signature
New Hampshire Senate Bill 436, introduced by State Senator Nancy Stiles, R-24, passed the New Hampshire House of Representatives on May 11th. It had passed the Senate on March 3, 2016. This bill prohibits an insurer from requiring or specifying the use of after market parts on certain leased vehicles or vehicles less than 5 years old or with fewer than 50,000 miles. S.B. 436 requires an insurer to disclose whether or not an estimate has been prepared based on the use of aftermarket parts. Any insurer that fails to provide the disclosure would be prohibited from requesting or requiring the use of aftermarket parts. Specifically, the bill states: No insurer shall require or specify the use of after market parts on: I. A leased motor vehicle if the lease provides that such parts will cause a diminution of the residual value of such vehicle; or II. A motor vehicle that has been placed in service within the immediately preceding 5 years or has fewer than 50,000 miles recorded on the odometer.
2 Effective Date. This act shall take effect January 1, 2017. The Automotive Service Association (ASA) has been a proponent of S.B. 436 since its introduction and has sent letters of support to the New Hampshire legislature. Robert L. Redding Jr., ASA Washington, D.C., representative, wrote in a March 2016 letter to New Hampshire policymakers: “ASA supports requiring insurers and auto collision facilities to provide disclosure of part type, description and warranty information to the consumer for all part types. Consumers will be best served if written consent is required for the use of these parts. ASA believes a competitive parts marketplace of tested and verified quality parts is in the best interest of the motoring public. ASA opposes parts policies that focus solely on cost efficiency without regard to certification, verifiable quality and safety.” S.B. 436 is currently before the New Hampshire governor for final approval. To view the text of the legislation, visit the ASA website at www .TakingTheHill.com.
Jeff Peevy Recounts History of Training in the Industry
AMI’s Jeff Peevy presented “The History and Evolution of Training in the Collision Repair Industry.” at the recent WIN Conference in Tampa. Peevy reminded WIN attendees that training was achieved through ap-
AMI’s Jeff Peevy presented “The History and Evolution of Training in the Collision Repair Industry.”
prenticeships in the early years, going back to the early 1900s when the internal combustion engine was developed. “As the number of vehicles increased during World War I and World War II, there became a need to separate mechanical repairs from paint and body work, and though formal training started to take hold, it was mostly driven by sales initiatives with DuPont, for example, opening
training facilities in the 1960s. Formalized training grew throughout the 1970s, changing focus to technical knowledge near the end of the decade leading to the establishment of ICAR in 1979. Training developed throughout the 1980s but, during the 1990s, the collision repair industry began seeing training as a business requirement, rather than a way to meet the need to learn. Modern training trends reveal that over 50% of training is achieved online or via virtual classrooms. Peevy predicts that this number could increase as much as 70% by 2020. He believes the future of training will become more learner-centered and results-focused as it moves from being seen as a way to meet external requirements to a way of maintaining a sustainable competitive advantage. Peevy said that the training of the future will cater to individual learning styles which will help measure the effectiveness of the training. He stated, “Learning is the key. How we get it is less important than getting it. What you learn makes a difference in performance, not how many courses you’ve taken.”
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www.autobodynews.com | JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 53
Axalta Announces 2016 “Paint Outside the Can” Contest Axalta Coating Systems announced that its 2016 Paint Outside the Can contest is now open. The contest, now in its second year, is an invitation to auto body customers to unleash their creativity using any Axalta-brand coating system to paint and decorate an unused, standard one-gallon paint can. Submissions will be recognized and displayed via social media channels throughout the contest period. When the contest closes on September 16, 2016, six industry celebrities will choose six “Celebrity Picks” based on creativity, execution and degree of difficulty. In addition, six “Fan Favorites” will be chosen based on the number of “likes” the photos receive on Axalta’s Instagram page. Finally, one “Best-inShow” grand prize winner will be selected from the six “Celebrity Picks”. Axalta will display the winning submissions at custom car shows and automotive events throughout the United States in 2016. Axalta’s celebrity judges are: Ron Coan, one of the leading painters in the automotive industry known for his show-stopping creations with Mobsteel at SEMA and his groundbreaking OEM concept cars Rachel De Barros, chief marketing officer, host and executive producer
of Gearhead Diva, a DIY car-building community and network that produces edutainment style videos for today’s social media generation
Ray Evernham, three-time NASCARv champion crew chief and host of Velocity’s hit series AmeriCarna Danny “Danny D” Galvez, a well-known custom automotive painter and pinstriper Dave Lane, one of the top traditional-style car builders in the United States Paul Quinn, a respected airbrush and pinstriping artist and custom paint instructor The six winners of the “Celebrity Picks” and the six “Fan Favorites” will each receive a $250 gift card; a complimentary pass to the 2016 SEMA Show; an opportunity to be interviewed at the 2016 SEMA Show by Rev’n
ETI Congratulates New Officers and Board Members for 2016-2017 Officers (one year term)
President – Bob Holland (Chief Automotive Technologies) Vice President, Programs – Brian Herron (Drew Technologies)
Vice President, Marketing – Jim Fish (Bosch Automotive Service Solutions)
Secretary/Treasurer – Kevin FitzPatrick
Immediate Past President – Tim Morgan (Spanesi Americas Inc.)
Directors Re-elected for a three year term on the Board of Directors
Peter Richardson (Car-O-Liner)
Craig Kirkpatrick (Verizon)
News on Rev’N, a broadcast television network dedicated to all things revving; a complimentary pass to Axalta’s VIP area at the 2016 SEMA Show that includes lunch; and prominent display of their submissions at the 2016 SEMA Show, subject to the official rules of the contest. The “Best-in-Show” grand prize winner will receive a $500 gift card; hotel accommodations for two in Las Vegas, Nevada on November 1, 2016 through November 5, 2016; two complimentary passes to the 2016 SEMA Show; an opportunity to be interviewed by Rev’n News at the 2016 SEMA Show; two complimentary passes to Axalta’s VIP area at the 2016 SEMA Show that includes lunch; and prominent display of the winning submission at the 2016 SEMA Show, subject to the official rules of the contest. To learn how to enter the contest, visit Axalta’s website or follow the company on their North America Refinish social media channels: www.Facebook.com/AxaltaNArefinish www.Twitter.com/AxaltaNAref www.Instagram.com/axaltarefinish www.Pinterest.com/AxaltaNAref www.YouTube.com/AxaltaUS www.axalta.ca www.axalta.us
Mitchell Appoints Debbie Day as General Manager
Mitchell International announced in May that Debbie Day has joined the company’s Auto Physical Damage (APD) business unit as its general manager. Day joins the company with over 19 years of technology strategy and operations experience, most recently as chief operating officer and senior vice president at ClosingCorp, in addition to holding executive positions at ACTIVE Network and CCC Information Services. Day will spearhead Mitchell’s APD initiatives. “At Mitchell, we’re constantly looking to find new opportunities to drive value to our customers, and in order to Debbie Day successfully do this, hiring like-minded people who share in our company’s vision is critical,” said Alex Sun, CEO and president of Mitchell. “With Debbie’s extensive and proven product management, engineering and sales background, coupled with her passion and values, she truly embodies all of the qualities that we seek in a Mitchell leader.”
Finish it like a Masterpiece
Tom Kotenko (Snap-on) Elected for a two year term on the Board of Directors
Neil Davis (Snap-on) Elected for a one year term on the Board of Directors Tom Bertosa (Bosch Automotive Service Solutions)
Remaining Board Members (not up for election)
Term Expiring in 2018-2019 David Rich (Innova) Tim Lael (Hunter Engineering)
Term Expiring in 2017-2018 Robert Vogt (IOSIX) John Heist (STAR EnviroTech)
For more details about ETI programs and activities, contact Jessie Korosec, Marketing and Events Manager, Equipment and Tool Institute, 37899 12 Mile Rd, Suite 220, Farmington Hills, Michigan 48331. Phone: 248-656-5085; e-mail: jessiek @etools.org.
54 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
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Police Officer Found Guilty of Accepting Kickbacks from Local Repair Shop in MD
Former Baltimore, Maryland police officer, Samuel Ocasio, was found guilty of extortion on May 2. In Supreme Court case (US 14-361), federal authorities charged Ocasio for accepting kickbacks from a Maryland auto body and repair shop. Between 2009 and 2011, the officer directed damaged ve-
pairs. The Mejia brothers would in exchange pay Corona between $150 and $300 per referral. As many as 60 additional officers allegedly joined in on the deal with Majestic. It was in 2009 that Ocasio made a similar arrangement with Majestic, which court documents said was the source of 90 percent of Majestic’s business in 2011.
hicles from accident scenes to Majestic Auto Repair Shop (Majestic) in exchange for payment from the shop owners, according to court documents. Testifying in the case were Majestic shop owners and brothers, Hernan Alexis Moreno Mejia and Edwin Javier Mejia. According to court reports, “In 2008, Majestic was struggling to attract customers, so Moreno and Mejia made a deal with a Baltimore police officer, Jhonn Corona.” The documents further stated that Officer Corona would send motorists who had been in accidents to Majestic for towing and re-
Ocasio, as well as the Mejia brothers and nine other Baltimore officers, were indicted by the District of Maryland in 2011. The Mejias and many of the other officers accepted plea bargains and pleaded guilty, while Ocasio did not. Ocasio was found guilty of one conspiracy count and three extortion counts. He attempted to appeal the District Court’s decision to the Supreme Court but was rejected. The Supreme Court has sentenced him to 18 months in prison. For additional information, see Supreme Court case Ocasio v. U.S., 14-361.
by Cass Heckel
Motor Guard Introduces Aluminum Spot Repair Tool
Blackburn OEM Wheel Solutions New Employee
After pioneering the use of soft abrasive technology for conventional steel auto body repair, Motor Guard has turned to the challenge of aluminum body repair. The new Magna-Stripper ALTM System (Model E-6100S) is a soft, abrasive wheel that has been spe-
As many as 60 additional officers allegedly joined in on the deal with Majestic
The Magna-Stripper ALTM
cially formulated to strip aluminum without heat, distortion or damage. The company said the E-6100S quickly strips clear coats, base coats, primer coats, or all three, leaving the base metal clean, bright and ready for repair and refinishing. A company representative said, “Technicians report that the Magna-Stripper ALTM feathers like no other method. It has also proven to be an extremely valuable tool for spot repair of alloy wheels.”
Blackburn OEM Wheel Solutions hired a new member to complement the sales and marketing team. Her name is Samantha Maloy and she will serve as the sales and marketing coordinator effective immediately. Maloy comes to Blackburn’s after spending two years in the printing industry where she completed a two-year leadership development program implemented by RR Donnelley. Prior to her employment at RRD, she attended Bowling Green State University where she graduated with a degree in business administration, specializing in marketing. She will assist Blackburn OEM Wheel solutions with the short-term and long-term sales strategy and goals of the company. She will also assist the outside sales representatives, marketing and advertising efforts of the company. Founded in 1983, Blackburn’s is a privately-held OE wheel (steel and alloy), wheel cover, and center cap distributor. For more information, visit www.blackburnwheels.com.
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Albuquerque 800-642-2697 505-217-0289 Fax www.autobodynews.com | JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 55
Equalizer Hires Market Development Manager
Equalizer® announced the addition of Dale Malcolm as market development manager. Malcolm will be responsible for Equalizer’s marketing solutions and special projects. “Dale’s vast experience and industry specific knowledge will assist Equalizer’s sales and marketing teams to strengthen Equalizer’s position as the industry leader. As a long time industry expert in all related areas of glass and adhesives, Dale brings a unique perspective to Equalizer's ongoing programs designed to expand into the automotive market,” said Shauna Davis, global sales director. As one of the first 50 certified master auto glass technicians in the country, Malcom was a member of the NGA Auto Glass Certification Committee for 10 years and was chairman from 1999-2006. “From early in Dale’s career at Portland Glass to his tenure at Dow Automotive Systems, Dale has always strived to acquire and retain the important information that the auto glass industry has relied upon for my 28 years in the industry,” said Eric Asbery, president of Equalizer. For information, visit www .equalizer.com
CAPA to Form Foundation of Chinese Standards
The Certified Automotive Parts Association (CAPA) announced that it is making its standards available to the China Automobile Maintenance Industry Association (CAMRA), the organization at the forefront of the aftermarket part certification initiative in China. As the technical partner of CAPA, Intertek is actively working with CAMRA as a member of its technical committee, to draft standards for the China domestic market. Intertek is providing assistance with the CAPA Standards, and combining them with applicable Chinese specifications, standards regulations. “CAPA is looking forward to sharing its expertise in part certification with Chinese agencies and organizations looking to improve and validate the quality of auto parts for both the Chinese domestic and export markets,” said Jack Gillis, CAPA’s executive director. “Because of the worldwide acceptance of the CAPA program, CAPA certification for Chinese parts will greatly expand their international marketability,” said Debbie Klouser, CAPA’s director of operations. For information, visit www .CAPAcertified.org or contact Debbie Klouser, 202-737-2212 or debbie@ CAPAcertified.org.
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Announces Succession Plan, Commences CEO Search
ABRA Auto Body & Glass announced on May 2 that Duane Rouse plans to transition from day-to-day operations, stepping down as Chief Executive Officer to assume the role of Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors. Rouse will continue to serve as CEO until a replacement is appointed. ABRA has commenced an executive search to find a successor to Rouse. “As I prepare to step back from day-to-day operations and move into my new role, I want to thank our more than 5,000 employees who have been the secret to our success in growing into a leading national damaged vehicle repair company,” said CEO Duane Rouse. “I am confident that under the leadership of a new CEO, supported by our current best-inthe-business executive team, ABRA will continue as a reliable partner for insurers while maintaining rapid and profitable growth.” Since Rouse became CEO in 2011, ABRA’s system-wide revenue has increased from under $300 million to more than $1 billion. The company has also added more than 150 new locations in the last 2 years. Rouse said, “With a successful strategy and accomplished executive
team in place, ABRA is well-positioned for the future. The company is in a position of strength and now is the time to transition day-to-day leadership to a new Chief Executive who will lead the company into its next chapter of growth. I will remain a significant shareholder and through my Vice Chairman role I look forward to continuing to be part of ABRA’s very bright future.” Erik Ragatz, current Chairperson of the Board of ABRA Auto Body & Glass, and Managing Director of private equity firm Hellman & Friedman, ABRA’s majority shareholder, said, “During his 20 year tenure—and particularly in his 5 years as CEO— Duane not only helped aggressively grow the company through both strategic acquisitions and internal initiatives, but also built a wonderful organization and business. We are now beginning a search that will identify CEO candidates with the right experience and cultural fit for the organization. Duane will be an important voice in this process, and remain an important part of ABRA as he assumes the role of Vice Chairman.” For more information about ABRA visit www.abraauto.com
56 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
Audatex and Driven Brands Announce Strategic Relationship
Audatex, a Solera company, announced on April 25 its strategic relationship with Driven Brands. Audatex’s technology solutions simplify the claims process by enabling collision repair companies like
Driven Brands and insurance carriers to communicate on one platform with little variability. This new relationship will enable every franchise location to have the Audatex solution with integrated estimating support and a branded customer app for estimate appointments. Driven Brands’ CARSTAR
North America group currently has more than 475 locations across the US and Canada. “We are delighted to move forward with our strategic relationship with Audatex,” said Michael Macaluso, president of CARSTAR North America. “Our close collaboration will strengthen our brand and also provide us with future opportunities for technological advancements.” “We are excited by our relationship with Driven Brands,” said Don Mikrut, vice president of Collision Repair Solutions, Audatex. “By providing a system that’s highly accurate and connected, we can greatly reduce waste in claims processing activities and help increase overall profitability for customers like CARSTAR.” For more information about Audatex, visit www.audatex.us. For more information about Driven Brands, visit www.Driven Brands.com.
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Collision Repairers Provide Recycled Rides™ Vehicles for First Responders and K9 Partners
With wildfire season approaching, collision repairers in several states teamed up through the National Auto Body Council’s Recycled Rides™ and the State Farm® Arson Dog Program to provide critical and reliable transportation for first responders and their K9 partners as part of 2016 Arson Awareness Week. Participating collision repairers include Caliber Collision locations in Raleigh, North Carolina and Fresno, California: Gerber Collision & Glass in Elkhart, Indiana: Jenkins Collision in Ocala, Florida, and Scotsman’s Collision in Mt. Sinai, New York. According to the National Interagency Fire Center, 86 percent of the 10 million acres of wildfires last year were caused by people, whether intentional or as a result of human negligence. With limited resources, most fire departments, especially those in rural areas, do not have a dedicated vehicle for the arson dog team that would allow them to more effectively and efficiently respond to the scene of a fire. To raise awareness about the impact of arson and to improve the ability of police and fire departments to investigate fires, State Farm and National Auto Body Council members
have already or will be donating Recycled Rides vehicles to the following fire departments: New Bern Fire and Rescue in North Carolina for use by Fire Marshal Danny Hill and K9 Darby. Vehi-
Ocala Fire Department in Florida for use by Fire Investigator Roseanne Moreland and K9 “Gracie”. Vehicle repairs and modifications were made by Jenkins Collision Center in Ocala, FL. Maine Specialty Dogs for use by trainer Nicole Dyer to transport arson dogs to training. Vehicle repairs and modifications were made by Gerber Collision & Glass in Elkhart, IN. Beaver Falls Fire Department in Pennsylvania will receive a vehicle later this summer for use by Fire Investigator David Seidl and K9 “Patty”. Vehicle repairs and modifications are being made by Scotsman’s Collision in (l-r) Fire Investigator Lee Wilding with K9 “Tessa”, Mt. Sinai, NY. Eddie Martinez, State Farm Public Affairs Specialist, The vehicles were donated and Fire Investigator Jeff Schwing with K9 “Remby State Farm and repaired and ington” at the National Auto Body Council modified by technicians at the Recycled Rides presentation in Fresno, CA participating collision repair cencle repairs and modifications were ters who volunteered their personal made by Caliber Collision in Raleigh, time as a community service. Parts, NC. materials and services to refurbish the Eastern Sierra Arson Task Force for vehicles were donatey other collision use by Fire Investigator Jeff Schwing industry businesses. Since the incepand K9 “Remington” throughout south- tion of Recycled Rides in 2007, the east California. Vehicle repairs and collision industry has collaborated to modifications were made by Caliber donate over 1,000 vehicles valued at Collision in Fresno, CA. more than $12 million to individuals
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3M began the Collision Repair Education Foundation’s (CREF) “summer drive” for product donations of tools, equipment, and supplies through a $1.1 million donation of color match film products to 300 collision schools programs. The CREF is seeking industry members’ support in providing in-kind donations to assist high school and college collision repair school instructors who face limited program budgets. These tax-deductible donations will be distributed to collision school programs at the beginning of their fall semester. “We know that collision program budgets can be limited, and it is important that our future technicians can learn using the latest technology available to better prepare them for entering the workplace” said Jim Falteisek, US sales & marketing director for 3M Automotive Aftermarket Division. Donations can be made by contacting Director of Development, Brandon Eckenrode at 847-4635244 or Brandon.Eckenrode@edfoundation.org.
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and service organizations in need. “Lack of reliable transportation can be challenging, whether you are a first responder investigating a possible crime scene or an individual struggling daily to take care of your family,” said Chuck Sulkala, Executive Director of the National Auto Body Council. “We are proud to team up with State Farm, Caliber Collision, Gerber Collision, Jenkins Collision and Scotsman’s Collision through Recycled Rides to help make a difference in local communities and to showcase the professionalism and integrity of the collision industry.” Each year billions of dollars in property and hundreds of lives are lost as a result of intentionally set fires, according to Heather Paul, Public Affairs Specialist for State Farm® Safety & Innovation. “State Farm is committed to helping provide the necessary resources to combat the severity and impact of arson on businesses and public safety,” said Paul. For more information, contact the National Auto Body Council at 1-888667-7433 or at www.NationalAuto BodyCouncil.org. Visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/National AutoBodyCouncil. The NABC’s Twitter feed is @AutoBodyCouncil.
BASF New National Strategic Accounts Manager
BASF Automotive Refinish hired Christopher Kugler as the new national strategic accounts manager. Most recently, Kugler was the director of Automotive Aftermarket at ILJIN USA, a producer of wheel bearings and other automotive components. Prior, he was the North American national accounts manager for Saint-Gobain (Norton) Abrasives in the collision repair industry. “Chris is a strong team player and has excellent experience with national account management,” said Tim Dawe, BASF sales director. “Over the years he has developed and exChristopher Kugler, ecuted winning BASF’s new strategies within national strategic the Multi-Shopaccounts manager Operator (MSO) segment.” Kugler’s main responsibilities in his new position are growing and building relationships in the MSO segment. For information, visit www.basf refinish.com
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ASA Collision Leaders Hold Meetings on Capitol Hill
ASA’s collision leaders met with key members of Congress and staff to discuss the impact of Most Favored Nation (MFN) clauses included in some direct repair agreements (DRP). Under an MFN clause, an insurer is guaranteed that it will receive prices that are at least as favorable as those provided to other carriers doing business with the collision repair facility for the same products or services. ASA members gave real life examples of the effects of the MFN clause on collision repair shops, consumers and nonMFN insurance providers. ASA President Dan Risley said, “We were encouraged by the receptive response on Capitol Hill. MFN clauses have been adversely impacting the collision repair industry for many years, and I feel confident that we are getting closer to a solution. Resolving issues of this scale requires time and persistence. As the voice of the industry in our nation’s capitol, ASA is committed to seeing them removed from all direct repair agreements.” For additional information about ASA, including past media releases, go to www.ASAshop.org , or visit ASA’s legislative website at www.Taking TheHill.com
AutoBodyguard Obtains Exclusive Rights to Zavada Odor Elimination Technology AutoBodyguard, Inc., a division of Dent Zone Companies, Inc., announced on April 26 a newly formed partnership with Zavada Scientific for exclusive rights to Zavada’s organic odor elimination technology for the automotive, recreational vehicle and marine, as well as power sports, markets worldwide.
AutoBodyguard Organic Odor Eliminator is safe for children and pets Credit: Business Wire
“The addition of Zavada’s odor eliminator is aligned with our vision for the AutoBodyguard portfolio,” said John Martin, President of AutoBodyguard, Inc. “This proprietary technology, governed under US Trade Secret Laws, distinguishes us as the only provider in the vehicle protection marketplace capable of eliminating organic odors through an environ-
June 3 Deadline for CREF & AkzoNobel Grants
The Collision Repair Education Foundation’s (CREF) annual Ultimate Collision Education Makeover school grant application and the AkzoNobel Sustainably Challenge Grant application are both due on June 3. All high school and college collision school programs are encouraged to apply, and the winning schools for both awards will be announced during SEMA 2016. There is one application for both opportunities. The makeover grant program is in its eighth year. Multiple cash awards totaling more than $100,000 will be given out. This year, the application will also tie each school to the Foundation’s new designation program, “Collision School Career Readiness Benchmark.” Applicant schools will be classified into three tiers: Tier 1: Advanced, Tier 2: Proficient, or Tier 3: Developing. The designation will be determined by the Foundation based upon information provided by schools about the capabilities of their collision training program on the Collision Repair Education Makeover grant application. The criteria for each level will focus on the number of hours of instruction, curriculum in place, along with what tools, equipment, and sup-
plies a school uses to prepare their students for employment in the collision industry. If there is something that is missing, the grant application will allow a school to request that particular item. The goal is to help every school acquire the resources to eventually achieve a Tier 1: Advanced school designation. In keeping with the goals of the Ultimate Collision Education Makeover Grant, the CREF and AkzoNobel are collaborating for the third year to offer the Sustainability Challenge Grant. Schools are invited to submit proposals for applying continuous improvement and sustainability principles that improve the processes in the school’s body shop or improve the way the shop interacts and impacts the community. Projects are to be driven by teams of students with the instructor serving as a mentor. Winning schools will receive funding to implement their proposed ideas and report on the success of their projects. The application for both opportunities is available online www .CollisionEducationFoundation.org. For information, contact Brandon Eckenrode at 847-463-5244 or Brandon.Eckenrode@ed-foundation .org.
mentally safe and eco-friendly solution.” Zavada’s Noble Ion™ Technology removes odors by breaking down the chemical bonds and the compounds that cause them, eliminating organic odors at the source. Common competitor products use enzymes, which react to bacteria, or use odor neutralizers or fragrances, which mask the odor for a limited period of time. Over time, as enzymes die out or neutralizers dissipate, the odor returns. Zavada’s technology disrupts the production of the bacteria, which is typically the source of the organic odor, and prevents it from returning, according to a company press release. AutoBodyguard’s Organic Odor Eliminator with Noble Ion™ Technology has been integrated into the line’s Interior Protection program that provides coverage for the carpet, fabric, leather and vinyl surfaces of vehicles. The product is free from harsh chemicals and does not contain toxic ammonia components frequently found in anti-bacterial products. It is ecofriendly as well as safe for children and pets. “We are pleased to partner with AutoBodyguard to offer dealers greater profits through innovative F&I solu-
Steck Manufacturing’s Antenna Wrench II
Removal of antennas on vehicles can become difficult, especially with the raised hood design that prevents many tools from allowing access to the bezel nut. Steck Manufacturing Company said the Antenna Wrench II works in conjunction with or independently with its original Antenna Wrench (21600). Made in the United States, the Antenna Wrench II is laser cut from rugged steel then grit blasted and plated to give it a
Antenna Wrench II
strong and polished finish. It measures 4 ½ inches x 1 ½ inches x .4 inches. The company said it can expand coverage to more vehicles, such as the removal of difficult Dodge pickup antenna due to the raised hood design. The Antenna Wrench II works as a two, three- and four-notch bezel nut wrench of any diameter. Steck Manufacturing said it replaces the need for an antenna nut socket wrench set with one tool, saving space, money and time searching for the right socket.
tions,” said John Veenstra, Chief Innovation Officer for Zavada Scientific. “We selected AutoBodyguard because of the history, reputation and relationships that Dent Zone Companies, its parent company, has created in the automotive F&I industry over the past twenty-five years.”
AutoBodyguard Organic Odor Eliminator removes unpleasant organic odors on contact
“This exciting addition to the AutoBodyguard product line addresses an everyday problem that all drivers experience,” said John Martin. “Our Organic Odor Eliminator provides a tangible, new benefit for dealers to provide to their customers that has never been offered before.” For more information, contact Susan Neuhalfen by phone 832-4654762 or by email susanneuhalfen@ gmail.com
Ultravent: INDASA’s New Multi-Hole System
Building on 36 years of experience in the development of highly advance coated abrasives, INDASA presented a new multi-hole technology to the market—the Ultravent system. The company said the Ultravent system aims at establishing new standards in the industry and at boosting productivity in body shops. Ultravent is more than just a multi-hole system applied to INDASA Rhynogrip discs. The Ultravent system combines abrasive discs with interface pad and an innovative backing pad that utilizes patented vent channels that maximize air flow. Together, these three elements make the most powerful integrated vacuum sanding system, according to the company. With a 57-hole configuration in finer grits (P220 to P2000) and 21 holes in coarser grit (P80 to P180), Ultravent abrasive discs are available in the Film Line, HT Line and Plus Line, always with a 150mm (6 inch) diameter grip system. The Ultravent system can still be completed with the INDASA’s Dust Extraction Unit and Orbital sander.
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