Collision Repair 19#4

5 TIPS TO ENHANCE YOUR BUSINESS’S MARKETING

READY TO CONQUER

ALL CLEAR? THINK AGAIN

Meet the minds behind Simplicity’s Foothills and Calgary South East locations

Double-checking your diagnostics

INSIDE IBIS AFRICA The group’s second South African summit!

PLUS: CSN’S MAJOR MERGER / INSURERS ON ESTIMATES / TOUCHLESS TOOLS AND MUCH, MUCH MORE!

www.collisionrepairmag.com Canada Post Canadian Publications Mail Sales Product Agreement No. 40841632 l 86 John Street, Thornhill, ON L3T 1Y2

SHERWINWILLIAMS WILLIAMSAUTOMOTIVE AUTOMOTIVEREFINISH REFINISHPRODUCTS PRODUCTS SHERWIN

Performance Plus Performance Plus Clear-Coat 1100757-16 Clear-Coat 1100757-16 Market Price $318.47 Market Price $318.47 Our Price $169.40 Our Price $169.40

Spectraprime Hardener Spectraprime Hardener H45-14 H45-14 Market Price $154.86 Market Our Price Price $154.86 $85.90 Our Price $85.90

Ure-Blend 1K Solvent Ure-Blend 1K Solvent BS10-16 BS10-16 Market Price $209.17 Market Price$111.26 $209.17 Our Price Our Price $111.26

HP Process Clear-Coat HP Process Clear-Coat HPC21-16 HPC21-16 Market Price $328.73 Market Price$177.72 $328.73 Our Price Our Price $177.72

LCF Etching Primer LCF Etching Primer PE995-16 PE995-16 Market Price $410.42 Market Price$218.31 $410.42 Our Price Our Price $218.31

Red Tinted Mid-coat Red Tinted Mid-coat MCC01-LF MCC01-LF Market Price $156.62 Market Our Price Price $156.62 $83.31 Our Price $83.31

Plastic Surface Cleaner Plastic Surface Cleaner SC155-14 SC155-14 Market Price $60.29 Market Price $60.29 Our Price $32.07 Our Price $32.07

Primer Surfacer Green Primer Surfacer P27G-14Green P27G-14 Market Price $130.23 Market Our Price Price $130.23 $69.27 Our Price $69.27

Primer Surfacer Tan PrimerP27T-14 Surfacer Tan P27T-14 Market Price $148.97 Market Our Price Price $148.97 $79.24 Our Price $79.24

Freight - FOB Edmonton.

Freight on - FOB Edmonton.

Prepaid orders of $3,000.00 or more Prepaid on orders of $3,000.00 or more Additional 10 % on orders of $10K or more.

Additional 10 %Mastercard, on orders of $10K or more.

We accept Visa, and Amex.

We accept Visa, Mastercard, and Amex.

WD-AUTO SUPPLY WD-AUTO SUPPLY 1-800-661-1483 1-800-661-1483

Ultrasolv Solvent #2 Ultrasolv Solvent #2 ES15-16 MarketES15-16 Price $107.89 Market Price $107.89 Our Price $60.53 Our Price $60.53

Performance Hardener Performance Hardener Plus UH902-14 Plus UH902-14 Market Price $192.21 Market Price $192.21 Our Price $102.24 Our Price $102.24

AS9 AS9

Matte Clearcoat Matte Clearcoat 1100727-14 1100727-14 Market Price $99.30 Market Price $99.30 Our Price $52.82 Our Price $52.82

Accel-Solv Reducer Accel-Solv Reducer AS9-16 AS9-16 Market Price $135.25 Market Price $135.25 Our Price $43.11 Our Price $43.11

Premium Reducer Slow Premium Reducer Slow ES56-16 ES56-16 Market Price $153.56 Market Price $153.56 Our Price $81.68 Our Price $81.68

Reducer Medium Reducer Medium ES55-16 ES55-16 Market Price $145.48 Market Price $145.48 Our Price $77.26 Our Price $77.26

Glamour Clear Glamour Clear 1100755-16 1100755-16 Market Price $312.76 Market Price $312.76 Our Price $169.40 Our Price $169.40

Spectraprime 2K Primer Spectraprime 2K Primer Gray P27-16 Gray P27-16 Market Price $425.22 Market Price $425.22 Our Price $226.71 Our Price $226.71 *WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO ADJUST PRICING *WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO ADJUST PRICING

The Only Collision Repair Solution with OEM Scanning at your Fingertips! ; Licensed OEM Pre/Post-Scans ; Live Repair Guidance from OEM-Trained Technicians ; Full Scan Tool Capabilities ; Programming & Coding ; ADAS Detection & Calibration

Call to schedule your demo today!

OpusIVS.com sales@OpusIVS.com (844) 235-4253 (opt. 3) Š2020 Opus IVS. Patent(s) pending. 071020-1

CONTENTS

CONTENTS

VOLUME 19, ISSUE 4 | AUGUST 2020

5 TIPS TO ENHANCE YOUR BUSINESS’S MARKETING

READY TO CONQUER

ALL CLEAR? THINK AGAIN

Meet the minds behind Simplicity’s Foothills and Calgary South East locations

Double-checking your diagnostics

INSIDE IBIS AFRICA The group’s second South African summit!

PLUS: CSN’S MAJOR MERGER / INSURERS ON ESTIMATES / TOUCHLESS TOOLS AND MUCH, MUCH MORE!

www.collisionrepairmag.com Canada Post Canadian Publications Mail Sales Product Agreement No. 40841632 l 86 John Street, Thornhill, ON L3T 1Y2

ON THE COVER Harvey Golhar, general manager of Simplicity Car Care Calgary South East, and Arik Hasson, general manager of Simplicity Car Care Foothills, are ready to conquer Calgary’s repair scene.

12

86 Brenda Yu, a fourth-year student at Western University, spent her summer collecting important data for an upcoming ARC whitepaper.

32 Insights from international delegates, and inside look at IBIS’s new digital conference platform!

DEPARTMENTS

FEATURES

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE | 10

INSURERS ON ESTIMATION | 34 Desjardins’ VP of claims and SGI’s senior director of national appraisal services share their thoughts on photo estimation.

Familiar faces in unfamiliar titles!

REGIONAL NEWS | 70

Coast-to-coast industry news!

TOWING NEWS | 84

BOOST YOUR BUSINESS | 41 5 tips to enhance your post-pandemic marketing!

Updates in the hauling and recovery sector!

CALIBRATION STATIONS | 48 Could these new facilities be in the industry’s future?

RECYCLING NEWS | 88

CANADIAN CLEANER | 83 Rexall Laboratories new made-in-Canada degreaser and disinfectant, approved for use against COVID!

Cycling through auto recycling!

AUGUST 2020 COLLISION REPAIR 5

CONTENTS

50

38

Co-owners, Kevin Burgess and Andrew Macdonald have transformed Fix Auto Truro.

Ryan Bruno, CSN’s newly appointed president and CEO, discusses details on the recent 1Collision merger.

CONTENTS COLUMNS PUBLISHER’S PAGE | 08

Come together

By Darryl Simmons

WHO’S DRIVING | 60

Listening to lead

By Jay Perry

TRAINING | 61

The post-covid 19 classroom

By Ben Hart

80 The tools you need to survive the social distancing era.

ENGINE KNOX | 63

Brand-new basics

By Steve Knox

VIEWS FROM THE WEST | 66

High expectations

By Chelsea Stebner

TRAINING | 67

Today’s training

By Andrew Shepherd

LET’S TALK TRAINING | 68

The Clouded Future of Training

By Stefano Liessi

LAST WORD | 90

Pre-pandemic condition

By Allison Rogers

44 The Woodchester Group consists of Woodchester Nissan, Infiniti and the CCS-backed Woodchester Collision.

HAVE YOUR SAY.

YOUR ONLINE SOURCE

We welcome your comments on anything you see in Collision Repair magazine. Send your feedback to editor@collisionrepairmag.com.

Canada’s collision repair information resource. New articles and top news stories daily. Visit collisionrepairmag.com.

6 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

ppgrefinish.com

PUBLISHER’S PAGE

COME TOGETHER It’s time for all shops to have a say

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Orest Tkaczuk orest@mediamatters.ca

BY DARRYL SIMMONS

T

hese sure are challenging times. Challenging even for the collision repair industry, which has long been accustomed to a constant state of flux.

COVID’s impact will see companies downsize, malls and restaurants close, employees work from home, and less drivers on the road. But we will adapt, as we’ve always done. Our collective ability to forget is what keeps us evolving and adapting. We are hard-wired for change.

Speaking of change, the more things change the more they stay the same. Canada’s collision repair industry, the ones who actually repair the cars that is, is once again trying to figure out best business models. They are caught in the crossfire between a brewing behemoth battle between the insurers and OEM.

or the insurance companies quibbling with the rules, Canada’s collision repairers have a clear grasp on the failures of the current systems.

Without constant and consistent monitoring, OEM certification and accreditation programs are simply a mile marker at a certain point in time. A system, any system, is only as good as its monitoring system. People never do what you expect them to do, but almost always do what you inspect them to do.

Following procedures set out by the OEM is the best way to mitigate liability in the unfortunate case of a second accident. As we saw with the John Eagle case, the industry is dancing on eggshells with regards to major liability issues.

If the industry is going to move forward and prosper, it needs all the players on the same path

If the industry is going to move forward and prosper, it needs all the players on the same path or we are destined to repeat history by polarizing the industry with silos and bunkers. We can no longer afford to mark time in unison hoping for an organic solution that benefits universally.

In the US, insurers recently challenged GM repair procedures where the OEM mandated that “any collision” required a minimum 10-componentset inspection procedure before even looking at damage….and this challenge will be just the beginning.

Certification or accreditation certainly has best intentions at heart. And it does provide positive optics. But sometimes you work to hit a target and sometimes you just move the target to what you can hit. Insurers and OEM keep moving that target to whatever suits them best.

OEM certification and accreditation systems exist for a reason—but they are also works-inprogress. Up to this point, Canada’s collision repairers haven’t had a strong voice in how they are prepared. As a result, the overarching goals remain murky. If this doesn’t get clarified, the tactical execution will get ahead of its strategy.

And execution without strategy is aimless.

Instead of being idle and letting insurers and OEM keep changing the rules, it is time for all shops to have a say in setting industry benchmarks.

Unlike the OEMs writing the new playbooks

8 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

PUBLISHER Darryl Simmons publisher@collisionrepairmag.com

or we are destined to repeat history by polarizing the industry with silos and bunkers. We can no longer afford to mark time in unison hoping for an organic solution that benefits universally.

All parties need to work together and collision repairers have to be heard.

A strong tide raises all boats and in these challenging times there are enough wolves at the gate that we can’t afford to fight amongst ourselves. As if we didn’t have enough challenges with less people driving, repair avoidance and car sharing we have to battle the effects of a pandemic as well.

It is time for all shops to have a say in setting industry benchmarks rather than sitting idly by letting the insurers and OEM keep changing the rules and the yardsticks. After all, who know more about collision repair than the experts who make those repairs day in and day out each and every day of the year?

EDITOR Allison Rogers allison@mediamatters.ca STAFF WRITERS Maddy Kylie maddy@mediamatters.ca Sophie Price sophie@mediamatters.ca ART DIRECTOR Yvonne Corvers yvonne@mediamatters.ca VP OF INDUSTRY RELATIONS & ADVERTISING Gloria Mann 647.998.5677 gd.mann@rogers.com DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS SOLUTIONS Ellen Smith 416.312.7446 ellen@mediamatters.ca INDUSTRY RELATIONS ASSISTANT Wanja Mann (647) 998-5677 wanjamann1@gmail.com DIGITAL OPERATIONS MANAGER Cassie Doyle cassie@mediamatters.ca CONTRIBUTORS Ben Hart, Jay Perry, Chelsea Stebner, Andrew Shepherd, Stephano Liessi, Chuck Olsen, Steve Knox,

SUBSCRIPTION One-year $39.95 / Two-year $64.99 Collision Repair™ magazine is published bimonthly, and is dedicated to serving the business interests of the collision repair industry. It is published by Media Matters Inc. Material in Collision Repair™ magazine may not be reproduced in any form without written consent from the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertising and disclaims all responsibilities for claims or statements made by its advertisers or independent columnists. All facts, opinions and statements appearing in this publication have been compiled and included with the permission, though not necessarily the endorsement, of the editor, or of independent columnist contributors, and are in no way to be construed as those of the publisher, or as endorsements of them.

PRINTED IN CANADA ISSN 1707-6072 CANADA POST CANADIAN PUBLICATIONS MAIL SALES PRODUCT AGREEMENT No. 40841632 RETURN POSTAGE GUARANTEED Send change of address notices and undeliverable copies to: 317 Reid St., Peterborough, ON K9J 3R2

“We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada”

Collision Repair magazine is published by Media Matters Inc., publishers of:

QUICKEST, SIMPLEST AND MOST ACCURATE 3D MEASURING SYSTEM IN THE WORLD -

NO Moving Parts NO Lasers, NO Targets, NO Adaptors NO Magnets, NO Arms, NO Extensions NO Wires, NO Wi-Fi, NO Bluetooth NO Calibration Needed MITCHELL chassis data

NEW NOW INCLUDES WHEEL ALIGNMENT DIAGNOSTICS SOFTWARE

ACCUVISION-3D®

IS RECOGNIZED BY ACCUVISION-3D CERTIFICATION PROGRAMS IS RECOGNIZED - CCIAPBY CERTIFICATION - Certified PROGRAMS Collision Care - -CCIAP Honda ®

- Honda

Made in Canada

accuvision-3D.com Toll Free: 800-465-8575

NEWS

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE MAURICE FILLION - UNIBAN CANADA Maurice Fillion has been appointed as the new president of Uniban Canada. Prior Fillion has held many other positions such as several senior positions at Pro Oil Change. Fillion, who is fully bilingual, hopes to bring the proudly Canadian team back to its Quebec roots.

KATHRYN JONES – YOUNG PROFESSIONALS OF THE AFTERMARKET, AIA AIA Canada, otherwise known as the Automotive Industries Association of Canada, has appointed Kathryn Jones the new chair of the Young Professionals in the Aftermarket committee. Jones is a fourth-generation Canadian aftermarket professional who originally worked in the oil industry before returning to the automotive aftermarket in 2016 as district sales manager at Tenneco—known as DRiV. Jones will serve as chair for a two-year term.

DIMITRIS PSILLAKIS – MERCEDES-BENZ CANADA Dimitris Psillakis has been appointed as president and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Canada, effective September 1, 2020. Psillakis succeeds Brian D. Fulton, and will assume overall responsibility for Mercedes-Benz passenger cars, Mercedes-AMG and Mercedes-Benz vans. Psillakis is a native of Greece and holds degrees from the University of Kent at Canterbury and The Imperial College Business School at the University of London, U.K.

WILLIAM ONUWA – BOYD GROUP SERVICES William Onuwa has been elected to the Boyd Group Services Board of Directors. Onuwa, holds a Doctorate degree in business Management and is currently chief audit executive at Royal Bank of Canada.

He previously held the position of SVP and chief risk officer of Wealth Management at RBC Georgia and Insurance Group Canada.

On June 1, Dan Dominato, Nick Dominato and Brent Wingrove, all of Precision Marketing, became the new sales representatives of Arslan Automotive Canada in Ontario.

Arslan’s catalogue bodyshop products, in addition to the Accuvision-3D, Tecna and Fimer brands will be represented by the group. The change in representation hopes to help strengthen Arslan’s territory coverage in Ontario.

Pre 8am LTL Delivery

Dedicated Logistics

Pre 8am Package Delivery

MOST RELIABLE PRE 8AM DELIVERY SERVICE 6600 Goreway Dr., Unit D Mississauga, ON L4V 1S6 10 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

Call 1-(800)-387-3199 | cardinalcouriers.com

MORE WAYS TO BUY & SELL • Online Bidding

• Autobid

• Featured Auctions

• Site Sales

• Run and Drive

• Impact 360 View™

ImpactAuto.ca

© 2020 Impact Auto Auctions Ltd. All rights reserved.

Download the AuctionNow app for iOS and Android

ON THE COVER

MIND OVER MATTER

Meet the two Simplicity Car Care owners in Alberta looking beyond the pandemic and toward a bright future

Harvey has two facilities with Simplicity and is the first multi-shop owner with simplicity in Alberta. Arik aims to sign more buisnesses with the banner.

Simplicity Car Care is one of Canada’s fastest growing automotive franchise networks.

The company’s vision is to make car care simple and affordable for every vehicle owner in the world.

BY MADDY KYLIE

A

lot of people have succumbed to a ‘cancel 2020’ mindset. Although it is tempting to take this year as a loss, Simplicity Car Care has helped its facilities dispose of this pandemic perspective. Instead, it has helped its business partners focus on the future.

Arik Hasson, general manager of Foothills Simplicity embodies optimism.

Global pandemic aside, this year alone, Arik has undergone several of Calgary’s notorious hailstorms, economic downturns, all while having four children at home and out of school.

He refuses to let these setbacks stand in the way of his goals and positive mindset.

“I have a firm belief that whatever you imagine in your mind you create in your life,” said Arik.

Harvey Golhar, a U.K.-born and bred national, is the owner of Calgary South East and Calgary North East Simplicity locations. Harvey joined Simplicity Car Care in early 2019. He is the first multi-shop owner in Alberta under the Simplicity brand.

Harvey’s strong work ethic and resilience have most recently been demonstrated with his ability to renovate his facility, while facing a

12 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

ON THE COVER

Arik aims to create a ‘one-stop shop’ for consumers with automotive needs.

pandemic, economic downturns, and the same Albertan challenges.

Prior to the pandemic Calgary’s economy was already struggling, and when the“pandemic hit everything came to a halt”, explained Arik.

Given that many people lost their jobs or started working from home, less cars occupied the roads, leading to decreased need for vehicle repairs.

Instead of letting this reduction in business halt his plans, Arik adapted to the situation.

Having Simplicity as a crutch to lean on has been a key way Arik has been able to move forward amid these challenging times.

“Their support system is amazing because at the end of the day I started my shop with the knowledge I have from me and the background I came from,” he said.“Just having that support to back you up and say ‘okay, we’re here to help you, if you need anything, we’re going to teach you different ways in how to improve your current production and make it more profitable and create a better customer experience’ really helps.”

Simplicity Car Care is constantly striving to make a positive impact on its franchisees by helping them increase top-line sales and

Arik aims to create a ‘one-stop shop’ for consumers with automotive needs.

AUGUST 2020 COLLISION REPAIR 13

ON THE COVER

Arik decided to join forces to create Simplicity Foothills after witnessing how similar its practices were to his own beliefs.

Harvey was inspired to join Simplicity because of how similar the company’s business approach is to his own.

“This is the way the industry is advancing. From where I’m standing, in this industry you have to be a banner store to progress and expand your clientele network” - Harvey Golhar, Owner of Simplicity Car Care Calgary South East and North East profitability, while delivering unparalleled operational guidance.

“Our franchisees are the driving force of Simplicity Car Care. Their development and success directly influence the company’s overall performance,” says President of Simplicity Car Care, Domenic Ieraci.

Arik joined Simplicity in 2019, and never looked back. What initially drew him towards the franchise was how much its values—of making vehicle repairs as simple as possible for the customer—aligned with his own.

“What I liked the most [about Simplicity] was they had the same idea as me. It was all about the customer experience.”

Arik’s business model really emphasizes the concept of a ‘one-stop-shop.’ His goal is to simplify the repair process by servicing customers in all areas of vehicle repair.

“We do everything to do with cars—even if we don’t do it in house, we sub it out. We have a team of mechanics, glass repairers, window tinting, carpet, car detailing, tires. Whatever you can think of, we do it all.”

Harvey was inspired to join Simplicity because he wanted to be “part of a collective team that shares a common goal. Simplicity has supported me through every step since joining them and are only one phone call away.”

However, he also joined to grow his sales

and develop stronger insurance relations. Since Simplicity has established national partnerships with leading insurance carriers, the franchise is able to simplify the claims experience for policy holders and reduce loss adjusting expenses.

“This is the way the industry is advancing.

From where I’m standing, in this industry you have to be a banner store to progress and expand your clientele network,” said Harvey “You’re in or you’re out, so that’s why I decided to go with Simplicity”.

Harvey says it is a privilege to work alongside such distinguished and professional individuals at Simplicity Car Care. The knowledge he has gained since joining has contributed substantially to the growth of both of his businesses.

He continues to evolve with the innovating industry, alongside his hard-working employees.

Currently, Harvey is contributing to societies efforts to fight the pandemic by implementing extra sanitisation measures for the safety of his customers and employees. He has not let the pandemic decrease his determination to progress in this industry.

“This is the new normal, the automotive industry is adapting and adjusting its practices in order to accommodate to these changes, this is what I’m striving to do,” says Harvey In the future, Harvey plans on obtaining OEM certifications for his two shops, while

14 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

continuing to maintain a high standard of work and exceed the expectations of his customers— whilst upholding Simplicities reputable brand.

Harvey plans to serve as an extraordinary and well known autobody shop in Calgary.

“As long as the customer is happy with the completed job, I am happy,” says Harvey.

As for Arik’s current goals, he says Foothills Simplicity is focused on also obtaining OEM certifications and servicing customers in more areas of repair. However, he is also working towards opening additional shops under the Simplicity brand.

“I want to open up more shops, and I want to create my own little network within Simplicity to be a multi shop owner and create a system that I can build a proper network of business.”

While these goals may seem far-fetched for some given the current COVID-19 situation, Arik says otherwise.

“I’m not really using the pandemic as an excuse not to do anything; I think we need to just adapt to our new way of life and continue to work.”

Both Arik and Harvey plan on conquering the pandemic with positivity. Backed with the unrelenting support of Simplicity Car Care, they both refuse to let these unprecedented times stand in the way of their goals, and ultimate success.

ON THE COVER

Harvey Golhar, general manager of Simplicity Car Care Calgary South East, and Arik Hasson, general manager of Simplicity Car Care Foothills, are ready to conquer Calgary’s repair scene.

“I have a firm belief that whatever you imagine in your mind you create in your life.” Arik Hasson, general manager of Foothills Simplicity Harvey plans on obtaining OEM certifications for his two shops, while continuing to maintain a high standard of work to exceed the expectations of his customers.

AUGUST 2020 COLLISION REPAIR 15

Advertorial

T

Buying Your Next

he last time you purchased a diagnostic tablet for your shop, did you see it as an opportunity to expand your business? I bet you didn’t. I bet you saw that purchase as just another necessary expense to keep your shop going. But as a philosopher once said, opportunity is everywhere, the key is to develop the vision to see it. Autel’s line of MaxiSYS tablets offer a range of new opportunities to expand your services and create new revenue streams for today and for tomorrow.

At the heart of every Autel tool is diagnostics. This is especially true when it comes to the MaxiSYS series of tablets. A substantial segment of Autel’s employees are engineers and it shows with the MaxiSYS tablet’s vehicle, system and subsystem software coverage as well as with its logical and technician-friendly interface. Compatible with U.S., Asian and European vehicles, 1996 and newer, these tablets enable technicians to complete every level of diagnostics, from automatically

scanning all modules for faults, graphing live data and executing active tests to coding and module adaptations. Autel’s tablets are engineered to give technicians OEequipment-level system access to repair and service the many vehicle brands and models that come to their shops every day. Even more intricate electronic diagnostics can be conducted with the addition of the MP408 4-Channel oscilloscope that works directly from the tablet’s included MaxiScope application.

TEL: 855.288.3587 • EMAIL: USSUPPORT@AUTEL.COM AUTEL.COM • MAXITPMS.COM • MAXISYSADAS.COM ©2020 AUTEL U.S. INC., ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Diagnostic Tablet It is with this significant diagnostic background that Autel confidently expanded its product line with the development of software, parts and toolsets into Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) servicing, Key and Immobilizer Programming, and Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) calibration.

The MaxiSYS 906TS, for example, features an embedded antenna that enables it to activate and read all known TPMS sensors and program the Autel programmable dualfrequency 1-Sensor to replace 99% of the sensors on vehicles today.

Yet, TPMS sensor replacement is just one of the service opportunities afforded by the 906TS. Autel’s engineers have enabled the MS906TS to become an even more valuable tool with several software upgrades. The incorporation of PreSCAN and PostSCAN report generation has made it a favorite amongst collision shops, enabling them to quickly submit repair plans for insurance company authorization.

Such Pre and Post Scans are industry standards with most

automakers issuing position statements that recommend them for any vehicle involved in a crash. An important feature of the PreSCAN and PostSCAN reports is the identification of the ADAS safety systems. This identification is vital as it informs the technician that an ADAS device such a camera or radar unit is present on the vehicle and should be inspected and potentially calibrated. (The PreSCAN and PostSCAN reporting feature, initially available on the MS906TS, was found to be so important that all the MaxiSYS tablets now include it).

Responding to the industry’s adoption of ADAS safety systems and vehicle manufacturers’ inclusion of these systems on even their most modest model vehicle lines, Autel developed the first of its ADAS calibration frame systems.

This system calibration system and the patterns, targets and toolsets of its package configurations enable technicians to calibrate the devices instrumental to the safety systems of today’s vehicles. The MS908 tablets are compatible with this frame and require just a one-

time ADAS software upgrade. This calibration system can be used to calibrate the camera and radar devices used in Lane Departure, Blind Spot Detection, Adaptive Cruise Control, Parking Assist systems, Front and Rear Collision Warning, and Night Vision systems most applicable U.S., Asian and European vehicles.

Last year, Autel released the mobile ADAS calibration system, the MA600, a lighter, more compact frame system. In addition to the MS908 tablet series, the MA600 is also compatible with the Maxisys 906BT and the collision-shop ready MS906TS; A one-time ADAS software upgrade purchase is required.

As automotive technologies continue to evolve and challenge the industry, Autel remains dedicated to providing technicians with progressive software and tools designed to meet the demands of repairing these sophisticated vehicles. When looking for your shop’s next diagnostic tablet, make sure it’s developed by a company that wants to create value for you today and for tomorrow.

175 CENTRAL AVENUE, SUITE 200 FARMINGDALE, NY 11735

BUSINESS NEWS

BUSINESS NEWS GLASS ON THE GO Ontario Fix Network operators Steve Ramdam and Brian Ganase have become the franchise’s first strategic partners to offer auto glass repair and replacement services, which are performed using a NOVUS Glass mobile van. According to the Fix Network, the van can handle any repair or replacement wherever a customer needs them. Having learned about the NOVUS Glass at a franchise trade show, Ramdam felt the business model suited him well. “I was intrigued that NOVUS was taking the lead in windshield repair and felt this would offer growth opportunities for myself and my family.”

MAKING MILESTONES Simplicity Car Care’s newest location, in Fort McMurray, Alberta, is the banner’s company’s 40th facility in Canada. “We are thrilled to reach this new milestone of 40 locations. This would not be possible without the commitment to excellence from our entire corporate team and strategic franchise partners. Our vision is to make car care simple and affordable for every vehicle owner in the world,” says Domenic Ieraci, Simplicity Car Care President. Simplicity Car Care says it plans to continue expanding across Alberta.

MARITIME MADNESS June 2020 auto sales for both Quebec and Newfoundland and Labrador confirmed the provinces are leading the way in auto sales growth, with each reporting higher sales numbers than June 2019. Sales in provinces such as Nova Scotia, Ontario, Alberta and British Columbia were down between 22 and 33 per cent, with overall Canadian sales down by nearly 16 per cent. Newfoundland and Labrador and Quebec, however, bucked that trend, with sales in both provinces up by 8.8 per cent, with 3,523 and 46,637 sales, respectively [period, not comma] [Cut-- according to data compiled by Desrosiers Automotive Consultants.] Observers are struggling to explain the scenario—particularly in Newfoundland and Labrador, where key industries such as oil and gas are slumping and the unemployment rate [“is above”, “not sits at higher than”] 16 percent. According to Kevin Peters, chief operating officer of Hickman Auto Group, which operates 13 dealerships in the province and employs some 500 people, the provincial government’s response to the pandemic along with strict protocols from the dealerships have culminated in a “phenomenal” month for the sector.

FUELLED BY FINANCING

Kevin Peters, who owns and operates 13 dealerships in Newfoundland and Labrador, says July is set to be just as good as June for the province.

J.D. Power says 84-month captive OE[M] financing has driven the success of Canada’s new-car sales for June. Analysts from the data firm say June—which marks the traditional start of the summer selling season—was the “least bad” month for sales amid the pandemic.

Numbers still came in about 16 percent [spelled per cent elsewhere] below the June 2019 mark, according to data from DesRosiers Automotive Consultants, but marked an improvement over March, April and May. “Nearly all of the success we witnessed in June was down to one single sales strategy: captive financing of a new vehicle at 84 months at low APR+ some cash incentive,” analysts said in the July 9 Canadian New Vehicle Retail report.

NAME CHANGE Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V. and Peugeot announced that the corporate name of the new group is to be STELLANTIS after the companies fully merge in 2021. The process of identifying the new name began soon after the Combination Agreement was announced and the senior management of both companies have been closely involved throughout, supported by Publicis Group. The STELLANTIS name will be used exclusively at the Group level, as a Corporate brand. The company says the next step will be unveiling the logo. The names and the logos of the STELLANTIS Group’s constituent brands will remain unchanged.

18 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

BEING A PART OF A NETWORK IS POWERFUL IN A TIME OF CRISIS Your Partner in Success At Fix Auto we have one clear goal: the success of our owner operators. This means actively working with you as our Strategic Partner to protect your territory, increase your market share, reduce your operating costs and maximize the profitability of your business.

With over 25 years of experience supporting and growing our network, our committment to you is stronger than ever because your success is our success.

A NETWORK IS GOOD...

A PARTNERSHIP IS BETTER! fixauto.com

INDUSTRY NEWS

INDUSTRY NEWS VIRTUAL EVENT In light of the on-going concerns around COVID-19, the Canadian Collision Industry Forum (CCIF) has decided to change the original meeting—which was previously set to be held in Vancouver, on September 24-25, 2020—to a virtual experience on October 7-8, 2020. This year’s inaugural event will be CCIF’s first-ever virtual conference and it will allow for people all over the world to participate.

Additionally, the online format will accommodate both French and English-speaking participants.

Attendees will be able to network virtually through text, audio and video chat. Participants will be able to attend online conferences and workshops as well as ask the speakers and sponsors questions from the comfort and safety of their home.

IMPLEMENTING CUSMA The United States is reinstating a 10 percent import tax on Canadian aluminum. These tariffs were originally imposed in 2018 but were lifted in 2019 to smooth the way for the U.S.-Mexico-Canada agreement. The president said that Canada had promised that “its aluminum industry would not flood our country with exports and kill all of our aluminum jobs, which is exactly what they did.”Aluminum imports from Canada did rise sharply from February to March but have since leveled off and in fact dropped 2.6 percent from May to June, according to the Aluminum Association trade group.

Canada supplied about three-quarters of all the aluminum imported into the U.S. between January and May of 2020, said the executive order implementing the tariff on “non-alloyed unwrought aluminum.” Canada retaliated in 2018 with $16.6 billion in tariffs on U.S. products, including ketchup, ballpoint pens, licorice, orange juice, whisky and toilet paper. So far, it hasn’t been specified what goods will be subject to countermeasures this time. Countermeasures that will include dollar-for-dollar retaliatory tariffs.The U.S. tariff could be in effect as early as Sunday, August 16.

WÜRTH C ANADA

IS HERE FOR YOU As Canadians get back to work, and we learn new ways to keep ourselves, our employees, and our customers healthy.

We want to provide you with the necessary safety products, disinfectants and cleaning, as well as social distancing solutions and more.

20 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

SCAN HERE TO

SEE OUR GUIDE

INDUSTRY NEWS

INDUSTRY NEWS BACK TO THE FUTURE

“Single shop operators on their own in a metro market will not survive,” said Erick Bickett, founder of CIECA during a webinar.

CIECA founder Erick Bickett says collision repairers can expect to witness unprecedented industry changes in the post pandemic era, including bodyshop segmentation and explosive franchising. During a June 30 CIECA webinar, Bickett, a past CEO and co-founder of ACAB Automotive Group and Fix Auto USA, said he predicts the number of small independents operating in the U.S. will dwindle post-pandemic. “Single-shop operators on their own in a metro market will not survive,” said Bickett. “And, on the insurance side, I believe insurers will only refer repairs to those who are certified and verified to have the equipment, training to perform repairs.” Bickett also says he expects to see more bodyshop segmentation, whether that be by vehicle brand or specialized repair verticals.

CANCELLING CANADA DAY NIGHT The Automotive Industries Association (AIA) of Canada cancelled the 2020 edition of Canada Night due to COVID-19 related concerns. The event, which was originally scheduled for November 3, 2020, was supposed to take place during the Automotive Aftermarket Parts Exposition (AAPEX) in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Kelvin Campbell, Danny Frangione, Wade Bartok, Rebecca Fyfe and Ed Breault at last year’s Canada night.

AUGUST 2020 COLLISION REPAIR 21

INSURANCE NEWS

INSURANCE NEWS INSURED HELP Following the massive hailstorm in Calgary, over 20,000 vehicle claims were reported to insurers, says a report by the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC). To help the community cope with the overwhelming amount of insurance claims IBC has deployed its virtual Community Assistance Mobile Pavilion (CAMP). IBC offers CAMP to disaster sites that have significant insured damage. Canadians who are suddenly forced to cope with a damaging event can access insurance-related information through the IBC program.

THE HONEST DRIVER Insurance & Mobility Solutions (IMS), part of Trak Global Group (TGG), has launched a new telematics solution that transforms customers’ collected driving data into an analysis that can positively impact the policyholder’s experience and an organization’s overall claims costs, according to the company. IMS says its Connected Claims telematics solution provides an economically-sound approach to augment existing claims operation with driving data. Data is collected from policyholders via a of a smartphone app optimized for safe driving engagement. In turn, insurers are provided with a claims portal that enables access to minute-by-minute details of the driving journey, including moments preceding accidents, and second-by-second data of the impact itself. IMS says its telematics solution goes beyond accident detection, leveraging telematics data to reduce claims costs in other areas: liability and handling—which together deliver 80 percent of the overall benefit to an organization.

MAJOR MERGER La Capitale and SSQ Insurance have announced a merger to form a mutual insurance company with more than 3.5 million members. The new company says it will announce its official name in the fall, and full integration of the two companies will happen slowly. The company says that for now, nothing will change for clients, members and business partners. Additionally, the head office will remain in Quebec City. The new company says it has 4, 700 employees and sound finances—with assets under management totalling more than $20 billion, and premiums at $5 billion. The company is the first group insurer in Quebec and fourth in Canada. Once the new merger is in place, Jean StGelais is expected to serve as Chair of the Board of Directors and Chalifoux as CEO.

GIVING BACK On June 29, 2020, Desjardins’s property & casualty insurance subsidiaries announced they would be issuing $100 million in premium refunds to their Canadian auto insurance clients. The insurer took various factors into consideration such as the transition to working from home, the extended lockdown, and the reduction in car accident risks—all of which have led to a decrease in claims. The refunds are for eligible personal and commercial insurance clients. Clients will receive a refund between 25 percent and 40 percent of the premium they pay for one month. This refund follows an initial refund of close to $50 million to auto insurance clients, bringing the total close to $150 million.

22 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

SATA®Loyalty Program coins & more

SATA LoyaltyProgram ®

coins & more

1.

Download App & register

2.

3.

Scan QR Code & collect coins

Convert into rewards

The App is available in the App Store or Google Play Store

COINS

www.sata.com/ca/loyalty-ios

www.sata.com/ca/loyalty-android

Scan the QR Codes in all our RPS boxes with the SATA Loyalty App, collect coins and convert them into attractive rewards for your bodyshop. Each RPS cup corresponds to one coin!

Further information: www.sata.com/en/loyalty

SATA Canada Inc. 125 Buttermill Avenue Vaughan, ON, L4K 3X5 Office: +1-905-660-1101 Toll-free: +1-844-554-SATA (7282) Fax: +1-905-760-1250 E-mail: contact@sata.ca www.sata.ca

OEM NEWS

OEM NEWS MASK MAKING MILESTONE On July 10, GM Oshawa produced its millionth protective mask. GM Canada received its Medical Device Establishment License on April 22, and in just three weeks with support from GM’s global supply chain, the company sourced materials, built a ‘Canadian Mask Making’ (CMM) clean room with enhanced safety protocols, installed the required equipment, and recalled and trained 60 workers for two shifts of production in Oshawa in partnership with Unifor. The official start of production began on May 26, 2020.

MAKING MOVES Tesla Inc. became the most valuable car company in the world on July 1, 2020, a day before the electric car maker revealed its better-thanexpected sales numbers. Tesla announced that it delivered 90,650 vehicles during the quarter, which was an improvement from the 74,130 vehicles that analysts were forecasting. With the total value of all its shares on the Nasdaq, a figure known as market capitalization, Tesla is now worth $207 billion. The previous title-holder, Toyota, had a market capitalization of $203 billion at the time it was surpassed by Tesla.”

FISKER FUEL American Electric car maker Fisker will go public through a merger with a “blank check company” backed by private equity firm Apollo Global Management at a valuation of $2.9 billion, the companies said on Monday. The boards of Fisker and Apollo-backed Spartan Energy Acquisition Corp. have unanimously approved the transaction, which is expected to be completed in the fourth quarter, according to a statement. Spartan Energy shares, which soared 54 percent last week in anticipation of the deal, rose as much as 29 percent shortly after the start of regular trading Monday. The more than $1 billion of gross proceeds generated will fund the development of the Fisker Ocean electric SUV, which is scheduled to start production in late 2022, according to the company. Since its listing on June 4, shares of Nikola— which is projecting zero revenue this year—have surged more than 60 percent.

OEMS ON GLASS Windshield and side glass play an integral role in the performance and functionality of certain features in Ford vehicles. During repairs that involve glass removal and replacement it is vital that the vehicle is restored to its original operating condition. The quality, performance and safety of aftermarket replacement windshields and side glass may not meet Ford Motor Company’s specifications and can result in safety features not working properly. For these reasons, Ford Motor Company says in a press release “[Ford] does not approve the use of aftermarket windshield or side replacement glass. Only by using Ford Original Equipment Carlite replacement glass can you be assured of the fit, function, safety and structural integrity of repair.” When replacing windshield or side glass, Ford says it is important to use their OEM repair procedures to ensure the proper repairs are completed. When procedures are not followed it can result in incomplete repairs and key vehicles safety systems not working properly.

AUGUST 2020 COLLISION REPAIR 25

OEM NEWS

OEM NEWS THE SKY IS FALLING A class action complaint has been filed against Mercedes-Benz after a sunroof allegedly collapsed on the plaintiff ’s sister head. On March 3, 2020 Bruce Pickens’ sister, Jawanna Tallie said she heard a loud bang, while she was driving on the highway. She proceeded to pull over to check the exterior of the vehicle, only to have the sunroof spontaneously collapse on her head as she re-entered the vehicle. The class action complaint filed in Illinois alleges that the German automaker failed to meet the required standards for large panoramic sunroofs. Pickens is seeking a trial-by-jury, legal fee compensation, financial compensation and injunctive relief.

SUPPLIERS OF THE YEAR Six Canadian suppliers have been recognized by General Motors for being its most innovative partners in a virtual ceremony held on June 24, to celebrate its 28th annual Supplier of the Year awards. The Canadian recipients of the awards are all multi-year winners and consist of Magna International, Linamar, ABC Group, Multimatic Holdings, Day & Ross and Vuteq GM’s Supplier of the Year Award is given to suppliers who go above and beyond requirements by providing customers with the most innovative technologies and highest quality in the automotive industry.

SUPPORTING STEM Toyota Canada increases support for education outreach organizations to ensure that the ever-important science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) courses can still be delivered to underrepresented youth in Canada, amid the pandemic. With in-school classes paused across the nation, the new online learning platform has put many youths at a disadvantage, especially when it comes to learning STEM courses. For this reason, Acuta and Let’s Talk Science, which are both Canadian STEM education outreach organizations, have been supporting and developing the delivery of remote STEM programming to bring important programming to children via the Internet, said Toyota in an online release. Some examples of the initiatives these organizations are kick-starting include; online STEM summer camps, hands-on STEM education kits for children with little to no access to technology and learning packs that include materials to support STEM literacy and interest.

FRESH HORIZON On July 15, Nissan revealed its new logo design, which will begin appearing in both digital and physical forms this month. The redesign process began in the summer of 2017, when Alfonso Albaisa, Nissan’s senior vice president of global design, began to study potential changes to Nissan’s logo and brand identity. He set up a design team led by Tsutomu Matsuo, deputy general manager of Nissan’s Advanced Design department, to study everything from a subtle evolution to a complete reinvention. After countless sketches and several mockups, the result was a logo with a two-dimensional impression. The overall effect of the redesign is a transition from a hard-edged, industrial feel to a refined, familiar and digital-friendly look, says Nissan. The recently unveiled Nissan Ariya, the first crossover EV for the brand, is the first car to be emblazoned with the new logo.

26 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

Left to right: Nissan’s old and new logos.

NEED HELP DRIVING MORE CARS TO YOUR DOOR? We know this pandemic has business owners thinking about the next best move for their operations.

Long-time collision repair professional and regional multi-store GM, Shaun Copeland, says this is the perfect time for owners to examine their own operations, and join a network.

“I know franchise fees can be daunting for some, but we just look at it as another employee,” Copeland describes. “CARSTAR is working for us, so we have to pay them for their work; it’s as simple as that. We get the insights into what other regions are doing, new insurance programs, how the industry is moving, field support for our operations, access to our performance metrics whenever we need, marketing resources, preferred vendor pricing and so much more.”

“In addition to the corporate backing, we also get to work closely alongside other owners within CARSTAR. We have these EDGE Performance Group meetings, which do deep dives into operational and financial enhancements. We also have business groups, where we pool resources for the mutual benefit of us all. This comradery is why everyone refers to CARSTAR as a family.”

All of CARSTAR’s 700+ owners started their journey by talking with a CARSTAR team member. Visit CARSTARfranchise.ca to start your CARSTAR journey!

TECHNOLOGY NEWS

TECHNOLOGY NEWS ATLANTIC ELECTRIFICATION On July 10, The Government of Canada announced a $770,000 investment to help Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro build 28 electric vehicle (EV) chargers across the province—to support Canada’s transition to a clean energy future. “Zero-emissions vehicles are part of Canada’s net-zero future. Our government is working to give people in our province greener options to get where they need to go,” said Seamus O’Regan, Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources. The federal funding, which builds on the $1,289,400 the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is investing in the project, is provided through the Electric Vehicle and Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Deployment Initiative (EVAFIDI) and the Zero-Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program.

EV HURDLES In 2014, the aluminum and mixed material design of the 2015 Ford F-150 was viewed as one of the biggest challenges for collision repairers. Now, a new technology revamp for the 2021 F-150 may introduce even further for the industry. Concerns for repairer’s mainly lie in the truck’s lithium-ion batteries, which may carry fire risks to shops, according to an infographic by the automaker. Other challenges include repairers handling partially or completely electrified powertrains, as well as its Active Drive Assist, an autonomous driving component. The Active Drive Assist will especially put a higher level of responsibility on repairs to repair vehicles using OEM procedures, says Ford. In today’s electrifying climate, shops can expect to see an increase in the all-electric, self-driving models—similar to the new Ford F-150—entering their shops.

GOODBYE CAR KEYS BMW has announced that it will be the first automaker to allow their customers to use their iPhone as a digital car key. BMW vehicle owners can register their iPhone by using the BMW Smartphone App. The app also allows share access with up to five people as well as a configurable car access option for younger drivers which restricts top speed, horsepower and maximum radio volume. Management of the app can be done in the car as well as through Apple Wallet. For those concerned with their phone dying and not being able to get into their car, the key actually functions for up to five hours if the phone turns off due to low battery. It is also compatible with Apple watch.

VIRTUAL PAINTING Since automotive paint is one of the most complex colour themes to deal with, the designers at BASF’s Coatings divisions have developed virtual ‘AUVOTs’—Automotive Vehicles of Trends shapes—to gain a realistic impression of colours, effects and surfaces on a complete car during the early design phase. BASF introduced four different AUVOTs that stand for various car segments on the automotive market. Each of the shapes represents distinct automotive features that reveal effect highlights on the edges, showcasing dramatic colour behaviours at the same time. While one side of the automotive geometry simulates various elements that can be found on every car, the other side features formations that reveal the potential of automotive coating and give insights on the behaviour of a colour.

WORKING TOGETHER On June 10, Ford Motor Company and Volkswagen AG signed agreements to work together to meet the needs of their respective customers by leveraging complementary strengths in midsize pickup trucks, commercial vehicles and electric vehicles. The partnership also granted Ford access to use Volkswagen’s electric vehicle architecture and Modular Electric Toolkit (MEB), which will allow it to design and build at least one high-volume fully electric vehicle—available to European customers in 2023.

INNOVATIVE IMAGING The leading digital global marketplace, Impact Auto Auctions LTD., has announced the launch of Impact 360 View, innovative imaging technology that allows online vehicle buyers to see a 360 view of a vehicle’s exterior and interior. All Impact locations in Canada will offer Impact 360 View for vehicles twelve years old and newer, unique classics, high-end vehicles and exotics. The benefits of this technology are enhancing imagery, zoom and pan capabilities as well as views beyond 5MB HD providing viewing of the critical areas of the internal and external of the vehicle.

28 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

TM

“My business grew because of CSN. The best part is I got the freedom to do it my way!”

- Dana Alexander, Owner CSN Dana’s wn a If you o ana’s ke D shop li ecome b o t t n and wa f a leading a part o work, we net repair hear want to u! o from y

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT

csncollision.com/join or email join@csncollision.com CSN - The VALUE to grow, the freedom to CHOOSE, and the SUPPORT to succeed

BELIEVE IT OR NOT NEWS

BELIEVE IT OR NOT NEWS GET WRECKED There’s nothing worse than breaking something right after you bought it, especially when that something is worth as much as a mid-sized home. In late June, a $300,000 Lamborghini Huracan Performante Spyder was totaled on a U.K. highway, only 20 minutes after its new owner left the dealership. According to Fox News the vehicle broke down and was rear-ended by a van traveling at a high speed. According to the West Yorkshire Police, only the van driver suffered minor head injuries.

MARKETING FAIL A car dealership in Ontario has apologized after using a photo of two people shaking hands while wearing face masks in a flyer for a sales event. In a statement to CTV News Toronto, Nissan Canada said its dealership in Newmarket used the “publicly available stock advertising image” for a flyer but it has since been removed.Shaking hands has been discouraged by health officials since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic because it can easily help spread the virus.”We have contacted the dealership and they are removing it from their store immediately given the conflicting message and inappropriateness of the image,” Nissan Canada said. “This was not intentional and the dealer has apologized for their actions.”

A Newmarket, Ontario dealership publicly apologized after releasing an ad depicting a handshake.

MYSTERY CLIMBER In Bambi’s most recent class with papparazzi, the deer was photographed bounding across a bodyshop roof in Hamilton.”

On June 8, a deer was spotted on-top of the roof of a 15-foot-high bodyshop in Hamilton, Ontario. Reports say shop owners were especially confused by the incident because the building has no outdoor stairs or ledges. By the time animal services arrived on scene, the deer disappeared just as inexplicitly as it appeared.

30 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

BELIEVE IT OR NOT NEWS

BELIEVE IT OR NOT NEWS INSIDE THE FORD CATACOMB During the COVID-19 lockdown, John Brayshaw decided that gardening in his backward would be an appropriate way to pass his time. Interestingly enough, Brayshaw’s new hobby led him to find a Ford Popular entombed in his yard. The Ford vehicle was found buried and placed in a lateral position— presumably to allow for a smaller hole to be dug, reported BBC news. A large portion of the vehicle’s metal had corroded, however, enough of the vehicle remains to make inferences about its mysterious origin. Brayshaw was able to get the registration plate with the number and letters intact from the vehicle.

After the original news of the story broke, a former resident of the house came forward to explain that he had buried the car after mechanics told him it wasn’t worth fixing. So, instead of paying to scrap the car he buried it in 1964. This story was originally reported by BBC news.

A British gardener was shocked when he found a full Ford Popular buried in his backyard.

PECULIAR PET OWNER A video of an Ontario driver hauling his fullgrown Malamute in the back of his pickup while allegedly cruising down a 400-series highway has animal activists up in arms. An Instagram video shows the driver cruising along a highway near Niagara Falls, while the dog can clearly be seen hopping around in the truck bed, tongue happily flapping in the wind. While some feisty commenters asked where the nearest Animal Services was and shouted animal abuse, others argued they should “mind their own business— that dog is having the time of his life.”

An Ontario driver was seen hauling some seriously special cargo in July.

BOUNCING BOX A video posted to Twitter shows a package bouncing along the highway before hopping back into the delivery truck.

Canada Post delays amid the coronavirus pandemic seem to be explained by this incident caught on film along a GTA highway. In early June, Twitter user @tw_kotsojiku shared a video of a Canada Post delivery vehicle with its back hatch open, cruising on a near-empty highway. During the video, a rogue package hops from the truck and bounces twice along the open pavement before leaping back into the moving vehicle.

AUGUST 2020 COLLISION REPAIR 31

EVENTS

IBISCONNECT AFRICA

Strength through collaboration on IBIS’s all-new digital platform

Attendees were event ‘seated’ in a virtual theatre before the broadcast began.

BY ALLISON ROGERS

O

n July 23, the International Bodyshop Industry Symposium (IBIS) launched its all-new digital conference platform, IBISConnect.

IBISConnect Africa, the first-ever conference to be hosted on the platform, with a schedule chock-full of presentations and intriguing new networking opportunities through customized chat rooms, video coffee breaks, a digital exposition hall and much more.

“We wanted to create a truly interactive and immersive experience,” said Jason Moseley, IBIS CEO.“We’ve included a networking chat room, where you can speak with our sponsors

32 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

and schedule meetings, or chat amongst other attendees in public or private settings.”

The broadcast also boasted features like live polling and an open question-and-answer chat, where attendees could anonymously review speaker presentations.

This year’s theme was ‘Strength through Collaboration’, and covered the many ways the industry can find inspiration through industry relationships.

Tom Avon, a procurement officer responsible for Admiral Insurance’s repair performance and strategy embodied this theme in his presentation on insurer-repairer relationships

through intelligent repair routing strategies.

Avon said, at its core, intelligent repair routing is about moving away from the traditional “one-size-fits-all” approach currently present throughout much of the industry.

“Fundamentally, it’s about listening to customers and understanding their needs. Customers expect a unique experience and a collision claim is a very stressful time that they will rarely face—giving them that experience that makes them feel heard and makes the customer believe they may the right choice with their insurer, walking away from the bodyshop knowing they had their vehicle repaired experts.”

EVENTS

An expo hall of IBIS Africa supporters hosted events during intermissions, and an easy-to-access chat room made scheduling meetings seamless.

“We wanted to create a truly interactive and immersive experience.”

– Jason Moseley, IBIS CEO Avon said the U.K.-based insurer has witnessed several benefits to smart routed repair strategies, namely lower cycle times and better reviews among customers.

“If we are able to segment the way we do repairs and send customers to the most appropriate place to receive their repairs, we often see reduced cycle times for our customers—they’ll get their cars back quicker, which gives them a higher confidence in the repair and improved the customer service.”

Understandably, some repairers in the IBIS audience were concerned about the strategy eliminating customer choice in their repair facility—but Avon said that is not the goal.

“The customer should always have the ability to choose and be informed about the repairer they are going to,” said Avon.“Some are very informed, but others need a lot of hand-holding—they don’t really understand the repairs their vehicle needs—and need to a little more leading. I believe customer choice is always paramount, and I think insurers will

continue to work with bodyshops to ensure customers are sent to the right facility.”

IBIS CEO Jason Moseley followed up on these concerns, asking Avon if Admiral Insurance uses tiering in its intelligent repair routing practices.

“There are different ways of doing it, and insurers would approach it differently than a network company or manager,” he said.

“There’s always the goal of supporting repairers and helping them support their volumes, so when I look at tiering, I’m always considering that.”

Insurer-repairer relations were a big topic throughout the IBISConnect Africa broadcast, with Moseley proposing the ultimate question to Graeme Reid, programme executive for Lightstone Systems, “That’s the million-dollar question,” said Reid. “I think every MRP and insurer in the industry would like to see that.”

For more information on upcoming IBISConnect events, visit ibisworldwide.com.

Tom Avon, a procurement officer responsible for Admiral Insurance’s repair performance strategy, delivered a compelling talk on insurer-repairer relations and the power of smart repair routing.

AUGUST 2020 COLLISION REPAIR 33

ESTIMATION

HERE TO STAY Insurers talk photo estimation “In 2020, I would absolutely say we’d be more inclined to work with a facility with photoestimation procedures in place.” – Michel Martineau, VP of Claims, Desjardins Insurance

BY MADDY KYLIE

F

or years, the auto repair industry has been reluctant to implement widespread photo-estimating procedures. In the social distancing era, this once overlooked service has proven itself useful, and is now accepted and even encouraged in the sector.

While virtual claims and photo estimation were merely “visions of the future” a few short years ago, Michel Martineau, Desjardins Insurance’s vice president of claims, says the insurer now uses photo estimation with its network of bodyshops. He believes the process will remain integral post-pandemic.

“Photo estimation and virtual claims are clearly a reality,” he told Collision Repair. “I would absolutely say we’d be more inclined to work with a facility with photo-estimation procedures in place.”

Ciaran Downes, senior director, national appraisal services at SGI agrees with Martineau.

Downes says there are a lot of advantages associated with photo-estimating and accelerating claims processing.

“From an insurer perspective, we see photo-based estimating as a potential opportunity to assist us in identifying potential total-loss vehicles very early in the claims intake process, allowing us to triage the claim to appropriate channel.”

While the process certainly proves useful— especially in modern times—the insurers also recognize the inevitable drawbacks of such new technology.

Martineau says poor photo quality can introduce hiccups in the estimation process.

“Sometimes we need to have additional pictures to ensure we’re making the right assessment of the amount of damages,” said Martineau.

Meanwhile, Downes says manual intervention

is still required when writing estimates, and ‘desk appraisers’ may be unable to identify hidden damages by simply looking at submitted images, resulting in potentially inaccurate initial estimates.

Despite any drawbacks, the pandemic has made it clear that photo estimation is here to stay.

Both Martineau and Downes believe facilities will continue to offer the service post-pandemic.

“We believe that many repairers who started to offer low-touch options during pandemic will likely choose to continue to offer to customers photo-based estimating options post COVID-19, but it will be interesting to see if the uptake of photo-based estimating will continue over the next year. The scale and extent of the current pandemic will likely drive a lot of those decisions,” he continued.

Martineau agreed, and said photo-based estimating will likely be the new norm post-pandemic, but Desjardins will still be flexible and tailor estimation around the client’s preference.

“We want to be considerate of the client’s needs and the way they want to be taken care of.

So, of course it’s going to become the norm—for me that’s clear—but at the same time we want to adjust and when there’s the need and client’s situation requires it, we need to also need to be there to do it more the traditional way.”

At Desjardins, their main priority after the restrictions lift is protecting all employees, networks, and foremost our clients; while following the guidelines provided by the government, said Martineau.

“So, this may mean we have to change the way things are done but we want to make sure that the work is done properly with the right prioritization, while also taking care of everyone’s health.”

34 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

Desjardins vice-president of claims Michel Martineau believes it’s clear that photo estimation is becoming the norm.

Ciaran Downes,senior director of national appraisal services for SGI says it will be interesting to see if the uptake of photo-based estimation will continue over the next year.

A SYSTEM

REBORN with ever ything you asked for in a ref inish system–color consistency and tools.

M AV ERICK APPROV ED .

REQUES T A DEMO, V ISI T M AT R I X S Y S T E M . C O M

EVENTS

VIRTUAL VEGAS SEMA cancelled for the first time ever

This year’s cancellation marks the first time the fiery passion of the SEMA Show has been doused.

T

he 2020 SEMA show has been cancelled due to concerns around COVID-19, as well as concerns that event facilities and services would not be available in time for the 2020 show.

In the SEMA Show’s 50-plus-year history, it had never once been cancelled until this year.

There has been some discussion about moving the show online, similar to many other events and shows this year, but plans have yet to be released. However, a recent conducted by SEMA indicated interest in a possible virtual tradeshow with related live elements.

“SEMA will be working with industry members to determine interest levels on specific alternatives,” says the event’s website.

AAPEX also cancelled its 2020 in-person event, initially scheduled to take place November 3 through November 5, 2020 at the Sands Expo and Caesars Forum Conference Center in Las Vegas.AAPEX made the announcement the same day as SEMA, but also noted that it will provide a digital experience with many of the show’s same elements presented online.

The virtual event will be held the week of November 3, the same week as the originally

36 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

planned event, and additional details will be available August 19.

Many companies such as SATA had already backed out of the SEMA show before it was cancelled, however, a few companies were still planning on attending. Some companies weren’t planning on going but hadn’t officially backed out because they didn’t want to risk losing their prime booth space for the 2021 show by backing out.

The SEMA show is one of the largest networking events for the automotive aftermarket industry. The event connects automotive en-

EVENTS

“We appreciate the spirit, hard work and innovation our industry puts into the SEMA Show each year. While we are disappointed, circumstances prevent us from hosting the show in November, we look forward to getting everyone together in 2021 for another outstanding event.”

– Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO

thusiasts all over the world, to admire the year’s most innovative specialty products. So, this year’s cancellation will come as a devastation to companies, attendees and the event’s staff and coordinators.

Up until the cancellation the show was planning to run with strict safety protocols such as requirement to wear masks, temperatures would be checked, one-way aisles set up and additional cleaning scheduled.

“The SEMA Show is committed to furthering businesses in the automotive specialty equipment market, and to providing manufacturers and buyers with the best opportunity to connect, promote new products and discover new trends,” said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO.“We appreciate the spirit, hard work and innovation our industry puts into the SEMA Show each year. While we are disappointed, circumstances prevent us from hosting the Show in November, we look forward to getting everyone together in 2021 for another outstanding event.”

Full refunds for exhibitor booth deposits and attendee registration fees will be issued, SEMA said.

AUGUST 2020 COLLISION REPAIR 37

EXECUTIVE VISION

NOWHERE BUT UP CSN chief Ryan Bruno on merging with a major U.S. network

BY ALLISON ROGERS

C

anadian repair network CSN Collision Centres recently announced the news of its merger with U.S.-based 1Collision.

The merger, announced July 14, allows the organizations to offer a unified collision repair experience and claims management solution to the driving public and insurance industry throughout Canada and the United States.

From day one, CSN’s goal has been to increase its scale. Since 2002, the network has strived to deliver quality repairs while simultaneously assisting collision repair facilities to improve their operations through performance assessments, ongoing training, and marketing initiatives.

To learn more about the merger Collision Repair spoke with Ryan Bruno, the newly appointed President & CEO of CSN Collision Centres.

Collision Repair: So, Ryan, if we were to go back to the beginning—what launched your career in the collision industry?

Ryan Bruno: My family has been in the collision industry for many years, so I’ve been immersed in it from a very young age.

However, after completing my MBA I decided to pursue a career in capital markets with a focus on mergers and acquisitions. This then led me to roles working with the in-house mergers and acquisitions teams at BCE and Economical Insurance.

A couple of years ago there was an opportunity to join CSN as the chief financial officer,

which was great for me given my personal background in the industry, my education, and my work experience.

CR: That’s right—up until recently you’ve been serving as the CFO for CSN Collision Centres. Now that you’ve ascended into the role of President & CEO, how have your roles and responsibilities changed?

RB: As CFO I had direct accountability for our finance team and the development of our strategic direction. With my new role I am accountable for the overall business and executing on that strategic direction.

From a day to day perspective, it has been a bit of a gradual transition. Even when I was CFO, I was very involved in shaping the strategic direction of the business, which has made the transition easier.

At the same time there has been quite a bit of change as we’ve merged with 1Collision in the United States. I’ve been very focused on finalizing that. There are things that must change within our corporate team to make sure we get the most out of that transaction.

So, on the one hand it’s been similar and on the other hand it’s very much transaction-oriented right now.

CR: CSN recently announced its merger with 1Collision in the United States, allowing the two networks to offer a unified collision repair experience and claims management solution to the

38 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

driving public and insurance industry throughout Canada and the United States.

Could you talk a little bit more about the timing of this move? When did CSN start to think about expanding?

RB: One of our longer-term objectives at CSN is to increase scale, which allows us to deliver more value to all stakeholders. With

One of our longer-term objectives at CSN is to increase scale, which allows us to deliver more value to all stakeholders.

With more stores in our platform, we process more repair volume, which generates efficiencies that help us pack more value into that platform.

EXECUTIVE VISION

We really do believe we’re able to take the best of both to build an even better platform.

While 1Collision has stronger capabilities in some areas, CSN has stronger capabilities in others. Going forward, we’ll take the best of both.

Ryan Bruno, President & CEO of CSN Collision Centres.

more stores in our platform, we process more repair volume, which generates efficiencies that help us pack more value into that platform.

There are some opportunities to expand in Canada but, given our existing footprint, we really needed to look to the United States to significantly expand our scale.

As we were evaluating the best strategy to enter the market, Dave Luehr of Elite Bodyshop Solutions introduced us to the team at 1Collision, who had a similar approach to doing business.

We then decided to move forward with those conversations.

All told, it was probably 12 to 18 months between starting our strategic review, deciding to move forward into the United States and then completing the merger.

CR: In terms of size, how are CSN and 1Collision comparable?

RB: The two brands are different from a size perspective. CSN has 200 stores across Canada in a market that’s worth two-to-three billion dollars annually.

1Collision has about 40 stores in the much larger U.S. market, so they are relatively smaller—but that’s one of the things that works well in this transaction. We can take the corporate infrastructure that we’ve built up in Canada and extend it to the U.S. market to grow the 1Collision footprint, which in turn creates efficiencies in the platform, and helps us deliver more value to stakeholders in both Canada and the US.

CR: What makes the merger of 1Collision and CSN unique?

RB: This merger has a great mix of similarities, but we complement each other very well at the same time.

For example, both CSN and 1Collision utilize a co-branded marketing strategy, which couples the benefits of our national brands with the strong local reputation of our operators. Both of us are unique within our respective markets — CSN is the only network to do this successfully in Canada and 1Collision is the only network to do this successfully in the US. At the same time, each network is at a different place with respect to systems and processes.

We really do believe we’re able to take the best of both to build an even better platform.

While 1Collision has stronger capabilities in some areas, CSN has stronger capabilities in others.

CR: Whether it be in terms of north of the border like in Canada or if it was in the States what changes are you going to make with the networks?

RB: In Canada, CSN operations will continue to be led by our Chief Operating Officer, Flavio Battilana. In the U.S., 1Collision President Jim Keller, will continue to lead the 1Collision Network and I’ll have oversight of both networks as the President & CEO. Each country will also have a dedicated insurer relations team. We

think it’s important for the field team to have a local focus in each country, even though Flavio and Jim will be in regular contact to ensure that they are sharing best practices to keep us ahead of the curve.

However, other functional areas will have a cross-border mandate, which we believe will help us to be innovative yet continue to deliver value. For example, there’s no need for us to have two finance teams—we can group it all into one team and cover a lot more ground. We plan to use the same strategy for marketing, network development and programs & services.

CR: In terms of the CSN brand as a name, how has the merger affected the brand as a whole?

RB: Both 1Collision and CSN will continue to operate under their current co-branded strategy: CSN in Canada and 1Collision in the United States. This allows locations to continue to benefit from our scale, while capitalizing on the relationships they have built in their communities over many years.

CR: As CSN continues to grow in Canada and now in the States, what are the long-term goals for the company under your direction and what are you working on right now?

RB: There are three main objectives we are working on.

Number one is increasing scale, which helps us to continually deliver more value.

AUGUST 2020 COLLISION REPAIR 39

EXECUTIVE VISION

Going forward, we will continue to make scalable investments in our platform that create value for existing stakeholders.

The second objective is to expanding relationships. Relationships are at the core of what we do. We bring together repairers with insurers, vendors, and OEMs to create a collaborative environment to help the customer get their car repaired properly. We are actively growing those relationships.

The third objective is to continue investing in infrastructure. We have more than doubled our corporate headcount in the past two years and have made significant investments in systems and processes. Going forward, we will continue to make scalable investments in our platform that create value for existing stakeholders, while ensuring we are able to onboard new locations, insurance partners and vendors.

CR: From a business perspective, how is CSN benefiting from the merger?

RB: The merger gives both CSN and 1Collision enhanced scale today and a clear path

to growth for the future, which allows us to deliver more value for our various stakeholders.

From a CSN perspective, we could have entered the U.S. market just by hiring a few people and starting out from that first store, which sometimes takes a lot of work and a lot of learning.

By merging with 1Collision we can achieve those goals with regards to scale much more quickly than we would have otherwise.

CR: From a banner perspective how does CSN compare to the other banners that have operations in the United States?

RB: The real differentiator is the quality of the locations in our network—it really is what sets us apart. With high quality facilities and skilled operators, our corporate operations can be more efficient than we otherwise would be.

At CSN, we don’t have to do a lot of hand holding or worry about pushing the basic

40 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

elements of what we do—we take the best and we make them better.And, because we are more efficient in what we do, we can offer lower fees to the stores.

If they’re paying lower fees, they have additional capital to invest in tools and training, which helps keep them at the top of their game.

We start with the best, focus on those key points that they need our support to undertake, and then pass on the savings back to the stores. The stores reinvest and continue to be market leaders.

What we find is those strong operators are able to keep our insurance partners happy. They repair the car properly and provide a world class customer experience.

Further, by having the best operators in the country, potential new licensees or locations looking for a banner to join will recognize the skilled operators working with us. Seeing those operators working with us makes that decision very easy for them. It really is this self-reinforcing system that centres around having the leader in every market.

TOP TIPS

POST PANDEMIC MARKETING Everyday life is different, and so should your businesses’ marketing strategy

BY MADDY KYLIE

C

OVID-19 has made its mark on almost every aspect of life. From the way we interact with other human beings, to having to wear a mask in all indoor spaces. Despite the setbacks, the automotive industry has adapted and evolved to the challenges this pandemic has so graciously offered. Businesses conducted training courses online, dealerships provided virtual car salespersons, shops switched to virtual claims, the list truly goes on and on.

However, now that Canada is beginning to transition back to some form of normality, here are Collision Repair magazine’s five marketing tips to help you and your business thrive post-pandemic.

#1 REDEFINE YOUR BUSINESS GOALS Your business has inevitably changed amid the pandemic, so, your goals should too. Make your goals achievable and time-orientated, so, you can come out of the pandemic better than ever. #2 INVEST IN SOCIAL MEDIA Now more than ever before, people are on social media platforms.

TikTok, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and YouTube are great ways to advertise your business. Try getting a steady stream of content out on a daily basis to engage as many customers as possible. #3 REDESIGN YOUR WEBSITE Your website is a customer’s first impression of your business in this digitized world—so make it a good one. There are an abundance of website designs you will find on the internet such as WordPress, Squarespace, and many more that will help make your website pop.

Here’s a good example of what not to do—an Ontario dealership used this image of two people shaking hands, while wearing masks for a flyer. Talk about a seemingly obvious advertising mistake.

#4 SEARCH ENGINE OPTIMIZATION (SEO) Suppose a customer is searching for a particular term related to your business and they don’t find it then you will lose a lot of traffic to your site. That’s where SEO comes in, it helps you appear on the very first page of Google’s search engine results page. When you invest in SEO, people will likely visit your site more. However, you will need to follow the SEO process very closely. #5 ADVERTISE YOUR HEALTH AND SAFETY PROTOCOLS Even after the COVID-19 frenzy subsides, masks and mandatory health and safety protocols will most likely stick around. Businesses should make their customers feel safe by advertising the protocols they are following. Owners can post signs in or outside their building or add a COVID-19 protocol section to their website—better yet why not do both?

Who knows when the pandemic will finally end, but there is no better time than now to start planning for the future.

AUGUST 2020 COLLISION REPAIR 41

STAND UP SPEAK OUT

TAKE A PICTURE It’s supposed to last longer—but will this trend stick around?

I

n the throes of the pandemic, photo estimation began being touted as a way to comply with social distancing measures while keeping operations running smoothly.

While some swear by the service, others have been met with problems. With so much mixed feedback on the process, Collision Repair reached out to its readers to learn what

they really think about photo estimation, and whether they truly believe better working relationships with insurance partners are on the horizon.

Will your facility be using virtual claims/ photo estimation post-pandemic?

17.2% 75.8% YES, WE WERE ALREADY USING IT

6.8%

6.8% YES, WE’VE STARTED USING IT AND WILL CONTINUE

75.8%

17.2% NO

Will your facility alter its working relationship with insurers post-pandemic?

50%

50%

50% YES 50% NO

“Some companies have done very well with virtual estimating, but several are a joke. We’ve seen serious time delays, and it often feels like we are dealing with appraisers that have little knowledge of the business.”

42 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

“We are always trying to improve our relationships with insurers and business partners.”

STAND UP SPEAK OUT

“We have been using the old [photo estimation] systems for a few years, where the client brings their vehicle to our location to take pictures. We thoroughly inspect the vehicle, write the appropriate estimate and submit to the insurer for approval. Now we have the new system where the insured client is asked to take photos and submit them directly to their insurer. Great idea—if the insurer’s intention is to cut the client’s personal choice out of the process and hard sell them to take a preferred, with a provided inaccurate estimate that leads to delays.”

“We use it as a way to connect with the customer, but what happens after that connection is what is important.”

“We use whichever [estimation] system the customer is most comfortable with.

Some insurers want us to use digital phone pictures. We are here to satisfy the customer and work for insurers.”

“It’s always preferred to see the vehicle for an estimate—photos simply won’t capture all damage.

Most average people don’t understand collision energy and how it travels, and the photos they provide aren’t usually adequate. It’s best to set up a practise where customers go to a repair facility and have the experts take proper photos. While there is very good use for virtual estimating, it has to be done by the experienced people.”

GIVE THEM SOMETHING FRESH TO LISTEN TO Enroll in SiriusXM’s Service Lane for Shops Program to give every eligible customer a Free 3-month All Access trial. They’ll be driving with their windows down, music blasting, and spirits up.

Visit siriusxm.ca/forshops to sign-up today.

© 2020 SiriusXM Canada Inc. “SiriusXM,” the SiriusXM logo, channel names and logos are trademarks of Sirius XM Radio Inc. and are used under license.

SXM-Preown-New Car Sound-CR-halfpage.indd 1

AUGUST 2020 COLLISION REPAIR 43 2020-07-29 3:11 PM

COMPANY PROFILE

KEEPING CONNECTED

Sandy Liguori says the pandemic has improve industry communication

The Woodchester Auto Grouphas been using programs like Zoom and FaceTime to conduct social-distance compliant estimates.

BY ALLISON ROGERS

A

s president of Woodchester Auto Group, Sandy Liguori has been steering several fronts through the pandemic.

The company, which includes Woodchester Nissan, Infiniti and the Consolidated Collision Services (CCS) backed Woodchester Collision, has introduced countless changes to customer interactions amid the pandemic. While many believe social distancing protocols present a barrier when it comes to customer and industry interactions, Sandy feels that the new rules have accelerated and improved communication between facilities, customers and insurers alike.

With work-from-home conditions still in place for some insurers, groans of delayed

responses from industry reps and backed up repairs have echoed across the industry.

Sandy, however, said that Woodchester has not experienced any issues when working with its insurance partners.

“Obviously the human factor is missing, but communication with our partners has been enhanced, if anything,” Sandy told Collison Repair.

Mike Beier, general manager of Consolidated Collision Services, agreed.

“We’re probably more connected with our insurance partners and CCS members than we’ve ever been. Before the pandemic, we’d be seeing two customers per day, in person—now we can have upwards of ten Zoom meetings per day.

There’s a human factor that’s come into

44 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

play here—we’re all dealing with the same circumstances. I see a mutual level of higher understanding between repairers and insurers; we’re doing the best we can to take care of our customers and everyone involved.”

Like countless others, the Woodchester Group has adapted all its various services to maintain required distance among employees and customers. While other collision centres have implemented touchless services like photo estimation amid the pandemic, this process was nothing new for Woodchester Collision.

“We have taken pictures for estimates, yes, but we’ve used processes like that forever. Back in the 1980s, I would call up a dealer and say, ‘describe the dent,’ and do an estimate over the

COMPANY PROFILE

The family-run business was established in 1977 and has been running smoothly ever since.

Mike Beier, general manager of CCS believes that communication between partners is better than ever before.

The Woodchester Group consists of Woodchester Nissan, Infiniti and the CCS-backed Woodchester Collision.

phone. We’re pretty used to that kind of stuff, so it’s easy for us.”

Sandy’s team took the process one step further, using programs like Skype, FaceTime and Zoom to perform estimates rather than sending them away to insurers.

“We’ve found a lot of success in doing estimates like that—over FaceTime and Zoom where we can actually speak to the customer. We’ve done a lot of estimates that way,” said Sandy.

Sandy also says scheduling is incredibly

important in times like these.

“Since we are heavily DRP, scheduling our appointments to make sure we don’t run into that morning or lunch rush has been key. With everyone working from home, scheduling appointments has not been a problem.

As for the future of the collision repair market, Sandy has few fears.

“Humans are highly adaptable creatures—we’ll make it through this.”

Sandy Liguori is the president of Woodchester Auto Group, which includes Woodchester Nissan, Infiniti and Woodchester Collision.

“Communication with our partners has been enhanced, if anything.”

– Sandy Liguori AUGUST 2020 COLLISION REPAIR 45

TRAINING

SEARCHING FOR TOP TALENT? Tropicana’s latest class of grads is prepped for apprenticeship

BY ALLISON ROGERS

O

n Tuesday, July 21, Toronto-based Tropicana Community Services held its Program Advisory Committee meeting to inform members of the industry that its current graduating class is ready to accept their apprenticeships placements.

During the meeting, members of the Program Advisory Committee, including Wayne Faria of Don Valley Toyota, Daryll O’Keefe of Fix Auto, Steven Glace of 3M, Carl Mohammed of Assured Automotive, Saad Ouaddahou of AkzoNobel and Michael George of AkzoNobel took a virtual tour of the Centennial College bodyshop. The

Students have been active since Centennial College reopened its bodyshop for their classes.

46 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

tour showed students working in the recovery lab body frame and structure class, where they were divided into four groups to work on a project to construct and design non-structural panel repair fundamentals, metal finishing, bumpers, abrasives, and fillers.

Despite the many challenges presently facing the industry, Tropicana is hopeful that it will be able to find placements for its 20-student-strong class of 2020.

“Like most organizations, we at Tropicana are doing our best to support all the members of our communities that are impacted by this pandemic,” said Suad Dualeh,

TRAINING

Social distancing measures have been put in place, and the students are clearly thrilled to be back to work.

Despite the many challenges presently facing the industry, Tropicana is hopeful that it will be able to find placements for its 20-student-strong class of 2020.

program coordinator for Tropicana’s Pre-apprenticeship Training Program. “That is why we are hoping the Pre-Apprenticeship program students can participate in the 12-week paid work placement to fulfill requirements in order to graduate class 2020.”

The last day of class for the Auto Body and Collision Damage Repairer class of 2020 is scheduled for Aug. 14, 2020. Apprenticeship start dates must fall between Aug. 17, 2020, and Nov. 6, 2020, for the students to successfully graduate from the program.

Tropicana is doing everything in its power to ensure its students are armed with the tools they need to successfully complete their programs.

The organization has been hosting virtual field trips for its students amid the pandemic, where companies like AkzoNobel, 3M, CARSTAR, Assured Automotive, CSN Brimell Paint & Collision and Drive Auto Group have come together to offer facility tours, product demos and insightful presentations for Tropicana’s class of 2020.

For more information on Tropicana Community Services, or to support an apprentice through their placement, please contact sdualeh@ tropicanaemployment.ca.

AUGUST 2020 COLLISION REPAIR 47

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

CRUCIAL CALIBRATIONS Are new facilities part of the future?

BY ALLISON ROGERS

F

rank Terlep, co-founder of Auto Techcelerators said the collision industry could see a new type of facility emerge in the coming years.

During a July 22 webinar with Dave Luehr’s Elite Body Shop, Terlep discussed why proper test drives and documentation are critical on advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) equipped vehicles, he said the collision industry is not prepared to take on the extensive calibration that will be required on incoming vehicle models.

“I don’t believe our industry has space, the people power or expenses to implement a calibration system inside its facility,” Terlep told the audience. “Simply because of the various requirements and different manufacturer systems, I believe we’ll begin to see this new type of business pop up—calibration centres.”

Terlep said that, by 2022, 97 percent of new vehicle models will be equipped with ADAS. By 2019, the U.S.-based CCC Information Services said 48 percent of the year’s vehicle models included ADAS. Terlep said modern ADAS repairs are about more than just prescans and post-scans; they also call for calibrations—dynamic or static—and test drives.

Furthermore, Terlep said, to succeed in the ADAS era, you need to strive to create “bulletproof files” in the event you need to prove a proper repair was completed.

“You need to document every repair you do as if you are going to court tomorrow. It may not be nice to think or do, but it is absolutely critical—particularly with these electronic systems.”

48 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

Frank Terlep, co-founder of Auto Techcelerators said he expects facilities specifically catered to offer calibration services to emerge in the coming years.

“Simply because of the various requirements and different manufacturer systems, I believe we’ll begin to see this new type of business pop up —calibration centres.”

NEW PRODUCTS! THE BEST NEW PAINT TOOL - ION SPOT

ANTI-STATIC GUN • ELIMINATE STATIC AND DUST IN SECONDS • IMPROVES PAINT ADHESION • NO BATTERIES - PAINTBOOTH SAFE

REVIVE YOUR RIVET GUN - HENROB CONVERSION KIT

PRR-HCK • REMOVE & APPLY SELF PIERCING RIVETS • REACH HARD TO ACCESS SPOTS • USE PRO SPOT EXTENSIONS ARMS

Contact your distributor for a demo.

Follow us:

SHOP PROFILE

Formerly Salmon River Collision, Fix Auto Truro opened up shop in this location in 2019.

TAKING ON TRURO Fix Auto Truro may be small, but it is mighty

BY SOPHIE PRICE

K

evin Burgess used to work for Andrew MacDonald at a local auto recycler, Maritime Auto Parts. One day, the pair joked that they should buy a Collision repair shop, as they repaired many cars to be sold at Maritime Auto.

Burgess’ interested was piqued. When MacDonald returned months later to ask if he was serious, Burgess simply told him, “I could be.”

The rest is history.

Fix Auto Truro, located in Truro Nova Scotia, has held the Fix Auto moniker for just under a year. The pair ran the shop for a year as Salmon River Collision before deciding on the change.

The Salmon River Collision business had been in the area for more than 20 years before Burgess and MacDonald purchased it—and

Burgess is thankful for its establishment, as it’s made surviving the pandemic easier.

Since purchasing the business, the pair have completed many renovations—they’ve added a section on to the back of the building for a second paint booth, a new office space, new waiting rooms and redoing most of the outside of the building. Overall, Burgess says they have renovated about 70 percent of the building.

Fix Auto Truro boasts a homey atmosphere, says Burgess—the facility currently employees five people, including Burgess and MacDonald.

In a given week, Truro sees five to 10 repairs roll through its doors, though “it depends on the week,” says Burgess.

The shop floor showcases AkzoNobel paint products, Autel vehicle scanning system, and a

50 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

“People like us because we try to treat them like family and less like a regular customer,” - Kevin Burgess, co-owner, Fix Auto Truro

SHOP PROFILE

Fix Auto Truro recently underwent some renovations, which saw 70 percent of the facility remodelled.

Kevin Burgess is the co-owner and operator of Fix Auto Truro.

The facility, which uses AkzoNobel paint products, also employs UV primers.

MIG welding station. The facility offers plastic repairs, detailing, rust proofing, AC service and headlight aiming, while Fix Auto Truro sublets its glass, PDR, mechanical and smart repairs.

Burgess says the goal for the future of the facility is to double the business at the shop.

He also plans to delve deeper into working alongside insurers.

With fewer drivers on the road and, in turn fewer accidents, Fix Auto Truro struggled, like countless other Canadian businesses.

Burgess, however, is hopeful that things are starting to get back to normal. He says he has already noticed a significant difference in the business at the shop compared to two months ago.

The shop may be small, but the team is certainly well-loved within the community.

“We’re kind of a family operated type business, so we try to treat everybody like our own” says Burgess.“People like us because we try to treat them like family and less like just a regular customer.”

“The goal for the future of the facility is to double the business at the shop and delving deeper into working for insurers.”

— Kevin Burgess

AUGUST 2020 COLLISION REPAIR 51

EVENTS

KEEPING CANADIANS CONNECTED CCIF’s upcoming virtual experience

T

he Canadian Collision Industry Forum (CCIF) will be hosting its first virtual event this October, featuring a host of helpful sessions in both French and English.

The virtual event will be held on Wednesday, October 7 and Thursday, October 8, with conference sessions commencing at 1 p.m.

EST each day.

Event speakers include Charles Aubry, account manager at Progi, who will deliver a discussion to help shops establish capacity plans and improve performance; Dave Flockhart, BETAG Innovation’s chief operating officer, who will focus on how the industry can return to prosperity; Fadi Smaidi, CEO/founder of SkillsTrader, who will talk tips for finding top talent for your trade; and Kathryn Peterson, professional business trainer and speaker, who plans to get into the details of dealing with difficult colleagues.

Speakers include Charles Aubry, account manager at Progi; Fadi Smaidi, CEO/founder of SkillsTrader; Dave Flockhart, chief operation officer of BETAG Innovation and Kathryn Peterson, professional business trainer and speaker.

Key objectives of this workshop will be to identify the variables faced by bodyshops today, gaining control of these variables, how to improve information flow and how to track results.

Patrick Piche and Tim White of AkzoNobel will host a workshop on improving production flow and working with WIP.

This session will host a bilingual workshop with Patrick Piché and Tim White of AkzoNobel, where the pair will focus on working with WIP, limits to avoid bottlenecks in the bodyshop and variables for improving production flow.

According to CCIF’s event website, key objectives of this workshop will be to identify the variables faced by bodyshops today, gaining control of these variables, how to improve information flow and how to track results.

The French workshop scheduled for Wednesday, October 7 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 a.m. and the English equivalent slated for Thursday, October 8 from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

52 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

EVENTS

1958 siapro For you. the PRO.

The compact and easy-to-understand range allows the PRO to save time and get a safe process result.

PROductivity.

20 % PROfit.

70 % PROfciency 100 %

100

This event will showcase CCIF’s new virtual platform, which will allow attendees to network in virtual spaces via text, audio and video chat; ask questions to speakers and sponsors and attend conferences and workshops.

In addition to the host of virtual sessions, this event will showcase CCIF’s new virtual platform, which will allow attendees to network in virtual spaces via text, audio and video chat; For you. the PRO. ask questions to speakers and sponsors and attend conferences and workshops from the comfort of their own homes.

The compact and easy-to-understand range allows Register for this virtual before Septemthe PRO to save timeevent and get a safe process result. ber 4 to qualify for the $159 early bird registration price. As of September 5, the registration fee PROductivity. will increase20to%$179. Registration Time saving.will close on October 4.

PROfit.

Visit ccif.ca information.

70 for % moreLess articles to buy.

1958 siapr

Time saving.

Less articles to buy.

Safe process result.

200

300

1958 siapro

The last CCIF event in Toronto, held in January 2020, was the last pre-pandemic conference for many in the sector.

For you. the PRO.

100

200

400

1958 siapro

PROfciency 100 %

1958 siapro 300 For you. the PRO.

400

800 / 100

(360 - 500)

(600 - 1000)

1958 1958 siapro siapro The compact and easy-to-understand range allows the PRO to save and get a safe process result.

(80time- 150) (180 - 240)

For

(280 - 320)

For you. the PRO.

100

PROductivity.

The compact and easy-to-understand range allows 20 % Time saving. you. the PRO. For the PRO. the PRO to you. save time and get a safe process result.

PROfit.

70 % Less articles to buy.

PROfciency PROductivity. % Safe The100 compact andprocess result.

The compact and easy-to-understand range allows the PRO to save 20 time get safe process result. % andrange Timeaallows saving. understand The compact range and easy-to-understand allows easy-to-understand

get a safe the PRO process to save timeresult. and get a safe process result.

PROfit. range allows the PRO

aving.

70 % 100 200 400 to save time and Body get300 a fillers PROfciency PROductivity. safe process result.

PROductivity.

100Time % 20 %

20 %

Time saving.

Body fillers

300 100

40)

For aggressive cut (Levelling)

400 200 300

100

For speed (finishing)

100 300

200

For straight cut (levelling)

200 (180 - 240)

400

400

100

200

300

400

(80 - 150)

(180 - 240)

(280 - 320)

(360 - 500)

Lacquers

Primer fillers

Lacquers 300

(280 - 320)

300

For scuffing (superfinishing)

300400

400

For high surface quality (finishing)

200

300

Safe process result. saving.

Primer 100 fillers

(80 - 150)

200

Less articles to buy.

200 300 400 800 / 100 PROfit.

(600 - 1000) (180 - 240) (280 - 320) (360 - 500) 70Less % articles articles buy. cut ticles to buy.

70aggressive % to buy.

For For Less speed Forto straight For high 100 300 400 PROfciency PROfciency cut (finishing)200 (levelling) surface quality (Levelling) (finishing) ocess result.

100 % 100 Safe result. % process Safe process result.

100

PROfit.

(80 - 150)

Safe process result.

400

Body fillers

For aggressive cut (Levelling)

Primer fillers

For scuffing (superfinishing) For speed (finishing)

400

800 / 100

(360 - 500)

(600 - 1000)

For straight cut (levelling)

For high surface quality (finishing)

900 Chemin Olivier, Lévis QC G7A 2N1 Phone/Tél.: 418 836-0557 - Fax: 418 836-0537 - Toll-free/Sans frais: 1 800 463-1574

800 / 100

800 / 100

900 Chemin Olivier, Lévis QC G7A 2N1 1251 Gorham Street, Unit 11, Newmarket, ON L3Y 8Y6 (600 - 1000) (600 -898-2405 1000) (80 (280 - 150) - 320) (180 - 240) (280 (360 - 320) - 500) (360 - 500) 905 898-0116 - Fax: 905 - Toll-free/Sans frais: 1 800 337-1325 300 frais: 1 800 463-1574 400 Phone/Tél.: 800 / 100 Phone/Tél.: 418100 836-0557 - Fax: 418200 836-0537 - Toll-free/Sans

Body fillers

Primer fillers

1251 Gorham (80Street, - 150)Unit 11, Newmarket, (180 - 240)ON L3Y 8Y6 (280 - 320) (360 - 500) 900 Chemin Olivier, Lévis QC G7A 2N1 Phone/Tél.: 905 898-0116 - Fax: 905 898-2405 - Toll-free/Sans frais: 1 800 337-1325 Phone/Tél.: 418 836-0557 - Fax: 418 836-0537 - Toll-free/Sans frais: 1 800 463-1574 1251 Gorham Street, Unit 11, Newmarket, ON L3Y 8Y6 Phone/Tél.: 905 898-0116 - Fax: 905 898-2405 - Toll-free/Sans frais: 1 800 337-1325

For aggressive cut (Levelling)

For speed (finishing)

For straight cut (levelling)

For high surface quality (finishing)

Lacquers

(600 - 1000)

For scuffing AUGUST 2020 COLLISION REPAIR 53 (superfinishing)

INDUSTRY INSIGHT

INTO THE MIX Prepare for mixed material crossovers

BY SOPHIE PRICE

2

Carbon fibre is combined with a polymer to mold into the shape of the care part that is stronger and lighter than other parts. However, carbon fibre is expensive and has a longer production time.

1

Magnesium is a lightweight material that is generally used for the gearbox, front end and IP beams, steering column, driver’s air bag housings, steering wheels, seat frames and fuel tank covers.

A

s automakers work to achieve lighter cars with increased acceleration, better braking and handling, more and more metals are being thrown into the autobody mix.

This means auto collision repair shops must be equipped with the right tools and knowledge to work with these mixed-material crossovers, resulting in new procedures and guidelines for many repair shops.Working with materials like aluminium, high strength steel and steel mixes can be challenging as they are just beginning to gain traction in the aftermarket. Thus, many collision repair shops are less familiar with the procedures that come with them.

In what many automakers would call the ‘ideal’ lightweight model, vehicle frames consist of aluminum, advanced high-strength steel,

The 2021 BMW 4 series will mix both steel and aluminum in its body, similar to the Nissan Rogue.

magnesium, carbon fibre and other materials.

More and more automakers are opting for a lighter vehicle by mixing these materials in the body.

On June 15, Nissan announced that its new 2021 Nissan Rogue will contain 35 percent ultra-high-strength steel, with the exterior also containing large amounts of aluminum. This raised the amount of high-strength steel from their last vehicle by 16 percent, according to the company.

The hood, fenders and doors will all be made out of aluminum and employ resin for the tailgate and fuel lid.

BMW also announced on June 17, that it has a new vehicle coming out containing steel and aluminum in the body.

54 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

As automakers work to achieve lighter cars with increased acceleration, better braking and handling, more and more metals are being thrown into the autobody mix.

INDUSTRY INSIGHT

On June 15, Nissan announced that its new 2021 Nissan Rogue will contain 35 percent ultra-high-strength steel, with the exterior containing much aluminum.

The idea is to reduce the overall weight of the vehicle to improve features such as handling, braking and acceleration.

The 2021 BMW 4 series will mix both steel and aluminum in its body, similar to the Nissan Rogue. The idea is to reduce the overall weight of the vehicle to improve features such as handling, braking and acceleration. The vehicle’s doors, fenders and hood will all be made out of aluminum, again similar to the Nissan Rogue.

Finally, Ford has also announced that their new generation Ford Bronco will also have high combinations of aluminum and steel.

The doors, hood and fender will be aluminum as well as the control arms on the suspension. The body itself will still be steel as well as the frame.

For these vehicles and many hybrids like them, knowledge of OEM procedures such as restrictions on joining, repairing and sectioning higher-strength steels, will be a guiding light for anyone planning to tackle these mixed-material crossovers, and others like them.

3

Aluminum is a lightweight material that allows automakers to increase dent resistance by making body panels thicker but still keeping the overall weight of the vehicle low.

High-strength steel is used in an automobile body to improve the component’s impact energy by absorbing capacity and resistance to plastic deformation.

AUGUST 2020 COLLISION REPAIR  55

INDUSTRY PROFILE

ESSENTIAL EMPLOYEES Opportunity in collision repair endures

T

he demand for skilled tradespeople is expected to remain strong as Canada’s economy moves towards recovery after the COVID-19 pandemic. Between 2019 and 2028, about 700,000 skilled trades workers are also expected to retire. Meeting these demands will require the recruitment and training of thousands of additional skilled workers.

Dannielle Lefebvre, a refinishing technician at CARSTAR Orleans has been in the collision repair industry for more than 17 years and has never regretted her career path.

“There is a lot of misconception about females in skilled trades, which is a shame as there is so much opportunity,” says Lefebvre. “We have a female apprentice now in our location who wants to be an automotive painter who is incredibly skilled. In this industry you have to prove yourself, no matter if you’re a male or female, it’s the work which speaks for itself and determines your success.”

Starting her career in high school through a pre-apprenticeship program, Lefebvre always knew this is what she wanted to do.

“My mom was actually an automotive painter years ago and it is just something I have always loved and always knew I wanted to do. I used to live in British Columbia and moved to Ottawa three years ago. In both regions there was always a need for my abilities, and I was never without work.”

While collision repair facilities were declared essential businesses during shelter-in-place orders across North America, much like other industries, there was still a decline in business.

“We always had something to do in the shop, whether it was finishing up a backlog of work or simply doing some spring cleaning, we were always busy, which was a welcomed distraction.”

Anecdotally, Lefebvre also finds there is a shortage of youth exploring career paths in the trades and more specifically collision repair.

“There is great opportunity and earning potential in collision repair – and it is also fun.

There needs to be that team atmosphere when we work on these vehicles with one another and it is even better when you enjoy the people you work with.”

For more information on CARSTAR, North America’s leader in collision repair excellence, visit CARSTAR.ca.

56 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

INDUSTRY PROFILE

“There is a lot of misconception about females in skilled trades, which is a shame as there is so much opportunity,” says Dannielle Lefebvre. “We have a female apprentice now in our location who wants to be an automotive painter who is incredibly skilled.

In this industry you have to prove yourself, no matter if you’re a male or female, it’s the work which speaks for itself and determines your success.”

About CARSTAR CARSTAR is North America’s largest franchise network of independently owned and operated collision repair facilities with more than 700 locations in 35 states and 10 Canadian provinces.

A part of the Driven Brands family of automotive aftermarket franchise brands, CARSTAR delivers national scale, premier vehicle repairs, repeatable outcomes and the industry’s highest customer satisfaction ratings. CARSTAR has maintained its commitment to give back to the communities it serves through a variety of fundraising initiatives, including raising over $4 million for cystic fibrosis research, care and advocacy across North America. CARSTAR is actively seeking new franchise partners and interested parties should contact 844-906-9764 or visit CARSTARfranchise.ca.

AUGUST 2020 COLLISION REPAIR 57

IN THE NEWS

PROJECT GTA-FORDABLE Peel Regional Police bust car-theft ring

BY MADDY KYLIE

A

five-month investigation into a car-theft ring operating in the Region of Peel has led to 21 arrests and the recovery of dozens of stolen vehicles worth $4.2 million dollars, Peel Regional Police announced on July 29.

In February 2020, investigators from the Peel Regional Police Commercial Auto Crime Bureau commenced a vehicle theft investigation called Project GTA-fordable. The investigation identified a crime group that was responsible for stealing numerous vehicles, re-VINning them and then fraudulently registering the vehicles with Service Ontario. The thieves targeted car dealership properties within the Region of Peel as well as in several cities across Ontario.

To date, investigators have arrested 21 people, laid 194 criminal charges and have recovered 36 stolen vehicles with an estimated value of $4.2 million dollars.

As a result of the investigation a number of high-end vehicles were seized. The brands seized

include Cadillac, Lincoln, Porsche, Lamborghini, Ford, GMC, Chevrolet and Dodge.

“This is an excellent example of investigators working hard to prevent the continued victimization of our residents in our local community and the GTA. The accused were part of an organized auto theft ring originating from across Ontario. The outcome of this project will have a significant impact towards enhancing community safety and protecting people’s property,” said Deputy Chief Nick Milinovich in a news release following the bust.

The investigation is ongoing and further arrests are anticipated, says Peel Regional Police.

Anyone who may have information pertaining to this matter is asked to call investigators at the Commercial Auto Crime Bureau at (905) 453–2121, ext.3322. Information may also be left anonymously by calling Peel Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), or by visiting peelcrimestoppers.ca.

58 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

Peel Regional police recovered 36 stolen vehicles equalling an estimated $4.2 million-dollar value.

Brands seized include Cadillac, Lincoln, Porsche, Lamborghini, Ford, GMC, Chevrolet and Dodge.

Deputy Chief Nick Milinovich said the accused were part of an organized auto theft ring.

WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED

INDUSTRY EXCLUSIVE AutoHouse unveils KPIs from coast to coast

VOTRE ENTREPRISE EST-ELLE MENACÉE PAR LES ARAIGNÉES NOIRES DE LA TOILE D’ARAIGNÉE ?

SPECIAL ANNUAL EDITIO N

YOUR GUIDE TO THE BEST AND BRIGHTEST!

DIAGNOSIS: SCANNING

RUÉE VERS L’OR AU YUKON

DARE BIG WIN BIG

With 13 OEM certifications, L’ Expert Carrosier Rive-Sud has quite the reputation PLUS: RECALIBRATING OPERATIONS | WHAT’S NEXT FOR THE INDUSTRY CONFERENCE | AIA’S NEW CREW AND MUCH, MUCH MORE!!

LABOUR PAINS When cut-backs are inevitable, understanding law is a necessity!

COVID -19

SPECIAL

EDITI

COVERA ON GE

www.collisionrepairmag.com Canada Post Canadian Publications Mail Sales Product Agreement No. 40841632 l 86 John Street, Thornhill, ON L3T 1Y2

Recyclers step forward to solve the EV battery crisis

DIAGNOSTIC: BALAYAGE

COLLISION AVEC LES CHAMPIONS Les compétiteurs d’habiletés apportent la gloire au Québec, au Canada et à la reine

METS TES SNICK Parce que nous rattrapons le Real Daoust et l'équipe de CARSTAR Cartierville qui évolue rapidement!

PLUS Theresa Jachnycky sur les dangers de l’isolement. CARSTAR arrive à Chicago. Ben Hart sur la responsabilité d’une entreprise envers les apprentis.

COLLISIONQUEBEC.COM

THÉRAPIE DE CHOC

Les recycleurs peuvent-ils tirer parti efficacement des outils de diagnostic?

YOUR GUIDE FROM ABRASIVES TO SOFTWARE!

MORE THAN 160 PRODUCTS!

PLUS

Discounted learning opportunities

SHOCK THERAPY

Can recyclers effectively capitalize on diagnostic tools?

L'hiver approche, tout comme l'équipe d'Irving Collision à Whitehorse

TIME TO TRAIN

Poles Apart: The global auto recycling sector in 2020 Tout le monde: Le secteur mondial du recyclage automobile en 2020

Novembre 2019 l 4,95 $ l Convention de poste-publication numéro 40841632 l 86 John Street, Thornhill, ON L3T 1Y2

12 5

STANDOUT RECYCLING SERVICES AND TOOLS METHODS TO IMPROVE THE SCANNING PROCESS!

YOUR KEY TO PURCHASING DECISIONS! ONLY $14.95

CANADA POST CANADIAN PUBLICATION MAIL SALES PRODUCT AGREEMENT NO. 40841832. A SPECIAL EDITION OF COLLISION REPAIR MAGAZINE 86 JOHN STREET. THORNHILL, ON, L3T TY2

JOIN OUR FAMILY

Les recycleurs font un pas en avant pour résoudre la crise des batteries de VE

THE AUTO MUSEUM ON THE PRAIRIE LE MUSÉE DE L’AUTOMOBILE DANS LA PRAIRIE Terry Carter’s visionary transformation of Aldon Auto

La transformation visionnaire de Terry Carter de la société Aldon Auto

Dealing with dangerous drug residue; Auction shops step up their game; Canadian recyclers descend on Alberta; and much, MUCH MORE!

Traiter les résidus dangereux de stupéfiants les encanteurs augmentent leurs activités ; les recycleurs canadiens s’installent en Alberta ; et bien plus encore, BEAUCOUP PLUS!

At Collision Repair magazine, we are proudly Canadian and committed to bringing you the most up to date news that matters to industry professionals. We do it by telling the stories, your stories, which impact your business and that you care most about. We put our readers first.

BODYWORX THE VOICE OF COLLISION REPAIR TECHS & PAINTERS

PROFESSIONAL

SUBSCRIBE TODAY AT COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

WHO’S DRIVING

LISTENING TO LEAD Crushing assumptions through active listening

BY JAY PERRY

Leadership listening, also known as active listening, as I’ve spoken about in previous columns, is the single most powerful communication tool a leader can use.

This is where we get everyone on the same page by first assuring them and ourselves that our understanding is uniform and in harmony.

I

was recently interviewed for a podcast on leadership. One of the points I emphasized to the audience was that there is far too much assumption within the way companies operate, and it starts with its leaders.

Making assumptions is a source of all kinds of waste including time, money, energy, resources and morale. Think of one of the most common assumptions—that we understand what the customer is asking for. It is easy for this to happen as we are experts in our respective fields, so they express a concern in an area then we assume we completely understand them and proceed with a solution that eventually is shown to be in the wrong vein.

The same thing happens in our day-to-day interactions with our people. We assume that we are all on the same page, only to later find out someone totally misunderstood and has been working and wasting resources of time and effort in the wrong area.

This leads to frustration, which in turn can lead to the morale I spoke of earlier, being reduced. This assumption happens every day, all day and it is part of the leader’s job to eliminate it and its subsequent waste from the organization. So how do we do this?

Leadership listening, also known as active listening, as I’ve spoken about in previous columns, is the single most powerful communication tool a leader can use. This is where we get everyone on the same page by first assuring them and ourselves that our understanding is uniform and in harmony.

Rephrase back to someone what you understand them to be saying is fundamental to the technique. Practicing is what can eliminate more than 50 percent of assumption

60 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

within your day, thus reducing the abovementioned waste.

The other 50 percent to be eradicated comes from our effort in being sure that people truly understand the mission and their personal part in its success. This is done by having them rephrase back to you their understanding of what you are expecting them to do.

Here is where assumption comes up and bites us; most people do not clarify their expectations. They commonly assume that the other person understands—after all, they are professionals, right?

Yes, they are professionals, but they are also subjective humans, which means they interpret what they hear. Thus, potentially leading to wrong directions being taken.

Look for it showing up in your day-to-day and I’ll bet you will find many more than one time per day when this assumption is present.

Put extra effort into recapping to someone your understanding and work on ascertaining their understanding so you can reduce this course of waste within your organization. It is another way to ensure that you are the one who’s driving.

Jay Perry is the founder of Ally Business Coaching, a process improvement and leadership development firm, and co-author of the book Success Manifesto with Brian Tracy.

Jay is also an education partner with California Coast University in Santa Ana, California. He can be reached at jayperryally@gmail.com.

THE POST COVID-19 CLASSROOM

TRAINING

What to expect from post-secondary education

BY BEN HART

A

s I sit here and write this, I long for the days of normality; in fact, I haven’t even seen a classroom in months.

This COVID-19 world we are experiencing has created more questions than answers and the same can be said for the future of post-secondary training. At this point, most institutions have moved current classes to a distance education format and temporarily suspended upcoming in person classes.

Training should resume in the fall, but how will that look? Every school has been exploring potential options. Some have already made the cautionary decision to only offer online education in the fall, although others are taking a pause to figure out their approach before deciding.

While some courses may be easily transitioned to online education, others are much more difficult. The theory portion of the auto body and refinishing trades can be adapted to online training while successfully fulfilling their outcomes. However, the difficulty lies in practical training. How can practical training be molded to a world where human contact must be limited?

One option is that personal contact is eliminated, at least temporarily. This requires critical thinking of the individual schools and educators to determine the best alternatives to practical education, such as video recordings of students demonstrating the practical skills. Another option is to teach as much subject matter as possible online, then have the learners resume practical training when it is considered safe to do so. Alternatively, social distancing measures where class sizes are smaller, and individual classes may run at different hours of the day and evening could be utilized, particularly when PPE is mandated.

All of these scenarios are easily met with criticism. There are many possible solutions, but it will all come down to a balance of safety, learning value and expense.

“The days of coming to school or work when you’re a little bit sick—but too stubborn to stay home—are gone. Gestures and behaviors that were once socially acceptable, such as a handshake may become taboo.”

In any case, all of the above are short term measures. The next question is, what will the long-term repercussions of COVID-19 be?

Will we ever return to “normal”? No one has a definitive answer to those questions, but I do believe we will resume to some level of normality. I can see a greater inclusion of distance education software in the conventional classroom. I also see a greater need for cleaning and respecting health concerns. The days of coming to school or work when you’re a little bit sick—but too stubborn to stay home—are gone. Gestures and behaviors that were once socially acceptable, such as a handshake may become taboo.

2020 is a year of learning and adapting to these new normality’s, fraught with

unprecedented change. Post-secondary education is in the process of adapting and evolving. Any school worth its weight will equally place safety and education at the forefront of their priorities when evaluating operational measures; however, I am optimistic that dedicated institutions and educators will be the catalysts for positive resolutions.

Ben Hart is a Red Seal certified autobody technician and refinisher with more than two decades of experience in the industry. For the past two years he has instructed apprenticeship programs at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology. He can be reached at ben.hart@sait.ca.

AUGUST 2020 COLLISION REPAIR 61

IS YOUR SHOP SHORT-STAFFED OR OVER CAPACITY?

The Virtual Automotive Appraisal Company Providing appraisal support to you and your customers. It’s as easy as click and send!

Quality, professional auto appraisals at your fingertips.

Email info@esheets.ca today to find out how to save time and money!

THE CALM AFTER THE STORM. AUTOMOTIVE HAIL DAMAGE REPAIR

SERVICING CANADA FROM COAST TO COAST 1 (866) 679.3368 INFO@HAILREPAIR.CA WWW.HAILREPAIR.CA

ENGINE KNOX

BRAND-NEW BASICS Be a part of the new normal

BY STEVE KNOX

I

t was a Wednesday night, and I was driving home after playing some music and sharing stories with my friends. As I came over the crest of this backcountry road, I saw hazard lights up ahead. Driving closer, I noticed my friend’s car stopped on the road and then further up along the way, a vehicle on fire.

Farm tractors travel this backcountry road with loads of hay on the trailers. Families travel this road on lazy Sundays. This road runs along the St. John River, and it’s one of New Brunswick’s most picturesque routes through the province.

Tonight, however, this wasn’t the case at all.

As I got out of the truck, I walked ahead to talk to the people who were gathered around.

Boom! One of the airbags exploded inside the vehicle, followed by more noises and pops coming from within the blaze. This all prompted me to encourage the crowd that had gathered to step away from burning vehicle before anyone got hurt.

Another friend who was at the scene is a volunteer firefighter. He radioed in to see how far away the firetrucks were, but we were answered by the sound of sirens and the striking flashing lights.

Once the firefighters arrived, they all jumped out of their vehicles ready for action— but I was shocked to see the reality of our ‘new normal’ in action.

Every firefighter had facemasks and gloves.

The RCMP arrived shortly thereafter, all wearing masks and gloves. When the tow truck showed up, the operator was ready with a mask and gloves.

This pandemic has completely changed our world. For some reason, seeing first responders ready to do their jobs, but also adhering to their new PPE requirements, had me grateful. Not only were they trying to save lives and keep our community safe in this moment, but also they were mindful of

COVID-19, wanting to protect themselves and one another from furthering the spread.

We are fortunate to have the opportunity to protect one another, by simply wearing masks and gloves.

Our involvement in a car accident comes in much later in the process, but it is equally as important to be mindful of our new normal.

If we can protect our customers, employees and families with a simple mask and a pair of gloves, then why not?

Be sure you educate both your team members and customers about the new practices and processes implemented in your facility. Some key things we have done to prepare include: • Consult local/provincial/federal guidelines for small business best practices • Equip our staff and team members with the right PPE • Examine our repair processes and ensure we have sanitization standards for frequently touched surfaces added into the workflow • Communicate our new standards to our customers so they feel safe Business is coming back. Families are choosing road trips over flights, employees are driving to their offices again and summer construction has resumed in full force. Traffic is back and traffic is thick.

All we have to do now is don our masks, wash our hands, wear gloves and get back to work.

This pandemic has completely changed our world. We are fortunate to have the opportunity to protect one another, by simply wearing masks and gloves.

Steve Knox, general manager of CARSTAR Fredericton and CARSTAR Fredericton North, is an I-CAR Instructor and a former member of the CCIF Steering Committee.

He can be reached at sknox@carstarfredericton.ca.

AUGUST 2020 COLLISION REPAIR 63

DIAGNOSTIC DISCUSSION

ALL CLEAR? THINK AGAIN Developing an effective scanning process

BY CHUCK OLSON

Properly trained and experienced diagnostic technicians are able to zone-in on the true needs of a repair, reducing unnecessary procedures and identify those commonly missed safety items early in the repair process considerably.

C

ollision businesses that develop an effective diagnostic scan process will see an almost immediate benefit.

A diagnostic process—like strategy-based diagnostics—performed by a qualified diagnostic specialist can save a collision repair facility money, cut back touch-times, improve capacity, reduce the risk of legal liability, and, most importantly, improve the safety of motorists on the road.

It can even improve client and insurer relations.

When maintenance items—such as failing batteries—and worn components, switches and electrical motors are identified during diagnostic inspections, an effective diagnostic scan process will allow a repair business to determine whose is responsible for the cost of the repair—be it the vehicle owner, auto insurer of manufacturer—rather than just being added to a loss claim.

Properly trained and experienced diagnostic technicians are able to zone-in on the true needs of a repair, reducing unnecessary procedures and identify those commonly missed safety items early in the repair process considerably. They are also able to better determine what procedures an insurer is and is not responsible for as related to a loss claim—and to document the evidence.

While customers might not be happy to have to pay for a battery, addressing maintenance opportunities becomes easier when the problem is readily identified and documented. At the very least, presenting all parties with the necessary, accurate test and inspection results is sure to win trust.

On the other hand, those collision businesses that do not have an effective diagnostic scan process may expose themselves

64 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

to legal dangers—and their customers to physical ones.

Collision facilities may not even realize what is wrong with their diagnostic approach.

Unfortunately, there are some serious misconceptions within the industry about how to use scan tools and what, exactly, their capabilities are.

The most significant of these misconceptions is that by pulling diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), a scan will tell you exactly what needs to be done to fix a vehicle. Unfortunately, a basic code-pull barely scratches the surface of what is involved in the scanning and diagnostic process.

It is pretty simple to clear DTC codes and to get a report saying they are all clear.

Many drivers and collision business owners believe that ‘all clear’ really means ‘all clear.’

This isn’t—at all—the case. If that sounds like the approach your business is taking, you are not in the clear—, especially from a liability standpoint.

In reality, by executing clear code functions, the automotive computer system receives a reset command from the scan tool.

The module’s immediate memory of sensor and fault information is wiped—which usually causes the system to forget the out-of-range sensor data that set them off in the first place!

Any experienced automotive technician will agree retrieving and/or clearing trouble codes is only the starting point.

Effective diagnostics involves using all the functions and data available with modern scan tools.

At Airpro Diagnostics we use several test and data fields we call “component level scanning”. To make effective use of the information, a trained technician has to

DIAGNOSTIC DISCUSSION

katemangostar / Freepik

go into the individual modules and check through the code’s status and data within each.

But even this does not always give you the remedy. By pulling information from the relevant module, the technician will see between 30 and 100 lines of data. This will give them enough information to significantly reduce the shortlist of possible causes.

Further investigation will allow them to narrow things down even more. Here’s the caveat, though. The numbers reflect data—data which may or may not reflect reality—and when it comes to verifying the situation in the vehicle, a remote diagnostic technician needs a capable auto repairer at the vehicle to investigate. In order to meet the criteria to say the system is good, it has to pass a self-check, which may or may not reveal that the problem is still there. (This doesn’t make sense to me here) Take, for example, the diagnostic specialist discovers that a DTC or data is reporting a lean condition. On the basis of the DTC, the cause could be related to the voltage feed, the command fuel delivery system, or any number of other causes—including a problem with the sensor itself that requires further inspection. And don’t forget about the required calibrations, programming and initialization needed after repairs.

Another common misconception relates to how scans should be performed—and who should be performing them. It is widely—and incorrectly—believed that a single automotive technician can be responsible for the entirety of the scanning and diagnostic process, on every vehicle while using a single scan tool.

As someone who has worked in vehicle diagnostics for over 30 years, the idea that any single technician would have the knowledge

At the very least, presenting all parties with the necessary, accurate test and inspection results is sure to win trust.

required to be effective on every vehicle seems ridiculous. Leaving the speed at which the technology is changing aside, knowing how to accurately interpret the diagnostic information for one brand of vehicle won’t prepare you for another one.

In fact, at AirPro, my colleagues—who have often spent years working in diagnostics at the dealership level prior to joining the team—spent two full months mastering a single OEM diagnostic language. While they will then go on to become familiar with the diagnostic language of two other brands, most will only ever be a top tier specialist with one or two brands.

Of course, the notion of mastering every OEM diagnostic language isn’t half as terrifying to us remote diagnostic technicians as the notion of being responsible for performing the physical inspection of the vehicles that we scan.

Yeah developing a diagnostic scan process isn’t easy. If it was, our company, AirPro Diagnostics, which provides repair facilities

with access to diagnostic experts, wouldn’t exist.

If you wish to develop one, though, it might be best to keep this analogy—between vehicle diagnostics and the medical field in mind.

While an MRI or X-Ray technician operates the machine, it is the radiologist who interprets the results and provides a surgeon with the information needed to conduct the surgery.

In the case of a vehicular scan, A technician with basic skills can connect the tool.

It is the diagnostic technician who should be interpreting the results and the repair technician who is performing the surgery.

Yes—you read that right—just retrieving and clearing trouble codes is a bit like handing a scalpel to an X-ray technician!

The co-inventor of the first remote vehicle programming system and method, diagnostics expert Chuck Olsen is one of the founders of AirPro Diagnostics, where he now serves as its senior vice president of automotive technology solutions.

AUGUST 2020 COLLISION REPAIR 65

VIEWS FROM THE WEST

HIGH EXPECTATIONS You’ll find success in wanting the best

BY CHELSEA STEBNER

High expectations are not a bad thing.

They continually help us to rise and choose to do the right thing, every time, instead of the easy things. Play that long game.

Investing in your customers and building your brand by doing the right things will pay off.

I

’m known by my team and friends as a woman with high expectations—and I own that! The high expectations of our team results in high levels of customer care, quality service and product. I’m reminded of it every time I receive outstanding care and service as well as every time a business underwhelms me instead.

I recently engaged the ongoing service of another local business. My purchase was not inexpensive and the service I expected to receive was listed specifically. The first day, our expectations were not met, however, extending grace, I thought I would wait another day and see if it was just a malfunction.

At the end of the second day, with the same outcome as the first day, I decided to ask some questions. I wrote an email, I read it, I waited a bit, I re-read it to ensure that I wasn’t overreacting and clicked send.

The next morning, I awoke to an email—a reaction, not a response. My concerns were not addressed. I was basically told “this is how it is” and brushed off.

The following morning, I got to the shop and one of my team members said, “I need you. I have a situation,” and proceeded to tell me about a customer who had different expectations than the results he received and was not pleased and now it was my turn to manage damage control.

These small stories serve as a great reminder about our attitude when a customer is unhappy and calls us out on it. Our first human response is defensiveness. Do you react right away? Or do you fall all over yourself apologizing and fumbling? Slow down.

What is the right thing to do? As the first story was fresh in my mind. I stopped, looked at the file and read all the notes. I then asked a whole bunch of questions of my team and determined a plan of action prior to talking with our customer. I then picked up the phone and ate some humble pie.

66 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

“Hey Marv, sounds like we did not meet your expectations and for that I apologize.”

No excuses. “Let’s fix it for you”.

Lessons we have learned today: 1. If we are not sure of the customer’s expectations or what our team expects, ask more questions. As my friend Chris Mario taught us, keep asking why till you find the answer.

2. It is time for a team refresher on communication and judgement calls within shop floor.

We are not perfect; however, we are using our mistakes as an opportunity for improvement and coaching. We are always in learning mode.

Back to the first story. I know, as well as you do, that an unhappy customer, without resolving the issue is far more likely to share with others, their negative experience.

Knowing this, I will provide clear, concise feedback at the end of the purchased services and hope that the business owner will be open to hearing it.

I am so appreciative of the customer who chooses to provide us with feedback, even when it may be negative, and the opportunity to make it right instead of choosing not to return and to tell others instead.

High expectations are not a bad thing.

They continually help us to rise and choose to do the right thing, every time, instead of the easy things. Play that long game. Investing in your customers and building your brand by doing the right things will pay off.

Chelsea Stebner is the CEO and managing partner of Parr Auto Body in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, and a member of the CCIF Steering Committee. She can be reached at chelsea@parrautobody.com.

TRAINING

TODAY’S TRAINING

What will I-CAR training look like in our new normal?

“The shops that are going to come out of this, are going to have to participate in a bigger world, with efficiency demands from insurers, with technology demands, etc. So, training to me, remains a core-mandate for a successful shop.”

– Andrew Shepherd, executive director, I-CAR Canada

BY MADDY KYLIE

I

-CAR has had to take on an all-new approach to delivering its training courses amid the pandemic.

On March 15, “pretty well all colleges across the country closed down their campuses,” Andrew Shepard, senior director of Industry Programs and executive director of I-CAR Canada told Collision Repair.

However, I-CAR Canada quickly reacted to the closures by implementing online course formats developed by I-CAR U.S. Shepherd said the online courses were well-received, especially among insurance agencies.

“The insurance side of the equation has really jumped on our free courses.”

Shepherd did note, however, that since collision repair is such a hands-on industry, in-person training is a more practical style of learning and will likely return when COVID-19 restrictions allow for it.

“I think the sense is, when things are safe to do so, we will go back to the live delivery of [courses]. It is just so much more effective for the class to be participating in the activity rather than watching it.”

Shepard also urged collision repair facilities to continue to stay up to date on their training throughout the pandemic.

“There’s going to be a slice of shops—it would be foolhardy of me to guess how big that will be—who are not going to make it. The shops that are going to come out of this, are going to have to participate in a bigger world, with efficiency demands from insurers, with technology demands, etc. So, training to me, remains a core-mandate for a successful shop.”

Shepherd says I-CAR has restarted its in-shop certifications, though only in cases where the manager, technicians and the trainer are all comfortable with it.

Andrew Shepherd, executive director of I-CAR Canada, said online courses have been well-received, especially among insurers.

AUGUST 2020 COLLISION REPAIR 67

LET’S TALK TRAINING

THE CLOUDED FUTURE OF TRAINING A glimpse into in-shop training in the post-pandemic era, from products to certifications

BY STEFANO LIESSI

L

et’s face it, many of us just don’t know excuses—of implementing training are the what we don’t know. At times this can be cost, the time, and the time to implement the a very scary reality in our collision world. said training. We have already addressed the We probably are tired of hearing the preaching “time” aspect as we have been graced this rare of OEM procedures and ADAS calibrations commodity due to COVID, but what about the etc. Fact is, it is new to us and not going away cost? Well, due to the availability of time, and the human instinct to help each other from anytime soon.

So, what can we do about it? Well, if you finding we on the ledge of a 14-storey building, cannot beat it … join it! Learn it and be the many opportunities have opened with offerings at reduced and (at times) free courses.

Master of It. Okay, master may be a stretch, how about we learn to understand it. There has been an “It should be onslaught of new technology, some that even affects standard repair methods such as weldacknowledged that ing and refinish procedures, not to mention good training or management and process advancements. A lot to choose from, with many avenues to get education is invaluable the training from, I-CAR, suppliers, banner to your business, this representation, and (of course) consulting firms.

“When will I ever find the time?!” you ask. is a slow, but much Well, I hope as you read this, by the grace of needed return on your medical science, that things will be back to normal and this will be a more applicable investment.” question, however I am guessing that due to human nature this will not be the reality and reality will be; we are living on “COVID” time, We know this will not last forever—however, to paraphrase the great Eric Clapton.

Now the fact is you may be saying that lets look at the possibility you will be faced with everything is slow or lacking, such as work, the burden of full cost courses. At this moment finances, and staff. What if I were to suggest you have most likely weeded your staff down that this is the optimum time to implement to a skeletal framework, keeping who you feel some training and development into your are your top players on board as much as you business—somewhat the approach of a snake are able to. Ergo a lesser outlay of funding.

This scenario would suggest that these key oil salesman.

Take a moment and think about this rationally players are worthy of your sacred training dollars, before you scream at the delivery person. Some and if be said, are also worthy of sharing the of the greatest detractors—nicer way of saying newfound information with others upon return.

68 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

It should be acknowledged that good training or education is invaluable to your business, this is a slow, but much needed return on your investment. With the situation being what it is, a focus to the training and learning from your staff should be very achievable, to the point of being virtually uninterrupted, not to mention the ability, sad as it may be, to accomplish this mighty task during work hours on a Monday to Friday availability.

Implementing the newfound knowledge, you have invested into your staff is also one of the detractors I see often when I hold sessions. How on earth am I going to implement this with so much to do in the day? Well once again, now you are reading this there is a good chance that things are not back to normal, and you will still be on COVID time. This is really a bonus in a less than favorable way.

The art of implementing training to get the best return on investment requires three key fundamentals that rely on one sacred ingredient: commitment + dedication + implementation by trial = time. With this time you can role out new ideas and tweak them to perfection with minimal interference in your day to day business. In doing this, you can ensure your training dollars are not in vain. In retrospect, you should see a return on your investment in one form or another. This would be a win-win for all involved.

I realize that much of this training or upgrading is online and has its limitations, but this is where you need to tweak and tune the material, utilizing the available time. Once you see the effects of your efforts, you will understand the benefits of training.

LET’S TALK TRAINING

BODYWORX THE VOICE OF COLLISION REPAIR TECHS & PAINTERS

PROFESSIONAL

SCAN ME

As a Red Seal technician and the founder of Canadian Collision Specialist, Stefano enhances his experience with 12 years of I-CAR instructing coupled with high school teaching to bring you training that encompasses all learning types. Having experienced the corporate side of the industry, along with management and ownership, Stefanos focus is, getting it right the first time with proper repairs, equitably, for all the people involved in the collision industry.

What about when things turn to normal? I believe we will take something from this less than pleasant experience. We will develop a new appreciation for time and effort. We will develop a stronger appreciation for new knowledge and the art implementing it into our business. We will see that patience is a virtue, and well worth waiting it out. We will also get back to live training and realize the benefits of human interaction verses the virtual world. Webinars are nice and have a place, however, they are limited and have been abused to the point of lacking significance for many. It really is far more productive to learn in a room filled with peers experiencing live interaction and engagement.

In my opinion, and you are entitled to my opinion, things will get back to an even better than normal pace filled with wiser individuals with a new level of appreciation for knowledge.

PRIDE | PASSION | SKILL Bodyworx Professional is the only publication in Canada written exclusively for professional autobody technicians.

Bodyworx Professional is dedicated to celebrating the pride, passion, and skill of the men and women working back of shop. Bodyworx Professional features their accomplishments, underscores the importance of training in a rapidly developing technology-based industry, showcases career achievements and highlights the burgeoning customization and restyling market. The focus is on providing relevant content that taps into the dreams, aspirations, and excitement that this industry offers.

SUBSCRIBE TO BODYWORXMAG.COM

AUGUST 2020 COLLISION REPAIR  69

REGIONAL NEWS | BRITISH COLUMBIA

REGIONAL NEWS | COAST TO COAST A PENNED COMPLAINT The Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) has published an open letter to British Columbia Premier John Horgan, outlining the auto industry’s concerns with Bill 11.

In its letter, IBC highlights a new proposal for offering vehicle damage coverage when a driver is not responsible for an accident.

It states the bill will further limit consumer choice, create new barriers that will stifle the already limited competition that currently exists in B.C.’s optional auto insurance market, and it will risk driving other insurers out of its optional auto insurance market entirely.

IBC also offers a new proposal for offering vehicle damage coverage when a driver is not responsible for an accident.

“As part of the move to a no-fault system, Bill 11 creates a new mandatory Basic Vehicle Damage coverage that is only available through the Insurance Corporation of British

The auto industry voices concern over Bill 11

Columbia (ICBC),” IBC says in its letter.“This product will provide coverage for vehicle replacement and repair when a driver is not responsible for an accident.

“Today, these repairs can be covered by the third-party liability insurance of the driver responsible for an accident, which is open to choice and competition above ICBC’s basic limits.”

In B.C., the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) is a provincial Crown corporation that provides universal

compulsory auto insurance (Basic insurance) to drivers in B.C. Basic insurance rates in the province are regulated by the British Columbia Utilities Commission (BCUC). In addition to providing basic vehicle insurance, ICBC competes with private insurers on various optional vehicle insurance coverages, including extended third-party liability, collision, comprehensive and vehicle storage.

IBC contends that Bill 11’s changes to how vehicle damage is covered “will reduce what little choice drivers have in B.C.’s optional auto insurance market,” says Aaron Sutherland, vice president of IBC’s Pacific region. “There is no rationale for this expansion of ICBC’s monopoly over vehicle damage insurance. A better, more affordable auto insurance system would allow drivers to purchase this coverage from any insurer they choose.”

PACIFIC PROGRAMS Under the CleanBC Advanced Research & Commercialization Program (ARC) companies that are developing new technologies in the electric vehicle sector can now apply for $4.18 million in new funding.

This program provides targeted funding for R&D, demonstration and commercialization of made-in-B.C. technologies, services and products.

The EV sector includes roughly 250 companies from a variety of backgrounds in the EV supply chain—from raw materials

to final consumer products—related to EVs and EV components, batteries and fuel cells, charging stations and more.

Submissions for funding to the ARC program will be reviewed by a panel that includes experts from the province, local and federal governments, and B.C. postsecondary institutions.

The ARC program which was created in 2018 provides funding to many EV related B.C. companies. The program awarded $1.19 million to five approved projects last year.

Companies developing new technologies will now be able to apply for $4.18 million in new funding

AGGRESSIVE TOWARD ALBERTANS An Albertan man living in Revelstoke was shocked after discovering a vulgar note telling him to return to his home province plastered to his car.

Matt Graham who recently relocated to B.C., has yet to have his Alberta plates changed over. It is believed the car vandal assumed Graham was ignoring social distancing protocols by crossing provincial borders during the height of the pandemic, given his Alberta-labelled plate.

However, Graham has worked in Revelstoke since last year and said his family had just recently fully moved to B.C. in May and had yet to change the plates on their vehicles.

According to the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia, it’s required to have a B.C. Licence plate within 30 days of arrival.

Graham said the delay in getting his plates switched was due to a backlog at the car mechanic.

This is not the first incident like this to

70 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

occur in Revelstoke—other Albertan plates are running into similar problems. When a family’s in-laws came to B.C. to help with a newborn baby, they also found their vehicle keyed while parked downtown.

A man who recently moved to B.C. saw his car vandalized over an Albertan licence plate amid COVID.

BRITISH COLUMBIA | REGIONAL NEWS

TOUTED BY TESLA CSN Penney in Vancouver has earned their Tesla Approved Auto Body Shop Certification.

CSN Penney becomes one of a small number of Tesla certified collision centres across the country, a well-deserved honour that adds to what is already an impressive set of credentials.

“We are committed to completing safe and proper repairs on every vehicle we touch at our facility” said CSN Penney owner, Morris King. “The way vehicles are engineered now requires you to have expertise and training that is specific, and we worked very hard to make sure we had the correct tools, equipment, and training to complete our Tesla Certification” King said.

Tesla has a distinctively complex suite of technology that includes their trademark Autopilot software in addition to their electric powertrain. Due to their unique engineering, Tesla demands the highest standards from their Approved Body Shop Network through meticulous training and assessment of all the technicians that will work on their vehicles.

CSN Penney in Vancouver recently achieved its Tesla-Approved auto bodyshop certification.

Following OEM repair procedures is something that is not new to the staff and technicians at CSN Penney. In addition to its most recently obtained certification with Tesla, CSN Penney has proven their commitment to adhering to manufacturer’s repair guidelines by qualifying for Nissan, INFINITI, FCA, and Kia certification programs.

“We take the repair of our customer vehicles very seriously and so we want to make sure we have the most up to date information on those vehicles,” said King.

Tesla drivers with vehicles that require body repair can bring them to CSN Penney today.

AUGUST 2020 COLLISION REPAIR 71

REGIONAL NEWS | ALBERTA

CLEANING UP CLAIMS

HAILING IN HELP

Following the massive hailstorm in Calgary, more than 20,000 vehicle claims were reported to insurers, says a report by the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC).

To help the community cope with the overwhelming amount of insurance claims IBC has deployed its virtual Community Assistance Mobile Pavilion (CAMP).

IBC offers CAMP to disaster sites that have significant insured damage. Canadians who are suddenly forced to cope with a damaging event can access insurance-related information through the IBC program.

“Following the devastating hailstorm, we want to ensure that consumers know we are here to help,” said Celyeste Power, vice-president, Western, IBC. “Severe weather events like these are not only costly but cause significant turmoil and stress for homeowners.

IBC and insurers are ready to assist residents and businesses that have suffered damage.”

The hailstorm that rocked Calgary and its surrounding areas on June 13 caused nearly $1.2 billion in insured damages, according to Catastrophe Indices and Quantification (CatIQ)—inheriting the momentous ranking of the costliest hailstorm in Canadian history and situating itself as Canada’s fourth most expensive insured natural disaster. In response to the storm, the government of Alberta swept in and provided a Disaster Recovery Program (DRP) for the cities of Calgary and Airdrie, and Rocky View County. ICB also assisted the impacted communities by deploying its virtual Community Assistance Mobile Pavilion (CAMP) to get information and services out to consumers quickly.

However, many community members also stepped up to help those in need. Naeem Hassan, who owns Central Auto Repair Services, teamed up with fundraisers, local businesses, and community members to perform both pro-bono and at-cost glass repairs for those who needed it the most. Following the hailstorm, the cost of windshield glass increased and due to COVID-19 many individuals had uninsured their vehicles, said Hassan. Knowing that many people in his community would be struggling to make ends meet, he wanted to ease the storm-created burden by offering free and reduced-price glass repairs.

“We helped out quite a few people actually,” Hassan told Collision Repair.

By mid-July—about a month after the storm—Hassan and his team had provided a total of 25 free windshields to community members.

Central Auto Repair Services also provided mobile glass repairs, since many of the vehicles were deemed undriveable due to extensive hail damage. Hassan targeted individuals who were in the most need, and attempted to perform the bulk of repairs for people who were out work, single mothers, individuals who had uninsured their vehicle, etc.

“In the end we felt really, really good that we did something good for our people.”

Hassan has been so busy helping others that he has to fix his own windshield that was damaged in the storm.

“Believe it or not, I haven’t found that time to fix my own windshield yet,” said Hassan.

Hail the size of ping-pong balls battered vehicles and homes during a June storm.

Pro

Patent Pending

PartCart

Part #35950

• Flexible part holding cart

• Simple handtwist fasteners for quick & easy reconfiguration • Folds up for out-of-the-way storage • Holds up to 400 lbs.

• Heavy-duty tight-mesh shelves

• 29”x 41”x 29” when configured full height

• Folding mast for two-side usage

72 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT The government has announced it is boosting its infrastructure spending by about $1 billion in order to allow companies to keep their workers employed through the COVID-19 pandemic.

“By doubling our capital maintenance and renewal project funds, we will deliver much-needed improvements to important assets, keep companies operating and most importantly, keep Albertans working.

As the weather improves and buildings are empty, now is the perfect time for us to act,” Premier Jason Kenney said in a release.

The idea is that by adding funding to this particular area, things such as schools, roads, post-secondary institutions, justice facilities and more will be maintained.

The money added will also include $410 million for transportation projects, with $60 million to repair potholes in roads all over Alberta.

The government says that there are 114 projects in the planning and design process and 95 projects where construction is currently underway/ These projects include 27 schools and 9 major bridge and road projects.

SASKATCHEWAN | REGIONAL NEWS

AWARDING APPRENTICES “On behalf of everyone at the SATCC, congratulations to the 2019-20 SYA Industry Scholarship winners! We’re so pleased you’ve decided to pursue careers in the skilled trades. Best wishes to all of you,” Chelsea Coupal, Director of Communications and Marketing, SATCC told Collision Repair.

Simon Wolfe, a high school student from Carlyle, Sask., was one of this year’s SYA Industry scholarship recipients. Wolfe is pursuing a career as an autobody and collision technician, however, due to COVID-19 curveballs, he is unsure as to where he will complete his apprenticeship training. His passion for collision repair was sparked while working at Regal Autobody for work experience in grade 10.

“I wanted to go into autobody because I enjoy working on vehicles. I could think about while working in the bodyshop was, ‘what would be better than making a vehicle look brand new again?’”

Wolfe said he was very excited to receive the scholarship and it made him feel a little more relaxed about entering this next stage of life.

The SYA Industry Scholarships act as an incentive for students to continue pursuing a career in the skilled trades. The scholarships are not automatically awarded up front, students can redeem them by demonstrating that they are actively pursuing a career in the skilled trades within two years of graduation— either by registering as an apprentice and completing Level 1 training or by completing a recognized pre-employment program.

“On behalf of everyone at the SATCC, congratulations to the 2019-20 SYA Industry Scholarship winners! We’re so pleased you’ve decided to pursue careers in the skilled trades. Best wishes to all of you,” Chelsea Coupal, Director of Communications and Marketing, SATCC told Collision Repair.

Simon Wolfe, high school student from Carlyle, Saskatchewan, and one of this year’s SYA Industry scholarship winners.

On June 25, the Saskatchewan Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Commission (SATCC) announced the recipients for the Saskatchewan Youth Apprenticeship (SYA) scholarship program.

The $1,000 redeemable scholarships were awarded to 100 graduating high school students in 72 communities across the province.

“The skilled trades are essential to our province’s economic growth,” said Immigration and Career Training Minister, Jeremy Harrison.

“The Government of Saskatchewan recognizes how important it is to build a diverse skilled trades workforce, one that is responsive to industry’s needs. Congratulations to the scholarship winners. We wish you all the best as you embark on your career paths.”

Congrats!

“The skilled trades are essential to our province’s economic growth,” said Immigration and Career Training Minister, Jeremy Harrison.

AUGUST 2020 COLLISION REPAIR 73

REGIONAL NEWS | MANITOBA

ROAD TEST READY Manitoba Public Insurance has began booking new tests for Class 2 through Class 6 licences after suspending road tests amid the pandemic, The COVID-19 pandemic forced the cancellation of 4,300 road tests for people seeking Class 2 to 6 licences.

Road testing is now extremely backlogged, according to MPI. The most common category, Class 5 license, which allows drivers to drive cars, SUVs, vans and pickup trucks, is expected to be the most requested. MPI will be releasing additional appointment slots until the backlog has cleared.

Participants are asked to book their appointments online, most specifically Class 5 or 6 drivers. For the road tests drivers must bring and wear their own non-medical or medical mask and sanitize all touchpoints of their vehicle.

You will be asked a series of questions upon your arrival to screen for COVID-19.

Tests will be cancelled if drivers can’t prove they have complied with the COVID-19 procedures.

Road tests resume after being postponed due to COVID-19

74 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

ONTARIO | REGIONAL NEWS

ONTARIO ANNOUNCES $2.5 MILLION GRANT The Government of Canada announced a new grant to help apprentices re-secure work amid the pandemic.

The Ontario Tools Grant will provide apprentices with $2.5 million in 2020-21 and $7.5 million in 2021-22. The program will assist apprentices in the purchase of tools, protective equipment, manuals and clothing required for their trades.

The funding amounts for the Grant program will be distributed as follows: $1,000 for those in motive power sector trades; $600 for those in construction and industrial sector trades; $400 for those inservice sector trades.

To be eligible for the new grant, apprentices must meet the following requirements: completed level 1 training on or after April 1, 2020; an active registered training agreement; and been registered as an apprentice for at least 12 months.

The government also announced that they are forgiving more than $10 million in outstanding loans owed by apprentices for tool purchases made at the beginning of their careers.

“Hospitality workers and our skilled tradespeople have been among those hardest hits by this pandemic. These new programs will ensure they’re ready to get back on the job

and play an important role in our economic recovery,” said Doug Ford in an online release.

So far, The Loans for Tools Program has allowed thousands of new apprentices to buy tools, equipment, clothing, manuals and code books required for their trade. About 19,000 apprentices who participated in the program owed, on average, $495.

common ground with a shared passion and a love for their hometown Hamilton.

“The dream was simple – small business should be about creating a space where people can succeed. Empower your team with confidence and self-direction but also be in the trenches with them.”

Being genuinely passionate about cars and creating flagship space in the downtown core

is when they knew that their little corner stone would soon become a neighbourhood hub.

“We started RSK Automotive & Collision 10 years ago with a small 3,500 sq. ft facility and a two-man crew,” says Kalsi.

“We eventually added a second location with six bays and 5,000 sq. ft of space dedicated to mechanical repair. Now, the business has grown with 18,000 sq. ft of repair space, eight technicians, and thousands of cars carefully crafted and repaired.”

ProColor Collision Hamilton Centre comes equipped with a Saima Dual Bay Prep Station, Infrared Curing Arm, Devlibiss Downdraft Spray Booth, and Chief frame, laser measuring, and welding equipment.

The shop utilizes the Sikkens coating system.

Ontario announces $2.5 million grant for apprentices

ONTO ONTARIO The first ProColor location outside of Quebec, is now open in Hamilton, Ontario. ProColor Collision was acquired by Fix Network in September 2019 to expand the brand outside of Quebec Canada. This is the brand’s first venture outside of Quebec.

“By expanding the brand across Canada, we’re offering customers greater choice for their automotive repair needs,” says Steve Leal, President and CEO of Fix Network. “We’re also providing body shop owner operators a chance to grow their business using Fix Network’s proven operational processes and management tools, and access to our talented team of professionals who know the industry inside and out.”

ProColor Collision Hamilton Centre coowners Sim Kalsi and Jasmin Sidhu found

READERS’ CHOICE REPAIRERS The Orangeville Banner is celebrating its annual Readers’ Choice awards, highlighting the top voted businesses serving Dufferin County.

Highlighted in collision repair market were CSN Legget’s Collision, C-Line Auto Collision, Inglewood Garage and CARSTAR Orangeville.

Bodyshops awarded include, C-Line Auto Collision and Inglewood Garage.

Highlighted in the Auto Glass Repair section were Speedy Glass, Toronto Auto Glass Inc., Standard Autoglass and Exclusive Window Tinting.

In the Auto Rustproofing sector, the businesses that were highlighted include, Bad Dog Modifications & Detailing Centre, Krown Rust Control and Brut Automotive.

The Orangeville Banner recently held its annual Readers’ Choice awards, highlighting the top voted businesses serving Dufferin County.

AUGUST 2020 COLLISION REPAIR 75

REGIONAL NEWS | ONTARIO

DEALERSHIP DATA

A recent study on foot traffic between 750 different Ontario dealerships confirms a substantial increase in the amount of customers visiting dealerships in May and June.

TRADER Corporation, a digital automotive solutions provider has teamed up with EQ Works to commission a survey examining foot traffic among 750 different Ontario dealerships.

The findings of the study confirm a substantial increase in foot traffic between May and June 2020.

Walk-in data collected during the study revealed a 56 percent surge in unique visitors and an 81 percent increase in total dealership visits in June. The tracked Ontario dealerships also experienced a 46 percent increase in

one-time visits, while repeat visits grew by 85 percent. This influx of consumer shopping demand is reinforced by a record-breaking month of traffic to the autoTRADER.ca marketplace, which reached a milestone of 22 million visits, after a previous record high in May. “Following a few challenging months surrounding the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, we are observing promising consumer behaviour data,” says Ian MacDonald, chief marketing officer, TRADER Corporation.“Recent record-setting traffic on

autoTRADER.ca coupled with a significant increase in dealership footfall affirms the auto industry’s current movement towards recovery.”

The study also found that both independent and franchise dealerships are benefiting from a sizable lift in consumer engagement.

When examining footfall comparatively, the study recorded a 36 percent increase in visits to independent dealerships, while franchise dealerships experienced a staggering 154 percent increase in foot traffic.

industries with new & innovative products.

Wilson Air Tools & Equipment Ltd. will distribute exclusively the full range of Roberlo products including Sagola - a spray gun manufacturer and Blucrom - an automotive water-based paint. Roberlo, proud member of the Briolf group, is a family-run company specialized in the development, manufacture

and sale of coatings and other repair solutions for the refinish aftermarket and for industrial applications. This agreement will help Roberlo continue its development strategy across Canada.

For more information, please contact: Wilson Air Tools & Equipment Ltd. 905-847-6663 or sales@wilsonairtools.com

PURIFYING PARTNERSHIP

Roberlo is proud to announce an exclusive partnership agreement with Wilson Air Tools & Equipment Ltd. for the Province of Ontario.

Wilson Air Tools & Equipment Ltd. is a Canadian owned and operated independent Warehouse Distributor servicing the automotive, industrial and woodworking

76 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

REGIONAL NEWS | QUEBEC

BRAND NEW TO BERTHIERVILLE “Martin Bellemare understands the importance of building a great team.”

CARSTAR, a franchise network of independently owned and operated collision repair facilities is proud to announce the opening of CARSTAR Berthierville, located in Berthierville, Quebec.

This is the second CARSTAR facility for owners Martin Bellemare and Patrick Longpré, who joined the CARSTAR franchise family in 2013 with the opening of CARSTAR Joliette.

Having been in the collision repair industry for over 26 years, Martin Bellemare understands the importance of building a great team.

“We have a team of nine at the Berthierville

Martin Bellemare and Patrick Longpre, owners of the new CARSTAR Berthierville

location and we all prioritize both the repair quality along with the customer experience,” says Martin Bellemar, owner, CARSTAR Berthierville. “This is why we first joined CARSTAR, because not only did we have the same values, but it felt like an extension of our already amazing team.”

Having been a part of the CARSTAR

network for seven years, Yves Robichaud, zone director of CARSTAR says he knows the caliber of service Bellemare and his team can produce.

“We are all thrilled to see him continue to succeed at this newest location and I know Berthierville will welcome this incredible team.”

AUGUST 2020 COLLISION REPAIR 77

REGIONAL NEWS | QUEBEC

CORONER COMPLAINTS

The question of why the Transport Department failed to maintain a stretch of highway northeast of Montreal has arisen after a 2019 incident where a man died after hitting a seven-metre-long pothole with his vehicle.

32-year-old Ihor Horbanvo died March 11, 2019 after his car hit a “giant” pothole near Contrecoeur, Quebec.

Horbanov hit the hole which was filled with water after moving lanes to avoid a Transport Department vehicle that has stopped to help another car which had previously hit the same hole. At the time of the crash, the pothole was 1.6 metres wide and nearly seven metres long. The hole was filled with roughly nine centimeters of water.

The cause of death was described as “multiple cranial and thoracic trauma following a loss of control of his vehicle after a passage through a giant pothole on Autoroute 30 West.”

A Quebec coroner has some questions for Transport Canada following the 2019 incident where a man died after hitting seven-metre-long pothole in Montreal.

The road had been known to be troublesome, crews had done a major repair job in the area just March 8, however there was no follow up on the repair until after the accident.

After the accident crews had to use 9.7 tonnes of material to fix the hole.

There have been no reports of incidents in the area for three days prior to the crash and it was noted that potholes can form quickly.

Since the incident the department has taken steps to repair the highway and to review the way potholes are identified and fixed.

We want your input APPLY FOR COLLISION REPAIR’S EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD!

APPLY TODAY!

collisionrepairmag.com/advisory-board 78 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

ATLANTIC | REGIONAL NEWS

EV INVESTMENTS On July 10, The Government of Canada announced a $770,000 investment to help Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro build 28 electric vehicle (EV) chargers across the province—to support Canada’s transition to a future of clean energy.

“Zero-emissions vehicles are part of Canada’s net-zero future. Our government is working to give people in our province greener options to get where they need to go,” said Seamus O’Regan, Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources.

The federal funding, which builds on the $1,289,400 the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is investing in the project, is provided through the Electric Vehicle and Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Deployment Initiative (EVAFIDI) and the Zero-Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program.

It will help Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro to build an EV network along the Trans-Canada Highway, connecting the

The Government of Canada recently announced a $770,000 investment to help build 28 electric vehicle chargers

province’s capital, St. John’s, to Port aux Basques. Fourteen sites will feature both a fast charger and a Level 2 charger.

“Hydro is focused on meeting customer needs today, while also planning ahead for future electricity needs in Newfoundland and Labrador. As the electric vehicle market continues to expand, we have listened to customers, and we’re excited to advance this initiative now, supporting a greener

future for our province and providing clean, renewable, road-trip–ready energy for years to come,” said Jennifer Williams, president of Newfoundland Labrador Hydro.

Construction of the first site is scheduled to start this summer. These chargers represent an important milestone, as Newfoundland and Labrador become the tenth and final province to join the national EV network that stretches across Canada.

In partnering with the Automotive Recyclers of Canada, Canadian Auto Recyclers magazine has showcased the most modern and progressive auto recycling facilities from across the country since 2006. Steeped in forward thinking practices and environmentally conscious programs, the publication offers a comprehensive look at the recycling industry and how it’s positively reshaping its image.

SUBSCRIBE TO CANADIAN AUTO RECYCLERS https://canadianrecycler.ca

AUGUST 2020 COLLISION REPAIR 79

PRODUCTS

EASING ESTIMATION Photo-based solutions are here to stay

Insurers say photo-estimation will be a survival staple —but is your facility ready to make the switch?

A

s restrictions are lifted and Canadians get back to their adjusted everyday lives, the industry is preparing to shift into its ‘new normal.’ Insurers say photo-estimation will be a survival staple—but is your facility ready to make the switch?

While the technology may not be 100 percent

perfect, it offers a safe alternative for completing estimates amid social distancing protocols.

Insurers have even said they are more likely to work with facilities implementing the service.

Moreover, it’s being touted as a way to accelerate claims as a fully digital claims environment

80 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

comes to fruition, and some facilities believe post-pandemic photo estimation could help open doors for further business opportunities, such as 24-hour vehicle drop-off and delivery.

Check out some of the solutions that could help speed cycles along in your facility on the following pages.

PRODUCTS

PROGI PHOTO

TRACTABLE PHOTO ESTIMATION

ProgiSync, an online appointment planning program now allows access to ProgiPhoto. ProgiPhoto allows repair shops to receive photo assignments from participating insurance agencies and allows them to request photos from clients so estimates can be completed remotely. Being able to get an estimate online allows for proper social distancing as well as a consistent workflow for shops. Progi is well known for developing digital solution for insurers, body shops as well as parts sales markets.

Tractable’s photo estimation tool is powered by AI technology and designed create a repair estimate within minutes. The company’s platform can handle almost every vehicle year, make, model and can process a wide range of photo quality levels, says Tractable.

The program is cloud-based and therefore integration and implementation are not time or resource intensive. Interested shops and insurers can get in contact with Tractable at tractable. ai/contact.

progi.com

MITCHELL INTELLIGENT ESTIMATING Mitchell International says this data and cloud-based estimating system has the power to turn damaged vehicle images into component-level estimating lines. Images can be submitted to the program via carrier mobile apps or repair facility photo capturing tools. Vehicle images are submitted to the program and then Mitchell Intelligent Damage Analysis uses computer vision to identify damages and needed repairs. After estimate lines are created, they are converted to BMS files, enabling a fast and convenient estimate that allows the repair process to be initiated faster, according to Mitchell.

mitchell.com

tractable.ai

E-SHEETS E-Sheets is a new automotive virtual appraisal company that can employ a remote-workflow with a focus on bodyshop efficiency.

While they currently handle some regional insurance claims their focus is as a remote-appraiser for best-in-class collision repair facilities. E-Sheets creates the appraisals inside your estimating systems under a separate ID that you assign. Your team then sends the picture-sets through CosmosSync. Based in Ottawa, E-Sheets is led by Steve Wade with 40+ years of insurance and collision experience and supported operationally and corporately

by Doug Best and Bing Wong from Canadian Hail Repair. esheets.ca

AUGUST 2020 COLLISION REPAIR 81

PRODUCTS

AIDER À ÉLIMINER LE STRESS DE LA RÉPARATION DES COLLISIONS HELPING TO TAKE THE STRESS OUT OF COLLISION REPAIR SOLERA Solera’s automotive claims workflow solution is powered by artificial intelligence and is said to have the ability to detect damaged parts, determine the type and severity of damage, define vehicle manufacturer repair operations and create an estimate based on these repair operations. The product’s AI is a combination of repairer science technology, 300 million claims, one billion historical images and 50 years of experience, says Solera, and this data feeds enhanced machine learning algorithms to drive efficiency and increase accuracy.

solera.com

La source de nouvelles, d’analyses et d’informations sur la carrosserie la plus populaire au Québec The source of news, analysis and information about Quebec’s most popular bodywork

Suivez Collision Québec.

Visitez ou abonnez-vous à collisionquebec.com dès aujourd’hui!

Follow Collision Quebec.

Visit or subscribe to collisionquebec.com today!

IBISConnect Africa Thursday 23 July

IBISConnect

IBISConnect simulcasts: the immersive, virtual event experience To register free of charge and explore sponsorship opportunities, email suzie@ibisworldwide.com

82 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

IBISConnect South America Thursday 10 September IBISConnect Turkey Wednesday 7 October IBIS – the global platform for thought leadership, knowledge sharing, business development and peer-to-peer networking for the leaders of the collision repair industry.

HEAVY-DUTY DEGREASER AND DISINFECTANT

PRODUCTS

Rexall Laboratories’ new disinfectant is on Canada’s list of approved disinfectants

I

n response to the current pandemic, Rexall Laboratories and Chemicals identified the need for a new and innovative product that is proudly made in Canada for Canadians to help in the fight against COVID-19.

Rexall’s Purexall 10 is a new and unique environmentally friendly, biodegradable cleaner/degreaser and disinfectant. The Purexall 10 formulations have been validated by independent testing laboratories and have been proven to be effective against SARS-CoV-2—the virus that causes COVID-19 and can be found on the Canadian list of approved disinfectants, says Rexall.

Purexall 10 is a heavy-duty cleaner, degreaser and disinfectant that tackles the toughest stains, grease, and bacteria where all others fail. Rexall says Purexall 10 is capable of delivering professional strength performance trusted by, automotive, marine, healthcare, meat production, cannabis, janitorial, and hospitality industries and is even suitable for household use.

It is Ready-to-Use, water soluble, biodegradable, non-flammable, non-toxic, bleach-free and Alcohol-free that is suitable for all surfaces. Purexall 10 is available in 4 sizes: 946 ml Spray, 1 Gal, 5 Gal and 55 Gal with a few days of lead time and no back order.

The Purexall 10 formulations have been validated by independent testing laboratories and have been proven to be effective against SARS-CoV-2—the virus that causes COVID-19 and can be found on the Canadian list of approved disinfectants, says Rexall.

AUGUST 2020 COLLISION REPAIR 83

TOWING NEWS

Brought to you by

TOWING NEWS ONTARIO’S TASK FORCE

Ontario Premier Doug Ford has announced a new provincial task force to oversee the industry after numerous incidents of turf wars and recent charges in the sector.

The new task force will work alongside local police departments, the towing industry and municipal partners to develop a regulatory oversight model that is said to increase safety and enforcement, clarify protections for consumers, improve industry standards and consider tougher penalties for violators.

“To all the bad actors out there, my message is very clear—the party’s over,” said Ford.

“We’re going to keep working with our police partners to bring these criminals to justice.

Setting up this task force will help us bring together experts to develop ways to better protect drivers, operators and inspectors.”

Ford made the announcement on Monday at a news conference alongside Ontario Transportation Minister Caroline Mulroney.

He cited the recent Project Platinum investigation by York Regional Police, in which more than 200 charges were laid, including several against a veteran officer

Doug Ford announces a new task force to oversee incidents in the industry

accused of stealing encrypted police radios and helping put them in the hands of tow truck operators.

Drivers would then rely on dispatch information to arrive first at accident scenes and secure “lucrative” towing jobs, according to York Regional Police.

In reviewing the mandate of the new task force, Ontario Transportation Minister Caroline Mulroney said practice would be

among the many issues flagged for review.

“This is an element that contributes to the violence,” she said. “It’s certainly something that we will be looking at as part of the task force’s work.”

According to Mulroney, the task force will provide its recommendations by the end of July, which will then be shared with sector members and municipalities for input before any government action gets underway.

URGING ACTION IN ALBERTA

AMA asks Alberta to step up to protect tow truck drivers and other emergency crews

The Alberta Motor Association (AMA) has said the lack of action regarding roadside safety in Alberta is putting lives at risk.

The AMA has been lobbying the provincial government for a long time to make changes

regarding safety for emergency crews such as police officers, paramedics, firefighters and tow truck drivers.

Alberta is the only province where the ‘slow down, move over’ law applies only to

84 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

the immediate lane of travel. This means people are legally driving at speeds of up to 110 km/h, next to people travelling at dramatically slower speeds.

The AMA is also calling for the province to equip tow trucks with flashing blue and amber lights—as they do a better job of getting people’s attention.

Tow truck businesses say that drivers don’t tend to slow down unless police are on scene, leaving many tow drivers at risk of being hit and killed.

The Albertan government has given no indication as to when, or if the province will make changes to the law. Instead, government officials are simply saying they will look into ways to improve safety.

TOWING NEWS

Brought to you by

TOWING NEWS ALL IN DAY’S WORK At 11 a.m. on July 13, a man became violent over his car being towed, and the incident landed him in handcuffs.

A video of the altercation between the man and a tow truck operator was posted on social media. The video showed an unidentifiable man walking up to a Drake Towing employee in a parking lot before attempting to break the window with a hammer. A second man also walked up to the truck and began taking a picture of the driver.

The man’s car was in the process of being towed when the attack occurred. No one was injured.

The man was arrested, and police are recommending charges of assault with a weapon, uttering threats, mischief and possession of a dangerous weapon.

Man, whose car was towed, attacks tow truck driver in the process of recovering the vehicle

TOWING THE INDUSTRY FORWARD! Dedicated to celebrating the heroes, industry best practices and novel strategies being pursued by members of Canada’s towing sector.

Join the Canadian Towing Professional network at towpromag.com.

FOLLOW US

AUGUST 2020 COLLISION REPAIR 85

RECYCLING

PLUGGED IN ARC to publish whitepaper on EV recycling

BY ALLISON ROGERS

“We’re looking at both reusing and repurposing efforts—which one is better, per say, which one will be safer from a recycling perspective. The goal is to give the industry access to a tool that can guide the industry toward best practices.”

—Brenda Yu, ARC 86 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

RECYCLING

B

renda Yu, a research intern for the Automotive Recyclers of Canada (ARC) has spent her summer gathering crucial information for Canada’s auto recycling industry.

The whitepaper—to be published in the Fall of 2020—will focus on the areas of electric vehicle battery recycling and the variety of reuse opportunities in the industry.

According to the ARC, the goal of the whitepaper is to provide best practices and tips for the removal and recycling of EV batteries when they reach the end-of-life stage.

“There aren’t really any policies or processes in place for recyclers if an EV ends up in their facility. There are a lot of questions regarding how we can reuse batteries and how they can be safely disassemble the vehicles.” Yu told Collision Repair. “Our goal with the whitepaper is to figure out a way to perhaps combine the processes by OEMs, policymakers and everyone else that is—or should be—involved in the process and figure out the safest way to solve these challenges.”

Though the issue is widespread, Yu said she has recognized a lack of connection in the industry. While many are aiming to develop more streamlined guides for EV batteries, Yu says few appear to be working together to achieve their respective goals.

“A lot of companies are still stuck in their respective bubbles,” said Yu. “Some will develop this big and beautiful ideas, but they’d only be achievable in a world without policies or safety standards. They’re great ideas, but there are often logistical issues.”

As for the upcoming whitepaper, Yu says key takeaways will be twofold.

“We’re looking at both reusing and repurposing efforts—which one is better, per say, which one will be safer from a recycling perspective. The goal is to give the industry access to a tool that can guide the industry toward best practices.

In the end, we may not find a solid solution for the entire industry to follow—but we will definitely have developed suggestions and a framework for the sector to continue working on the challenges.”

For more information on ARC, visit autorecyclers.ca

Brenda Yu, a fourth year student at Western University’s Ivey Business School has spent her summer gathering research for an upcoming ARC whitepaper.

AUGUST 2020 COLLISION REPAIR 87

RECYCLING NEWS

RECYCLING NEWS

Brought to you by

PROJECT GARFIELD Hamilton Police have laid 68 charges connected to the recent theft of catalytic converters. In response to recent catalytic converter thefts, Hamilton Police launched ‘Project Garfield,’ aimed at identifying and arresting suspects involved in the theft of catalytic converters. It also served to identify the business and residents that have been affected by the crimes. In the last two weeks police have made 27 arrests, laid 68 criminal charges and issued 45 provincial offence notices tied to thefts of converters.

WRITE-OFF REPORT

According to a report by Mitchell Power detailing COVID-19’s impact on the auto industry, new total loss trends have emerged in the auto recycling industry. The report says there has been declines in average sale prices at wholesale auctions across the U.S. and Canada,

which may also mean insurers are seeing less of a return on salvage vehicles when it is deemed as a total loss. In addition to the reduction in demand from the industry’s retail and rebuilding segments, auction prices are also being driven by the drop-in commodity prices. The pandemic has caused the global manufacturing industry to pause, reducing the short-term demand for raw materials, including scrap steel and aluminum. The report also found that the average price of scrap steel has dropped by almost 20 percent since the beginning of the year, and Mitchell Power says they do not know yet whether additional declines are in store.

MEETING METAL THEFTS The Albertan government has introduced a new measure aimed at tackling metal thefts, particularly in the automotive industry. On June 18, Bill 25: Protecting Alberta Industry From Theft Act, 2020, was introduced to establish new measures that will make it more difficult for criminals to sell stolen metal for scrap. “Our government has heard loud and clear from Albertans who have been victimized by property theft for far too long. We are taking action to protect them by making it more difficult for criminals to monetize the goods and materials they steal. This will send a strong message that taking advantage of vulnerable Albertans and their businesses will not be tolerated. We want Albertans to know we are going to do everything we can as a provincial government to help them feel safe,” said Doug Schweitzer, Minister of Justice and Solicitor General in an online release. If passed, the bill will require scrap metal dealers to report all transactions i nv o l v i n g c om m on l y s t o l e n metals and items such as catalytic converters to law enforcement. To give stakeholders time to adjust

88 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

and comply, the new provisions would be implemented in two stages: On Sept. 1, new provisions would include a requirement for sellers to provide government-issued photo ID. Dealers would be required to record and retain the seller’s ID information, as well as details of the transaction. On Nov. 1, additional provisions would include requirements for dealers to report transactions to law enforcement and for all payments to be made using traceable forms of currency, such as electronic transfers or cheques. The proposed legislation also includes increased fines for both individuals and corporations.

MEET THE PROS OF THE CANADIAN AUTOMOTIVE RECYCLING INDUSTRY The source for forward thinking practices and environmentally conscious programs, this fully bilingual magazine offers a comprehensive look at the recycling industry with up to 100 pages of content as well as exclusive articles on parts, the environment, association updates, the mechanical sector, a directory and much, much more.

Follow Canadian Auto Recyclers

Visit or subscribe to canadianrecycler.ca today!

LAST WORD

ADVERTISER INDEX COMPANY

PAGE

BRING IT ON There’s beauty in a brand-new world

Arslan Automotive ..................... 9

BY ALLISON ROGERS

Autel US................................16,17 Canadian Hail Repair................ 62 Car-0-Liner Automotive............ 24 Car-Part.com............................ 91 Carcone’s Auto Recycling........ 79 Cardinal Couriers Ltd............... 10 CARSTAR Canada.................... 27 Color Compass Corp............... 77 CSN Collision Centres.............. 29

W

e’ve been shaken, stirred and put through the wringer—but proof of a brand-new future now lies before the Canadian collision repair scene.

These last six months have been a true test of resilience—something this industry boasts in droves. The various measures put forth by the industry have positioned collision repair for a successful future, but there will certainly be adjustments in the new normal.

What will this fresh reality look like once the dust has settled? Will the industry witness

Chat series. Webinars have stormed the web, making access to information as simple as ever. All corners of the industry are hoping for improved relations. Change is nigh, and this is just the beginning.

The pandemic is not over yet; we could still see more predictions erupt from the wings. This year has put the sector—and the world—in a state of flux.

Fortunately, to this industry, nothing is a challenge. These are merely new hurdles, and the sector is ready to jump. If you’ve made it

Fix Auto Canada Inc................. 19

If you’ve made it this far, you’re a champion.

No matter your size, you can thrive.

IBIS............................................ 43 Impact Auto Auctions............... 11 Nitroheat................................... 74 Opus........................................... 4 PPG Canada............................... 7 ProSpot International Inc......... 49 SATA Canada............................ 23 Sherwin-Williams...................... 35 Sia Abrasifs J.J.S Inc............... 53 Simplicity Car Care................... 21 Sirius XM Canada..................... 82 Spanesi Americas Inc.............. 92 Steck Manufacturing................ 72 Thorold Auto Parts................... 71 Titanium Tools & Equipment.... 40 WDCO-Auto............................. 2,3 Wurth Canada........................... 20

further consolidation? Will we see postpandemic improvements to virtual claims services, or will the process return to the benches? Will the rumours of heightened communication and better industry relations really come to fruition? Will the Earth’s population migrate to Mars?

Most feel plagued by negativity at the thought of the pandemic. However, the last few months have provoked impressive changes in the sector. While hardworking, behind-the-scenes bodyshop employees have taken time to study up on their skills, industry leaders have been negotiating at the industry’s forefront.

Take, for instance, the newly-formed CAR Coalition’s calls for consumer choice, or Fix Auto World president Steve Leal’s suggestion that Ontario may be getting closer to mandatory shop certifications, according to a recent episode of AIA Canada’s Curbside

90 COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

this far, you’re a champion. No matter your size, you can thrive.

Your business is rooted in restoration.

Coronavirus has caused an earth-shattering collision, but if the sector can buckle up and head down the road to recovery, it will conquer the new normal with grace.

Armed with passion—a natural toolkit— this sector can rise from the metaphorical ashes and thrive as it eases into recovery mode.

The new normal is coming, and you’re going to make it beautiful.

Allison Rogers is the editor of Collision Repair.

She can be reached at 905-370-0101 or allison@mediamatters.ca.

Small footprint. Powerful. Universal.

Multibench Repair Station

Lifting Height 4’ 9” Lifting Time 45 Seconds

Lifting Capacity 7,000lbs Spanesi Americas, Inc. 123 Ambassador Dr. STE 107 Naperville, IL 60540

Low-profile ramps 1.5” www.spanesi-americas.com facebook.com/spanesiamericas 2 2 4 - S PA N E S I (224-772-6374)