Collision Repair 23#1

EXCLUSIVE INSIGHTS FROM THE CCCR’S IN-PERSON MEETING >>

Volume 23, Number 1, 2024

REPAIRERS, RANKED! Romans Group lists top collision industry players

REACHING FOR THE TOP Robbie Shreenan built his thriving business from a backyard blueprint

PLUS: BUDDS’ COLLISION ANNUAL PIG ROAST—THIS YEAR’S SCRAPBOOK INTERVIEWS WITH AIR QUALITY PIONEERS | A CASE FOR GREEN RECYCLED PARTS www.collisionrepairmag.com Canada Post Canadian Publications Mail Sales Product Agreement No. 40841632 l $7.99 CAD l 86 John Street, Thornhill, ON L3T 1Y2

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CONTENTS

CONTENTS

VOLUME 23, ISSUE 1, 2024

16 ON THE COVER Robbie Shreenan first began his foray into the collision repair industry out of his own backyard. Now, the owner and founder of Topcoat Automotive, Robbie embraces all of the opportunities and challenges of growing a business by embracing a dedicated outlook and always looking toward the future.

EXCLUSIVE INSIGHTS FROM THE CCCR’S IN-PERSON MEETING >>

Volume 23, Number 1, 2024

REPAIRERS, RANKED! Romans Group lists top collision industry players

REACHING FOR THE TOP Robbie Shreenan built his thriving business from a backyard blueprint

PLUS: BUDDS’ COLLISION ANNUAL PIG ROAST—THIS YEAR’S SCRAPBOOK INTERVIEWS WITH AIR QUALITY PIONEERS | A CASE FOR GREEN RECYCLED PARTS www.collisionrepairmag.com Canada Post Canadian Publications Mail Sales Product Agreement No. 40841632 l $7.99 CAD l 86 John Street, Thornhill, ON L3T 1Y2

FEATURES TOGETHER 30 REVVING With four generations working in the automotive repair industry, it can be tough to know how to get along; Christie Hall of CARSTAR Canada has some advice.

SUSTAINABILITY 36 DRIVING Do green recycled parts benefit collision repairers? The Ontario Automotive Recyclers Association (OARA) analyzes details in this exclusive report.

DEPARTMENTS ON THE MOVE 06 PEOPLE Familiar faces, new roles!

20 AN ANNUAL AFFAIR

08 NEWS-IN-BRIEF Bite-sized updates from across the industry NEWS 57 REGIONAL Local news from coast to coast

Inside the 2023 annual Budds’ Collision Pig Roast, in support of the Sam Piercey Foundation.

COLUMNS PAGE 04 PUBLISHER’S

By Darryl Simmons EXPERTISE 44 ELECTRIC

By Suifullah Sanaye

28 INNOVATOR INTERVIEW At the heart of any good automotive shop is an even better air filtration system, that’s why Mike Rushton invented the ACS Workflow 5000.

DRIVING 46 WHO’S

By Jay Perry GET TECHNICAL 48 LET’S

By Stefano Liessi TAKES 50 TOM’S

By Tom Bissonette AVENUE 52 ELECTRIC

By Joseph Chung WORD 66 LAST

By Allison Rogers

32 WRECKONOMICS

The 17th annual whitepaper, A 2022 Profile of the Evolving U.S. and Canadian Collision Repair Marketplace, by the Romans Group LLC, is now available. Check out page 34 for all the details.

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

ISSUE 23#1 | COLLISION REPAIR

3

PUBLISHER’S PAGE

IT STARTS WITH YOU

First-ever Canadian Council of Collision Repairers meeting sets the foundation for collaborative industry change

By DARRYL SIMMONS

I

n early January, I had the privilege of attending the historic first in-person meeting of the Canadian Council of Collision Repairers (CCCR) at Pfaff Autoworks in Markham, Ontario. If you’ve yet to hear about it, trust me when I tell you that this gathering was a true testament to the dedication and passion of the hardworking shop owners, managers and collision staff across the nation. As a longtime member of the industry and advocate for their needs,

challenges require collective solutions and that together, we can achieve remarkable things.

You don’t have to take my word alone. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with several guests affirming that the association is, “definitely headed in the right direction.”

Attendees expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions and exchange insights with industry peers. They highlighted the value of the diverse perspectives

REPRESENTING OVER 100 UNIQUE LOCATIONS ACROSS CANADA, MEETING ATTENDEES EMBODIED THE SPIRIT OF COLLABORATION AND INNOVATION THAT THE CCCR STANDS FOR. I found this meeting—the first ever time the association has gathered—to be truly inspiring.

The meeting brought together over 50 shop owners and managers, along with several key representatives from original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). Discussions revolved around crucial industry topics and aimed to chart a roadmap for advancing the collision repair industry as a whole.

What made this meeting truly remarkable was the diversity of participants and their broad representation. Representing over 100 unique locations across Canada, the attendees embodied the spirit of collaboration and innovation that the CCCR stands for. As I looked around the room, I saw industry veterans who had dedicated their lives to their craft, alongside young entrepreneurs brimming with fresh ideas and enthusiasm. I witnessed the coming together of bannered shops, dealer groups, independent businesses; all with a shared commitment to driving positive change.

The genuine camaraderie and mutual respect among the attendees was a reminder that common

4

represented in the room and the collaborative atmosphere that fostered open dialogue. And this is just the beginning.

What became abundantly clear from this gathering can be summed up in three themes: common challenges, common goals and common solutions. We have the capacity. We have the drive. It’s simply a matter of figuring out what needs to be done and doing it. This meeting served as a catalyst; allaying and, hopefully, eliminating any outside fears of shops “running renegade,” destroying any semblance of the collision repair industry we know today.

Shops meeting and speaking will hopefully soon become the rule as opposed to the exception.

This is a harbinger of a new world order.

COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

PUBLISHER Darryl Simmons publisher@collisionrepairmag.com ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Orest Tkaczuk | orest@mediamatters.ca EDITOR Allison Rogers | allison@mediamatters.ca ART DIRECTOR Yvonne Maschke | yvonne@mediamatters.ca ASSISTANT EDITOR Sarah Perkins | sarah@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 MARKETING COORDINATOR William Simmons | william@mediamatters.ca CONTRIBUTORS Tom Bissonnette, Joseph Chung, Stefano Liessi, Jay Perry, Saifullah Sanaye SUBSCRIPTION Single edition $7.99 One-year $39.95 ( 6 issues) 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.

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NEWS

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE REBECCA FYFE, CERTIFIED COLLISION GROUP Certified Collision Group (CCG) announced its foray into the Canadian market this past December, also revealing its Vice-President of Sales, Canada as Rebecca Fyfe, a 15-year veteran in the Canadian collision repair industry region. On Fyfe’s appointment, Chris Chase, COO of CCG said, “Our affiliates in Canada deserve only the best, Rebecca’s passion for the Canadian Collision space is incredible. We are overjoyed to have her energy in Canada helping our independent business owners thrive in our evolving industry.”

PHIL JENNINGS, UNIPARTS O.E.M. Uniparts O.E.M. announced that Phil Jennings has been promoted to the role of general sales manager for Western Canada. Jennings originally joined Uniparts in 2017 as a territory manager for the Calgary, Alberta region. He then advanced to the role of regional manager for the province. Commenting on Jennings’ new role, Mike Kaplaniak, president of Uniparts, said, “Phil has always extended his time to the industry, attending charity events, industry functions and serving on the CCIF Steering Committee.

He has proven his ability to be a leader and will now drive the Uniparts team in Western Canada.”

SHAWN BROADFIELD, CRASHBAY Shawn Broadfield has joined CrashBay in the role of board advisor. He brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously served as a financial lead for Allstate Insurance for more than two decades.

Broadfield’s extensive background also includes work as an innovation leader in digitizing claims for Allstate U.S., where he played a pivotal role in swapping out an existing claims software platform to institue an online self-service program. He has also served as a startup mentor, board member of the Global Insurance Accelerator of Des Moines, Iowa, U.S., and coach/strategy consultant.

RAJ KAVIA, OECONNECTION/CERTIFIED COLLISION CARE Longtime industry member Raj Kavia has joined OEConnection as the Canadian Manager, OEC CRN/ Certified Collision Care. Kavia is the former owner of Kavia Auto Body in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, which he owned from May 1992 to February 2019. “I am grateful for the incredible experiences and learning opportunities during my career, and I’m eager to bring my skills and passion to contribute to the amazing team at OEConnect/Certified Repair Network/Certified Collision Care,” wrote Kavia alongside his announcement.

6

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INDUSTRY NEWS

REV UP YOUR COLLISION REPAIR SKILLS

CALGARY—CLASS IS IN SESSION Fix Network Canada has opened its third training centre in Calgary, Alberta. The Calgary facility includes industry-leading equipment like a Car-O-Liner frame machine, Hunter wheel alignment systems, GFS spray booths, ADAS equipment and more. With two classrooms, welding facilities, and a focus on maintaining a clean, high-tech environment, the training centre is designed to provide a comprehensive learning experience. Fix Network Canada will offer courses in nearly every segment of automotive repair at the new facility including estimating, repair planning, parts procurement, ADAS training, plastic welding, adhesive repair and 3D measuring.

Subscribe to the leading magazines in the industry today!

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canadianrecycler.ca

collisionquebec.com

buyersguide.collisionrepairmag.com

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Inside the Calgary Training Centre—which is open to everyone, not just Fix Auto network members. Fix Network Canada originally launched its first training centre in Milton, Ontario in 2019, and then added another 6,000-square-foot centre in Blainville, Quebec in 2020.

INDUSTRY NEWS

UNDERSTANDING SOLERA BLEND UPDATES In late November, Audatex/Solera reported that changes to its blend refinish threshold had been fully implemented. The company has since offered further insight into the changes made to its Database Reference Manual (DBRM) Blend update. While the previous version of Audatex/Solera’s blend refinish service automatically calculated blend refinish at 50 percent of Audatex refinish labour, Audatex/Solera has continued to expand. Under page 140, section 4-4 Refinish Guidelines Regarding Blending, Audatex will now allow repairers to specify the blend refinish percentage to be used when calculating blend refinish labour at the profile level. Audatex/Solera notes that by using the updated service, repairers can enter a value between 50 percent and 150 percent. This value is used to determine the blend refinish labour by multiplying it against the full panel refinish time.

Features during this month also included the ability to quickly copy OEM part numbers, license plate number field searches, and user setting updates including the ability to use special characters, email validation and a start page all in user settings.

Furthermore, when generating an estimate, the blend refinish will be calculated using the value specified at the profile level. If no value is specified, a default value of 50 percent blend refinish will be used. As before recent updates, an estimator can manually override the blend refinish percentage specified at the profile level and it will be denoted with an asterisk on the estimate.

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

PENNY PINCHING A new survey commissioned by the RAC indicates that 26 percent of drivers aged 17 to 24 have put off necessary repairs NEW to save money. The survey, which polled 2,538 U.K. drivers NOW INCLUDES and was carried out by the research company Online 95 for the WHEEL ALIGNMENT RAC, found that 28 percent of drivers aged 17 to 24 are also not ® DIAGNOSTICS having their vehicles serviced as frequently as needed.

Across all ACCUVISION-3D SOFTWARE IS RECOGNIZED BY age groups polled. 38 percent of drivers said they have reduced spending on their cars, whether that be switchingCERTIFICATION to cheaper PROGRAMS - CCIAP insurance, servicing their vehicle less often, or putting off repairs.

However, for young drivers, this figure increases to 64 percent ACCUVISION-3D® Honda with 6 percent of respondents aged 17 to 24 even admitting- to IS RECOGNIZED BY CERTIFICATION PROGRAMS illegally putting off annual mandatory safety checks.

“ICBC” Recognized

- Certified Collision Care - CCIAP - Honda - ICBC Made in Canada

RAC spokesman Rod Dennis said the findings suggest that the cost-of-living crisis is causing drivers to cut back on car repairs, which will almost certainly lead to an overall reduction in the roadworthiness of vehicles using the roads. “The sheer extent to which younger drivers are being affected by rising prices is also a major cause for concern.”

Contact your distributor or Call (800) 465-8575 arslanauto.com accuvision-3D.com ISSUE 23#1 | COLLISION REPAIR

9

BUSINESS NEWS

COLOR COMPASS’ CONTRIBUTION

AN AIR-TIGHT AGREEMENT

ProSpot International has honoured Color Compass as its 2023 Canada Distributor of the Year. ProSpot noted Color Compass received this award as a result of aiding in refocused efforts in bringing equipment solutions to customers. A focus on mobile weld stations, rivet and bonding stations, along with an emphasis on service and training has shown positive results, ProSpot said in a recent press release.

Airpro Diagnostics is now a Ford-authorized calibration service provider within the Ford Certified Collision Network (FCCN) and Ford Certified Glass Network (FCGN). To become part of Ford’s FCCN and FCGN, Airpro’s Ford brand specialists were sent to I-CAR’s training centre in Chicago to meet hands-on training requirements. Ford has lists of approved third-party providers on its Integral Platform FCCN and FCGN portals, which are updated as providers meet certification requirements, according to the automaker. Collision repairers simply must verify they are part of the FCCN and or FCGN to use AirPro’s services on Ford vehicles. The primary benefits for repairers of this verification will be speed, access to brand specialists, and controlled costs, said Josh McFarlin, AirPro president and COO. This new agreement follows the conclusion of a two-year license agreement (EULA) lawsuit filed against Airpro by Ford.

NEW IN NOVA SCOTIA Simplicity Car Care has announced its expansion to Nova Scotia, marking the seventh province the network offers its services. In the announcement post, Simplicity Car Care wrote that they are “very excited to announce that we’ve opened our first location in Nova Scotia! Our team is ready to help Nova Scotians get back on the road sooner with our fast and affordable car care service.”

The Pro Spot team awards Color Compass reps during Industry Week in Las Vegas.

OEM NEWS

TOYOTA MAKES A ‘MANAGEABLE’ MATTE

WINDSHIELDS EXPLODE UNDER RUMOURED HONDA DEFECT

Toyota has announced a special edition run of the Crown Crossover with a “Matte Metal” finish that the automaker claims is easier to maintain than other matte paints. The vehicle model originally debuted in Japan featuring an extra layer of protective coating aimed at making the matte finish more durable. Based on the high-spec Toyota Crown Crossover RS Advanced, the “Matte Metal” Crown Crossover includes a new surface treatment called “TM Coat” designed to protect the matte coating and make it stain-resistant. While the special edition finish will need to be recoated approximately once a year, Toyota outlines that this is still an improvement over most matte finishes that require owners to wash by hand and make sure stains are removed immediately.

Matte car finishes are traditionally known for being a hassle due to their vulnerability to scratches; limited repair options in the event of aesthetic damage; sensitivities to cleaning products and the fact they easily show watermarks.

Hundreds of drivers of the 2023 Honda HR-Vs are reporting sudden shattering of rear windshields. According to KDKA News’ investigation, approximately 326 complaints to date have been made to the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). “We’re at the point now where we’re seeing so many complaints that I just don’t think the rates can be ignored anymore,” said Michael Brooks, the executive director of the Center for Auto Safety. Brooks leads the consumer advocacy group that’s tracking these complaints and reported that he’s surprised Honda hasn’t already done something about the issue. He notes that when looking at all of the complaints made so far, it appears the issue could be related to the tempered glass used for the windshield and the vehicle’s defrosting system. A class action lawsuit has also been filed over the issue with six plaintiffs from Pennsylvania.

The suit claims that Honda is “refusing to repair or replace the defective HR-V back windshields.”

Currently, the Crown Crossover Matte Metal vehicle is exclusively available via Toyota’s new Crown-dedicated flagship dealerships in Japan. The automaker didn’t announce the number of units that will be produced but did note that production will be limited.

10

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EDUCATION FOR A COMPLEX WORLD.

— ADAS instructor Russ Hunter sets up targets to calibrate windshield camera for lane departure warning system.

TECHNOLOGY NEWS

I CAN’T SEE YOU, BUT INFRARED CAN

FENCED-IN FORDS

Researchers from Tianjin University in China have developed a new type of detector to extend a vehicle’s range of sight and detect objects even if they are around an immediate corner or behind a wall. To do this, an advanced light-sensing component–known as a “superconducting nanowire single-photon detector”–is used. Unlike traditional line-of-sight imaging techniques such as LiDAR, non-lineof-sight imaging detects very sensitive imaging points thus allowing for a greater range of visibility detection. According to the researchers from Tianjin University who worked on developing the technology, non-line-of-sight imaging detectors are beneficial to the automotive industry because they could potentially reduce crash risks by allowing vehicles to anticipate surroundings past what a driver could see. The technology could also be used in autonomous vehicles.

Ford has filed a patent for a geofencing restriction system that could be used in future vehicles. The patent aims to improve pedestrian-vehicle safety by automatically slowing vehicles down in areas where the speed limit drops. The system outlined in the patent would prevent vehicles from driving into crowds or high-pedestrian traffic areas by establishing geofences around a crowd. To do this, a vehicle with a geofencing feature would detect the presence of the crowd based on several devices, such as smartphones, present in one congested area. The software included in the vehicle would pick up on other tech signatures to be aware of its surroundings.

If the system detected that a vehicle was heading toward a crowded area at a higher-than-normal speed, the system would then be able to slow or stop the vehicle, preventing a collision from occurring.

“Infrared non-line-of-sight imaging can improve the safety and efficiency of unmanned vehicles by helping them detect and navigate around obstacles that are not directly visible,” said Xiaolong Hu, a researcher from the university whose team helped collaborate on the project.

Ford trialled a geofencing speed-control technology in 2022. The tests took place in Cologne, Germany, using an all-electric Ford E-Transit. The OEM suggests that, by geofencing 30/km speed zones around schools, hospitals and other busy pedestrian areas, there could be a “great reduction” in risks to all road users. Image from Ford Media Center.

INSURANCE NEWS

ALLSTATE ENTERS A STATE OF REDUCTION Allstate CEO Tom Wilson says the insurance provider is ready to move away from three major U.S. jurisdictions to preserve assets. The jurisdictions in question include California, New York and New Jersey.

“If we don’t get price increases this year, or approved this year, in those states, we are going to move from not just not taking on new business to having to say goodbye to some existing customers,” Wilson said.

Automotive rates in California and New Jersey need to rise by about 30 percent, Wilson indicated. Something like 18 percent is required in New York. With post-pandemic issues in frequency and severity still unaddressed on the rate side, the three jurisdictions handed Allstate a combined ratio in automotive at nearly 120 percent in the first nine months of 2023, versus 97.2 percent for the remainder of the country where regulatory paths have proven smoother. Wilson acknowledges the need for jurisdictions to protect their financial interests but says that profitability for Allstate has lagged too far behind. “Next year, either we’ll be successful and we’ll get the kind of rate increases we need to get back to the margins we want or we are going to get smaller in those states,” Wilson said. “Either way it should improve auto insurance profitability.”

12

COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

Allstate CEO Tom Wilson regarding Allstate’s business in Florida, the insurer will also continue to trim its “fast-dwindling exposure,” Wilson vowed. “We are going to keep getting smaller in Florida until you get an adequate return.”

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EV NEWS

RELIABILITY RATINGS

BILLIONS OVER THE BATTERY BUDGET

Electric vehicles have 79 percent more reliability problems, on average, compared to internal combustion cars—most of which occur in the high-voltage battery system, according to Consumer Reports (CR) latest Annual Auto Reliability Study. According to the survey, the biggest reliability problems for electric vehicles relate to issues with the charging experience for consumers as well as the high-voltage battery. Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) performed on average worse than their EV counterparts, with 146 percent more problems, while hybrids instead performed better with 26 percent fewer problems than ICE vehicles. When it comes to EVs, Tesla marked a bright spot with comparatively fewer issues than other OEMs, particularly in the charging and battery categories.

However, the automaker did receive issue reports in the areas of body hardware, paint, trim and climate systems.

A November report from the Parliamentary Budget Officer says the Canadian government is almost six billion dollars over its projected budget for EV battery manufacturing. The report, which analyzes government costs for projects from Northvolt, Volkswagen and Stellantis-LGS—says provincial and federal EV battery manufacturing support will be $5.8 billion more than original projections. The total cost of government support between 2022 and 2033 is said to be $43.6 billion, according to the Parliamentary Budget Officers’ report. Of that total, 62 percent will be federally funded; 38 percent falls onto the Ontario and Quebec governments.

Tesla was the second highest-ranked North American car manufacturer in CR’s brand rankings coming in 14th place and being surpassed only by Buick in 12th place. Other EV brands had fewer reported problems related to build quality but had higher rates of powertrain, battery and charging issues—although, CR does not mention what these models are.

The Parliamentary Budget Officer’s report also says the estimated break-even timeline for Northvolt’s production subsidy is approximately 11 years; for Volkswagen, 15 years; and Stellantis’ subsidy, 23 years.

CAN YOU BELIEVE THIS?!

BARKING BANDITS

LIGHTLY TOASTED

We’re issuing a BOLO for these two canine culprits. A used car dealership in Texas saw its stock of vehicles attacked by two dogs last November. The facility said repairs could cost between US$100,000 to US$350,000—and they’d hardly believe it were true, had it not been for the video surveillance footage. Initially, the damage was thought to have been done by wolves—but a closer analysis reveals the damage was done at the paws of domesticated, or possibly stray dogs. According to the business targeted by these barking bandits, police said they could not intervene in the matter because a) no one was injured in the incident, and b) they are dogs.

Note to self: when making toast, do not place your toaster underneath your vehicle. It may seem like common sense to you or me; but to one Copenhagen resident, this was the perfect way to defrost a chilly EV battery on a cool morning. Of course, the toaster ignited the battery, which then caused extensive damage to all parties involved: the car, the house and, most devastatingly to any breakfast aficionado, the toaster.

Bail is being held at 1,800 bones. Beef chews are preferred.

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COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

Police are shocked that they have to “strongly discourage” the use of toasters as warming devices for cars…or anything other than bread products, really.

ON THE COVER

BACKYARD BEGINNINGS For Robbie Shreenan, the sky is the limit when it comes to collision repair

Story by SARAH PERKINS

W

hen it comes to the collision repair industry, there has always existed a set of essential skills—a carefully curated toolkit—for those aiming to not just meet industry standards, but exceed and succeed at them. A well-structured collision repair shop must include foundations of technical know-how, an unwavering commitment to community and customer satisfaction and a sense of aspiration to achieve set goals and grow.

For Robbie Shreenan, owner and operator of Topcoat Automotive in Sackville, Nova Scotia, these foundations for collision repair success and growth were first established quite literally in his own backyard in which a homegrown dent repair business would quickly develop into big dreams for a future shop and an unlimited passion for the industry.

When speaking with Collision Repair magazine, Robbie explained he initially got into the industry because his dad was a licensed mechanic.

“I grew up around cars and knew I wanted to be involved with vehicles, but also wanted to put my spin on it.”

This spin initially took the form of a whirlwind decision to begin a business fixing cars out of his own backyard while also performing a full-time job in the industry. According to Shreenan, this backyard business originally

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COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

ON THE COVER

When asked by Collision Repair magazine what his biggest accomplishment in the industry is so far, Robbie was quick to answer: buying his own shop.

dealt with mainly the used car market and take on the huge financial risk of buying a in sales, today, he is achieving more than included fixing scratches and dents. building. $200,000 monthly.

However, the space quickly became too “I put everything on the line to start this When asked the secret of his success, small as Robbie’s dreams continued to grow, business,” he said. “It was something that Robbie’s answer once again comes back to as did his children. the idea of growth.

“One of the main reasons I decided with the financial hurdles, “SOME PEOPLE MAY THINK I’M CRAZY I’m“Even to leave the backyard is because I had in a good market for starting a TO DO WHAT I’VE DONE, BUT ALL kids and I didn’t want them to grow business. My community in Nova up playing around all the paint and Scotia has a growing population and I CAN THINK ABOUT IS HOW I STILL chemicals. I also wanted to embrace that means growing traffic.”

HAVE AT LEAST TWENTY YEARS IN more of the collision repair industry.”

“Building a new shop, because it’s As a result, five years ago, Robbie THE INDUSTRY AND SO I ASK MYSELF new, it’s clean, it’s bright, this helps made the jump to rent a 3,000 with bringing people in as well, I think.

‘WHERE’S THE NEXT SHOP?’ square foot building with the goal of Getting a new paint booth definitely MY GOALS ARE BIG.” transitioning to helping “fix collision.” helped me bring in my painter.”

Here, he quickly found his footing Alongside this, Robbie works on and after just over a year in the rented space, was definitely harder on my family than developing training and advancements in saw the need to grow again. This transition me. But I had a vision and we believed that his staff. With his business having tripled marked Robbie’s biggest accomplishment in I could do it.” in size from just one employee to eleven the industry so far: buying his own building.

Robbie successfully purchased and outfitted employees, Robbie frequently takes chancWith property rates skyrocketing in the an 8,000 square foot shop that, today, he says es on young technicians who are also post-Covid real estate market, Shreenan had he’s already beginning to outgrow. While five working on getting their start in the collision to mortgage his house in order to be able to years ago, Robbie was bringing in $15,000 repair industry.

ISSUE 23#1 | COLLISION REPAIR

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ON THE COVER

The Topcoat Automotive team.

“Since Covid, there’s no go-to in-person training in the market anymore; everything is online but technicians in the collision industry need in-person and need to be hands-on.”

“In terms of training within my business, I strongly impress upon my staff being dedicated to learning,” Robbie told Collision Repair.

“It’s hard to learn everything just in your eight hour day and so I encourage my employees to be focused by incorporating learning into their free time by watching a Youtube or social media video of someone making a repair.”

“I believe that if my staff are engaged in fixing cars outside of work, then they’ll be that much more engaged when they’re at the shop. It’s about developing a passion for what you’re doing.”

When asked about the challenges he’s faced so far in the industry, Robbie highlighted the technician shortage and challenges with retaining staff as well as his difficulties in making connections within the industry—especially with those in automotive insurance.

“When you’re growing your business, finding the right people and making those connections, that’s everybody’s problem. It’s a matter of meeting the who’s who in the insurance world. Starting a new body shop, it’s hard to get into the collision world because insurance companies have relationships with 18

COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

Robbie with his wife, Jamie Shreenan.

ON THE COVER

Robbie recently outfitted his shop with a new paint booth.

“In terms of training within my business, I strongly impress upon my staff being dedicated to learning.”

body shops that have been open for forty years—especially in my market, there hasn’t been a new collision shop that I know of; they’ve been passed down from generation to generation.”

Still, Robbie refuses to let these challenges slow him down. The connections that he has made in the local community—such as with Kelvin Campbell at Chapman Autobody—has given him a strong foundation for continued future growth.

Now, his future plans include hopes of opening another shop either locally, or, if circumstances are right, in another province.

“I might not ever start one ever again,” he said, “but I would love to pick one up for sale.”

Other hopes include continuing to work

on developing connections in the industry since 60 to 70 percent of his business is still being done through word of mouth and, up until the last six months, through social media advertising—something that has helped get the business to where it is today but won’t, he says, ensure that it takes the business to the next level.

“Some people may think I’m crazy to do what I’ve done, but all I can think about is how I still have at least twenty years in the industry and so I ask myself ‘where’s the next shop?’ My goals are big.”

“Obviously everyone questions you, but then in the end, there’s still that support and people believe in you.”

When looking back on his industry journey,

Robbie told Collision Repair magazine that it continues to surprise him to think of the process in retrospect.

“While you’re going through it, it seems sometimes like I’ve gotten nowhere, but really I have grown and done a lot,” he said.

In this way, while entering the collision repair industry can be formidable at any stage, building a business from the ground up requires a determination, dedication and commitment that must constantly be navigated, whether this be done in a backyard or a freshly built shop.

But, as the collision repair industry enters an optimistic new year, for Robbie Shreenan, only “the sky’s the limit” on what the future can bring.

ISSUE 23#1 | COLLISION REPAIR

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EVENTS

‘TIS THE SEASON Budds’ annual Christmas event brings industry together

Story, photos by ALLISON ROGERS

F

or many in Ontario’s collision industry, the holidays just aren’t complete until the annual Budds’ Collision Pig Roast takes place.

On December 22, 2023 hundreds of attendees visited the Oakville, Ontario, facility for an afternoon of festivities in support of the Sam Piercey Foundation, in memory of longtime Budds’ Collision General Manager and beloved Collision Repair columnist, Sam Piercey.

Established by the Budds’ Group of Companies, the Sam Piercey Foundation provides annual scholarships and funding for students studying collision repair and automotive refinishing.

“Thanks to everyone who joined us in support of our shared goal—supporting the next generation of collision repairers,” wrote the Sam Piercey Foundation on LinkedIn. Check out our photos from this year’s event!

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EVENTS

ISSUE 23#1 | COLLISION REPAIR

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EVENTS

IN THIS TOGETHER Attendees of CCCR’s first-ever in-person gathering agree that collaboration is the key to change

From left to right: Mark Millson, Excellence Collision; Jeff Pabst, Pfaff Autoworks; Chris Castanga, BMW; Scott Wideman, Volkswagen; John Evers, Porsche; and Paul Stella, Toyota.

Story by DARRYL SIMMONS

C

ommon challenges need common solutions—this was the key message at the first in-person meeting of the Canadian Council of Collision Repairers (CCCR) in Markham, ON at Pfaff Autoworks.

During the day-long meeting, this significant gathering of more than 50 shop owners and managers, alongside several key OEM representatives, candidly discussed vital industry topics and planned a roadmap to help move the industry forward.

A particular theme running throughout was: A Safe Repair is The Only Repair. This was echoed by OEM panel discussion featuring Paul Stella of Toyota, Scott Wideman of Volkswagen, John Evers of Porsche and Chris Castagna from BMW. Mark Millson of Excellence Collision and Jeff Pabst from Pfaff led the panel, providing attendees with detailed and personalized information based on audience questions.

22

This landmark meeting was organized in response to member requests for an in-person dialogue on trends and challenges in the industry. Surrounded literally by millions of dollars worth of Porsches, McLarens, Teslas, and other high-end automobiles in various shapes of repair, attendees represented more than 100 unique locations across Canada from coast to coast.

According to industry veteran and owner of Saputo Capital Collision Group, Joe Saputo, the meeting had all the right players in attendance.

“Today I saw a room of collision experts in every category of the industry at the very highest level. There were 60-year veterans and there were young entrepreneurs. They were from banners; they were from dealer groups and there were independents.

There were MSOs and there were singlestore owners, but what I saw verified and confirmed that if we are to make a change, rest assured, all the elements are there!”

COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

Kelvin Campbell, from Halifax, N.S., along with Shawn Stenson of Kingston, Ontario, co-chaired the meeting. On hand were four other regional reps, Jeff Pabst from Markham, Ontario; Daniel Trevisanutto from Thunder Bay, Ontario; Wade Bartok from North Vancouver, British Columbia, and Mike Mario from Regina, Saskatoon.

Due to a cross country blizzard and cancelled flights the evening prior, representatives Joel McPhail from Winnipeg, Manitoba, and Steve Hammond from Edmonton, Alberta., were unable to attend.

BASF and PPG provided a catered breakfast and lunch. Pfaff Autoworks provided the incredible location which attendees happily and excitedly toured. The logistical arrangements, including registration, sound and stage management, were handled by Collision Repair magazine.

Following the meeting, Peter Woo, of Excellence Collision in Markham commented on social media: “The association is going in the right direction! Well done!”

EVENTS

More than 50 shop owners and managers gathered at Pfaff Autoworks in Markham, Ontario, for a day of conversation to drive industry change.

Paul Stella, Toyota Canada.

Adriano Mercanti, Remo Mercanti and Holden Mascarin.

Kelvin Campbell of Halifax, Nova Scotia and Shawn Stenson of Kingston, Ontario, co-chaired the meeting.

Jonathan Garay, Greg Sherman and William Monteith.

Sandy Liguori, Mississauga, ON.

The CCCR regional reps in attendance. From L to R: Wade Bartok, Mike Mario, Darryl Simmons, Kelvin Campbell, Jeff Pabst, Daniel Trevisanutto and Shawn Stenson.

ISSUE 23#1 | COLLISION REPAIR

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EVENTS

Shamsher Singh Gaidu, Jeff Pabst and Arsh Dhnraj Uppal.

Peter Woo, Excellence Auto Collision.

Wade Bartok, Vancouver, BC.

24

Allen Hutten, Dustin Hutten and Joe Saputo.

Kelvin Campbell and Gino Mascarin, Thunder Bay, ON.

Daniel Trevisanutto, Thunder Bay, ON, Claudia and Claudio Chiodo, Streetsville, ON.

Kevin Carlaw, Mike Mario of Regina,SK; Corey Carlaw and Pat Stenson of Kingston,ON.

The panellists on the ‘Success Stories of the Year’ panel: Koos Reineking Mike Mario, and Wade Bartok. Moderated by Shawn Stenson.

Paul Cross and Andrew Veale of Lindsay,ON; Don Morton and Jeff Brown of London,ON.

COLLISION REPAIR COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM

Supporting the Local

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Local business owners are supported by a team of sales, operational and marketing professionals, and backed by proven tools and ongoing training programs.

ProColor Collision is committed to helping shop owners grow their business in their communities while leveraging strong established relationships with global insurers, suppliers and fleet companies.

Contact Amin Youssef at ayoussef@fixnetwork.com | +1 365-355-5363 or visit the franchise page at Procolor.com to find out more.

PETS

PETS OF THE BODYSHOP

OF THE BODYSHOP Introducing Bella—Chief morale officer, Parr Auto Body

M

eet Bella—this issue’s featured Pet of the Bodyshop. An 11-year-old black lab retriever, Bella is the chief morale officer at Parr Auto Body.

Chelsea Stebner, CEO and managing partner of Parr Auto Body and Bella’s owner, says that Bella is always full of enthusiasm and is always ready to greet employees and customers alike as “every morning, she bursts through the front door with every ounce of excitement she can muster, ready to start the day.”

As chief morale officer at Parr Auto Body, Bella performs many roles from sparking joy in everyone’s day to lifting everyone’s spirits with her big puppy dog eyes.

Bella is always up for a belly rub, a walk, or some “pizza time” in which she horses around with her favourite pizza shaped toy.

“Ask anyone at the shop and they’ll tell you that life just wouldn’t be the same without Bella,” Stebner told Collision Repair magazine, and with those puppy dog eyes, we’re sure to believe it.

Join Collision Repair magazine in celebrating this month’s Pet of the Bodyshop, Bella of Parr Auto Body!

Bella

An 11-year-old black lab retriever, Bella is the chief morale officer at Parr Auto Body.

Bella is always up for a belly rub, a walk, or some “pizza time” in which she horses around with her favourite pizza shaped toy.

Do you have a hardworking furry friend that comes to work with you? Send us a picture of your shop pet with their name and their “role” in your shop for a chance to be featured in the magazine. Scan the QR code or visit www.collisionrepairmag.com/pet-profile-submissions/ 26

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Made in the USA

INNOVATOR INTERVIEW

PURIFYING PROGRESS Mike Rushton, creator of the Air Clarity Solutions (ACS) Workflow 5000.

Mike Rushton wants to take on dust with his new air filtration prototype

Story by SARAH PERKINS

A

After leaving the automotive industry due to developing health problems related to airborne pollutants, Mike Rushton became an environmental technologist working in salmon conservation. It was here that he began to develop his idea for the ACS Workflow 5000.

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t the heart of any good automotive shop is an even better air filtration system.

In between the hustle and bustle of automotive repair, the reality of dust and air contaminants can often go unchecked in the drive to return a vehicle to a perfect condition.

While a repair may be pristine, more often than not, a repair technician’s lungs aren’t.

According to a study done in 2020 and filed by the American National Library of Medicine, approximately 68.2 percent of trades workers surveyed had experienced some form of lung and chest discomfort during their career. Similarly, the Canadian Occupational Cancer Research Centre reports that approximately 560 cases of lung cancer are diagnosed annually in Canada as a result of exposure to diesel engine exhaust (DEE) and other oil-based contaminants.

As a result, for Mike Rushton, former autobody and paint technician turned environmental technologist and inventor, developing the Air Clarity Solutions (ACS) Workflow 5000 air filtration system is just one step in a journey towards helping the industry he loves work on breathing easier. While the invention may still be a work-in-progress, Rushton is hopeful for a dust-free future.

Recently, Collision Repair magazine sat down for a phone interview with Rushton to learn about his new product as well as what advantages it could have for helping to improve the health and safety of the collision repair industry.

INNOVATOR INTERVIEW

Collision Repair: What was your initial inspiration for developing the ACS Workflow 5000?

Mike Rushton: I am a licensed autobody and paint technician from Fredericton, New Brunswick. I started to develop breathing issues after working in the industry and being exposed to airborne pollution. I worked with classic cars often, everything from old Fairlanes to Camaros, and I noticed that whatever car I was working on that day, I would blow my nose and find the colour on the tissue. I had asthma to begin with, but it started getting worse overtime.

I started to worry about my long-term health and career choice, which was disappointing as I really did enjoy the work. I’m hoping one day I can get back to it even if it’s just as a hobby if I can get it set up right.

I decided to change careers as a result. I’ve always enjoyed the outdoors and fishing, so I returned to school to become an environmental technologist which led to my current role working in salmon conservation. My education included air quality management and other relevant subjects that helped me come up with an idea to solve this problem, and led to me starting Air Clarity Solutions.

I wanted to solve the problem of workplace air pollution to help others who are in the same situation I used to be, and also to help companies in this industry that I feel are neglected. Most innovation for air quality these days is focused on climate change or COVID, which are very valid areas, of course, but very little attention is paid to the trades industries even though workers and businesses are struggling with polluted air on a daily basis.

The ACS Workflow 5000 uses a matrix of water and structures to remove airborne pollutants while eliminating costly and unreliable filters which can save users thousands of dollars each year per unit.

CR: Can you describe for us how the ACS Workflow 5000 works? What makes your system different from other air filtration systems that are currently being used in the automotive industry?

CR: You recently began a pilot project to test out the ACS Workflow 5000 in New Brunswick. Can you describe how that’s been going and what this entails?

MR: While in the trade, I observed a lack of adequate filtration solutions available on the market. Many are too large and bulky to be placed where needed, as most shops are tight for space to begin with. Most also require fabric filters which can clog quickly and cost thousands of dollars to replace each year. Filters also result in a lot of guesswork as to whether they need to be replaced or not. After speaking with many shop owners, these flaws often result in them either regretting a large purchase of a system they are dissatisfied with or using nothing at all and losing heated and cooled air alike to the outdoors, with exhaust fans to try and deal with it. I knew there had to be a better way.

My system uses a matrix of water and structures to remove airborne pollutants while eliminating costly and unreliable filters which can save users thousands of dollars each year per unit. This system provides over 90 percent removal of dust and does not clog or lose suction. It is mobile and compact so it can be placed wherever the user sees fit and recirculates the air within the shop.

It works by being filled with water rather than traditional fabric filter systems and can be used for direct capture near the source or can be placed in a corner out of the way for ambient capture.

When first thinking about the product, I saw how water was used in broader areas of manufacturing, engineering and environmental conservation, and realized that it is not often used in the same capacity in collision repair. I saw an opportunity for innovation, and I think that there’s definitely more room for innovation going forwards, whether by myself or others.

MR: I have begun demoing units of the product across New Brunswick. Using a third-party lab in New Brunswick, I was able to achieve over 90 percent filtration of particles and so, I’ve begun to take units to some collision shops who I had previously reached out to and who are interested and willing to try something new. This is the fourth iteration of the product and so I am looking forward to getting feedback from these shops so that I can continue to improve for the future.

CR: If all goes well, what is your long-term goal for the ACS Workflow 5000? What is your hope for the product for the future?

MR: If all goes well, I would like to continue reaching out to shops in other provinces and, since this is a global and not just a national issue, continue to expand to shops in other countries. When I initially left my job in automotive repair, I had thought about starting my own shop, but I didn’t want to put my workers through the same breathing environment that I had just gotten out of. This is a business and selling products to keep it going is obviously important, but I really feel like this is something that can improve safety for workers and productivity for companies all over the world. The goal from beginning to end has always been about just providing clean air. There is no magical solution to totally eliminate airborne pollution in shops but reducing it as best as we can is the key.

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INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

REVVING TOGETHER There are four generations in the modern workforce—how do we please them all?!

Story by SARAH PERKINS

I

n the dynamic world of automotive repair, a unique blend of expertise, experience and energy converges as different generations come together under the same hood. With four generations—Baby Boomers, Gen X, Gen Y (Millennials) and Gen Z— working together, the stereotypical image of the seasoned technician passing the wrench to a new wave of tech-savvy apprentices has

evolved into a space with the potential for a multifaceted collaboration that can spark innovation and revitalize the industry in new and interesting ways.

According to Christie Hall, area manager of operations for CARSTAR Canada, creating generational harmony is a process of communication, collaboration and an understanding of cultural shifts. In a

presentation made at the Saskatchewan Association of Auto Repairers (SAAR) 2023 Spring Conference, Hall spoke on integrating generations in the workplace by understanding key areas such as generational cultural influences and world views, communication styles, and employee expectations. Read below for some key takeaways.

“BABY BOOMERS” (1946 – 1965) According to Hall, as a generation, Baby Boomers (employees born from 1946-1965) currently make up 19.7 percent of the Canadian work force and tend to be team-oriented, competitive and hard working. Shaped by changes in civil rights and geo-global politics, in a workspace, they are motivated by company loyalty, teamwork and a strong sense of duty. Baby Boomers are willing to make sacrifices for success, and when it comes to communication styles, members from this generation would prefer to receive workplace information over the phone and through face-to-face interactions. When it comes to employee expectations, Baby Boomers would prefer managers to offer specific goals and deadlines and would like to be put into mentor roles where they can exert their competitive spirit and team-oriented views.

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INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

GEN X (1966 – 1980) Unlike Baby Boomers, Hall notes that Gen X (employees born from 1966 to 1980) are more flexible and independent, but also more curious and questioning. As a generation, Gen X makes up 29.5 percent of the Canadian workforce and is motivated by opportunities for diversity, a desire for a strong work life balance and they are more likely than Baby Boomers to put their personal interests over company interests. Shaped by the beginnings of the dot-com boom, Gen X prefers phone calls and face-to-face interactions, and is also typically quick to move on if an employer fails to meet their needs. As a result, preferred managing styles for Gen X include offering immediate feedback on performances, flexible work arrangements and access to financial services to assist in future retirement expectations.

GEN Y OR “MILLENNIAL” (1981 – 1996) Generation Y, or Millennials (employees born from 1981 to 1996), make up the majority of the Canadian workforce at 33.2 percent.

In Hall’s presentation, she outlines how Gen Y tends to be competitive, civic-oriented and open minded and also achievement oriented.

Gen Y is motivated in the workforce by points of responsibility, having a quality manager, and getting to experience unique working opportunities. Shaped by the rise of the internet, Gen Y’s preferred communication style is instant messaging, text messages and emails, and their expectations from an employer include having managers get to know them personally. Other employer expectations include offering immediate feedback, flexible work and work assignment schedules, as well as career development programs.

GEN Z (1997 – 2012) The youngest and most recent generation to enter the workforce, Gen Z makes up just 17.6 percent of Canadian employees and represents those born between 1997 to 2012. Having grown up totally immersed in the digital age, Gen Z tend to be social media minded and this means that they are often progressive, less focused, and entrepreneurial. As a generation, Gen Z is motivated by diversity and personalization, and unlike the other generations, they desire the most independence and individuality in the workplace. Gen Z typically prefers to work with Millennial managers and those who are innovative (regardless of age). The preferred communication style of Gen Z is instant messaging, text messages and social media messages, and Gen Z’s expectations of employers often involve employers allowing for an ability to self-direct tasks, offering opportunities to multitask, as well as assistance with student debt and opportunities for advancement.

ACCORDING TO CHRISTIE HALL, AN AREA MANAGER OF OPERATIONS FOR CARSTAR CANADA, CREATING GENERATIONAL HARMONY IS A PROCESS OF COMMUNICATION, COLLABORATION AND AN UNDERSTANDING OF CULTURAL SHIFTS.

Christy Hall, Area Manager Operations at CARSTAR Canada.

As a result, despite these potential generational differences, knowing how to align employee personalities and workstyles in the workplace—and especially when it comes to collision repair—can help ensure that work goes smoothly. On this note, some suggestions for the auto shop include having your Gen Z apprentice work alongside the positive and knowledgeable Baby Boomer technician; assigning your achievement-oriented Gen Y as team lead to work with a Gen Z apprentice; or have a

Gen X employee work with Gen Z as both like to think through problems and innovate solutions. While clashes may sometimes occur and differences in opinion may exist, maintaining an open communication style that recognizes value and diversity, and encourages teamwork, will ensure that, regardless of generation, knowledge and quality will continue to be the driving force propelling the automotive repair industry into an exciting era of both tradition and transformation combined.

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INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

WRECKONOMICS Canadian repair organizations ranked by the Romans Group

T

he 17th annual whitepaper, A 2022 Profile of the Evolving U.S. and Canadian Collision Repair Marketplace, by the Romans Group LLC, is now available.

In this annual report, the Romans Group takes its yearly insights into the U.S. and Canada collision repair marketplaces to establish trend predictions, annual highlights, repairer rankings and more.

Despite the Canadian collision repair industry’s “continued uneven recovery from the pandemic,” the Romans Group notes that 2022 brought plenty of opportunities for revenue growth.

“Opportunities to increase revenue production have carried forward throughout the year due to increased sales driven by higher repair costs and parts inflation, vehicle repair complexity and increased scanning and calibration,” noted the Romans Group’s report.

Still, 2022 was not without hardships.

The whitepaper notes persisting risks and challenges like artificial intelligence; OEM—

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insurer relationships re: implementation of OEM repair standards and continued consolidation. Romans Group says the Canadian markets’ challenges are fairly consistent with that of the United States.

The report also says that, beginning in 2022, up to 70 percent of repair facilities in the Canadian market began refusing non-driveable vehicles, noting that some shops were booking out seven to nine months in advance. “[It was] thought that avoiding non-driveables would make more space for quicker turnaround repairs.”

When ranking all the types of repair organizations, the Romans Group’s top two rankings are represented by one franchisor and one banner.

The remaining companies reflect a combination of independent and dealer, banner, and franchise organizations.

The company notes that, during 2022, a “more aggressive group of mid-size private

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equity-funded consolidators” accelerated both single and multi-location acquisitions and geographic diversity.

“The strategic focus at this time for many consolidators continues to be to pursue both new and existing market growth through single and multiple-location acquisitions,” writes the Romans Group. “However, this expansion has been slowed by the economic realities associated with increased financing costs for acquisitions and re-capitalizing businesses.”

Finally, the whitepaper suggests that industry growth and expansion is creating an opportunity for “inevitable change and shift among MSOs, insurers and OEMs in the balance-of-power dynamics,” particularly in highly consolidated markets.

“The industry is one step closer to a tipping point where the consolidated MSO’s revenue outnumbers the remaining independent and dealer consolidated revenue and industry scale.”

INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

CANADA’S TOP-RANKED COLLISION REPAIR ORGANIZATIONS All Repair Organizations

Franchisors

Networks/Banners

Independents and Dealers

“WE EXPECT THAT BY 2027, THE TOP THREE CONSOLIDATORS WILL GROW FROM THEIR 2022 MARKET SHARE OF OVER 22 PERCENT TO UP TO 32 PERCENT.” – ROMANS GROUP, A 2022 PROFILE OF THE EVOLVING U.S. AND CANADA COLLISION REPAIR MARKETPLACE

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INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

Some overall industry highlights and trends noted in the report include: • Total vehicles miles/kilometres traveled have been on the upswing since early 2021 and are now approaching pre-pandemic levels, causing a spike in claims.

• More severe accidents due to bad driving behaviour, such as increased speeding, distracted driving and decreased seatbelt use that began during the pandemic. o According to Cambridge Telematics, there has been a 23 percent surge in distracted driving since 2020, resulting in an estimated 420,000 crashes in 2022.

• Not all claims are accident related.

According to Allstate, catalytic converter replacements jumped 1,155 percent between 2019 and 2022 nationally.

• Average repair costs “skyrocketed” due to greater repair complexity, higher inflation-based labour expenses, more parts and higher parts costs (plus supply chain delays, diagnostic scans and calibrations, as well as costly new materials like aluminum and carbon fibre).

“THE INDUSTRY IS ONE STEP CLOSER TO A TIPPING POINT WHERE THE CONSOLIDATED MSO’S REVENUE OUTNUMBERS THE REMAINING INDEPENDENT AND DEALER CONSOLIDATED REVENUE AND INDUSTRY SCALE.” – ROMANS GROUP, A 2022 PROFILE OF THE EVOLVING U.S. AND CANADA COLLISION REPAIR MARKETPLACE

The Romans Group’s five-year forecast to 2027 has the ≥$20 million segment and the Top 3 Consolidators aggressively growing their businesses while maintaining their significant market share lead over the Franchise Networks and the $10-$19M MLO segments.

“We expect that by 2027, the top three consolidators will grow from their 2022 market share of over 22 percent to up to 32 percent,” reads the report.

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The full annual report, A 2022 Profile of the Evolving U.S. and Canada Collision Repair Marketplace, is now available. The report contains the complete results of Romans Group’s research and analysis for 2022, including over 75 charts and graphs throughout more than 100 pages with historical trends and a future view.

The report can be purchased by contacting Mary Jane Kurowski of The Romans Group LLC at maryjane@romans-group.com.

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INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

DRIVING SUSTAINABILITY Benefits of green recycled auto parts

By SARAH PERKINS

I

n the ever-shifting world of collision repair replacement in Ontario, as well as to identify arisings of end-of-life vehicles (ELVs) from where precision meets expertise and every potential actions that different market actors which to acquire these parts are influenced damaged vehicle presents an opportunity can take for supporting the future growth of by variables such as the expected lifetime to drive the industry forward, an often-over- green recycled parts adoption. of newer vehicles (newer cars may contain looked area is the use of green recycled parts OARA’s study begins by exploring the parts with longer lifetimes) and consumer in repairs. current market realities of the Canadian cost of living (higher costs of living may While the automotive industry continues automotive recycling industry. In Canada, the encourage owners to keep their vehicles for to make the push toward a more environ- current vehicle dismantling market size sits longer periods). mentally-sustainable future, when it comes at an estimated 1.6 million vehicles processed When considering the specific factors for to automotive industry customers—especially per year; 41 percent are processed in Ontario. collection and adoption by collision repairers those of collision repairers—more specifically, OARA’s study further outlines work needs to be done to develop how for collision repairers, the reduced an understanding of the potential wait time associated with green recycled WHEN CONSIDERING FACTORS FOR environmental benefits of using green parts could be seen as a driving force for COLLECTION AND ADOPTION BY recycled parts over new parts and the increased demand. However, without the reality of end-of-life vehicles (ELVs), COLLISION REPAIRERS SPECIFICALLY, benefit of improved regulation, gaps in according to a study from the Ontario safety and knowledge may be a limiting OARA’S STUDY OUTLINES HOW THE Automotive Recyclers Association factor to collision repairers encouraging (OARA). the use of green recycled parts.

REDUCED WAIT TIME ASSOCIATED At least, this perspective on consumMoreover, the collision repair industry’s er awareness comes according to a new close ties to the automotive insurance WITH GREEN RECYCLED PARTS report compiled by Oakdene Hollins industry means that increasing interest COULD BE SEEN AS A DRIVING for OARA which states that, “while from insurers is also needed for a more attention has been paid to EV expanrobust adoption of green recycled parts.

FORCE FOR INCREASED DEMAND. sion, the same level of investigation However, the report notes that insurers into emission reduction opportunities would also benefit as green recycled parts has not yet been applied to the contemporary Analysis conducted for this study further would help reduce the carbon impact of the goods and services related to motor vehicles notes that the used parts market in Ontario claims process. once they are placed in the market.” is just under $806 million. This means that When considering the potential benefits With the auto parts industry being one of used parts in the province account for roughly of increasingly adopting green recycled parts Canada’s largest retail markets, valued at over three to four percent of the total Canadian into the collision repair industry, OARA $20 billion, OARA’s study thus aims to high- auto parts revenue. ends its report with future recommendations light the potential environmental impacts of Green recycled parts are most often a direct at the level of the consumer, industry, and using green recycled parts over new parts for substitute for new spare parts. However, the government policy.

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INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

At the level of government policy, OARA outlines how all steps taken across the automotive industry need to be continuously supported by government initiatives that promote green recycled parts as a viable option.

For collision repairers specifically, OARA further suggests that shops should actively participate in the recycling industry to portray green recycled parts as a safe alternative to customers and should work to acquire the knowledge necessary to communicate information regarding green recycled parts to customers.

In addition to this recommendation, OARA also suggests that collision repairers and insurers should work to better directly communicate with the recycling industry to ensure the further development of appropriate and fair practices in procuring vehicles for green recycled parts and reuse.

As such, for OARA, as professionals in the collision repair field continue to gain awareness, adopting the use of green recycled parts represents not just a choice, but a transformative step toward a more forwardthinking future.

OARA concluded in its study that, when it comes to automotive parts customers—especially collision repairers—more work needs to be done to develop an understanding of the potential environmental benefits of using green recycled parts over new parts.

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ELECTRIC CHECK

THE CURRENT SITUATION How many EVs are really on Canadian roads? A regional breakdown

W

hen the alleged electric vehicle takeover is mentioned, many Canadian consumers, and collision industry members alike, are quick to point out the lack of infrastructure across the nation.

In the inaugural edition of our EV Repair magazine, we delved into the data to understand how much of the Canadian vehicle parc is consumed by zero-emissions (or hybrid/plug-in hybrid) vehicles. That was less than six months ago—and the numbers have already changed. Some may say Canada is on a rapid fast track to EV adoption, depending on your region of focus.

On any typical day driving through Vancouver, Montreal or Toronto, you’ll surely count a fleet of Teslas. British Columbia leads North America in terms of electric vehicle adoption; Quebec is a close second.

Our reporters looked at Statistics Canada’s vehicle registration numbers to gather an estimate of how many EVs and public EV charging stations are currently in Canada.

Electric vehicle data is sourced from Statistics Canada’s visual data tool on new motor vehicle registrations (2017-2022) unless otherwise noted. Public charging station data is from Natural Resources Canada Electric Charging and Alternative Fuelling Stations Locator, unless otherwise noted. Charging station numbers refer to the number of public charging stations, not necessarily the number of charging ports available at each station.

BRITISH COLUMBIA

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Approx. 110,000 EVs* ~3,800 charging stations*

ALBERTA

13 12

1 2

2

Approx. 5,600 EVs (Jan 2023) ~570 charging stations

*Data from Gov. B.C., January 2023

SASKATCHEWAN Approx. 2,200 EVs ~150 charging stations

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3

MANITOBA Approx. 2,900 EVs ~200 charging stations

4

ELECTRIC CHECK *Data from Yukon government, Jan 2022

* Data from Northwest Territories Energy Initiatives Report, March 2022

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YUKON Approx. 130 EVs* 20 charging stations

NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

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Approx. 30 EVs* 2 charging stations

NUNAVUT

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NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR Approx. 700 EVs ~100 charging stations

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PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND

No data No charging stations

9

Approx. 500 EVs ~130 charging stations

8

NOVA SCOTIA Approx. 1,900 EVs* ~200 charging stations

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* Data from Nova Scotia Power, January 2023

10 10

4

6 9

3

7 5

8

ONTARIO Approx. 74,000 EVs ~3,100 charging stations

5

QUEBEC Approx. 100,000 EVs ~3,900 charging stations

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NEW BRUNSWICK

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Approx. 2,300 EVs ~200 charging stations

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INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

POST-STRIKE REPORT ATA of Manitoba surveys members on MPI strike impact

F

rom August 28 through November 1, 2023, approximately 1,500 Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) employees were on strike.

When Collision Repair magazine first spoke to Ferd Klassen, owner of Niverville Autobody and Vice President of the Automotive Trades Association (ATA) of Manitoba’s executive board, a week after the strike began, he said the ATA hadn’t heard of any significant challenges—yet.

The strike continued for nine weeks.

The Automotive Trades Association (ATA) of Manitoba ran a post-strike survey among its members, where it asked for their opinions on the effects of the work action, including what they thought of MPI’s adjusted processes; challenges incurred and overall commentary on the strike handlings.

When asked if ATA of Manitoba members felt they were adequately kept up-to-date with how the strike would affect their business operations during the labour dispute, 73.83 percent said yes; 26.17 percent said no.

Most respondents cited ATA of Manitoba email correspondence as their main source of information (62.96 percent). Just over ten percent said MPI was their main source of information; 9.26 percent said local traditional media sources provided them info.

According to ATA of Manitoba members, the two biggest struggles caused by the MPI strike were waiting on approvals on marginals and waiting for approvals over EALs; ranked as a 4.30-level and 4.25-level problem on a scale of 1-6. Getting answers from MPI was ranked as the third-biggest struggle at a 4.09 out of 6.

ACCORDING TO ATA OF MANITOBA MEMBERS, THE TWO BIGGEST STRUGGLES CAUSED BY THE NINE-WEEK MPI STRIKE WERE WAITING ON APPROVALS ON MARGINALS AND WAITING FOR APPROVALS OVER EALS.

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INDUSTRY INSIGHTS

Surprisingly, the challenges in waiting for payments from MPI were ranked second-lowest at a 2.33 out of 6; opening claims was the least of concern in all challenges lists, ranked at a 1.99 out of 6.

MPI implemented a slew of processes in an attempt to ease the burden on collision repair centres. When the ATA of Manitoba asked members which changes to processes they’d opt to keep, 77.78 percent said the customer ability to open claims online; 65.74 percent said increase EAL and 42.59 percent said they’d like to keep the ability to estimate and repair vandalism.

“The process of customers opening their claim online and having the bodyshop do the estimate directly was one of the biggest comments we’ve received from customers, stating ‘best thing ever,’” said one of ATA of Manitoba’s survey respondents.

“Please keep the ACV vehicle updates along with approved repair limit,” said another, adding a Mitchell Connect note as a supplementary point. “Also, the ability for a customer to open a claim online and come directly to the repair shop should have been implemented years ago.”

“When our shop was allowed to estimate hail under $6,000, we were estimating and repairing same-day.”

When asked which process changes they’d like to drop, 43.27 percent said the ability to estimate and repair partial thefts and 39.42 percent said the ability to estimate and repair hail. Of 104 respondents, 36.54 percent said they’d prefer to drop none of the new process changes.

Overall, when asked if the strike had a negative impact on their business, 60.75 percent of survey respondents said yes.

Despite the hiccups, many respondents said they found operations during the strike to be “quite smooth,” compared to other times of turbulence.

“As a glass shop it was the smoothest we’ve ever run.”

“I actually liked it better with them on strike. I thought everything was quite smooth and I really, really liked the automatic approvals in supplements.”

“Overall, we believe the process was a lot faster and easier without MPI working.

The only part [we felt] was missing was the adjusters, to make coverage calls.”

A clear consensus across the board—the strike was handled well by the ATA of Manitoba and its executive members.

“ATA is doing a fantastic job, thank you.”

“Thanks for keeping us up to date.”

“Great work from the ATA.”

THE AUTOMOTIVE TRADES ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA (ATA of Manitoba) received 108 responses to this post-MPI-strike survey. Some questions were not answered by all participants.

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EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

UPDATES FROM RUST VALLEY A conversation with Mike Hall of Rust Valley Restorers

Mike Hall is a former rock blaster; car collector and one of the starts of Discovery Channel’s Rust Valley Restorers.

By ALLISON ROGERS

I

f you look at Mike Hall, you’d think he was made for the silver screen. If you stick around and watch him work, you’d be certain of it.

With a background in rock blasting and a lifelong love for cars, Mike Hall’’s journey into car restoration and the eventual creation of the hit TV series Rust Valley Restorers is a captivating tale. With his roots firmly planted in the scenic Rust Valley near Tappen, British Columbia, Mike has become a household name among car fanatics, captivating audiences across the nation with his car restoration abilities.

We had the opportunity to sit down with Mike Hall to hear more about how the show first started and some insights on future builds featured next season.

CR: Are you working on any exciting projects you can share?

MH: Well, there’s a lot of stuff we’re working on that I can’t share because it’s on the next season of Rust Valley.

Mike says the team is working on a 1970 Dodge Coronet R/T in Sublime Green.

Collision Repair: You previously had your own rock blasting/construction business. How did you end up in car restoration, and how did the Rust Valley Restorers TV show come to be?

Mike Hall: When I was doing rock blasting, I’d work ten months out of the year and, during the two months I had off, it was too cold in B.C. to do anything. So that’s how I ended up with 400 cars on my lot. As for the show, it was supposed to be a show about rock scaling! After some research, the network found out there was a ton of red tape and it would be a massive liability.

The producers found out I had a collection of 400 old cars—that’s when the show theme changed to car restoration.

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I can tell you that we’re working on a 1970 Dodge Coronet R/T. Right now it’s just a fender tag and the VIN—but there were only 400 of them built. It’ll be painted Sublime Green.

We also have another five or six cars we want built by spring, so there’s a lot to work on.

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You can stay updated on build progress by following the Rust Bros. on Instagram at @rustbrosrestos.

BONUS QUESTION! Q: What would you say to someone who wants to do car restoration as a career?

A: To succeed in this craft, you need to be highly committed. It’s not easy—car restorations are expensive. Whatever your estimate is, you’ll need to double it. As you peel back the layers of a build, you’ll continuously find more damage—things add up. That’s why I say you should never give a customer an estimate. An estimate is a best guess—a quote is what you will do the restoration for.

But, if you’re serious about restoring cars, learn to weld! Learn the basics. Finally, the best bodywork advice I’ve ever gotten: if it’s a high point, beat it down!

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CURRENT AFFAIRS

EMBRACING THE FUTURE

Navigating the Exciting Realm of Electric Vehicle Repairs

Column by SAIFULLAH SANAYE

T

he automotive industry is undergoing a profound transformation. risks: an overheated battery can lead to a severe fire. This concern is The shift towards electric vehicles (EVs), the automation of vehicle underscored in my classes when I query about the type of fire extinguisher assistance systems, and the potential for interconnecting all vehicles effective against a lithium-ion battery blaze. The unanimous surprise on the roadway herald a new era in transportation. upon learning that conventional extinguishers are ineffective is telling.

Yet, as we navigate this transition, there’s a need to address prevalent Lithium-ion batteries, when overheated, enter a state known as thermal misconceptions, particularly concerning EV repair. runaway–a cascade of overheating that can ignite a fire from a single There’s a lingering belief in some cell. As I tell my students: When you quarters that EVs—especially in see thermal runaway, you runaway! the context of autobody repair—are If you encounter a thermal runaway THERE’S A LINGERING BELIEF IN SOME excessively hazardous to work on. This case, pull the fire alarm and allow concern, however, is largely unfounded. firefighters who have the proper QUARTERS THAT EVS—ESPECIALLY IN The EVs of today are engineered with equipment and the know-how to deal THE CONTEXT OF AUTOBODY REPAIR— safety as a paramount consideration. with the fire. Currently, there are no Manufacturers have meticulously chemicals that will put out an EV-sized ARE EXCESSIVELY HAZARDOUS TO designed these vehicles to minimize lithium ion battery fire. The current the risk of electrocution from highlack of a specific chemical agent to WORK ON. THIS CONCERN, HOWEVER, voltage systems. As I often stress in extinguish such fires underscores the IS LARGELY UNFOUNDED. my training classes: Trouble finds those importance of ongoing research in this who seek it. area, in which I am actively involved.

Essentially, the dangers associated Identifying the signs of thermal with EVs are largely contingent on one’s adherence to safety protocols. runaway is crucial. An unusual smell, often likened to bubble gum or Following manufacturer procedures and utilizing proper personal fruit, is a primary indicator. This odour precedes the release of potentially protective equipment (PPE) significantly mitigates the risk. harmful gases and, in extreme cases, powerful flames. Additionally, The apprehension isn’t solely about high voltage; there is also a fear lithium-ion batteries may burst into flames if punctured in a manner of fire hazards, particularly concerning lithium-ion batteries. These that causes internal shorting, potentially triggering thermal runaway. batteries, integral to EVs, demand careful handling due to their sensitivity In the event of a collision damaged EV arriving at a body shop, with to temperature extremes. Bodyshops must recognize the potential evident battery damage, precautionary measures are essential. The vehicle

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CURRENT AFFAIRS

should be isolated from structures, combustible materials, and other vehicles. It’s imperative for technicians working on EVs, particularly when dealing with high-voltage systems, to have specialized training and appropriate PPE. Consultation with experienced professionals, rather than reliance on informal sources like “Google mechanics,” is vital for safe and effective repairs. Adherence to manufacturer service information is non-negotiable.

So, should we fear these technologically advanced vehicles?

The answer depends on preparedness. Without the right training and PPE, caution is warranted. However, with proper education and understanding of the risks and operational systems, technicians can confidently service these computers on wheels.

The dynamics in bodyshop differ significantly from regular automotive service centres. Auto body shops often deal with brand-new vehicles, whereas traditional service centres typically encounter newer technologies a few years post-purchase. This difference is largely due to the fact that vehicle collisions usually fall outside manufacturer warranties. In contrast, regular automotive service centres might not see EVs for high-voltage repairs as quickly, owing to extensive mileage and term limits on component warranties. Various EV models come with differing warranty terms, including long-term battery coverage and subscription-based lifetime warranties.

As EVs become increasingly prevalent, it’s imperative for the auto repair industry to stay abreast of technological advancements.

By doing so, we can ensure that repairs are conducted safely and efficiently, aligning with the evolving landscape of automotive technology.

SAIFULLAH SANAYE

is a Red Seal certified automotive technician, instructor and entrepreneur.

He was the recipient of the 2023 Premier’s Award in the Apprenticeship category and is known for his work in developing new EV diagnostic and repair for several colleges, including St. Lawrence College in Ontario, where he is a professor of automotive technology.

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ISSUE 23#1 | COLLISION REPAIR

45

WHO’S DRIVING

MODERN HEROES IN BUSINESS Don’t let your values be compromised in trying times

Column by JAY PERRY

I

n society, we have daily examples of heroism in our first responders, police, armed forces, front-line health workers and individuals in these groups do fantastic things for us with their heroic attitude.

I would also like to recognize some business leaders for heroics.

No, it isn’t the same as running into a burning building to save lives, but the risk in business, albeit very different, can still be quite overwhelming, especially when you “go against the grain.”

It’s odd that doing the right thing now counts as heroism in business.

With plenty of evidence around us of corruption and shadiness in business practice, inequitable treatment of varying stakeholders of a business, and many more things we see in the news, it is admirable to buck that slippery slope of a trend and do the right thing.

When someone sacrifices personal fortune to take care of staff by seeing they are secured by a decent paycheck, I’d call that heroic.

When someone has a vision of executing duties at the highest levels of professionalism and insists their people are sponsored for the training and the development work necessary to perform at such heights, I’d call that heroic.

When someone fights the temptation to short-cut safety, quality, or service levels to produce results customers can take delight in, I’d call that heroic.

We fight the idea that a “have and have-not” society is okay. We know it is not, as everyone deserves to be treated properly and receive an equal opportunity. Yet, how do we reward people that differentiate themselves by doing the day-to-day heroics it takes to run that small business or sales division or production facility in a no-compromise fashion?

I BELIEVE THAT IF MORE OF US CONGREGATE, COMMUNICATE, AND HELP EACH OTHER STAY IN THAT COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE, THERE WILL BE CLEAR WINNERS JUST AS THERE ALWAYS HAS BEEN. I think that history teaches us the answer in the fact that you have heard this saying more than once; “you only get what you pay for.” I believe that if more of us congregate, communicate, and help each other stay in that commitment to excellence, there will be clear winners just as there always has been.

Business today is tough, and I am not naive to think the challenges we face—some of which we have previously discussed as the “new normal” in a post-pandemic world—offer easy solutions. It takes faith that there will be proper rewards for those who stay the course and do the right thing. That is difficult in a world where we see some who are greedy receive more than their fair share, especially when considering abuses of power or influence to get ahead.

I believe that slowly those that are on the bleeding edge of proper business practice are winning more raving fans, dedicated employees and now, (the start of) appropriate compensation. I also see that at a minimum, they have been raising the bar for everyone they compete against. I think that attitude of no-compromise is the way you stay 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.

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HAMILTON Exciting News: Hamilton Warehouse Moves to Cutting-Edge Facility HAMILTON WAREHOUSE MOVE - 15 Ambitious Court, Hannon ON L0R 1P0

New State-of-the-Art Hamilton Warehouse: The Next Chapter We’re excited to announce that our Hamilton warehouse has relocated to a brand new, state-of-theart facility. Our previous location on Arvin Avenue was less than ideal, with a dull atmosphere that left much to be desired. Our new location, on the other hand, boasts ample natural light streaming in from several large windows. Our latest warehouse may be smaller in floor space, but its maximum height of 28ft makes up for it. The facility accommodates 13,000 ($624K) aftermarket/paint and 21,000 ($2.3M) salvage parts and is now home to 36 team members from all departments. We are thrilled to see what incredible things we can achieve in this new space!

Take a virtual tour of our facility through these snapshots:

Our management office corridor.

Our spacious boardroom, perfect for hosting. Our large, bright sales/customs area.

Our training room, a great space to collaborate and learn.

Our light and bright retail entrance.

Outside of LKQ Hamilton warehouse.

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LET’S GET TECHNICAL

BACK TO THE FUTURE Two steps forward and one step back

Column by STEFANO LIESSI

I

n 1899 there were three types of vehicles available to the public: steam, sion effects started to take hold. Remember pollution pumps on your petrol and electric. Yes, you read that correctly; electric, back in 1899. big block?! Enter the Third Industrial Revolution, the electronics and Given the challenges with carrying water for steam and the wait nuclear age, which segued into economical fuel-efficient engines and time for the system to heat up—not to mention the transferable energy exploratory research in the background on ‘battery powered vehicles’. to weight ratio—steam didn’t soar to the top of the popularity list. The Yes, the tables were beginning to turn, as it is sometimes inferred we internal combustion engine in its infancy was more like a bomb than an tend to repeat history in many ways. engine with its wondrous ‘hand crank’ startBy the 2000s—the ‘Fourth Revolution’—we ing feature. Not exactly user friendly in your see more focus on automation in the industrial THE ONLY CONSTANT IN LIFE Sunday best. Not to mention the cost factor. world with computers, AI, and robotics doing So, in this 1899 scenario, we are left with the work along with the work force moving IS CHANGE. CURRENTLY, WE electric vehicles. But who would want that?! into retail, banking, service, communications ARE SMACK IN THE MIDDLE Well, by the 19th century, the ‘EV’ accounted etc. The world is changing not only from a for over 40 percent of the vehicles on the humanities perspective but also an environOF THE FIFTH INDUSTRIAL roads—quelle surprise! Of course, advancemental front; enter, climate concerns.

REVOLUTION. ments in refinery technology began to see vast Why the brief history lesson? This is my improvements in bringing the price of fuel way of expressing that the only constant in down, not to mention the advancements in vehicle design—the Model life is change. You can see that over time, many factors influence ‘T’ in 1908 placed a focus on the practicality of gas over electric. Even change, and no one can predict the future, no one. As we progress, we back in the early 1900s, range anxiety was a thing. By 1915, popularity also adapt to our surroundings. Currently, we are smack in the middle in electric had plummeted. of the Fifth Industrial Revolution—albeit not so much ‘industrial,’ but Bigger, better, faster—the automotive industry flourished like a well- more technological. oiled machine. The second Industrial Revolution was going full swing, Yet, from this point, we see the resurgence of something from 1899–the minus the hiccup of the Great Depression. Then the fear of resource EV. A contentious issue for many, be it climate related or monetarily availability and depletion created the oil embargo and the fear of emis- related, not to mention the changing landscape of the collision repair

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LET’S GET TECHNICAL

world. This is, however, a reality that I have expressed on many occasions. There is a lot of negative propaganda spewing ideologies out there that fixate on some, in my opinion, less-than-educated viewpoints, but each to their own.

Reality states that if you look around, you see more and more of these EVs popping up. Has their development plateaued? Absolutely not. Toyota is working on developing solid state batteries that—on paper and in some trials—show promise. Could it erase the lithium-ion battery? Perhaps. How about advanced hybrids and hydrogen cell ZEVs? Will AI change the parameters, or will the parameters change the implementation of AI? Only time will tell. Are some of the manufactures scaling back? It would seem so, or are they just regrouping and making corrections based on research? Will the mandates be held to task? Or will we see a different political influence later?

Through conversation and some of the visceral propaganda that is fed to us online there is one component that is generally overlooked, this is a global initiative and not just Canada. Stats from Norway in 2020 claim that 75 percent of the vehicles purchased that year were plug-in electric. We are not Norway, so we are not there yet.

To shed a perspective: in 2017, one percent of total registrations in Canada were EVs; 2019, 2.9 percent; 2021, 5.3 percent. There is growth.

I wish my bank account had this type of growth.

Change happens exponentially, bringing with it turmoil and disruption. If the decimation of entities in all the related components to our industry are not managed—economic, employment, environment, process, etc.—then we will have major problems. It is wiser to manage now than to react later. In my opinion—and you are entitled to my opinion—if we look back to the future of 1899, we can say with certainty that change is inevitable. Adaptation is mandatory and the future is unpredictable.

With all of this at the forefront of tomorrow, do not put all your eggs in one basket, but also don’t ignore it. Someone, somewhere, right now, could be discovering something that may turn everything upside down as we read. Time is ticking, it never stops. Pay attention to your shop environment and what is in it and in the parking lot, take it all in stride one day at a time. I bet those in the 1800s that refused to see the progression were just as surprised by what the future held as you will soon be.

STEFANO LIESSI

is the Training and Curriculum coordinator for Color Compass Corporation. He is also a Red Seal technician, refinisher and the founder of Canadian Collision Specialist. Stefano enhances his 40 years of experience with 15 years of I-CAR instruction and a post-secondary degree. He also trains Skills Alberta students and has brought home 11 medals for the province, and taught high school students in the auto shop for six years.

He can be reached at sliessi@canadiancollisionspecialist.com.

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ISSUE 23#1 | COLLISION REPAIR

49

TOM’S TAKES

IS IT TIME FOR A NATIONAL AUTOBODY ACCREDITATION PROGRAM? Reflections and ponderings on industry enhancement

Column by TOM BISSONNETTE

M

ore than a dozen years ago, there was a committee at the Canadian Collision Industry Forum (CCIF) headed up by Jay Perry of Ally Business Coaching and Mike Mario of Regina Auto Body. The committee produced a fantastic concept for a National Autobody Accreditation program. I remember thinking that they had nailed it and had some great ideas to add a level of professionalism that our industry had never seen before.

Alas, for some reason the idea did not fly.

I am not sure why—but whatever the reason, I view this as an opportunity lost.

In Saskatchewan, under the leadership of my predecessor, Bill Ziebart, our provincial autobody association, the Saskatchewan Association of Automotive Repairers (SAAR) began working with our provincial insurer Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI) to raise the bar on what an accredited SGI bodyshop should look like. When I took over from Bill, SGI had already made some changes to the people it had in place to facilitate this new accreditation program. A key player was an engineer named Ciaran Downes who had previously been involved with SGI’s vehicle inspection branch, which was responsible for vehicle safety in the province.

50

When we started talking about the Safe Quality Auto Repair Program (SQARP), Ciaran immediately understood the significance of having a professionally trained and equipped autobody industry and explained it to his supervisor, Ryan Smith, the vice president of

they had been in business for many years and in their estimation, they were doing a great job. Being a government insurance company, you can bet that many shops called their local MLA complaining that SGI was putting them out of business.

AS IT STANDS, THE AUTOBODY REPAIR INDUSTRY IN NORTH AMERICA OPERATES WITH VARYING STANDARDS AND PRACTICES. THIS LACK OF STANDARDIZATION CAN LEAD TO INCONSISTENCIES IN REPAIR OUTCOMES, CUSTOMER DISSATISFACTION AND POTENTIAL SAFETY HAZARDS. Saskatchewan Auto Claims and Salvage. Although not from the autobody industry, Ryan is a car enthusiast, and he immediately understood the ramification of a poorly trained and equipped collision industry. I give these men credit for having the courage to move forward with implementing a new updated accreditation program for bodyshops in Saskatchewan.

Why was courage required? For reasons you can imagine. For one, many shops felt that SGI was picking on them even though

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How did they counteract the negative response? Quite simply, communication.

SGI arranged a series of town hall meetings throughout the entire province in the spring and summer of 2019. Ryan, Ciaran and their team embarked on this tour to explain in detail why it was important for shops to up their game and in terms of training, equipment and following OEM procedures. Ryan would open most of these meetings with the statement: “We cannot unknow what we now know regarding the

TOM’S TAKES

BENEFITS OF NATIONAL ACCREDITATION IN THE AUTOBODY INDUSTRY complexity of vehicle repairs, and the inability of many of our shops to properly repair these vehicles.”

To soften the impact of this new accreditation, SGI offered up to $15,000 to help shops meet the SQARP deadline that was originally set for April of 2020. Our provincial government stepped in and had the deadline extended until the fall of 2020.

When the dust settled our industry went from more than 250 certified shops to just over 200—a drop of 20 percent. I know it seems a bit harsh but what is the alternative? Should we just let unqualified shops continue to repair vehicles based on the way they think best?

As it stands, the autobody repair industry in North America operates with varying standards and practices. While there are industry certifications and training programs, there is no unified accreditation system that ensures a consistent level of quality and professionalism across the board. This lack of standardization can lead to inconsistencies in repair outcomes, customer dissatisfaction and potential safety hazards.

A national autobody accreditation program could serve as a comprehensive solution to address these challenges. Accreditation would involve a set of standards and guidelines that repair shops must meet to ensure they provide high-quality services. This could cover aspects such as technician training, equipment standards, OEM repair procedures, and customer service.

1. Consistency and Quality: A national accreditation program would establish a baseline for quality standards (OEM), ensuring that repairs are conducted consistently across the country. This would enhance the industry’s overall reputation for reliability and professionalism.

2. Consumer Confidence: Accreditation provides consumers with the assurance that their vehicles are being repaired by skilled professionals using the latest industry standards.

This increased confidence can lead to higher customer satisfaction and loyalty.

3. Safety: Standardized repair procedures and equipment requirements can contribute to improved safety outcomes. This is particularly crucial as vehicles incorporate advanced technologies that require specialized knowledge for proper repairs.

In addition to the autobody industry, accreditation programs could be extended to the auto glass and paintless dent repair sectors. These services are integral parts of the automotive repair ecosystem and play a vital role in vehicle safety and aesthetics.

1. Auto Glass Industry: Accreditation would ensure that technicians are trained to install and repair auto glass according to industry OEM guidelines. Properly installed auto glass is crucial for vehicle structural integrity and occupant safety.

2. P aintless Dent Repair Industry: Accreditation would set OEM standards for training and repair techniques. Bodyshops need to embrace paintless dent repair which is vital in promoting the use of environmentally friendly and cost-effective methods that provide less invasive repairs which save time and money.

The implementation of a national autobody accreditation program in North America could revolutionize the automotive repair industry. By establishing consistent standards, this initiative would not only enhance the quality of autobody repairs but also improve customer satisfaction and safety. Including the auto glass and paintless dent repair industries in such a program

would further solidify its impact, creating a more cohesive and professional automotive repair landscape.

Let us hope that discussions continue and that stakeholders should collaborate to develop a comprehensive accreditation framework that benefits the entire automotive repair ecosystem.

Everyone should win.

TOM BISSONNETTE

is the director of the Saskatchewan Association of Automotive Repairers (SAAR). Tom’s Tales is a series of Collision Repair magazine articles chronicling his journey through the collision industry, since 1982. Besides telling his story, Tom hopes that today’s shopowners and managers can learn from his victories—and his mistakes.

ISSUE 23#1 | COLLISION REPAIR

51

ELECTRIC AVENUE

SAFE PRACTICES ON RESPONSIBLE BATTERY HANDLING Reducing the risks of used EV battery fires Column by JOSEPH CHUNG

A

chieving Canada’s greenhouse gas reduction targets relies heavily on the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs). In 2017, fewer than 17,000 EVs were sold in Canada. By the next year, that number had doubled and in 2022, more than 114,000 new EVs took to Canadian streets. The Canadian government is throwing its support behind this shift with billions of dollars in production incentives.

Regardless of the battery type, every battery eventually loses its charge. As a result, in the next decade and beyond, we will see a staggering number of EV batteries reach the end of life (EOL) stage. As our government and governments worldwide focus on strategies to reduce our dependence on raw materials and develop strong circular economies, battery recycling— and EV battery recycling in particular—will be central to these efforts.

An EV battery may follow any one of several pathways at the end of its life, including repair, remanufacturing, resale and repurposing, but each pathway ultimately leads to recycling. The number of EV battery recycling processors has more than doubled in the past five years.

It is advised to keep damaged EV batteries, or any EOL batteries, outdoors. Do not store them indoors, advises Chung.

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That’s because the components in an EOL battery—like lithium, cobalt, graphite, copper and aluminum—are still viable. Extracting these same raw components from the earth is comparatively financially and environmentally costly. Moreover, Canadian waste regulations prevent the disposal of large EV batteries in landfills, where they can leach chemicals into groundwater and affect the surrounding soil.

Battery recycling is, to put it bluntly, a no-brainer, as the battery components can be used to create new batteries and other products, such as stainless steel appliances, golf clubs, bicycles and more.

The benefits of battery recycling are clear, but some recent high-profile reports of EV battery fires and electric vehicle recalls related to fire risks may have auto industry professionals who routinely handle or store batteries concerned about their safety. Every energy source comes with some risk, and with the large currents associated with EV batteries, a little worry is understandable. However, when EV batteries are properly maintained, stored and handled, thermal incidents are exceedingly rare.

THE MAJORITY OF THERMAL INCIDENTS OCCUR BECAUSE THE BATTERY HAS BEEN DAMAGED, ALTERED OR IT IS SUB-STANDARD AND NOT AN APPROVED BATTERY FOR THE DEVICE.

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ELECTRIC AVENUE

The majority of thermal incidents occur because the battery has been damaged, altered or it is sub-standard and not an approved battery for the device. Check all EV batteries for punctures, cracks, signs of leaking, water damage or corrosion at the terminals.

SAFEKEEPING OF EV BATTERIES The majority of thermal incidents occur because the battery has been damaged, altered or it is sub-standard and not an approved battery for the device. Check all EV batteries for punctures, cracks, signs of leaking, water damage or corrosion at the terminals. Signs that the battery has been opened and worked on or other unusual features, like loose wires, can also increase the likelihood of a thermal reaction.

If any of these are present in a battery you are handling, Call2Recycle can help with the safe removal and disposal of the battery.

When storing EV batteries for recycling, check that the battery is from a reputable original equipment manufacturer (OEM.) OEMs exercise strict control over material quality, proper venting and heat transfer pathways in their batteries to create well-designed, safe energy sources. Non-OEM-rated batteries may not be subject to such engineering and

rigorous testing, increasing the likelihood of ignition and potential damage or injury and often do not have proper battery management systems. Exercising extra care with non-OEM rated batteries is advised.

Whenever possible, do not store EV batteries indoors and keep isolated outdoors. Ensure that the terminals have proper protection and do not come into contact with metal or other battery terminals, which, regardless of EOL status, can cause sparks. Spacing batteries apart to minimize the risk of a thermal event and keeping a clear perimeter around the stored batteries is also advised.

Battery recycling allows us to maximize the end-of-life applications of EV battery components. Safe collection and storage is a critical part of this process. As long as EV batteries are managed using these best practices and then recycled through programs like Call2Recycle, they will continue to provide a safe, effective and renewable source of energy.

AN EV BATTERY MAY FOLLOW ANY ONE OF SEVERAL PATHWAYS AT THE END OF ITS LIFE, INCLUDING REPAIR, REMANUFACTURING, RESALE AND REPURPOSING, BUT EACH PATHWAY ULTIMATELY LEADS TO RECYCLING.

JOSEPH CHUNG

leads the Account Management team at Call2Recycle Canada. With 26 years of account management experience, he is responsible for all account partner programs to improve awareness and access to end-of-life battery recycling. Joseph leads Call2Recycle Canada’s eMobility and EV battery recycling activity, collaborating with automotive manufacturing and battery recycling industries to provide end-toend EV battery services and support the booming growth of the Canadian EV industry.

ISSUE 23#1 | COLLISION REPAIR 53

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BRITISH COLUMBIA | REGIONAL NEWS

TESLA TOUCHES DOWN North America’s largest purpose-built Tesla service facility will be constructed in Vancouver’s Strathcona district.

In late December, Tesla announced a partnership with local developer Beedie to build the facility at 950 Raymur Avenue on a 1.6-acre vacant industrial site at the southeast corner of Prior Street and Raymur Avenue.

The new facility will be 11,148 sq.m. (120,000 square feet) and will provide servicing, vehicle preparation, delivery operations and a showroom.

According to Tesla, this will be the company’s most expansive service centre with the largest service capacity in Western Canada.

Construction on the facility is expected to begin in early 2024 for completion in early 2026.

When complete, the new purpose-built facility is expected to replace the nearby existing service centre which is within an industrial building at 901 Great Northern Way. Tesla also has a partnership with Bosa Properties to build a new purpose-built delivery and service centre at a vacant 7.5-acre site at 1032 Nicola Avenue in Port Coquitlam, B.C. This site will be a 5,500 sq. m. (60,000-square-foot) facility with a vehicle parking capacity for about 650 stalls.

Tesla is making these further developments in Metro Vancouver as the city is home to some of North America’s highest rates of battery-electric vehicle adoption.

MOVING TO THE MALL Kirmac Collision and Autoglass has announced its acquisition of Automall Autobody in Abbotsford. This acquisition marks Kirmac’s 17th location in the Metro Vancouver market.

According to a recent press release, the Abbotsford region was chosen because it is a growing community located one hour from downtown Vancouver and because it is conveniently located inside the Fraser Valley Automall.

“We are very happy to welcome Automall Autobody to the Kirmac family,” said Sean McIntosh, Kirmac’s President. “This location has been on our radar for many years, and we are excited to finally establish our presence in Abbotsford. Randy Baerg built a fantastic operation, and we look forward to building on the great reputation he and his dedicated team established.”

Automall Autobody currently holds OEM certifications from General Motors, Ford, Toyota, Honda, Acura, Hyundai, Genesis, Nissan, Fiat-Chrysler and Kia.

This acquisition marks Kirmac’s 17th location in the Metro Vancouver market

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REGIONAL NEWS | ALBERTA

EXPANDING THRESHOLD EXPECTATIONS The Alberta government plans to raise the damage threshold beyond which motorists in a collision must report to police from $2,000 to $5,000.

Transportation Minister Devin Dreeshen said that this move will free up police resources and will also better reflect the rising cost of auto parts and repair services.

Numbers from the Insurance Bureau of Canada indicate that in 2022, the average property damage collision claim in Alberta was $6,756.

Alongside individual driver rates, the commercial carrier collision reporting threshold will also be increasing to $5,000 in the new year.

Last August, the Edmonton Police Service announced it was partnering with a private company to open a pair of collision reporting centres in the city where staff would assist drivers through the process of filing a police report.

Edmonton police will respond to calls to more serious collisions, including those involving a fatality, serious personal injury, criminal activity, or uninsured or suspended drivers.

Apart from the two Edmonton locations, collision reporting centres are also found in Spruce Grove, Grande Prairie, Lethbridge and Medicine Hat. Calgary Police Service has its system of reporting collisions at district police offices.

Future increases to the collision reporting threshold will be adjusted for inflation based on annual calculations using the Statistic Canada Consumer Price Index, said the Albertan government.

REV UP THE GIVING SEASON CARSTAR Red Deer and CARSTAR Red Deer South recently donated $5,000 to the Red Deer Christmas Bureau and Red Deer Food Bank for the holiday season.

With 2023’s contributions, CARSTAR Red Deer and CARSTAR Red Deer South have donated a total of over $40,000 since 2003.

Moreover, in 2023, the two shops increased their annual donation to celebrate the 20th anniversary of supporting these organizations as well as with the goal of tackling the fact that inflation costs across Alberta have left many families in greater need of food and supplies.

The Red Deer Christmas Bureau is a non-profit organization established over 60 years ago to help children and their families in need at Christmas. The organization’s community initiatives like the “stuff-a-bus” campaign aim to provide families with a full Christmas meal and for parents to be able to provide toys for their children.

“Our shop owner always lets us know that giving back to the community isn’t possible without the work we do,” said Jorge Moreno, journeyman refinish technician. “I’m proud to be part of the team and a company that does go the extra effort to give back and help out those in need, especially during the holiday season!”

For the holiday season, CARSTAR Canada also rolled out a national campaign, CARSTAR Drive to Donate, encouraging shop owners from across the country to donate to their local food banks.

CARSTAR Red Deer and CARSTAR Red Deer South have donated a total of over $40,000 to local charities since 2003.

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SASKATCHEWAN | REGIONAL NEWS

A STICKY SITUATION A simple denibbing is nothing compared to what one Saskatchewan woman is going through after her vehicle was covered in tar from unmarked highway construction.

The driver, Melinda Lee was driving west of Biggar when she approached a construction vehicle with no signs indicating that road work was being done further ahead.

Lee told CTV News that both sides of the single-lane road were being repaved, but that the construction worker in a signaling vehicle had waved her through, and so she ended up driving on the fresh blacktop.

According to Lee, there was no signage indicating work was being done.

In an email to CTV News on November 10, the Ministry of Highways placed blame on a private contractor it claimed was doing work without signs or a flag person in the area of the incident. However, on the following Tuesday, the ministry sent a follow-up message where it retracted its initial claim, saying the contractor it named, Venture Construction, had nothing to do with the incident.

Lee was given a damage estimate for her vehicle of $12,000 to replace the rear window covered in tar and she feels that she shouldn’t have to use her insurance to pay for the damages because the incident was out of her control.

An SGI spokesperson who was contacted for a comment on the event said that “a customer could either pay out of pocket or have damages covered by a third party responsible going through the small claims court process.”

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REGIONAL NEWS | MANITOBA

FIFTY-FIVE ALIVE Portage Collegiate Institute (PCI) has received a $55,000 skills enhancement grant that has supplied the school with two welding booths and a welding system.

Automotive instructor at PCI, Sean Benedictson says that the school applied for a Skill Strategy Enhancement Equipment Fund (SSEEF) grant in 2022 through the province of Manitoba.

Benedictson said his students and PCI’s automotive program says they have likely done more welding since they got the system since the school year began than the last entire five years. He notes that once students have been trained and know how to set up the systems properly, if they want to weld on any given day, they ask and there’s no extra set-up required.

He further explained that Grade 10s at PCI in the automotive program begin welding toward the end of their term while Grade 11s work with the tech consistently throughout the semester.

The SSEEF grant is applied for annually in the province and, if successful, supplies the winning school with things they want for their program that are on their ‘wish list.’ Specifically, the grant is for equipment that enhances any given program of the winning institution’s choice.

“We received two Diversitech Clean Air workstations.” says Benedictson. “They’re a booth that’s lit that has a downdraft in them, allowing kids to weld without any fumes coming at them. So, if they have things like asthma or something like that, they can weld and it’s not going to affect them as much, for sure.”

The funding also purchased them as new multi-process welder, and the wiring for the installation, which was a significant portion of the cost.

6

The clean air workstations were a little above $10,000 each,” said PCI automotive instructor Sean Benedictson in reference to the SSEEF grant. “The welder was just over $5,000 and the wiring was about $20,000

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ONTARIO | REGIONAL NEWS

ELECTRIFYING CURRICULUM Students at St. Anne Catholic High School in the Lakeshore region are the first in Canada to receive and utilize a Switch electric vehicle kit.

This learning tool allows students to assemble and disassemble a fully-functional three-wheeled vehicle powered by a 96-volt lithium-ion battery.

“Everything is open and exposed so that the students can see all of the components,” said Gianni Pizzuto, the automotive teacher at St. Anne.

Students in Pizzuto’s automotive class will have a full semester to put the Switch vehicle together and eventually test it out in the school’s parking lot.

Once the semester has ended, the vehicle will be taken apart for the next group of students to use the following semester.

Equipped with a 108-hp motor, the Switch is capable of accelerating from zero to 95 km/h in six seconds—although Pizzuto notes that students will not be reaching top speeds when testing out the vehicle. The charge capacity of the vehicle’s battery limits its range to around 65 km as well.

EV programming and testing is now a part of Pizzuto’s curriculum, along with basic automotive principles such as braking and steering systems and suspension.

Pizzuto notes that the Switch is more of a trainer vehicle, but that it can be registered and driven.

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ISSUE 23#1 | COLLISION REPAIR

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REGIONAL NEWS | ONTARIO

MAKING MILESTONES Support Ontario Youth (SOY), a government-supported apprenticeship group has announced the registration of 500 apprentices of the skilled trades.

The mission of SOY is to streamline the apprenticeship pathway in Ontario by advocating for apprentices and supporting their careers while also providing full support to employers. One of SYO’s aims is to save employers time and money by connecting them with highquality candidates who can succeed with their companies.

“I can’t believe we are at 500 apprentices. What an awesome accomplishment and such amazing growth. We couldn’t have reached this milestone without the support of our dedicated team, apprentices, mentors, and partners,” said Melanie Winter – Executive Director of Support Ontario Youth. “Their unwavering support has paved the way for countless people to kickstart their careers and has strengthened Ontario’s skilled trades industry as a whole.”

LOGISTICAL LEAKS In a discreet video taken by a Kia employee during a meeting between a Kia Canada regional manager and Ontario dealer reps, the Korea-based automaker announced plans to withhold year-end vehicle deliveries to dealerships.

As described in the video, the reason for this delay—which affected dealerships in Ontario and possibly dealerships across all of Canada—was reportedly an effort from the automaker to secure marketing funds from Kia headquarters in 2024 by reducing sales numbers.

To do this, vehicles were to be withheld and instead kept on manufacturer compounds in storage rather than delivered to customers.

In the video of the meeting, the Kia Canada regional manager said that “with the global slowdown, Kia Canada wants to control wholesale and retail performance in 2023, [and] to not show high overachievement.”

Dealer reps have responded negatively to this plan saying that the move “shows a complete lack of respect for every dealer in Canada and our customers”—many of whom have been waiting for over a year for a vehicle.

Kia dealer reps have been informed to tell customers who complain about the issue that the blame can be placed on “logistical issues” and shipping delays.

In a video of the meeting, the Kia Canada regional manager says that “with the global slowdown, Kia Canada wants to control wholesale and retail performance in 2023, [and] to not show high overachievement.”

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ONTARIO | REGIONAL NEWS

PROACTIVE PLAN PROPOSING The Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRA) is releasing its first Auto Insurance Supervision Plan to promote public trust between drivers and insurers.

The plan, which came into effect beginning January 2024, includes three key areas of supervision for auto insurers over 15 months.

These key areas include sale and distribution factors to ensure drivers receive the lowest quote and information is provided to consumers in a clear and timely manner; underwriting factors to eliminate potential discriminatory practices affecting higher-risk customers; and policy servicing factors to ensure claims are processed in a timely, fair and transparent manner as well as to review the number and type of complaints against insurers.

The FSRA will take a risk-based approach to selecting insurers for examination under the newly proposed plan.

The implementation of the 2023-2025 Auto Supervision Plan builds on the progress FSRA has made with its multi-year Take-All-Comers Thematic Review to ensure all consumers have fair and timely access to auto insurance.

The FSRA expects insurers to review the plan and other relevant publications to ensure they are complying with the law and other regulatory expectations.

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ISSUE 23#1 | COLLISION REPAIR

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REGIONAL NEWS | QUEBEC

PULLING NEW SKILLS CamAuto Pro recently hosted an open house at its Quebec training facility, where industry experts Gene Fetty and Charles Aoun conducted a comprehensive training session on paintless dent repair (PDR) and glue pull repair (GPR). The training aimed to equip participants with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their respective fields.

The training session was divided into two parts, with Fetty leading the PDR portion and Aoun taking charge of the GPR segment.

Participants learned about different tools, dent assessment methods and hands-on repair techniques.

In the GPR portion, participants gained a deeper understanding of how to use GPR equipment for subsurface imaging and detection, including locating utilities, assessing pavement conditions, and identifying structural anomalies.

At the end of the training session, three groups of enthusiastic students successfully completed the courses and received qualification certificates. These certificates affirm their competence and readiness to apply their newly acquired skills in real-world scenarios.

Gene Fetty, who led the PDR training session, is a renowned PDR specialist, instructor and president of DentRepairNow.com. Charles Aoun, who led the GPR training segment is a highly experienced GPR professional with years of experience.

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ATLANTIC | REGIONAL NEWS

A KIA FOR CHRISTMAS For the last 20 years, CSN Collision Clinic has celebrated the holiday season by awarding a deserving resident a freshly reconditioned free car.

The facility awarded this year’s winner—Liubov Hrysiuk and her family—with a reconditioned 2021 Kia Forte X, winter tires, car insurance for a full year and a few extra gifts for Hrysiuk’s children, Sofia and Sviatoslav.

Hrysiuk moved from Ukraine to St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador in March 2023. Since then, she’s faced many transportation challenges navigating public transit, two jobs and life as a mother of two. Coincidentally, Hrysiuk’s public transportation pass expired the very same day she won her new vehicle.

She said her new car makes her feel more independent and safe.

“I want to apply for permanent residency, and I need to keep some money in my account for this. Having my insurance covered is a big help, knowing this is one less bill I will have to worry about.”

Hrysiuk said, in addition to using the vehicle to travel to and from work, she hopes to enroll her son in hockey.

“My son is interested and I want to give him the chance to play,” she said. “Now I will be able to bring him where he needs to go without lugging him on the bus or relying on others.”

CSN Collision Clinic President Glenn Hickey called Hrysiuk’s story “truly inspiring.” “I am proud, lucky and happy to contribute to the changes in the lives of our people and community,” he said in reference to the event.

NEW TO NOVA SCOTIA Simplicity Car Care has announced its expansion to Nova Scotia, marking the seventh province the network offers its services.

In the announcement post, Simplicity Car Care wrote that they are “very excited to announce that we’ve opened our first location in Nova Scotia! Our team is ready to help Nova Scotians get back on the road sooner with our fast and affordable car care service.”

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LAST WORD

ADVERTISER INDEX

REINVENTING THE WHEEL

It may not be that drastic, but it’s time to talk

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By ALLISON ROGERS

A

nyone who has spent more than a day working in the collision repair industry knows how complex it can be. Heck, less than a day in a shop could have a newcomer’s head spinning. Some bystanders probably get stressed just hearing you take a work-related phone call.

The automotive industry advances at a rapid rate—we all know that. New models pop up every year; procedures and accompanying repair processes can be refreshed almost daily, in some cases. The collision industry is left to tinker with the new models;

vous at our SEMA booth last November.

We only had so much space to gather on the SEMA floor—this meeting, held at Pfaff Autoworks’ sprawling facility in Markham, Ontario, offered a much grander scale for shop owners and managers to meet, mingle and dive into the thick of industry-leading topics. The sheer magnitude of the ideas shared at both meet-ups, however, remained the same.

If it was not apparent before, it is even clearer by the conversations I witnessed that Saturday in January that plenty of in-

IF IT WAS NOT APPARENT BEFORE, IT IS EVEN CLEARER

BY THE CONVERSATIONS I WITNESSED THAT SATURDAY IN JANUARY THAT PLENTY OF INDUSTRY MEMBERS ARE HUNGRY FOR CHANGE—COLLABORATIVE CHANGE. the changes presented by outside forces— and they do so in stride.

Despite these challenges—almost exclusively known in the industry as mere “hurdles”—you’d be pressed to find a bad attitude regarding the situation. In fact, you’d be particularly stumped to find a negative mindset in the room of collision repair leaders at the first in-person meeting of the Canadian Council of Collision Repairers at the start of this year.

This meeting, which brought more than 50 shop owners and managers, in addition to several OEM representatives, took place on January 13. It was the first time the association met since its establishment nearly a year ago, though a crew of about 25 shop owners did previously gather for a rendez-

dustry members are hungry for change— collaborative change. They want nothing more than to tackle the issues we face—and tackle them together. There are ideas, very good ones, that could lead to real, concrete change in the industry, in everyone’s favour.

Our publisher, Darryl Simmons, puts it best in his note at the outset of this publication: you, the shops, have the capacity; you have the drive. Now, it’s about coming together as an entire industry, finding what needs to be done and doing it. It sounds big—daunting and huge, even. But these conversations can happen if we’re all on the same page, at least the same chapter.

The seeds for change have been sown.

Let’s cultivate them and watch the garden grow.

Rust Check......................... 15 Sata.................................... 43 Simplicity Car Care............ 07 Thorold Auto Parts............. 65

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Allison Rogers is the editor of Collision Repair magazine.

She can be reached at allison@mediamatters.ca.

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