MIXED MATERIALS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
WELDING ADVANCES
What’s new and what’s next.
BIGGER,
FUTURE TECH
BETTER,
Debuts and concepts at the Canadian International Auto Show.
BRANDED
GOLDEN YEAR
Mike Randev and Raghbir Gill are in expansion mode at Fix Auto Calgary North East.
I-CAR boosted the industry in 2014.
PLUS
Flavio Battilana of CSN on the network’s future, repairability focused at CCIF Toronto, Rotary Lift’s new LockLight, and much, much more!
CRM SIVE: EXCLU TIVE EXECU VISION
Volume 14, Number 2
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April 2015
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$4.95
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Canada Post Canadian Publications Mail Sales Product Agreement No. 40841632 l 86 John Street, Thornhill, ON L3T 1Y2
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CONTENTS
On The cover
Volume 14 Issue 2, April 2015
37 the bigger picture Mike Randev and Raghbir Gill of Fix Auto Calgary North East are working towards a shared vision.
features 26 Surveys and Polls Readers weigh in on mission statements, soft skills, and workplace theft. 40 executive vision Flavio Battilana of CSN on seeing the industry as a commodity provider.
51
45 better bonding The latest advancements in welding systems provide a preview of what’s to come. 2014 was a banner year for I-CAR , including the launch of F-150 training.
42
48 in the mix Multi-material vehicles are setting the tone for the industry’s future.
NEWS 08 COLLISION REPAIR 54 Towing & Recovery 57 RECYCLING
20
departments
CCIF Toronto focuses on repairability.
Mitchell Road Show lands in Vancouver.
On the Cover: Mike Randev and Raghbir Gill of Fix Auto Calgary North East. Photography by mike davey.
MIXED MATERIALS: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
WELDING ADVANCES
What’s new and what’s next.
FUTURE TECH
Debuts and concepts at the Canadian International Auto Show.
GOLDEN YEAR
I-CAR boosted the industry in 2014.
BIGGER, BETTER,
BRANDED Mike Randev and Raghba Gill are in expansion mode at Fix Auto Calgary North East.
PLUS
Flavio Battilana of CSN on the network’s future, repairability focused at CCIF Toronto, Rotary Lift’s new LockLight, and much, much more!
YOUR ONLINE SOURCE
Canada’s collision repair information resource. New articles and top news stories daily. Visit www.collisionrepairmag.com.
COLLISIONREPAIRMAG.COM
HAVE YOUR SAY. We welcome your comments on anything you see in Collision Repair magazine. Send your feedback to editor@collisionrepairmag.com.
06 Publisher’s page by Darryl Simmons Seller’s market. 30 Point Blank by Sam Piercey True partnerships. 32 Prairie view by Tom Bissonnette Lending a hand. 34 Who’s driving? by Jay Perry Balancing act. 64 Recycling by David Gold Riding the storm. 66 Last word by Mike Davey The curse of indifference.
april 2015 collision Repair 05
publisher’s page
seller’smarket What happens when demand outstrips supply? PUBLISHER DARRYL SIMMONS (905) 370-0101 publisher@collisionrepairmag.com
By Darryl Simmons
T
he number of collision repair facilities is on the decline. This is nothing new, but a trend that has been in progress for at least the last decade. We all know the primary driver of this was simply overcapacity. There were too many collision centres seeking too few repair orders. In this sort of situation, it’s almost inevitable that the sheer number of service providers will decline. Many operators will either sell out or be forced to close in those circumstances. That’s precisely what happened. However, I also think there’s another layer to this that has also resulted in more shop closures. Many operators elected to look
It’s entirely possible, perhaps even likely, that the total number of facilities in the industry will continue to shrink. I think it’s absolutely certain that the sheer number of owners will shrink as well, driven by acquisitions and/or retirement. Eventually, there will come a tipping point where the repair capacity is roughly equal to the amount of work. Perhaps it’s better to think of it as a balance point. In any case, this would change the entire dynamic of the collision repair industry enormously. The collision repair industry has essentially been a buyer’s market for a very long time. This is always the case when there’s more of something than people
this would change the entire dynamic of the industry. very carefully at their processes and see how they could be made more efficient back when they first noticed that the capacity for collision repair services was far outstripping demand. It’s a natural reaction to realizing you’ve got a lot of competition: look for ways to differentiate yourself and do everything you can to bring the work in better, faster, and cheaper than ever before. In other words, a realization that there was excess capacity drove many repairers to effectively increase their capacity. Over the years, this effect has combined with other factors to drive yet more facilities to close their doors. As an industry, we lost a lot of facilities, while the ones that remained in operation became ever more efficient and productive. This process is still going on at the level of the individual operator. Consolidation also plays a significant role, both by acting as an exit strategy in some cases, and simply by allowing operators to share efficiencies in others.
actually need. Bananas, real estate, collision repair services ... when there’s too much, the price drops. Compare the alternative, when there’s to o little. Prices skyro cket, and we have what’s sometimes called a seller’s market. That’s great if you’re a seller, but only as long as it lasts. Stability is likely better in the long term for all parties. We’re all better off when there’s enough to go around, but not so much that we’re drowning in it. It also helps bring some equality to the relationship. It’s difficult to negotiate with someone on an equal footing if they hold all the power. A world where all needs are met is one worth striving for. CRM
06 collision Repair collisionrepairmag.com
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR MIKE DAVEY editor@collisionrepairmag.com ART DIRECTOR Candace Taylor candace@mediamatters.ca Assistant eDITOR MELISSA HAYES melissa@mediamatters.ca VP Industry Relations & Advertising GLORIA MANN (647) 998-5677 advertising@collisionrepairmag.com director of sales & Marketing ellen Smith (416) 312-7446 ellen@mediamatters.ca Marketing Assistant WILL JACQUES will@mediamatters.ca Intern aleecia Cameron COLUMNISTS & CONTRIBUTORS Dana alexander, TOM BISSONNETTE, DAVID GOLD, JAY PERRY, SAM PIERCEY
SUBSCRIPTION One-year $29.95 / Two-year $55.95 Collision Repair™ magazine is published bi-monthly, 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 with out 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, statements appearing in this publication are those of the writers and editors themselves, and are in no way to be construed as statements, positions or endorsements by the publisher. PRINTED IN CANADA ISSN 1707-6072 CANADA POST CANADIAN PUBLICATIONS MAIL SALES PRODUCT AGREEMENT No. 40841632 RETURN POSTAGE GUARANTEED Send change of address notices and undeliverable copies to: 86 John Street Thornhill, ON L3T 1Y2
We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage.
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Collision Repair magazine is published by Media Matters Inc., publishers of:
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PROFESSIONAL
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People on the move Sam Mercanti, CEO of CARSTAR Automotive Canada, has announced the appointment of Michael Macaluso as P r e s i d e n t o f C AR S TAR A u t o m o t i v e Canada, Lisa Mercanti-Ladd as Executive Vice President and MJ Marshall as Chief Financial Officer. Dennis Concordia, Michael VP HR, will conMacaluso. tinue to support the Executive Team with a continued focus on organizational effectiveness. Macaluso will report directly to Sam Mercanti. Mercanti-Ladd and Marshall will continue to report to Michael Macaluso. As President, Macaluso will continue to lead the overall strategic direction and day to day management of CARSTAR and its more than 215 locations. CARSTAR has also announced the appointment of Michel Guerette to the position of Business Performance Specialist. Guerette has been retained by CARSTAR to initially work with its Multi-CARSTAR Store Owner (MCSO) group consisting of 35 owners operating over 85 locations across the country. The MCSO group has been meeting for over seven years, b u t C AR S T AR says the addit i o n o f G u e re t t e will bring a new dimension with a strategic focus on financial metrics, operational Peter Richardson. metrics, business excellence, and performance. Car-O-Liner has announced the promotion of Peter Richardson to Director of National Accounts. Richardson has acted as the company’s Key Accounts Manager since 2013, working closely with OEM and MSO partners across North America to discuss their needs and offer solutions. “Through Peter’s collaboration, we have solidified our connection with valued key accounts,” says Jeff Kern, Car-O-Liner
President of the Americas. “Building our partnership with the OEM and MSO acc o u n t s i s c r u c i a l t o e n s u re o u r t o t a l solutions for OEM approved repairs contribute to a safe repair process. We are committed to expanding our participation within these programs and look forward to continued growth and success.” Carrossier ProColor has appointed Mario Lépine as the company’s new Conformity and Quality Manager. Lépine has held various positions in the field, including with major insurance companies. Most recently, he acted as coordinator Mario Lépine. and expert consultant for norms and practices in automotive estimation for the Groupement des assureurs automobiles (GAA). Lépine also possesses several years of experience working in a collision repair centre. In his new role at Carrossier ProColor, Lépine will support and optimize the estimation process within the network’s repair facilities to ensure that insurance norms and practices are closely fol lowed. Furthermore, he will become the network’s main resource for insurers and collision repair centres in need of technical assistance. Fix Auto Canada has announced the addition of Ian Ward as Director of Sales for Ontario. Wa rd j o i n s F i x Auto with over 25 years of industry experience, most recently with Progi as a member of its sales and service Ian team in English Ward. speaking Canada. His extensive background ranges from working for insurers and software suppliers to the automotive claims industry. With a degree in economics from Brock University, Ward is a Fellow Chartered Insurance Professional and also holds a CRM designation.
08 collision Repair collisionrepairmag.com
Angie, Eddie, I have exciting news. My newest labour saving device is going to revolutionize collision repair!
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The doc’s inventions always have some sort of fatal flaw.
What’s the matter?
Eddie, I assure you that absolutely nothing can go wrong.
I believe you. I’m just going to go put on a helmet for no reason.
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Regional news
British Columbia
Craftsman Collision stands with police for Pink Shirt Day Craftsman Collision and the West Vancouver Police Department have teamed up to stand united against bullying, and to get the message “Bullying Stops Here” out to the community of West Vancouver as part of Pink Shirt Day, an international event that seeks to end bullying. “On behalf of Craftsman Collision and our over 500 employees, we would like to thank the West Vancouver Police Department for providing us with the opportunity to sponsor their Community Services vehicle for Anti Bullying Day,” says Stacey Cook, Marketing Manager for Craftsman Collision. “We are privileged to work alongside the WVPD and West Vancouver School District, to do our small part in helping stop bullying and give back to our community.” Pink Shirt Day originated here in Canada in the town of Berwick, Nova Scotia. The original event was organized by David Shepherd, who in 2007 bought and distributed 50 pink shirts after male ninth grade student Charles McNeill was bullied for wearing a pink shirt during the first day of school. Since 2007, this one simple gesture has grown and has now become Anti Bullying Day and is recognized by over 25 countries worldwide, such as the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom.
Craftsman sponsored this special Community Services vehicle for Pink Shirt Day.
One out of four children will be bullied during their adolescence, and most of the time it continues after the first incident. Please visit pinkshirtday.ca for more information.
ICBC releases most interesting frauds of 2014 The Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) has rounded up its top fraud files of 2014. ICBC states that approximately 10 to 15 percent of insurance claims contain an element of fraud or exaggeration. The coverage conspiracy A customer with only basic insurance and an expired driver’s licence rear-ended another vehicle. The customer asked the other driver to say it happened a day later so she could buy optional insurance. The other driver refused. The underinsured customer then bought optional insurance on her way home. Using the other driver’s statement to ICBC and time-stamped insurance transaction data, ICBC denied her claim. The telltale airbag A customer who was prohibited from driving claimed his vehicle had been stolen at the time it was involved in a three-vehicle crash. Forensic testing of residue on the vehicle’s driver side airbag revealed a DNA match to the customer and proved he was in fact the driver at the time of the crash.
scene. Damage to the customer’s vehicle was not consistent with a hit-and-run and paint flecks matching the customer’s Honda Civic were actually found embedded in a vehicle from another hit-and-run claim. When confronted with these pieces of evidence, the driver of the Honda Civic admitted to making a false claim, as he had in fact fled the crash scene after his vehicle struck another. The traveller’s tale A woman told ICBC she had a long-term injury from a crash, including ongoing neck pain and headaches. ICBC’s special investigation unit found a blog written by her and chronicling a six-month motorcycle trip through South America that included drives on extremely rough terrain, showing her injuries weren’t as severe as she claimed.
The torched lemon A customer reported his truck was stolen at a movie theatre. The vehicle was recovered, burnt. Further investigation into the customer’s cellphone records revealed that he was at the scene where the burnt vehicle was found. The customer pled guilty to providing a false statement.
The ill-thought impersonation A Vancouver police officer observed a driver talking on his cellphone while driving and pulled him over to discover the driver had received a 90-day driving prohibition two days earlier. The driver was charged with driving while prohibited, ticketed for driving while using a cellphone and received a one-year driving prohibition.The customer next obtained an interim driver’s licence using a friend’s identity and transferred his vehicle into his friend’s name. Using facial recognition software, ICBC identified the driver as impersonating his friend. The driver pled guilty to impersonation, a Criminal Code offence.
The hit-and-run victim A customer told ICBC his Honda Civic was parked outside his home when it was struck by an unknown vehicle that fled the
ICBC urges the public to report suspicious, exaggerated, or potentially fraudulent claims to ICBC’s fraud tips line at 1-800-661-6844. Tip information is confidential and callers can remain anonymous.
10 collision Repair collisionrepairmag.com
Regional news
Alberta CARSTAR expands in alberta CARSTAR Automotive Canada is pleased to announce the addition of CARSTAR Sherwood Park located at 167 Provincial Avenue in Sherwood Park, Alberta. This new, state-of-the-art 24,000 sq. ft. collision centre will be one of the largest in the Edmonton and surrounding area. Built to reduce its environmental footprint, the centre features LED lighting, a paperless office, and sophisticated internet-controlled air quality systems. The owners of C ARSTAR Sherwood Park bring an eclectic and impressive mix of skill-sets to the business. Prior to his collision industry experience, Anton Wootliff worked for over three years with Fortune 500 companies in Silicon Valley, in a senior capacity where his focus was on customer-centric solutions. His wife, Susan Wootliff, who is the centre’s office manager, is detail-oriented and versed in CARSTAR’s Quality Systems which will help her manage both the customer and insurer relationships. Two more individuals round out this group of franchise owners. With a strong entrepreneurial background, Ming Xu will focus on innovative business solutions, while Max Brandon, as a knowledge en-
The team at CARSTAR Sherwood Park.
g i n e e r, w i l l s p e c i a l i z e i n s t re a m l i n i n g processes. The partners say they were challenged with finding the right fit for their philosophy and culture until they made contact with CARSTAR. “From the first contact, to our visit to the corporate head office and meeting other franchise partners, we felt a fit with the people at CARSTAR. They are professional, accessible and genuine,” says Brandon. The owners understand the value of creating a supportive work environment. One of the ways they demonstrate this is by providing 100 percent benefits to all staff. They have also brought their strong em-
phasis on corporate culture with them from previous companies. The centre will sponsor a local sports team and remain actively involved with the iHuman Youth Society, a non-profit organization that engages Edmonton’s high-risk youth. They are also eager to support CARSTAR’s national charity Cystic Fibrosis Canada. “We are excited to be a part of the wellrespected CARSTAR brand and to work towards being the premier collision facility in Alberta,” says Ming. For more information, please visit carstar.ca.
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April 2015 collision Repair 11
Regional news
Saskatchewan
Sherwin-Williams opens new Regina branch Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes has announced the opening of a new branch in Regina, Saskatchewan. “Every person that touches your business works for SherwinWilliams to provide you with the same level of unmatched customer service coast to coast,” says Bob Leibel, Sherwin-Williams Director of Sales. Leibel says the branch — located at 1238 Lorne Street, Units 4 &
5 — demonstrates the company’s commitment to the collision repair industry and improves their ability to provide product mix, presentation and service directly to customers. “This market was in need of a Sherwin-Williams branch to more efficiently distribute our fantastic AWX Performance Plus, ATX and Genesis refinish systems,” he says. For more information, please visit sherwin-automotive.com.
SGI program aims to increase number of techs Saskatchewan General Insurance (SGI) will provide almost $80,000 in funding for a new pilot program at the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies (SIIT). The program aims to boost the number of qualified techs in Saskatchewan. SGI partnered with SIIT, the Saskatchewan Automobile Dealers Association (SADA) and the Saskatchewan Association of Automotive Repairers (SAAR) to develop the new pre-employment auto body repair program for Aboriginal students. “The program helps address the difficulties SGI and the auto body repair industry are experiencing in recruiting and retaining qualified journeyman auto body repair technicians,” says Minister Responsible for SGI, Don McMorris. “This partnership will help attract students to the auto body repair
program and ensure there are enough qualified auto body repair technicians in Saskatchewan long term.” SGI will host the first wave of students at its Claims Technical Research facility in Regina. SADA and SAAR provided guidance and expertise for development of the program and will assist graduates with finding employment. The 10-week program includes eight weeks of training and two weeks of direct work experience. “One of our objectives is to help promote and recruit personnel for the automotive repair industry,” says Pat Quinney, President of SAAR. “We are excited about this program and the many qualified journeyman auto body repair technicians who will be joining the workforce.”
Thank you to the thousands of stars that make up our CARSTAR universe — our franchise, insurance and vendor partners, and our employees for helping us achieve Gold status. Over 200 locations in 10 provinces | carstar.ca
12 collision Repair collisionrepairmag.com
REgional news
Manitoba Manitoba public insurance issues revised labour rates Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI), the Automotive Trades Association (ATA), and the Manitoba Motor Dealers Association (MMDA) have a two-year Labour Rate Agreement for accredited and non-accredited motor vehicle collision repair facilities in Manitoba. A recalculation of the claim count resulted in an increase in labour rates for 2015. The revised labour rates reflect a 2.15 percent increase, rather than the 1.61 percent previously announced, in the categories of body, paint, frame and glass. Mechanical labour rates stay in effect until a new agreement is created for 2017 and beyond. Beginning January 1, 2016, a further increase to body, paint, frame and glass only labour rates will be based on an inflation adjusted formula as follows: 40 percent of the Average Industrial Wage increase for Manitoba and 60 percent CPI increase for Manitoba based on the prior year.
Churchill, Lynn Lake, Leaf Rapids, Gillam, Norway House Accredited: $81.04/hr Non-Accredited: $40.52/hr • Frame Labour Rate $88.78/hr • Mechanical Labour Rate $96.56/hr
• Shop Material $9.91/hr • Paint Material $38.20/hr • Toxic Waste $5.46/paint est. • Administration Fee $15.00/repair
Southern Manitoba Labour Rates Accredited: $70.37/hr Non-Accredited: $35.19/hr • Frame Labour Rate: $77.12/hr • Mechanical Labour Rate: $96.56/hr • Shop Material: $6.71/hr • Paint Material: $38.20/hr • Toxic Waste: $4.97/paint est. • Administration Fee: $15.00/repair Northern Manitoba Labour Rates Thompson, Flin Flon, The Pas Accredited: $78.76/hr Non-Accredited: $39.38/hr • Frame Labour Rate: $86.33/hr • Mechanical Labour Rate: $96.56/hr • Shop Material: $9.91/hr • Paint Material: $38.20/hr • Toxic Waste: $5.46/paint est. • Administration Fee: $15.00/repair APril 2015 collision Repair 13
news
Ontario
Fix Auto adds three locations in Ontario
The reception area at Fix Auto London South.
Daryll O’Keefe, General Manager, Fix Auto Ontario, has announced the addition of new strategic partners for the network, Fix Auto Stirling, Fix Auto Thornhill, and Fix Auto London South. “The Fix Auto banner offers us standardized operating and business procedures, along with the tools to better measure our customer experience,” says Allan Wells, Owner-Operator of Fix Auto Stirling. “We see the Fix Auto network as a way to help us increase our business and streamline the repair process” The Wells family has been in the collision business for 50 years and a Ford dealer since 1935. They are third generation owners, with lifelong employees. “The loyalty, pride and determination that we see at Stirling make them exactly the kind of strategic partner we want on our team,” says O’Keefe. “We share the same commitments to quality, customer service, and world class bodywork, and look forward to growing together.”
Fix Auto has also added Antica Auto Body of Thornhill, Ontario to its network of collision centres. “We’re very proud to be a part of this remarkable organization,” says Mary Jo Scavone, who has acted as owner and operator of the location—now operating as Fix Auto Thornhill—for the past 30 years. ”Joining the Fix Auto network gives us the operational support and negotiating power that we need to take our business to the next level.” O’Keefe says he’s pleased with the banner’s latest addition. “Our selection process for adding Fix Auto locations starts with the mind-set of the owner-operator and their commitment to exceeding customer expectations,” he says. “We’re proud to add Mary Jo to our growing family, and look forward to many years of working with her as one of our Strategic Partners.” “We are very excited to be joining the Fix Auto Network; we share the same values and principles when it comes to exceeding our customer’s needs,” says Fix Auto London South owner Bill Weir. “The Fix Auto banner offers us a successful platform, including nationwide advertising.” Weir has over three decades of industry experience, including 15 years spent heading the operation of a collision repair facility. “Bill’s commitment to quality and customer service is one of the many reasons that Fix Auto London proves to be a great fit for our network,” O’Keefe says. “We are both dedicated to success and share the same vision to achieve it.” For more information on Fix Auto, please visit fixauto.com.
CSN - Heartland B & B recertified for Volvo Dave Procunier, co-owner of CSN - Heartland B & B Collision, is pleased to announce that the facility has recently received recertification from Volvo Canada as a Volvo Certified Body and Paint Service Centre. CSN - Heartland B & B is located at 875 Plymouth Drive in Mississauga, Ontario. “We’re honoured to receive the designation,” says Procunier. “I think it’s a testament both to our vision and the skills of our hardworking staff that Volvo trusts us with their customer’s vehicles.” The first step in gaining certification is to be sponsored by a Volvo dealer. The next step is a complete audit of the facility. Volvo has established certain requirements that must be met in the areas of Facilities, Management, Competencies and Training, and Tools and Equipment.
Marc Engelen, President and CEO, Volvo Cars of Canada, presents a new certification plaque to Dave Procunier, coowner of CSN - Heartland B&B Collision. They are flanked by Rob McMillan, President, Volvo of Mississauga, and Mark Garrett, General Manager, Volvo of Mississauga (right).
14 collision Repair collisionrepairmag.com
CSN - Heartland B & B is also certified under the BMW, MINI, Infiniti and Subaru programs. For more information, please visit heartlandbnbcollision.com.
CARSTAR opens appraisal centre in Kemptville CARSTAR Automotive Canada has announced the opening of the CARSTAR Kemptville Appraisal Centre. The centre is located in the Myers Chevrolet Buick GMC dealership at 104 Elvira Street in Kemptville, OnBob Smith. tario, and is affiliated with CARSTAR Ottawa South Centre (Myers). The centre is operated by Randy Dean, while day-to-day operations are managed by Bob Smith. In addition to appraisals, the centre offers glass repairs and replacements. Rental cars are also available on-site, while $10 gas cards are provided for customers who need to visit the CARSTAR Ottawa South Centre location. For more information, please visit CARSTAR.ca.
Regional news
Quebec
Carrossier location goes green
CARSTAR grows in Quebec with CARSTAR Décarie
Carrossier ProColor de l’Ouest de Laval has received its Green Wrench B ro n z e l e v e l c e r t i f i c a tion as part of ongoing efforts to protect the environment. “The Green Wrench program is an environmental certification issued to Québec automotive service shops which developed or improved their procedures and facilities in order to better protect the environment,” says Mary Eric Prud’homme. Jayn de Villers, Communications and Marketing Coordinator at Carrossier ProColor. Carrosserie Prud’homme — which received its Green Wrench certification in December 2014 — first opened in 2005 when Éric and Bruno Prud’homme opened their collision centre in Sainte-Dorothée, a neighbourhood in Laval West. As years passed, their business expanded and took over adjacent spaces to their shop. They made the necessary renovations and also developed an understanding of how important it is for collision repair shops to keep their equipment up to date with the latest technologies. Seven years after first opening, Éric and Bruno became members of the Carrossier ProColor Network in 2012. “It is important to us that the public’s perception of businesses in the automotive industry changes,” says Éric, noting that their shop began enhancing areas of their services that focus on customer experience in 2013. “Gone are the days when the same person greeted the customer, answered the phone and repaired the vehicle.” He says those bygone days also were characterized by businesses who paid little attention to the impact of their shop work on the environment. He says the shop already had good recycling methods, but being part of the program further ingrained the necessary changes to their processes. “We needed to adjust the disposal of hazardous waste, especially in terms of classification. We made sure all employees followed the waste sorting procedure. Furthermore, each employee knows what to do if an incident involving harmful substances for the environment occurs,” says Éric. He adds that in taking action to obtain their Green Wrench certification, it proves the shop’s desire to contribute towards a healthier environment. “We are pleased to have reached our goal. We plan on making the necessary adjustments to secure the Gold level certification at the next audit,” says Éric. Carrossier ProColor de l’Ouest de Laval is located at 808 Principale St. in Laval.
CARSTAR Automotive Canada has welcomed Automobile B.W. to its Quebec network. The facility is now operating as CARSTAR Décarie. The store is located at 1331 rue St-Philippe Road close to the Décarie intersection in Ville St-Laurent. Maxime Decarie. The family business was established by Richard Walked more than 25 years ago and is now run by his son Maxime, a dynamic young man with more than 15 years of experience as a painter and estimator. Today Maxime, owner-operator of the centre, is pursuing an impressive career path. He works with a well-qualified team comprising auto body workers, a mechanic, and a painter, and aims to follow in his father’s footsteps and preserve the family nature of the business. CARSTAR Décarie boasts six work bays and a paint booth on the premises of more than 4,000 sq. ft. There is parking space able to accommodate 30 vehicles. Maxime says he joined CARSTAR because he wanted to work with a franchise company that was keenly aware of the needs of its franchise partners; one that was expanding rapidly, with a solid family emphasis, where he could continue to offer to his clientele simplified claim processing, guaranteed quality, impeccable repairs, and considerate, attentive customer service.
16 collision Repair collisionrepairmag.com
Carossier ProColor announces new Donnacona location Carrossier ProColor has opened a new collision centre in Donnacona, Quebec. The location has been operating under the name Carrossier ProColor Donnacona since December 2014, and was purchased in November 2014 by co-owners Éric Blais and Mario Lajoie — who also share ownership of Carrossier ProColor PontRouge and Carrossier ProColor Neuville. The previous neighbourhood competitors first joined forces in 2009, after Blais purchased half of Lajoie’s Neuville collision centre shares. They then invested $300,000 in renovating the location, which had been part of the Carrossier ProColor network since 2003. “Since our first collision centre was already under the Carrossier ProColor banner, and [because] we were entirely happy with our choice, we decided to partner with the network once again,” says Lajoie of their latest acquisition. Blais echoed Lajoie’s sentiments, noting the benefits their Carrossier ProColor network membership offers, such as a wellstructured head office, family-like interaction with the staff, the ease with which files are settled, and a good financial return. “We ended 2014 on a high note,” adds Carrossier ProColor Business Development Directo Mario Verret. “With our continual increase in business volume and members who are more than ever satisfied with our services, we are convinced that we will continue to grow in 2015.”
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CSN - Dana’s Collision Centre gains Honda ProFirst certification Dana Alexander, owner of CSN - Dana’s Collision Center, is pleased to announce that CSN - Dana’s Collision Center is the first Honda ProFirst Certified repair facility in Canada. “Honda Canada is pleased to welcome CSN - Dana’s Collision Center to Honda Canada’s Certified Body Shop program. CSN - Dana’s is the first collision shop in Canada to become ProFirst certified and we appreciate Dana Alexander’s effort and commitment to the program,” says Doug Staddon, Senior Manager, Parts Operations, Honda Canada. CSN – Dana’s has made a commitment to I-CAR and other ongoing training programs and has invested in many upgrades in new equipment, technology and processes over the past decade. Without this commitment and standard process of continuous improvement at CSN – Dana’s, this ProFirst designation would not have been possible. The ProFirst designation will enable CSN – Dana’s to have access to Honda Service Express which will enable the shop’s team to perform correct, complete, and safe repairs of Honda and Acura vehicles, while having access to additional cost-saving tools for better repairs. This will also be an advantage to present and future Honda and Acura customers as it will improve customer service by having
CSN - Dana’s Collision Center is the first collision facility in Canada to attain the Honda ProFirst certification.
access to Honda parts and repair data. ProFirst is Honda’s official recognition program for Honda and Acura dealer-owned and independent collision repair facilities. The purpose of ProFirst is to promote the correct, complete and safe repair of Honda and Acura vehicles and to provide support to those collision repair businesses that have demonstrated a commitment to a high level of customer care and satisfaction. For more information, please visit danascollision.com.
Automotive Industry Awards Evening marks 15th year Over 70 industry partners and employers recently gathered to celebrate the 15th Annual Automotive Industry Awards Evening in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Held February 19, 2015 at the Casino Nova Scotia, the event hosted a number of industry guest speakers, including McNeil’s Shell owner Beth McNeil, Automotive Aftermarket E-Learning LTD’s Executive VP & Director of Implementation, Rui Martins, as well as Tim Brennan, Chief Visionary Officer and co-founder of Hiring Smart. Through bringing together a large scope of collision repair industry professionals, the Awards Evening presented an excellent opportunity for employers to network with others in their field. In addition to networking opportunities, employers were given access to a variety of resources made available through
18 collision Repair collisionrepairmag.com
the events tradeshow. The 2015 Awards winners were also announced, with Coast Tire & Auto Service taking the Outstanding Performer Award, Rob Gunn of Coast Tire & Auto Service receiving the Mentorship Award, Autochoice Parts and Paints’ Jeff Connors winning the Above and Beyond Award, Blaikies’ Tammy Greene taking the Outstanding Performer Award, and Judy Dickson of Automotive Sector Council, honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award. The Automotive Sector Council is moving towards achieving the goal of building a stronger economy in Nova Scotia and has made major accomplishments this year towards that goal. The council thanks all 2015 Automotive Awards Evening attendees and sponsors, and hopes to see everyone again at next year’s event.
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CCIF Toronto focuses on future and current repairability Collision repairers are likely going to see more high-end and luxury vehicles than ever before, according to Andrew King of DesRosiers Automotive Consultants. King was one of the speakers at the recent meeting of the Canadian Collision Industry Forum (CCIF).
CCIF Chairman Larry Jeffreries.
The meeting took place at the Airport Marriott in Toronto. King’s presentation focused on an overview of the collision industry in Canada, including key market and OE sales trends that will impact the industry in 2015. In addition to noting massive growth in the luxury segment, King pointed to recent record-breaking sales figures in seven out of 10 provinces. “Vehicle sales are important, but in some ways what’s more important is the number of vehicles on the road, and that’s exploding as well,” he says. The meeting began with an address by CCIF Chairman Larry Jefferies. Larry Coan, Damageability Product Concern Engineer for Ford was next to take the podium. Coan is for Ford, and shared the latest details about the tools, training and equipment needed to repair the company’s new aluminum F-150. Coan also outlined some of the steps taken by Ford to ensure repairability of these new vehicles. This included engaging with insurers during the vehicle’s development to ensure repair costs were controlled while repair standards remained high, training adjusters and key personnel on the latest repair techniques to help ensure vehicles are repaired correctly,
and engaging with Mitchell, Audatex, and CCC prior to the vehicle’s launch. A question from the floor raised the question of whether or not certain equipment is “approved“ by Ford for repairs to the F-150. Coan indicated that equipment must be able to perform to a certain specification, but no brand of equipment is technically “approved“ by Ford. Leanne Jefferies was next to take the stage. Jefferies is both the Director of CCIF Skills Programs and Director of Collision Programs for AIA Canada, and updated attendees on both of these areas during her presentation. Jeffries discussed skills competitions and why they’re important to the industry. She also pointed to increasing participation from industry. The next WorldSkills Competition takes place in Sao Paulo, Brazil in August of 2015. Canada’s collision industry will be represented by Justin Dambitis for Autobody Repair and Kassandra Bilodeau for Car Painting. “There was a time when people said we’d never be able to have onsite painting competitions, but we’ve been running them successfully for several years now,” says Jefferies. “It continues to grow. BC and Alberta’s skill competitions are introducing them this year, and Color Compass will be providing a DuroPure paint booth to make these events possible.” Jefferies also updated attendees on CCIF’s participation with Haiti Arise, a project designed to help the people of Haiti. CCIF’s main participation in this project has been through promoting and fundraising for the Haiti Arise Technical Institute. Currently, the school does not yet offer autobody repair, but that will change soon, thanks in no small part to the efforts of CCIF and other sponsors. Conversation turned to the technical side after the coffee break, with Jason Bartanen of I-CAR updating attendees on I-CAR’s new Repairability Technical Support (RTS) Portal. Accessible at i-car.com/rts, the RTS portal serves as a resource to access OE technical information and repair procedures. Following Bartanen, Norm Kramer, Consultant, Workplace Safety & Prevention Services, presented an interactive look at health and safety in repair facilities. In addition to all of the other reasons for supporting
20 collision Repair collisionrepairmag.com
health and safety, Kramer demonstrated that it can actually improve profitability. Andrew King, Managing Partner of DesRosiers Automotive Consultants, was next to take the podium, discussing data and statistics regarding the Canadian vehicle parc and what it means for repairers. George Cooke, President of Martello Associates Consulting, followed, discussing current insurance trends such as consolidation, legislation, autonomous vehicles, consumers, and telematics, and sharing his outlook on their impact on the claims side of the industry. Cooke says these factors are coming to the fore and at a very rapid pace, much faster than regulatory structures are prepared to deal with them. A question from the floor following Cooke’s presentation highlights just how much still needs to be determined when it comes to, for example, autonomous vehicles. In essence, the question asked “Who is being insured in this case? The driver, or the vehicle’s motherboard?” “The simple answer, I think, is that nobody has thought all the way through this,” says Cooke. “When they don’t work the way they’re supposed to, you have to imagine that the manufacturer of the malfunctioning component is on the other end of the liability.” Marie Antrim was next to take the stage. The VP, Talent Acquisition for Enterprise Holdings, Antrim’s presentation offered insight on the company’s highly successful HR strategy that involves advertising, marketing, interactive media, training and tools for the nearly 200 Enterprise Recruiters hiring more than 8,000 university graduates each year. “You can’t buy culture, you can’t hire culture in,” says Antrim. “You have to develop it. It’s not something you have to spend money to do, but it is something that’s important to have.” Chairman Larry Jefferies then provided an update on the Canadian industry, followed by the OE Panel, moderated by David Adams of the Global Automakers of Canada. Panelists included Paul Stella of Toyota, Doug Staddon of Honda, Eric Boutin of Volkswagen, and John Eason of Fiat Chrysler. The panel focused on how vehicles are transitioning from mechanical devices to electronic ones and how this shifts the collision repair paradigm, and the new and different materials that are affecting the industry today. This panel was the first of a three-part session to be featured at CCIF meetings in 2015. For more information, please visit ccif.ca.
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sherwin-williams holds second quarter training Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes 2015 second quarter training sessions provide collision repair industry professionals advanced knowledge in their field and the opportunity to receive an AWX Performance Plus Waterborne Painter Certification. Courses will be held April through July in Ontario, Manitoba, Alberta, and Quebec. Participants will learn through a combination of classroom, web, and hands-on settings at Canadian metropolitan Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes training and university centres in Mississauga, Winnipeg and Calgary, as well as Sherbrook and Anjou in Quebec. Shop owners, managers, painters and technicians can choose to advance their production-excellence and waterborne paint application techniques, colour adjustment and blending as well as earn their certification for AWX Performance Plus waterborne paint application. There will also be classes held on Sherwin-Williams ATX refinish system color basics, Fleet CFR (Commercial Fleet Refinisher) training and
Jobber Level 1 courses. Details regarding the 2015 second quarter schedule for training centres, dates and locations, are listed below: • The three-day Jobber Level 1 course will be held at the Missisauga Training Centre on May 5, in Mississauga, ON. • The two-day Fleet CFR Training course will be held at the Manitoba Public Insurance building on May 12, in Winnipeg, MB. • The one-day ATX Color Basic course will be held at the Anjou Training Centre on May 13, in Anjou, QC. • The two-day Jobber Level 1 course will be held at CPA-Comite Paritair de l’Automobile on June 16, in Sherbrooke, QC. • The two-day AWX Performance Plus Waterborne Painter Certification course will be held at the Mississauga Training Centre on June 23, in Mississauga, ON. For more information, contact Dave Lalonde at 905-890-4222 or fax 216-586-8679 to register. For information on SherwinWilliams Automotive Finishes, visit sherwin-automotive.com.
CCIF announces 2015 Steering Committee The Canadian Collision Industry Forum (CCIF) has named the selected members of the 2015 Steering Committee. CCIF says the committee’s primary role is to guide the establishment of priority areas for action and ensure the continued success of industry networking events and projects, and to represent all CCIF stakeholders — including collision repairers, OE manufacturers, insurers, and paint and equipment suppliers. Members are expected to attend CCIF and Steering Committee meetings at their own expense while demonstrating knowledge of key issues and trends affecting the industry. Applications to the committee are open and available to all members of the collision repair industry. Applicants apply in writing, using the application form available from AIA. Following the application process, Steering Committee members are decided upon by CCIF’s current Chairman, CCIF Steering Committee members and Automotive Industries Association of Canada’s (AIA) Director, Collision. Member selection is based on recommendations and applications that meet set criteria. Steering Committee members serve staggered terms of two
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years, renewable only upon the recommendation of the CCIF Chairman and AIA Canada. Term limits are set at six years to ensure turnover. The Committee operates on a consensus model. The Steering committee is comprised of four collision repair representatives, two supplier representatives, two insurance representatives, two OE representatives, as well as a number of staff from AIA. This year’s selected CCIF Steering Committee members have been listed below. CCIF Steering Committee Chairman • Larry Jefferies, CARSTAR Automotive Canada CCIF Steering Committee Members • David Adams, Global Automakers of Canada • Tony Canade, Assured Automotive • Joe Carvalho, Economical Insurance • Bruce Hemstreet, CARSTAR Lethbridge, CARSTAR Medicine Hat • Leanne Jefferies, AIA Canada • Patrice Marcil, Axalta Coating Systems • Jay Perry, Ally Business Coaching & Automotive Business Consultants • Paul Prochilo, Prochilo Brothers Auto Collision • Dario Ricciutelli, TD Insurance • Andrew Shepherd, AIA Canada • Jennifer Steeves, Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers Association • Dave Stretz, CMD CARSTAR Group, Calgary, Alberta CCIF Steering Committee Special Advisors • Ken Friesen, Concours Collision Centres CSN • Koos Reineking, AkzoNobel For more information on CCIF and the application process, please visit ccif.ca.
news
study: self-driving cars by 2020-25, volvo project aims for 2017 More automated vehicles (AVs) may be on the road in the near future, according to a new study from The Conference Board of Canada. Produced in collaboration with the Van Horne Institute and Canadian Automated Vehicles Centre of Excellence (CAVCOE), and is titled Automated Vehicles: The Coming of the Next Disruptive Technology, the study estimates that self-driving cars could be on the roads by 2020-25. “The potential scope for impacts of automated vehicles on Canada is profound,” says Vijay Gill, Director of Policy Research at The Conference Board of Canada.“Self-driving cars could free up driving time, significantly reduce the number of car accidents, minimize road congestion and reduce the amount of fuel that we consume.” However, Gill says the vehicles pose economic and social challenges, such as job-displacement, and required employment retraining. Economic benefits include collision avoidance, fuel cost savings, and congestion avoidance, accroding the study — which also predicts the prevention of 1,600 of the current 2,000 annual road fatalities. The study also notes wider economic and technological effects, including substantial changes in land values as AVs increase sprawl and urban intensification. There is a strong likelihood that people will tolerate longer commutes if they are able to be productive in the vehicle, especially if it means trading travel time for cheaper housing. “The future impact of this technology on Canada’s transportation system should be carefully considered,” says Peter Wallis, President and CEO of the Van Horne Institute. “Transportation in Canada is an enabler of our economy and future policy or legislative changes should encourage the deployment of this technology.” Jobs and trades will change as direct and indirect employment displacement may occur in a wide variety of industries. Aside from the collision repair industry, the widespread introduction of AVs may impact transport, truck and courier services, taxi and bus drivers, auto insurance, driving instructors, and parking attendants. On the positive side, there will be new business opportunities for auto and technological industries related to the design and manufacture of sensors, software, etc., for AVs. While transit and transportation industries will be directly affected, AV roll out will also effect businesses involved in freight or passenger transportation. AVs will require active planning on the part of all levels of government and business. Leadership at the municipal, provincial and federal levels need to incorporate the impact of AVs into urban planning, transit and the design of infrastructure projects and encourage the harmonization rather than fragmentation of such a huge undertaking. In related news, Volvo recently moved into the next phase of its pilot project aiming to integrate self-driving cars into real traffic situations. “We are entering uncharted territory in the field of autonomous driving,” says Dr. Peter Mertens, Senior Vice President Research and Development of Volvo Car Group. “Taking the exciting step to a public pilot, with the am-
Volvo’s Drive Me project is working towards the integration of self-driving cars on selected roads by 2017.
bition to enable ordinary people to sit behind the wheel in normal traffic on public roads, has never been done before.” Entering its second year, Volvo’s Drive Me project is moving towards its goal to place 100 self-driving cars in the hands of consumers on selected roads around Gothenburg by 2017. The company says the key lies in a complex network of sensors, cloud-based positioning systems, and intelligent braking and steering technologies. “Autonomous driving will fundamentally change the way we look at driving. In the future, you will be able to choose between autonomous and active driving,” says Mertens. “This transforms everyday commuting from lost time to quality time, opening up new opportunities for work and pleasure.” Volvo says its autopilot system is designed to be reliable enough to allow the vehicle to assume control of every aspect of driving while in autonomous mode. It says the challenge has been to design a system robust enough for traffic situations and any technical faults that may arise on the road. Initially, autonomous vehicles will hit selected roads with suitable conditions, removing oncoming traffic, cyclists and pedestrians from the equation. “Making this complex system 99 percent reliable is not good enough. You need to get much closer to 100 percent before you can let self-driving cars mix with other road users,” says Dr. Erik Coelingh, Technical Specialist at Volvo Cars. The company’s aim is for the autonomous vehicles to handle even any scenario, from smooth commuting to heavy traffic and emergency situations, noting that the car reacts faster than most humans. Volvo says that when autonomous driving is no longer available due to exceptional weather conditions, technical malfunction or by arriving at your destination, the driver will be prompted to assume control by the system. The company says if drivers don’t respond in time, the car will bring itself to a safe place to stop. “Developing a complete technological solution for self-driving cars is a major step. Once the public pilot is up and running, it will provide us with valuable knowledge about implementing self-driving cars in the traffic environment, and help us explore how they can contribute to sustainable mobility,” says Coelingh.
Wedge Clamp expands in US Canada-based Wedge Clamp Systems has announced the opening of a U.S. office and head of operations. The company has named Peter Allan as U.S. Chief Operating Officer. In his new role, Allan will take on responsibility for sales and customer service of all Wedge Clamp products — including its anchoring, pulling and measuring system, its new NitroHeat
24 collision Repair collisionrepairmag.com
nitrogen-based spraypaint system, and its new static-fighting StatGun set to launch this spring in North America. Allan relocated from Sydney, Australia to assume his duties at the company’s new office in Long Beach, California. For more information on Wedge Clamp Systems, please visit WedgeClamp.com.or call 1-866-309-4272.
news
win announces growth, annual conference details Annual Scholarship Walk will raise money for the WIN Scholarship fund. “Each year the WIN Conference Committee raises the bar of expectations,” says WIN Chair Denise Caspersen. “This year’s Create and Cultivate is sure to engage our members and inspire them to grow pro-
fessionally and participate in guiding our industry through unprecedented change.” Registration for the event opened in early March. F o r m o re i n f o r m a t i o n , p l e ase go to WomensIndustryNetwork.com and click on “Conference.”
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The Women’s Industry Network (WIN) has reported that the #ALLIN4WIN Membership Campaign held during the fourth quarter of 2014 generated a 37 percent increase in membership. “We are excited to start this new membership year off with many new and returning members,” says Membership Committee Chair Mary Kunz. The campaign included incentives for renewals and new memberships as well as for referrals. Drawing winners of a $100 VISA gift card incuded new member Norili Zambrano of ABT Paint Body in Orlando, Florida, renewing member Vanessa Wilkin of Enterprise Rent-aCar in St. Louis, Missouri, and referring member Petra Schroeder of Axalta Coating Systems in Glen Mills, Pennsylvania. Grand Prize Drawing winner, Victorriane Head from H&H Auto Body LLC in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, was awarded with free registration at the 2015 WIN Educational Conference. T h e n e t w o r k re c e n t l y n a m e d C o l l i sion Advice’s Mike Anderson as keynote speaker at the ninth annual event. Held at the Baltimore Waterfront Marriot on May 4 to 6, the conference, themed Create and Cultivate, will host speakers and breakout sessions offering attendees opportunities to develop personal success stories through leadership, knowledge and relationships. “As we finalize this year’s speakers, our planning committee is thrilled with the immense amount of talent and passion that is present throughout the industry,” says Jessica Rob, Conference Planning Committee Chair. WIN’s presentation of the Most Influential Women awards will also take place at the event, held during the conference gala dinner. The awards serve to recognize women who have been nominated by their peers as outstanding business and civic leaders. This year’s honourees include Cheryl Boswell, CFO of DCR Systems LLC inDuluth, Georgia, Lauren Fix, Automotive Aspects President in Lancaster, New York, Lisa Siembab, CARSTAR Berlin, owner in Berlin, Connecticut, and Ruth Weniger, Airbag Solutions LLC CEO in Ivins, Utah. Additionally, the 2015 WIN/MIW Scholarship winners will be announced and the
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APRIL 2015 collision Repair 25 COL_CRM_April2015.indd 1
3/5/2015 11:39:27 AM
facts & figures
D y % % % B e h t %% % % s r e b m u N %%% %%%% Readers on mission statements, soft skills, and workplace theft. By Mike Davey
Are you worried about workplace theft?
9%
45%
46%
Yes, we’ve had problems in past. Yes. Even trustworthy people succumb to temptation sometimes. No.
26 collision Repair collisionrepairmag.com
o you worry that staff may be helping themselves to certain items? If so, you’re not alone. The vast majority of respondents to a recent survey on collisionrepairmag.com indicated that this matter was of some concern, either because they had experienced problems in the past (46 percent) or because they believe that it’s possible for even good people to succumb to temptation on occasion (45 percent). Only nine percent of respondents indicated that workplace theft was not a concern. The traditional ways to combat pilfering are regular inventories and keeping everything under lock and key. Technology can lend a hand here, such as internet-enabled cameras and RFID tags. Sometimes just letting staff know the measures are in place is enough. Honesty is important, but high-quality staff need other skills as well. A recent survey we conducted indicates that creative problem-solving and interpersonal skills are tied (37 percent each) when it comes to the most-valued nontechnical skills. Note also that these are widely applicable in other areas of life. The best staff can help move your business forward. Having a clearly defined mission for the company will help them to help you. While the majority of respondents to a recent survey indicated that the company had a mission statement, 33 percent felt that the company could do a better job of communicating it to all staff. Similarly, 33 percent of respon-
The traditional ways to combat pilfering are regular inventories and keeping everything under lock and key. Technology can lend a hand. dents did not have a mission statement at all. Mission statements help provide a framework to define your business and help staff focus their efforts. They’ll also be more forthcoming with ideas on how to improve if they know and understand the overall goal. We also recently inquired about attendance at the Canadian Collision Industry Forum. Responses were quite varied, but the majority of respondents indicated that they had attended at least one meeting. However, a significant number (41 percent) indicated that they had never attended a meeting. We strongly encourage every repairer to attend CCIF meetings whenever possible. It does take time and effort, but it’s a fact that only those in attendance will be heard. You’ve got to show up if you want people to listen. CRM
facts & figures
Besides technical skills, which skills do you most want to see on a resume?
Do you attend CCIF?
10% 16%
37%
6% 6%
37%
12%
29%
18%
Yes, I’ve been to one or more meetings in the last two years. Yes, I go to every meeting. Yes, but only very rarely. No, the meetings are too far away. No, I can’t afford to take the time off. No, for a different reason.
Creative problem-solving. Interpersonal skills. Customer service. Computer skills.
Does your company have a mission statement, and is it clearly communicated to all staff?
7% 33%
27%
29%
33%
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April 2015 collision Repair 27
atlantic view
raisingthebar Getting techs certified paves the path to safer repairs. By Dana Alexander
i
visited a steak house a while back and couldn’t help but notice that a number of the employees wore t-shirts with “I love my job” written across the back. It got me thinking about my own staff and wondering whether they love their job, if they have a career path, and if they have a future in collision repair. I believe these are some of the hard questions we must ask ourselves as members of this industry. I have been asked why I am interested in working on compulsory certification for the auto body repair trade in New Brunswick. I must admit that I have asked myself this question many times over the past decade. I believe it is time to stand up and get our industry moving forward in this province, where it is required to have a licence to cut hair, but not required to have a licence to repair a car that will hurl down the highway at over 100 km per hour with your family inside.
As most of you are aware, there is a shortage of auto body repair technicians entering the trade, not only in New Brunswick, but throughout the entire country. I have spoken with facility owners and managers across Canada, and most are actively looking for technicians. Why is that? I believe part of the solution lies in designating the trade compulsory. This would give new folks entering the workforce a more defined career path, provide more recognition as a legitimate trade, create better training opportunities and ultimately, lead to a better standard of living. Consumers will have more confidence in the repair industry, and will ultimately receive better repairs due to the training that will be required to maintain the certification. In the long run, this will lead to providing correct, efficient repairs the first time around. These are all positives of designating the trade compulsory.
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28 collision Repair collisionrepairmag.com
atlantic view
But all stakeholders must be on board for this to work — the educators, the suppliers to the industry, the employers, and most of all, the employees who work within the industry. I believe by having compulsory certification, the insurance industry will have greater confidence in
probably support it. Someone has to make a move and start somewhere. I believe that compulsory certification is a step in the right direction. I also firmly believe that taking this step will help to dramatically increase the number of
i believe that compulsory certification is a step in the right direction.
the ability of the repair industry to correctly repair today’s complex vehicles. This will ultimately lead to a reduction in the number of total loss vehicles, rather than take a chance of having vehicles repaired by unlicensed and poorly trained technicians, working in substandard unregulated repair facilities. I have heard many times at CCIF that members of the insurance industry have very little appetite to regulate our industry, but if our industry were to adopt national repair standards, they would
young people who will look at our industry as a viable career option. I would personally like to see the repair industry step up and get involved in the certification process, rather than some outside interest. CRM Dana Alexander is the owner and operator of CSN - Dana’s Collision Center in Fredericton, New Brunswick. He can be reached at dana.alexander@danas collision.com.
Assured Automotive
Cares
enough to be properly
TRAINED & EQUIPPED NOT BECAUSE WE HAVE TO, BUT BECAUSE WE WANT TO
Assured Honoured Assured Automotive honours David Raposo for his commitment to the collision repair industry. David Raposo is responsible for all facets of Store Operations, as well as, Employee Development at Assured. David graduated from Ryerson University with a Bachelor of Commerce Degree and held various senior positions in the Automotive Dealership Industry prior to joining Assured seven years ago. In his role at Assured, David is an integral part of Assured’s Operations Team and is responsible for overseeing our Store Operations and ensuring adherence to Assured’s Standard Operating Procedures. Continuous Improvement is at the core of Assured’s Corporate Culture. At Assured we believe that our staff is the key to our success; to this end we would like to thank David for his contribution and dedication to Assured Automotive.
assuredauto.ca
“ t r a i n iinngt oi sd aeys’ ss ei nn dt iuaslt r y
” APRIL 2015 collision Repair 29
point blank with piercey
Levelfield We all win when the industry is fair. By Sam Piercey
Canada’s major OEs are releasing their certified repair network requirements. Among these requirements are the following I-CAR Canada offerings:
Y
ou may have seen a recent segment on CNN’s Anderson Cooper 360 that deals with parts of our industry, specifically on insurance practices. A lot of that segment looked at recycled parts in a really negative light, and I think that’s unfair. I’ve known and worked with auto recyclers my whole time in this business, and I think they’re
to eat, just like everybody else. When they’re forced to use substandard materials, it’s going to take them longer to get the work done. When it takes too long to get the work done, it means they don’t make enough to talk up the industry to their family and friends, and too often it means they leave. You might love cars, but why bother when you’re not making enough money to support a
you can’t paint all of our partners with the same brush.
Audi Canada Two technicians must complete 13 I-CAR Canada courses, including WCS03 – Steel Welding or SPS05 – Structural Parts Steel Welding. One Refinish technician must complete three I-CAR courses. For further details contact collision@audi.ca.
Honda/Acura Canada (Currently in Pilot Phase) Repair facility must be sponsored by a Honda/Acura Dealer. Repair Facility must be full I-CAR Canada Gold Class (including current WCS03 welding qualification). For further information contact COLLISION_INFO@ CH.HONDA.COM.
Volkswagen Canada Two technicians must complete 13 I-CAR Canada courses, including WCS03 – Steel Welding or SPS05 – Structural Parts Steel Welding. One Refinish technician must complete three I-CAR courses. For further details contact collision@vw.ca.
pretty dedicated to getting the best possible parts into your hands. A recycled part is an OE part. It might be used, but it’s still an OE part. The segment unfairly slammed recyclers, the majority of which work hard to get us great parts, but let’s look at the rest of what it had to say: repairers feel like they can’t do their jobs properly. Consumers feel their insurer cares more about the bottom line than their safety or honouring the commitment that was made when they took out the policy. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: you can’t paint all of our partners with the same brush. Some are great and some are good. Some are bad. I hate to say it, but it’s true. Nickel and diming on parts hurts everyone involved in the industry. It hurts the repairers. It hurts the consumer. It even hurts the insurer, whether they realize it or not. To be fair, some of them do realize it and usually steer clear when they can. It hurts cycle time and it creates bad blood between repairer and insurer, between repairer and motorist, and between insurer and policy holder. It causes trouble for our techs. They need
good lifestyle? Why not take that technical aptitude somewhere else? There are plenty of other options for someone with a technical background. Some companies are not playing fair. It’s just that simple. We all need a level playing field and fair rules. We need change. We all need it for a healthy industry. I really mean all of us, not just repairers. Insurers need to know that the guy down the street insists on top-notch repairs for his customer’s vehicles. Otherwise, he knows he’ll be undercut and have trouble finding policy holders. It’s in everyone’s best interest to level that playing field. The question is how can we level the playing field? It starts with you. Insist on rates and policies that not only allow you to do your job right, but mandate that you do the job right. Safe, highquality repairs are the base level. If we refuse to do anything less, the playing field levels on its own. CRM Sam Piercey is the co-owner of Budds’ Collision Services in Oakville, Ont. He is a long-time Coyote member and sits on many boards and committees. Sam can be reached at sam@ buddscollision.com.
prairie view
lendingahand As an industry, we need to step up for a worthy cause. By Tom Bissonnette
C
ollision repair is a tough business. Shop owners and managers are juggling a fair number of balls. We ask, “How do I satisfy the customer? The insurance company? The employees? The owner, or the bank?” Not an easy job with some of these issues diametrically opposed to one another. The very fact that this is a tough business, I believe, provides a healthy dose of empathy to people that make collision repair their living. People in this industry, generally speaking, go above and beyond to help clients in need. Who hasn’t worked late into the night to get that vehicle out because the family has to continue on their holiday tomorrow? It is this attitude that is driving the incredible response to the Haiti Arise Collision School Project. Some of you might be thinking, “Why Haiti? Why not something closer to home?” It’s a good question. In Canada, if someone wants to learn a
trade or get a job, let’s face it, there is no lack of opportunity to do just about whatever you want. In Haiti, most of the young people we will be helping have literally no hope of having a career of any sort unless people like us step up. In addition, those of you who decide to go to Haiti to help put the school together, or to teach will have the opportunity for a potential life-changing experience that you will never get in Canada. Birthed at CCIF in January 2014, this industry initiative has gained considerable traction in the past year. Suppliers, collision shop people, insurance company people and educators have stepped up to provide goods and services to this worthwhile project. So much so that it has become apparent to the CCIF Committee that we need to build a collision shop in Haiti to house all the equipment that is being donated. The good news is that we are not alone. In Januar y of this year, the Collision Industr y
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32 collision Repair collisionrepairmag.com
prairie view
website at http://ccif.ca/Haiti_Arise_Project.html for more details. Become a volunteer. Come to Haiti and help build the shop, set up equipment or teach some of the auto body classes. Contact tom@parrautobody. com for details.
Congress (CIC) in the United States decided to join CCIF and make this school a reality. Their 10 member committee has invited Haiti Arise founder Marc Honorat to be at the April meeting of CIC in Atlanta to share his vision of educating the young people of Haiti. At
[the Haiti Arise] initiative has gained considerable traction in the past year.
this meeting, we will roll out the Buy-a-Brick Fundraising Campaign that Leanne Jefferies showcased at January’s CCIF meeting. We have a budget, a timeline and a plan to build and equip the new shop. Construction will start in September of 2015, the booth installation is tentatively scheduled for the spring of 2016 and training will start in the fall of 2016. So how can you help? There’s a few ways. Give money. The Buy-a-Brick campaign is officially underway and you can check the CCIF IMP-0187 Ad_largest selection_hlf pg_print.pdf
Sponsor a student or a teacher to help the young people in Haiti get an education. Details are available at http://ccif.ca/Haiti_Arise_Project.html. As my good friend Outlaw says, let’s (get) MAD. Make a difference! CRM Tom Bissonnette is the owner/operator of Parr Auto Body, a collision repair facility located in Saskatoon, SK. He can be reached at tom@parrautobody.com. 1
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APRIL 2015 collision Repair 33
who’s driving?
balancingact Businesses are built by weighing profit against demand.
By Jay Perry
I
n conversation, a friend and very lucrative business owner was discussing the critical importance behind the model upon which you build your business. He recalled a situation where he had been looking at a hotel reservation and although he had found what he wanted, he didn’t have the airfare confirmed. He spoke to the attendant and explained the sitaution. He was told, “Not to worry, that week is open. Call back in a couple of days when you have the airfare confirmed.” This he did. Guess what happened to the price of the room? It doubled.
Guess what happened to the price of coffee? There are stores toying with the 24-hour service model. Yes, there is an argument to be made that it could reduce overall costs by increasing sales-persquare foot, but at what expense and is it sustainable? I do not have the full answer to that either. We should be having a conversation about the demands put upon good, honest businesses trying their imperfect best to deliver a superior customerservice experience to the public, but all the while being squeezed for profits through additional administrative and compliance costs. At the recent CCIF meeting in Toronto this subject was raised. I truly hope the full scope and
I think both the industry and the buying public have forgotten this business reality. Occupancy had gone up, and so did the pricing at that hotel. I look at most industries and find that this is now the norm. It’s simple. The more demand, the higher the pricing. This isn’t the case in the collision repair industry though. Everyone wants preferential treatment, but they want it at a discounted rate. It’s like when our rooms are full, we are not allowed to adjust for capacity and the extra costs it represents. I think both the industry and the buying public have forgotten this business reality. When capacity becomes strained, the business incurs more costs. Overhead goes up as utilities are consumed in greater amounts. Of course, the really big one is labour costs, which go up by a minimum of 50 percent when overtime is invoked. This is also ignoring the reality of the workforce in that, for the most part, it is tremendously difficult to get employees to work overtime. Just a couple of years ago, a famous Canadian coffee chain — among other 24 hour service restaurants — could not provide adequate staff for 24 hour-per-day service. 34 collision Repair collisionrepairmag.com
impact of what has been, and potentially could happen, is discovered. I remember when DRPs were just coming onto the scene. There was a gentleman in the states who wrote about not feeding the bear. He was accurate in foreseeing that once started, it would be impossible to stop. More and more has been demanded over time and profits have declined. That is why I believe prudence should be exercised and complete scenario examination undertaken when altering any business model. I have always been an advocate for improvement, but the real point lies in asking yourself the question, “Is it real improvement?” The alternate could end up being change for change’s sake, which benefits no one in the long run. Examine everything thoroughly, that’s the only way you’ll remain the one who’s driving. CRM Jay Perry is the founder and owner of Automotive Business Consultants (ABC), a performance coaching company specializing in the automotive service industry. He can be reached via e-mail at jayperry@a-b-c-inc.com.
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PROFILES OF SUCCESS
Bigger Brand
Mike Randev and Raghbir Gill have big plans for Fix Auto Calgary North East. By Mike Davey
April 2015 collision Repair 37
PROFILES OF SUCCESS
The team at Fix Auto Calgary North East.
M
ike Randev and Raghbir Gill got their start in the collision industry in the exact same way. The two are co-owners of Fix Auto Calgary North East, but they both started working in production. In fact, they got their start
working at the same facility. “We were partners from the beginning,” says Randev. “We both started at the same place, and we both started as apprentices around the same time.” Both Randev and Gill attended Southern Alberta Institute of Technology’s (SAIT) three-year autobody apprenticeship program. Like many in the industry, Randev and Gill not only started in the back, they started at the bottom. It’s a path familiar to many in the industry. Start by sweeping floors, then move onto a bit of detailing and prepping, and then starting an apprenticeship. Randev’s career took a turn towards management earlier than most. His employer, who had signed his apprenticeship papers, asked him to start managing the collision side of the business before his apprenticeship was even complete. “He was a mechanic, so he wasn’t re-
ally qualified to manage the collision repair division,” says Randev. “We had a good working relationship.” Today, Randev and Gill split their responsibilities, with Gill primarily responsible for production, while Randev deals with customers. “It’s really the part of the business I enjoy the most,” says Randev. “Not only do you make a connection on a personal level, you inf luence their decisions when it comes to recommending you to their family, friends, or their business. We’ve gotten a lot of B2B business from our customers.” Everyone wants great customer service, and most business owners like to think they provide it. However, great service doesn’t just result in happy customers. It builds loyal brand ambassadors. “We have the community behind us,
38 collision Repair collisionrepairmag.com
because we have great customer service and because we’re so involved. It’s all positives. We get our name out there, and we help to improve the community we and our customers live in,” says Randev. It’s a strategy that has helped build the facility into a production powerhouse. Starting at 2,000 sq. ft., Fix Auto Calgary North East now occupies almost 10,000 sq. ft., and further expansion is likely in the near future. The business already owns the 5,000 sq. ft. space next door, and may expand into it soon. There are always challenges when it comes to growth, but the team at Fix Auto Calgary North East has overcome them. As Randev points out, they met those challenges with efficient production and maintaining those high levels of customer service.
PROFILES OF SUCCESS
The exterior of Fix Auto Calgary North East. The entire store has recently been rebranded and new equipment has been purchased.
“The biggest challenge we had was with insurance companies, simply because it’s tough to attract their attention when you’re small,” says Randev. “We had to prove to them that we had efficiency, but it was our customers that really convinced them. When a customer says, ‘I want to go to this place, whether they’re on your list or not!’ then insurers start to notice.” Today the facility is a part of a number of direct repair programs with major insurers. Randev has no doubt that it was the facility’s team and their loyal customers who helped get them there. When it came time to hire a manager for the facility, the extreme dedication to customer service led Randev and Gill to look for people who shared the same vision. They found one in Darko Roskar, who joined the facility in the past year. Roskar is used to an environment where customer service is always top priority. Before entering the collision repair field, he was the Director of Operations for Double Double Pizza & Wings, a large chain operating stores throughout Ontario. Like many people drawn into collision, Roskar soon found that he had a passion for the business. “I’ve had other opportunities, but I know franchising,” he says. “When I met Mike, and he and I discussed the vision for the business, I knew I wanted to work with them. It’s a shared vision of increasing the business.” Business was already good before Roskar joined, but since he came on board sales have climbed by approximately 20 percent. Part of the increase is due to increased efficiency, which has recently led to an enormous renovation and refurbishment
“we have the community behind us. we get our name out there, and we help to improve the community we and our customers live in.” - Mike randev of the facility from top to bottom, including a booth and prep station. Fix Auto is a global company, operating in Canada, US, UK, and France. This is part of why Randev and Gill chose the network. “They’re both far looking entrepreneurs, and we’re pleased that they see the enormous benefits that being part of Fix Auto can bring to their business,” says Peter Polito, General Manager for Fix Auto Western Canada. “A global reach allows us to find efficiencies on a massive scale, as well as giving us access to an incredible range of best practices. We’re proud that Mike and Raghbir have joined with us.” Fix Auto excels at building relationships, and so does the management of Fix Auto Calgary North East. A contract with a local taxi company has led them to consider moving all of its jobs to a separate building, leaving the main centre for insurance work. They need the capacity. They’ve also considered doing two shifts to maximize productivity.
“We’ve always wanted growth,” says Randev. “That’s part of the reason we decided to join Fix Auto. We’ve got technical skill, strong management, and great customer service. Fix Auto provides the rest of the tools we need to realize our vision.” Polito is not shy in praising the recent changes R andev and Gill have implemented. “Running a shop today is nothing like the shops of the past”, says Polito. “It takes vision and courage to invest in the state of the art standards that are necessary to stay current within the industry. They understand the power of branding, which is to create a promoter of the brand for every customer. As a result, their vision of the future will quickly become a reality.” It’s a vision that doesn’t stop with just one location. Randev says the near future will see more locations. “We’re going for multiple locations across the province,” he says. “In fact, we might even open one or two new facilities this year. We’re heading up, and Fix Auto and our team are helping to take us there.” CRM April 2015 collision Repair 39
EXECUTIVE VISION
Commodities E
Flavio Battilana and CSN see the repair business as a commodity provider. xecutive Vision focuses on discussions with key players in the auto claims economy and the auto industry, their views on the present industry and their vision for
the future. In this issue, our guest is Flavio Battilana, COO, Managing Director of CSN Collision Centres. Founded in 2002 as Collision Solutions Network, CSN Collision Centres is currently the largest network of collision repair facilities in Canada as ranked by number of stores. Headquartered in Ontario, the network’s members operate in all 10 Canadian provinces.
Collision Repair magazine: What do you see as the single most critical issue in the collision repair industry, from the perspective of the individual facility owners? What would you suggest to facility owners who are trying to deal with that? Flavio Battilana: I believe one of the most critical issues in the industry is that our industry is being commoditized. There’s limited effort given to understanding that not all collision repair facilites are equal, and that there is a Good, Bad, and Ugly factor to our industry. When Good collision centres continue their investment strategies in people, equipment, pursuing certifications such OEM or I-CAR, and input greater office and production efficiencies, and receive a minimal rate of return, that is a concern. Good facilities are at risk, but they continue to hope that improvement in the marginal revenue will one day be higher than marginal cost. It’s a risk that I still encourage the Good collision centres to accept and take. Managing shop expenses in relation to customer demands is out of balance, hence creating a higher level of stress and distraction amongst collision repair facility owners in the industry.
CRM: Making investment without adequate recompense is certainly a concern for any business owner. You’ve got to recoup, or there’s no way to make future invesments when needed. Let’s broaden the scope of that last question a bit. What do you see as the most critical issue facing networks and large MSOs, and how can they deal with that issue? FB: Focusing on what the facilities in the network need, and balancing those solutions to what the customer wants. Those networks and MSOs that invest in people, equipment, and efficiencies strategies at every level will be much better prepared to handle the industry critical issues, such as business sustainability, increasing vehicle complexity, and a depleted work force. Those that focus on finding and creating new efficiencies in performance and production will have an upper hand over those that choose to focus on increasing their sales. CRM: In your view, what are the most important steps that a collision repair facility can take to help secure business longevity? FB: The first step might sound like a big step, but it’s got to be there or the facility probably won’t get to the second
40 collision Repair collisionrepairmag.com
step. That first step is for the collision centre’s owner to create, and maintain, a high level of credibility, quality, and commitment to their customers. That commitment is key. It doesn’t matter whether the customer in any particular case is a member of the driving public or a business to business partner. You need to show you’re committed to satisfying their needs, and that you have the capability to do so. The second most important step is to understand the success of consolidation. I think the easiest way to understand it is to simply ask yourself a few questions about how it relates to your business. Ask yourself, “How does cons o l i d at i o n f i t i n , a n d h ow d o e s i t complement my current business market and circumstances?” Next, you need to look at what you’re getting. In other words, ask, “Will it improve our business strategy as well as protect it, or just introduce a cost?” CRM: What do you think will be an area of growth for collision repair facilities? FB: Consolidation is the first area of growth, and your market circumstances will play a key role in determining the level of that growth.
EXECUTIVE VISION
Collision centres with owners and managers that understand the difference of being a generalist or a specialist will see the results of their strategies. Business models that focus on production and performance, coupled with the highest level of customer satisfaction, will grow steadily and with the greatest level of consistency. CRM: Thinking solely of how it’s going to change the business, what’s the biggest change we can expect in the next few years? FB: There’s a lot of talk about changing technology, but really, the collision repair industry is very good at dealing with technological change. It’s the new normal, and as an industry we’ve become experts at it! Really, I think the most significant change we’ll see won’t be brought on by technology, at least not directly.
“
Vehicle complexity, with a work force that may not be up to the challenge, will create a degree of separation. Therefore specialization and the level of investment will have the greatest impact. I think that’s true regardless of whether the investment is made in equipment, or if it goes towards increasing service levels, or if it’s a combination of both. In short, I believe that those that choose to make the investment and embrace change will gain market share. CRM: We’ve talked a lot about the industry in general. What’s next for CSN? FB: These are very interesting times for CSN Collision Centres. We continue to strive to improve upon delivering t he hig hest le vel of customer experience i n t h e i n d u s t r y,
while being performance minded. For us, the future will be about being committed to providing those high levels of customer service and performance, while at the same time ensuring a mutually sustainable future for all stakeholders. For the future, the value proposition will be delivered through increased centralization. As a network, CSN remains committed to providing world class customer service, being the employer of choice and focusing on performance. Overall, our goal for the future is simple. We desire to be known to be doing the right thing, all of the time! CRM
Those networks and MSOs that invest in people, equipment, and efficiencies strategies at every level will be much better prepared to handle the industry critical issues, such as business sustainability, increasing vehicle complexity, and a depleted work force.” – Flavio Battilana
It will be the impact of managing and meeting customer demand and expectations, which are at the highest level they’ve ever been. People demand and expect more than they ever have before, and the successful businesses are the ones who can adapt to that most readily. I suspect that businesses that are trying to be all things to all people will have their difficulties in the future.
Flavio Battilana, COO, Managing Director of CSN Collision Centres.
april 2015 collision Repair 41
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Professional Solutions
Mitchell’s Road Show highlights the software’s management advantages.
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he Mitchell Road Show has returned to Canada for 2015, making its first stops in British C olumbia to visit t wo ver y different collision repair facilities. It’s a good place to start such an undertaking. The first facility was the collision centre attached to Mercedes-Benz North Vancouver. Now just a few weeks away from retirement, Manager Joe Bove has been using Mitchell’s estimating and other solutions for his entire career. “I’ve used Mitchell since I started in the business 32 years ago, originally with the books and then electronically,” says Bove. “In my opinion, it’s a very good estimating platform that’s fast to learn and easy to read.” Bove also appreciates the dedication to accuracy shown by the Mitchell team. The system is loaded with repair times, based on careful studies of average repairs, but some vehicles don’t have repair times. That’s a plus. “We repair a lot of high end vehicles. Some of those vehicles just aren’t repaired often enough to have time studies done on them,” says Bove. “Mitchell doesn’t include the times unless they have solid evidence to back it up, so they’re not in the system.” In other words, information for a vehicle that almost no technician will ever see might not be included. When the information is there, as it is for every almost every vehicle, it can depended upon to be accurate. As part of the dealership, it’s natural that most of the work that goes through Mercedes-Benz North Vancouver’s facility are the high-end vehicles that are sold there. Bove says Mitchell helps to ensure the high levels of satisfaction their customers expect. The Mitchell Road Show next touched down in Abbotsford, home of CARSTAR 360. A franchised collision centre is different from
The team at Mercedes-Benz North Vancouver. The facility was the first stop on this year’s Mitchell Road Show.
The team at CARSTAR 360. The location is also home to 360 Fabrications, one of Canada’s top auto customizers.
a dealership collision facility, but CARSTAR 360 has an additional factor that makes it stand out. It’s also the home of 360 Fabrications, Canada’s largest builder by volume of custom vehicles. Both businesses are owned by brothers Rick and Daryl Francouer. “The custom business and the collision business have some similarities, but they’re actually very different, and they have different needs,” says Rick Francouer. “We had been using Mitchell ABS up until 2011, when we decided to move to the new Mitchell RepairCenter.” This makes the facility an early adopter. What prompted the change? “We anticipated that we would need it for our own reasons,” says Francouer. “We believed that a cloud based management system put us ahead of the curve. Running our performance and custom business has given us an appreciation for always adopting the latest technology.”
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Oddly enough, the custom part of the business is still using Mitchell ABS, but C ARSTAR 360 uses the more recently launched Mitchell RepairCenter. “ABS works well in the customization side, but managing a repair business is very different. Customers at 360 Fabrication aren’t as interested in a quick turnaround. These aren’t daily drivers. Customers at CARSTAR 360 need their vehicles back as soon as they can get them. It’s not a fun project or a labour of love for them. It’s an absolute necessity. Mitchell RepairCenter has everything we need to get them back on the road as quickly as possible, while allowing us to manage our time and resources in the most effective manner.” The Mitchell Road Show makes its next stop in Calgary. Don’t miss the full coverage appearing in the next issue. For more information, please visit go.mitchell.com/2015CanadianRoadShow.
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Welding
Fusing the Future By Melissa Hayes
OEMs are paving the way for advancements in welding.
W
ith the release of the first aluminum-bodied mass-marketed veh i c l e , Fo r d’s 2 0 1 5 F-150, along with an increasing use of high strength steels and a focus on carbon fibre and other advanced materials, OEMs have been at the root of change in the industry — and collision repairers have been forced to keep pace. Welding product manufacturers like Chief, Car-O-Liner, Pro Spot, Tecna and Spanesi have been leading the charge in taking steps to help shop owners and techs adapt to these industry shifts, providing a preserver in a sink or swim situation. Chief Automotive’s line of fully automatic and aluminum-specific Elektron welders is an example of these efforts. Elektron’s TrueAutoMode — a feature on the Elektron MULTISPOT MI-100 — spot welding system works to automate the welding process to help deliver OEM-approved spot
welds. Released in the last year, Chief says it’s the first fully automatic system of its kind, removing the necessity for technicians to re-program the welder tip changes or input vehicle-specific additional information, and instead allows techs to turn on the units and begin their welds. The company says TrueAutoMode takes the pressure off the technician, simplifying
Elektron’s MultiMIG 511 and 522 inverter welders were designed to weld aluminum as easily as steel.
Chief says Elektron’s TrueAutoMode spot welding system is the first fully automatic system of its kind.
procedures so that all operators need to do when performing a weld is point the gun. Chief says TrueAutoMode automatically controls welding parameters and adjusts as needed to compensate for material composition, thickness, interference and resistance. In addition to the release of its TrueAutoMode system, Elektron also introduced two aluminum welding systems feaApril 2015 collision Repair 45
Welding
brazing welding repairs. The company notes that the machine’s flash-card and inverter technology identifies the welding programs needed for each repair, while digital memory can save up to 200 individual jobs and favoured settings via an SD card. Also featured on the unit are its True The CMI3000III welding system was developed by Car-O-Liner to meet the needs of modern repair.
tured in Ford’s collision repair program for its F-150. Released in 2014, the Elektron MultiSpot M22 AL, a component of the Elektron MultiTool Aluminum Dent Repair Station, is designed specifically for removing dents from the hoods and body panels of aluminum-based vehicles. Also released last year, the Elektron MultiMig 511 and 522 inverter welders are intended to help technicians weld aluminum as easily as steel, and are capable of completing welding and brazing jobs on aluminum alloys, galvanized sheet metal, stainless steel and high-strength steel. Car-O-Liner says that with the buzz surrounding the introduction of Ford’s F-150, aluminum is the industry’s word du jour. Acknowledging the importance of having the right equipment to meet OEM standards for safe and solid welding repairs, the company has three aluminum welders that have been certified with different manufacturers’ certification programs. The CMI3000III MIG/MAG welding system was developed by the company to complete modern repair work on vehicles, covering various steel, aluminum and MIG
Welding product manufacturers . . . have been leading the charge in taking steps to help shop owners and techs adapt to these industry shifts.
Spray Pulse and Quattro Pulse capabilities, which the company says aid in striving for the best structural aluminum repairs and are safe to use on heat-sensitive materials like aluminum and galvanized steel. Complementing its 3000III welding system, Car-O-Liner’s AUTOMIG 273i Pulse Boost MIG welder is ideal for entrylevel welding repairs and uses single torch
Car-O-Liner’s AUTOMIG 273i Pulse Boost MIG welder uses single torch and synergic preset welding programs.
ProSpot’s SP-5 SMART MIG model comes equipped with three MIG torches to take on a variety of materials.
46 collision Repair collisionrepairmag.com
and synergic preset welding programs. The company also offers its AUTOMIG 273i Pulse Duo Boost MIG welder, which it says offers expanded precision with two torches to improve efficiency when switching between welding and brazing jobs. In addition, the company says it also offers carbon fibre accessories for aluminum dent repairs. Last year Pro Spot also announced its own line of welding equipment in the form of three dedicated aluminum MIG welders. The company’s SP-5 Smart MIG boasts three MIG torches that can be set up for aluminum, silicon bronze and steel and is
ProSpot’s SP-1 model is equipped to complete MIG, TIG and MMA/ stick welding jobs.
capable of completing stainless steel, aluminum and zinc-coated steel welds. It also comes equipped for TIG and MMA/stick welding. Pro Spot’s SP-2 model sports two MIG torches that can be set up to complete repairs on silicon bronze or steel, as well as aluminum. Much like the SP-5 model, the SP-2 can complete stainless steel and aluminum welds and similarly can be done in either continuous or pulse modes. Finally, the SP-1 Pulse MIG model stainless steel and aluminum welder offers a compact all-in-one setup with a single torch. Its universal cart affords easy movement around the shop, and is able to complete MIG, TIG and MMA/stick welding jobs. All three units are equipped with 5554 1.2mm aluminum welding wire spools, required by Ford for F-150 repairs, with the total number of spools corresponding to the quantity of torches on a given unit. Keeping in line with the demands of the industry, welding systems capable of gauging tip amperage, pressure and the ability to recognize thickness and materials used have been developed. These functions aim to take the guesswork out of repairs.
Welding
The Tecna 3664P SMART Welder makes adjustments accordingly to complete repairs.
The Tecna 3664P SMART Welder is such an example, with its automatic systems adjusting to each job. The model also works with structural adhesives and sealants, and is distributed exclusively by Arslan Automotive in Canada. Additonally, Spanesi has provided its own host of welding updates, noting that “Synergic Pulse” MIG/MAG welders are necessary for aluminum repairs, considering that more OEMs will likely introduce aluminum-based vehicles. The compa-
ny’s own offerings include the Q3 MIG/ MAG Welder model with single torch and spool gun, and the Q5 MIG/MAG Synergic Pulse Welder. Equipped with three torches, the latter model allows technicians to switch between aluminum and MIG braze welding by simply picking up the separate torch. The third carries steel wire. Spanesi says that to optimize welding procedures for even non-expert users, its units’ internal control boards memorize the best welding parameters for repairs. The synergic program helps shops maximize welding performances according to changing real-time parameters with focuses on automatically selected pulse parameters, pulse frequency related to wire feed rates, and electronic control to ensure uniform penetration and weld bead profile. The company says that in practical terms, synergic operations allow for technicians to pre-select what they need to complete welds with a “welder-friendly” control system. Spanesi says its welding line offers virtually splatter-free machines that can weld very thin and very
thick materials, while removing the need to change wire sizes. Altogether, Spanesi says its synergic pulse offerings bring the best elements of welding repairs together
The Spanesi Q3 MIG/MAG Welder is equipped with a single torch and spool gun.
to complete aluminum and stainless steel welding repairs. As the industry braces for the next wave of advancements in vehicle construction, welding product manufacturers will continue working to help techs stay ahead of the game. CRM
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AUTO DESIGN TRENDS
At BMW, mixed-material application necessitates certified and vehiclespecific training for techs.
Leaner &
Greener
Mixed-material vehicles are changing the framework of the auto industry. By Melissa Hayes
T
here was a time when the list of ingredients needed to construct a vehicle was short and sweet. Those days are gone. As technology has advanced and the industry has shifted towards the use of more complex materials — such as aluminum, high-strength steels and carbon fibre — the components of the vehicles of today have become much more of a mixed bag. One OEM that’s remained at the forefront of innovative change is BMW. Aiming to always stay a few steps ahead, the Germany-rooted manufacturer has been utilizing aluminum in their product line for over a decade, and has more recently begun to put the focus on carbon fibre. Driven by consumer’s safety and demands while abiding by North American government-directed environmental standards, BMW, akin with other manufacturers, is setting their sights on producing the lean, green, modernized vehicles of the future.
OEMs like Cadillac are also on board with the shift. The all-new CT6 will use mixedmaterials and a combination of joining processes, including laser welding shown here.
“It’s safe to say that the way cars are designed today is dramatically different from how they were in the past,” says BMW Canada’s Mike D’Angelo. “At BMW, there’s varying grades of steel, high-strength steel, aluminum and carbon fibre-reinforced plastic. The i3 for example is literally a full-blown carbon fibre shell on an aluminum frame.”
48 collision Repair collisionrepairmag.com
D’Angelo says that constructing vehicles with advanced materials works to minimize or even eliminate the harmful effects caused by collisions, absorbing impact and providing more reinforced protection for drivers and passengers. He adds that exterior components, such as the hood, are designed to function in a manner that also
AUTO DESIGN TRENDS left: Moving away from conventional vehicle design, BMW is putting the focus on advanced materials like aluminum and carbon fibre. Below: The BMW i3 design boasts a full carbon fibre body.
helps reduce the impact suffered by pedestrians in the event of an accident. “The other rationale behind mixed-materials is not just from a safety standpoint, it also comes down to fuel economy savings and how we can reduce weight in order to meet government regulations for higher fuel standards,” he says, also noting that the addition of new technology — such as telematics, night vision and proximity sensors — increases a vehicle’s total weight, further emphasizing the need for lighter materials. “We know that using conventional methods of building vehicles, like using just straight steel for example, won’t do,” he says. “We need to make these vehicles lighter, more fuel efficient and safer, and at the same time cater to what new generation of materials can be used that will allow us to achieve all of these goals.” While the benefits of multi-material vehicles to both the automotive industry and market are undeniable, what does this shift mean for collision repair shop owners and their techs? “You can’t just arbitrarily pull a frame like you could on cars of old,” D’Angelo says. “It has to be repaired in a certain way, otherwise it renders the vehicle useless and it can be very dangerous.” D’Angelo says that certified vehiclespecific training is critical to making safe repairs, stressing that teaching techs proper processes and supplying the right tools is something BMW itself takes very seriously and delivers via its certified advanced collision networks.
“It’s safe to say that the way cars are designed today is dramatically different from how they were in the past.” - Mike D’Angelo
This proactive and thorough approach is one that can be applied across the board as more and more multi-material vehicles hit the automotive market in the coming years and BMW continues to set the tone for what’s set to come down the line. With aluminum’s current prevalence in mass-marketed vehicles, as seen in Ford’s 2015 F-150, D’Angelo says it’s not completely out of the realm of reality that carbon fibre could also make a similar mainstream debut in the event it be-
BMW says carbon fibre will play a big role in the development of the manufacturer’s future models.
comes a more cost-effective option down the road. “For now, most of the mainstream manufacturers are probably going to be sticking with aluminum because of their sheer volumes they’re not able to perhaps at this particular point in time get into the very high complex and much more expensive materials such as carbon fibre,” he says. “But as we learn more and more about carbon fibre, I think we will start to see it in more vehicles within BMW.” Having put so much emphasis on research and development, including the partnership with a carbon fibre manufacturing plant, D’Angelo says BMW is blazing the trail as the industry begins to explore more complex materials. “It’s only through research of innovative products that we’re able to constantly evolve into new avenues,” he says. “We need to constantly ask where technology is going to be taking us in the future so that we’re ready to embrace it.” CRM April 2015 collision Repair 49
PATHWAY TO THE FUTURE Trainingmatters.ca is the destination for accessing career training and opportunity within collision repair and associated industries. Targeted to career seekers and those already working, Trainingmatters.ca provides tools, resources, processes, connections and a comprehensive directory of courses across Canada.
Become a member today and help build your future.
For more information contact Ellen Smith, Director of Sales & Marketing, at ellen@mediamatters.ca or 416.536.9285.
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The I-CAR training for the new 2015 Ford F-150, launched in 2014, has become the most popular course ever offered by I-CAR.
I-CAR’s Golden Year The non-profit helped to advance the industry by leaps and bounds in 2014.
I
-CAR has reported that a series of programs it initiated and expanded during 2014 have attracted recordlevel attention and success from the collision repair industry. The not-for-profit organization has received acclaim especially for three of its programs that exhibited particular success over the past year: • The Gold Class recognition program and Gold Class in Progress enrollment for collision repair shops continued to grow at a remarkable pace, exceeding its goals for the year. • The I-CAR training program for the new aluminum-intensive 2015 Ford F-150 has become the most popular course I-CAR has ever offered for collision repair professionals. • The debut of I-CAR’s Repairability Technical Support (RTS) Portal at rts.i-car.com earned recognition as one of 2014’s top innovations.
“The past year has been a big one for I-CAR,” says I-CAR Canada Executive Director Andrew Shepherd. “We’re pleased that the collision repair community has embraced the innovation and changes introduced into the I-CAR programs, all of which were designed to help the industry achieve higher levels of training and capability, as well as higher levels of training participation across the industry.” In a groundbreaking collaboration, I-CAR collision repair training experts worked alongside Ford Motor Company engineers during the all-new, aluminum-intensive Ford F-150 design and development process, leveraging I-CAR’s expertise to create a training solution for collision repair professionals. Traditionally, repair solutions are not developed until after a vehicle is publicly launched, leaving a gap in repair readiness. During 2014, more than 13,000 students across North America completed the 2015
Ford F-150 Structural Repair Training Course (FOR06). Of that group, 64 percent were collision repair technicians and 32 percent were auto physical damage adjusters from the insurance industry. At least one student from each of more than 4,000 organizations completed the course, and 1,000 more are registered for upcoming scheduled classes. Additionally, 3,300 students completed the I-CAR Welding Training & Certification in aluminum welding for Ford and other vehicles. The success of the program indicates the value of I-CAR’s relationships with OEMs in anticipating, collaborating and launching innovative, relevant and critical programs for technicians nationwide. All courses are designed to holistically educate technicians to the special requirements and techniques of welding, body assembly and other repairs for the new generation of vehicles built with combinations of aluminum and steel materials. APRIL 2015 collision Repair 51
CROMAX® MOSAICTM A basecoat line for automotive body shops doing collision work that is designed to provide dependable colour match and a durable OEM quality repair. Classic coat-flash-reflow technology allows application flexibility and promotes excellent metallic control.
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AN AXALTA COATING SYSTEMS BRAND The Cromax logo and Cromax® Mosaic™ are trademarks or registered trademarks of Axalta Coating Systems LLC or its affiliates, used under license by Axalta Coating Systems Canada Company. collision Repair © 201552 Axalta Coating Systems Canada collisionrepairmag.com Company. All rights reserved.
Another highly popular I-CAR innovation in 2014 was the debut of its Repairability Technical Support (RTS) Portal at rts.i-car.com, a centralized information hub for technical and repair data from OEMs and other resources. “Our Repairability Technical Support Portal will purposefully expand its base of crucial OEM repair information,” says John Van Alstyne, CEO and President of I-CAR US, “and I-CAR will continue to lead in promoting a ‘Learning Culture’ within collision repair businesses that enables them to thrive, not just survive.” The RTS Portal includes a wealth of information of use to professional collision repairers. Included under the Technical Knowledge category are OEM Information, OEM Partial Part Replacement Search, OEM Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Disable Search, and OEM
During 2014, more than 13,000 students ... completed the 2015 Ford F-150 Structural Repair Training Course. Restraint Systems Part Replacement Search. The RTS Portal also covers the bedrock of modern collision repair by providing extensive information on Uniform Procedures for Collision Repair (UPCR). The UPCR outline industry-accepted, uniform repair procedures for technicians, insurers, suppliers, vehicle makers, educators and others. They enable the collision repair industry to produce uniform, quality repairs for the consumer. Another highlight of the RTS Portal is the Ask I-CAR section. Users can submit their own questions to be answered by I-CAR’s experts. The database of questions and answers is easily searchable, making it easy to find if the question has already been answered. Questions asked and answered vary from vehicle specific inquiries such as, “Is there a sectioning procedure available for the B-pillar reinforcement on the 2013 Honda Accord?” to more general queries such as “What does I-CAR say about repair tolerances?” CEO John Van Alstyne noted that in 2015 I-CAR intends to continue to expand its industry relevance and course offerings, improve services and solutions, and enhance delivery options as it continues its vision, “that every person in the collision repair industry has the information, knowledge and skills required to perform complete, safe and quality repairs for the ultimate benefit of the consumer.” F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t i o n , p l e a s e v i s i t i-car.ca. CRM
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I-CAR debuted its new Repairability Technical Support portal last year to great acclaim in the industry. The site is frequently updated, including recently uploaded content on how to disable various electric and hybrid vehicles.
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Towing app sees climbing growth since initial December launch The roadside assistance app Rapitow is proving popular among Canadians according to the company, reporting an unexpected surge of growth since its launch late last year. Setting out to connect stranded motorists with the nearest towing service, the app was first introduced in the GTA on December 1, 2014 before rolling out across the country throughout the month. In a February dated release, Rapitow CEO Waheed Subhani said that since then, over 40 percent of tow truck companies have signed up with the service. He says interest from the towing industry has been so great, it’s necessitated a growing queue. “We quickly covered Ontario, and we’re hearing from companies across the country
wanting to sign up,” Subhani says. “They are currently on a waitlist, but it won’t be long before we are rescuing stranded motorists from coast to coast!” Available to download on iPhone and Android devices, Rapitow Roadside Assistance works via the smartphone’s built-in GPS to summon help with the tap of a finger. The app then dispatches the closest tow truck and allows users to track the truck’s route and location in real-time, providing drivers with a clear picture of when they can expect help to arrive. Subhani says the app, in moving away from inefficient, outdated dispatch models, offers solution-based technology. “We are in the business of emergency
Ontario lawyer takes action against Bill 15 A GTA-based personal injury lawyer is challenging Ontario’s new auto insurance act. The Brampton Guardian repor ts that Joseph Campisi formally took Bill 15, the Fighting Fraud and Reducing Automobile Insurance Rates Act, 2014 to the Superior Court of Justice on January 21. “ We h ave c h a l l e n g e d t h e c o n s t i t u tional validity of the Bill 15 amendments to the Insurance Act because it violates the Charter of Rights and Freedoms and the Constitution Act, 1867,” Campisi told the Guardian. He says that a response from the Attorney General of Ontario is expected. In the report, Campisi states the challenge aims to restore the rights of injured victims of vehicle collisions and accidents, allowing them to directly sue auto insurance companies. “We’re asking that the courts strike down
this law and restore the rights of the injured to access the court system,” Campisi says. Bill 15 amendments require application for arbitration through the License Appeal Tribunal. Campisi’s grievances add to those of hundreds of tow truck drivers and operators who have actively protested the bill since it was passed by the Ontario legislature on November 20, 2014. Towers say Bill 15, which the government states was designed to protect consumers, will negatively impact the towing industry — resulting in price hikes and workday restrictions. Tow truck drivers would be limited to 13 hour days and a maximum of 60 hours per week under the new legislation An estimated 1,500 drivers surrounded Toronto’s Queen’s Park and around 100 gathered at Brampton City Hall to voice these concerns in December 2014.
response, and it is not acceptable to be waiting on the side of the road for a call centre to answer the phone. We have moved passed that,” he says. “We can have you safe at home before the ‘old guys’ even answer your call.” T h e c o l l o b o r a t i ve c r e a t i o n o f S u b hani, an IT software consultant, and his brother-in-law, Joe Borg — who holds two decades-worth of towing experience — the service costs $9 per month and is priced per car, rather than driver. Following noted success in the Canadian marketplace, the company says a US launch is currently in the works. For more information on Rapitow, please visit Rapitow.com.
Towers, RCMP remind drivers to slow down Saskatchewan towers are asking authorities to ensure motorists slow down when approaching emergency vehicles. CBC reports tow truck drivers have been calling on White Butte RCMP to lend their flashing police lights to warn drivers to slow down while operators are removing vehicles from ditches along the highway. Dakota Towing owner Shon Crumley told CBC that motorists are prone to ignoring towers’ own amber lights. “It just doesn’t register to slow down for us,” says the Rouleau-based Crumley, adding that the public doesn’t comprehend the potential danger and he’s constantly worried about his employees. The province requires drivers slow down to at least 60 kilometres per hour when passing emergency vehicles. Violation of the law can result in a minimum fine of $464.
For advertising inquiries, please contact Mike Davey at 905-370-0101 or advertising@collisionrepairmag.com. 54 collision Repair collisionrepairmag.com
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Contents Recycling News.....................57- 63 Joint Saskatchewan/Alberta meeting, ARA sets sights on change and much, much more. Recycler’s View...........................64 by David Gold
SARA, AARDA to hold joint meeting in Canmore, Alberta
ARA zeros in on five strategic initiatives By David Gold
The joint SARA-AARDA meeting will take place at the Coast Hotel & Conference Centre in Canmore, Alberta.
Automotive recyclers in Saskatchewan and Alberta are taking conference networking to a whole new level. This year the provincial associations from both provinces are working together to bring their members, associate members, suppliers and friends a unique conference experience. The joint meeting will take place May 1 and 2, 2015. Recyclers in Saskatchewan are represented by the Saskatchewan Auto Recyclers Association (SARA), while their neighbours in Alberta are represented by the Alberta Automotive Recyclers and Dismantlers Association (AARDA). “We want to encourage the sharing of ideas and innovations across provincial borders so we are planning a great conference at a fabulous location, on the east slopes of the Rocky Mountains,” says Ian Hope, Executive Director of AARDA. “The theme of this conference is safe practices within the auto recycling industry, and promoting a safety mindset and culture.” SARA and AARDA have chosen the CanContinued on page 58.
more location due to its popularity, and the selection of the newly remodeled Coast Hotel & Conference Centre will add to the pleasure that delegates can expect while there. Proximity to both Calgary and Banff will allow delegates to extend their trip and take in other exciting and memorable attractions. The Conference will kick off on Friday evening with a meet and greet reception at the Coast Hotel where vendors and suppliers will find plenty of space to set up and showcase their products and services and mix with members. On Saturday, vendor exhibits will continue in the main hall where the presentations will be held. The day will start with each Association holding their separate Annual General Meetings. The AGMs will be followed by a presentation by Randy Montgomery, of Harry’s Auto Wreckers in Grande Prairie, Alberta. Montgomery will be speaking from the heart and from experience as his shop had tragically lost a young man two years ago when a vehicle fell from its lift, crushing him.
With 2015 upon us, professional automotive recyclers find themselves competing in an increasingly crowded marketplace - one that has changed and evolved since the Automotive Recyclers Association (ARA) Board of Directors adopted the Association’s current Strategic Plan in 2013. To continue to effectively promote professional automotive recyclers and their businesses, ARA leaders and staff met on January 22 to 23 in Fort Myers, Florida to review the current plan, its goals, implementation strategies, and to make any necessary updates to reflect the Association’s progress and industry dynamics since 2013. The current ARA Strategic Plan was adopted by the Board of Directors at its March 13, 2013 meeting in Washington, DC. The Strategic Plan identifies five strategic initiatives that are the means through which ARA plans to translate its vision into practice. During the meeting, attendees were encouraged to speak up and break into group to work on a revised Strategic 5 Year Plan. The level of participation and int e r a c t i o n a m o n g s t a u t o re cyclers in attendance showed that our industry has numerous opportunities to grow and prosper and that was most encouraging. Continued on page 61.
APRIL 2015 collision Repair 57
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58 collision Repair collisionrepairmag.com
Joint meeting ... continued from page 57.
Montgomery’s presentation will be followed by a fast-paced and insightful presentation by Alberta Occupational Health and Wellness who will review best practices in safety and wellness in automotive workplaces. In the afternoon there will be a highly energized corporate presentation by Wayne Lee, an award-winning corporate hypnotist and peak performance coach
who has presented to over 4000 audiences across the globe during the past 20 years. Lee’s combination of mental programming tools and comedy hypnosis always provide sensational experiences for conference delegates. Lee will also perform as the entertainment during the evening dinner reception. For more information, please contact Ian Hope at admin@aarda.com.
China may see first ‘car scrappage peak’ in 2015 due to industry growth Automotive recycling in China lags behind many developed countries, but that may be about to change. China’s automobile industry has ushered in an explosive growth since 2000, with car ownership rising to 137 million by 2013, second only to the US. According to an estimated average car scrappage deadline of 10 to 15 years, China will see the first car scrappage peak in 2015. China’s overall automobile scrap rate was only 4 percent in 2013, far lower than the 6 to 8 percent in developed countries, mainly because national policies on motor vehicle liquidation are still unclear and the industry still desires to be regulated. At the same time, China’s low capacity to formally dismantle and process end-of-life vehicles (ELVs) is far behind the needs. Based on China’s car ownership and its growth rate, and 6 to 8 percent ELVs of car ownership in mature markets, China’s ELVs will reach 9 to 12 million by 2015 and 12 to 16 million by 2020, showing a great amount of scrap. Every professional auto recycler knows that there is a great quantity of valuable resources in ELVs, a large number of parts among them can be recycled through remanufacturing. However, even if only scrap steel, scrap tire, waste plastics and scrap non-ferrous metal content in ELVs are considered in statistical analysis, its industry scale will reach about $34.26 billion CAD in 2015; if parts re-
manufacturing and related equipment needs are included, the figure will be far above $38.54 billion CAD. In 2013 a total of 576 Chinese enterprises obtained auto dismantling and recycling qualification, up 10.34 percent year on year; 2,268 auto recycling outlets, up 1.39 percent year on year. ELV recycling and dismantling network is taking shape in China, but related enterprises are generally featured by small production scale, low recycling amount, and scattered resources. Shanghai Xinzhuang Auto Dismantling, for example, is China’s largest automobile dismantling company, but its annual processing capacity is merely 25,000 vehicles. The China End-of-Live Vehicle (ELV) & Dismantling Industry Report, 2014-2017 is now available and includes the following: • Development environment, industry barriers, trend prediction, etc. of China ELV & Dismantling industry; • Scale, market segments, etc. of China resource utilization industry; • Market size and competition pattern of China ELV & dismantling industry as well as industry policies and development status of developed countries; • Operation, ELV & Dismantling business, etc. of 15 key players in China (Huahong Technology, GEM, Miracle Automation, etc.) The full report is available at reportlinker.com/p02590391-summary/ view-report.html.
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FOR COLLISION Quality Replacement Parts (QRP) is our computerized inventory system. It allows real time requests with quick responses! The system is easy to use. Request a part and all members receive the request and respond in under 15 minutes with competitive quotes based on quality and availability. But that’s not all! QRP also gives you the power to obtain several different parts from different yards, all with a single mouse click! FOR INSURERS Our total salvage management solution provides insurers with a convenient way to generate competitive returns while ensuring their total loss vehicles are handled promptly and properly. FOR MECHANICAL REPAIRERS QRP offers you the same great functionality enjoyed by collision repairers. Request parts one at a time, and within minutes receive competitive quotes from our entire network. You can still put together an entire repair order with a single click! Don’t forget to get a quote on extended warranties!
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Hollander holds first Regional Customer Training Seminar Hollander held its first regional training seminar of 2015 in the Atlanta area on Friday, March 13 and Saturday, March 14.
Hollander is planning to hold further re g i o n a l t r a i n i n g s u m m i t s t h ro u g h o u t the year in different areas. Each regional
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summit will generally have the same look and feel as the first. The two-day 2015 Southeast Regional Training Summit was held at the Atlanta A i r p o r t M a r r i o t t G a t e w a y, i n A t l a n t a , Georgia, and combined presentations and hands-on learning experiences with Hollander experts in Powerlink, EDEN, and eLink. The two presentation tracks revolved around Inventory Workflow and System Administration and Management. Inventory Workflow included tracks on managing and maintaining inventory, prepping inventory for sales and inventory tools. System Administration and Management focused on basic bookkeeping management, an introduction to Powerlink Order Management and tracking sales performance, among other topics. Ahead of the event, Hollander Director of Service Delivery, Chris Gilbert, weighed in on the driving factors behind the seminar. “We have listened carefully to our customers and determined regional training is the best way to serve customer needs,” he says. “While past summits have focused on thought leadership, we’re tailoring this year’s events to concentrate on customer needs and training. “The summit will provide an enhanced training experience through one-on-one availability and access to a portion of every Hollander team.” Software demonstrations and account management assistance were provided by Hollander support associates and sales representatives in the Technology Test Drive Center. In addition to the presentation tracks, the Southeast Regional Training Summit also provided networking opportunities with fellow recyclers. Hollander will look to host more regional training for its customers throughout the year in different segments of the country. For more information about Hollander and to stay informed of upcoming events, please visit the company online at HollanderSolutions.com.
ARA ... continued from page 57.
Going forward, the ARA Strategic Plan will focus on five strategic initiatives that are soon to be approved by the Executive Committee for distribution to its members. Each of the five strategic initiatives outlines a series of implementation strategies which describe how ARA plans to commit its resources and yearly goals that represent how progress and future success will be measured. The net result of the meeting was a completed and wellfocused strategic plan for all those involved with ARA to follow as a guideline going forward. For more information, please visit a-r-a.org. David Gold is the co-owner of Standard Auto Wreckers, an auto recycler with locations in Toronto, Ottawa, Port Hope, and Niagara Falls, New York. He also currently sits on the ARA board in the position of Secretary, and is a regular contributing columnist with Collision Repair magazine.
Ed Macdonald of Maritime Auto Parts (far right) addresses the ARA members meeting to discuss the organization’s strategy.
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Standard Auto Wreckers helps launch Monster Jam Canada Tour Crushing cars is a traditional part of the monster truck world, so it’s no surprise that an automotive recycler would get involved. For the last four years, Standard Auto Wreckers has played a part in Monster Jam. The Toronto event took place January 16 and 17 at the Rogers Centre, and served as the kick-off to the 2015 Maple Leaf Monster Jam Canada Tour. In addition to providing vehicles for the car crushing events, one of Standard’s tow trucks took part in the Pit Party, held prior to the main event, allowing patrons the opportunity to meet the drivers and see the trucks up close. The tow truck also occasionally drove around the arena with a team member from Feld Motorsports, firing Monster Jam shirts into the crowd The 2015 Monster Jam Canada using a t-shirt cannon. Tour kicked off on January 16. The Monster Jam
A Standard Auto Wreckers truck helps to bring cannonlaunched t-shirts to the Monster Jam crowd.
Tour is set to land in Hamilton, Ontario, at Copps Coliseum on April 25 and 26. This stop on the tour is also supported by Standard Auto Wreckers. The tour will then pay a visit to Halifax, Nova Scotia, with Scotia Speedworld setting the stage on May 30 and 31. For a complete list of Monster Jam events in 2015, please visit monsterjamcanada.ca.
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Registration opens for URG training Conference United Recyclers Group (URG) has announced that the 2015 URG Training Conference will take place April 30 to May 2 at the Inverness Hotel and Conference Center in Englewood, Colorado. The theme for the event is “United in Innovation, Technology and Growth.” This event also marks the 20th anniversary of URG. Established in 1995, the goal of the founders of URG was to obtain more control over their parts data, and bring to the marketplace an inventory management system that was created by auto recyclers. Today, URG has over 375 partners throughout the US and Canada. A complete schedule of events is included below. Please note that all times given are Mountain Time (MT). • Thursday, April 30 • 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.: Golf Tournament • Noon to 7 p.m.: Vendor Booth Setup • 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.: Meet & Greet with URG Board of Directors • Friday, May 1 • 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.: Kickoff & Keynote • 10 a.m. to 5 a.m.: Friday Sessions • 7 p.m. to midnight: Network Event at Spotted Dog • TBD: Meet your Vendors
The Inverness Hotel and Conference Center will host the URG Training Conference.
• Saturday, May 2 • 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.: Saturday Sessions • TBD: Meet your Vendors Registration is available online, with full packages priced at $325 and Saturday Only passes available at a cost of $115. Other packages for spouses and family are available at a reduced rate. To register, please go to online.com/Register/Checkin. aspx?EventId=1632447. For more information on URG, please visit at u-r-g.com.
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recycling i
crazyconditions The best way to weather an industry storm is to ride it out. By David Gold
w
ith the stock market reaching new highs, automobile production up more than ever before and many companies turning nice profits, the economy may seem pretty stable. But, on the other hand, there is also a much different scenario at play, affecting all industry stakeholders — the current price of commodities. It’s clear that the businesses heavily invested in commodities are experiencing a rough period. The question I get asked most often is, “When is the price of scrap going to go up?” I decided to hit the road to visit a few facilities to get a firsthand look at how the large gyrations
levels. This is good news for the industry, however, on the flip side, the price of steel dropped so drastically in February 2015 that both collision repairers and auto recyclers alike have been blindsided. The market for crushed car bodies essentially dropped $50 a ton and as such, many of our customers are holding their ELVs in their lots (covered in snow, taking up valuable space) waiting for the price to increase. While the price of scrap vehicles and the value they generate is only a very small portion of a business’ income, it is still something that many have counted on. Collision repair centres, garages and towing impounds are hoarding ELVs in hopes for greater
we have seen similar market conditions in the past, and they are cyclical indeed.
in the price of steel, as well as the extreme cold weather and snow accumulation have all affected businesses. There are many positives and negatives with respect to the existing economic and weather climate we find ourselves in, but this combination has put a strain on those looking for a little more consistency going forward. The collision repair centres I visited all appeared very busy – made evident by the lack of parking spaces at most of them. Fender benders on the roads are happening at a nice pace, and that has been a boon for the industry. A recent CBC Toronto newscast, “Cracked Bumpers,” was filmed live and on-site at Standard Auto Wreckers. The story focused on how car bumper covers are cracking apart as a result of the sustained bitter cold temperatures. It only takes a minor bump into another car or snow bank, which are often very hard, acting like concrete barriers on the side of our roads (and in many collision repair parking lots). There has just been so much snow that it’s challenging to find places to pile all of it up! So, collision repair centres are keeping busy with accident repairs and consumers can afford to drive again with the price of gas reaching reasonable 64 collision Repair collisionrepairmag.com
returns in the coming months — something I can’t blame them in the least for doing, as we as a company are forced to do the same. While there is a large quantity of new steel available and many construction projects on hold and/ or other countries cancelling orders for steel, we are stuck in this soft climate. We are all feeling the pinch at a time that usually sees an uptick in the scrap market as mills can’t get material from many recyclers due to weather, road conditions and low productivity. It appears this year the trend has gone the other way. As consumer confidence grows and the commodities start to rise again, my best advice would be to ride this period out. We have seen similar market conditions in the past, and they are cyclical indeed. As for the weather, it seems spring can’t come fast enough, even if this winter has been a favourable one for our industries. CRM David Gold is the co-owner of Standard Auto Wreckers, with locations in Toronto, Ottawa, Port Hope, and Niagara Falls, New York. He can be reached by phone at 416-286-8686 or via e-mail at david@standardautowreckers.com.
last word
#
1
Canada’s
ChoiCe Trusted. Timely. Relevant.
Happydays Your business can’t handle indifference. By Mike Davey
H
appiness is an elusive quality. There’s a school of thought that all happiness is transitory, so you have to grab what you can when it’s available. Others may believe that happiness is essentially learned. The reason I’m discussing happiness is because I’m fascinated by the results of one of our latest polls on our
In any case, there are plenty of reasons for a business owner to be either happy or unhappy with that decision. The part that I find fascinating is that about 15 percent of respondents said they were “Indifferent.” That’s exactly how it was phrased: Indifferent. I have got to meet these people. How on earth could someone be indifferent about the results of a life-altering deci-
it’s a decision on par with getting married.
Visit us on collisionrepairmag.com
66 collision Repair collisionrepairmag.com
website, collisionrepairmag.com. The question was “On balance, how happy are you that you decided to go into business for yourself?” Happiness definitely carried the day when we dug into the results, with 54 percent of respondents indicating they were “Extremely happy” and a further 15 percent saying they were “Somewhat happy.” On the other end of the scale, we have about 15 percent of people who said they were “Somewhat unhappy” or “Extremely unhappy.” Both of these results are easy to understand. On the one end, the happy people hardly need explaining at all. They most likely either pursued something they wanted, and got it, or they were in a family business situation and have found satisfaction in following in the tradition. The folks at the other end of the spectrum are also easy to envision. They’ve come to regret the decision they made to become an entrepreneur for whatever reason. Perhaps it’s a case of financial woes or simply dealing with the stress and responsibility that comes with ownership, or maybe there were things they didn’t foresee that have soured them on the job. It could even have been a temporary case of unhappiness on the day they did the survey.
sion? Make no mistake, deciding to go into business for yourself will undoubtedly alter your life’s trajectory. It’s difficult to see how that decision wouldn’t affect you on every level. I’m not just talking about money or the potential to make money. In fact, I don’t think I’m really talking about money at all. The idea that someone would become a business owner and then be indifferent about it is simply mind-blowing. Going into business for yourself is a decision on par with getting married. There are plenty of people who are happy in their marriages, and plenty of people who are unhappy in their marriages. I’ve never met a single one that was indifferent. The passion needs to be there for you to find success. If you’re unhappy or indifferent, it might simply be because you need to reignite your passion for the business. Maybe it’s customer service, or maybe you need to get your hands dirty. Whatever it is, you’ve got to find it. CRM Mike Davey is the editor of Collision Repair magazine. He can be reached at 905-3700101 or via email at editor@ collisionrepairmag.com.
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