WINTER 2013/14
geared for the future
LuK_GTNI_DMF_Reason_LuK_GTNI_DMF_Reason 09/12/2013 16:56 Page 2
LuK DMF. Original fitment for a reason. No other technology looks the same, works the same or performs the same.
25 Years of OE success! Fitted as OE to over
85 MILLION European vehicles & still growing!
For more than 25 years, the Dual Mass Flywheel has been the go-to technology that allows vehicle manufacturers to efficiently control increasing vibration levels in the modern drivetrain system. Designed and built by LuK in collaboration with the world’s leading engine designers, a DMF is the only way of maintaining the performance, economy and comfort levels originally intended by the vehicle manufacturer.
The world’s leading vehicle manufacturers choose LuK DMF for a reason, so should you! All LuK clutch kits and components come with a lifetime warranty* and FREE technical support which is available on Monday to Friday between 8.30am-5.30pm and on Saturdays from 9.00am-12.00am Technical Hotline Number : 0044 1432 264264 For more workshop knowledge visit:
When compared to an OE DMF, LTD technology is just that - LIMITED! • Technically LTD a non-genuine, unapproved system • Functionally LTD 45° rotational capacity vs 186° • Operationally LTD increased emissions and fuel consumption plus reduced comfort levels
Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket (UK) Ltd Holme Lacy Road, Rotherwas, Hereford HR2 6BQ Tel: 0044 1432 264264 E-mail: hfd-info@schaeffler.com www.Schaeffler-Aftermarket.com *conditions apply
CONTENTSGT
WINTER 2013/14
message from...
"
the editor T
he final quarter of 2013 brought some encouraging news to the new car market with a 10 per cent improvement in new car sales in Northern Ireland, similar to that of the rest of the UK. Dealers are noticing some improvement in footfall and the signs are that the encouraging figures will continue to rise in 2014 and the money being spent in new car dealerships filters down right through the motor trade. Meanwhile, the thorny issue of repairing damaged cars and the insurance industry continues to make the headlines with the recent Northern Ireland Bodyshop Alliance calling for a Stormont led investigation into the whole car insurance market. A recent BBC news report featured an accident repair specialist who had been told by an insurance company to use second hand parts to repair a vehicle without telling the customer. It’s time the insurance industry sat down with NIBA and made a clear arrangement that benefits everybody.
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news... 4
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NIBA calls for urgent probe into insurance industry CV Show – Bigger and brighter in 2014
29 21
special features... 6 NGK’s annual golf day 8
RT Autoparts Trade Show at FG7
26 ABP Meeting at Lisburn Civic Centre
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people... 29 Special education award for Riverpark Training 30
In the Driver’s Seat: Carbon Group’s Derek Lockhart
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GTNEWS
NIBA calls for urgent probe into car insurance sector T
he Northern Ireland Body shop Alliance (NIBA), which represents more than 200 workers from 50 independent car repair garages, recently called for an urgent, top-level investigation into the insurance sector which it says may be risking the lives of local motorists who have been involved in an accident. It is now calling on ministers, MLAs and the Consumer Council to directly intervene in the sector and review the local car insurance sector after revealing anecdotal details of a range of “questionable” practices it claims are being carried out by members of the motor insurance industry. At a press conference in Belfast, NIBA Chair Sean Bradley said his members were concerned that: • Damaged vehicles of policyholders were being repaired with non-genuine parts without their agreement. • Policy holders were being offered below-market values when their vehicle has been written off. • Policy holders were being charged varying policy excesses for using insurer-approved repairers rather than independent garages. • Policy holders were not being told they could use an independent repairer, or are being misinformed about the standard of workmanship of the independent repairer. • Policy holders were being wronglyinformed that they could not complain to the UK Ombudsman and they must agree to use laws of the Republic of Ireland for their case to be adjudicated.
NIBA Chair Sean Bradley said his members were also put under increasing pressure to cut corners in a bid to save money and maintain profit margins. Sean Bradley said: “Independent car garages play a vital role in the delivery of quality, trusted local services and in the delivery of a competitive market for car repairs inside and outside of the insurance sector. However, anecdotal evidence shows that some insurance companies are beginning to engage in questionable practices which are not in the true interests of the consumer. “As a responsible organisation, we want to highlight these concerns and bring the evidence we have to the urgent attention of our policymakers so that they can investigate the matter further. Like every consumer in Northern Ireland, we want a competitive insurance sector that acts in the interests of consumers and which puts safety first above everything else. Transparency is vital and a level playing field for all is urgently required.” NIBA wants policymakers to probe the powers of the insurance companies and delve further to investigate if there is evidence of wider abuse. As part of its campaign, it wants legislators to ensure that: • Insurers use only Thatchamapproved & crash-tested parts. • Insurers do not enforce wholesale repair rates on independent garages. • Insurers carry out independent post-repair inspections on insurance-
Sean Bradley (right) Chairman of NIBA with Frank Harvey, head of the National Association of Bodyshops
funded repairs to check work completed & parts used. • An independent arbitrator reviews rates which are applied annually. NIBA also wants the Consumer Council to ensure that: • Insurers clearly state in writing to policyholders they have a choice of repairer. • Insurers not to make any untrue statements about independent garages. • Insurers must update their policy booklets complaints procedure to direct policyholders to the UK ombudsman not the Irish Ombudsman. NIBA is also calling on the
Consumer Council to work with it to produce a ‘know your rights’ leaflet for motorists involved in collisions. Earlier this year, NIBA launched a major campaign at Stormont called ‘Your Car, Your Choice’ in which it warned that local jobs could be at risk if insurance companies in Northern Ireland continue to drive accident-hit consumers to garages which only they have chosen. This was supported by Northern Ireland First Minister, Peter Robinson, and a large group of cross-party MLAs. According to NIBA, thousands of drivers are being unwittingly directed to use the car garages insisted upon by the insurance companies because most are unaware that on every occasion they can choose who they want to repair their car. ■
Enterprise Minister welcomes Ryobi’s commitment to growth
E
nterprise Minister Arlene Foster has commended Ryobi Aluminium Casting (UK) Limited in Carrickfergus on its continued commitment to growth in the automotive sector. The Japanese owned company manufactures aluminium die cast products for the European automotive market. Speaking following a recent visit to the company’s premises, Arlene Foster said: “Ryobi Aluminium Casting has made significant investments in recent years to help sustain its competitive position in the global automotive industry. “Broadening its customer base by introducing new products and implementing measures to improve its cost efficiencies and enhance its machinery has helped Ryobi to sustain employment at the Carrickfergus plant and has also created 85 new jobs.”
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Pictured outside Ryobi Aluminium Casting Ltd are (L-R) Hiro Okashita, Account Manager, David Watson, General Manager, Ryobi Managing Director, John Hughes, Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster, Kaz Yokosowa, Assistant Plant Manager and Assembly Private Secretary for Enterprise, Trade and Investment Alastair Ross.
NEWSGT
Euro Car Parts aims to be Europe’s biggest parts distributor
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n Monday December 16th, 2013, Belfast Castlereagh was the 143rd branch to open in the ECP network. Branch Manager of Belfast Castlereagh, David McKee has been working in the parts business for some 25 years and commented “I am really looking forward to showing the trade in the greater Belfast area what ECP can do for their business.” The site has 27,000 sq ft of warehouse, offices and a counter space, stocking more than 27,000 different stock lines. This is the second branch in Belfast for Euro Car Parts; Belfast Boucher Road has been in town for more than 15 years and between the two sites has more than 30 vans. 53 people plus 5 part time, are employed at Boucher and 23 at Castlereagh, and as the business grows there will be further expansion
and job creation. Belfast Boucher carries more than 17,000 different lines of product, covering an area 100 miles out from Belfast , covering the whole of N.I. daily, and also going over the border into R.O.I. There is also a daily mail-order dept which can get goods anywhere on the Island next day. This means that they are able to deal with any customer in both parts of the country. “This is further helped by their ability to trade in either Sterling or Euro”, says Mr McKee” - so if you are a garage customer anywhere in Ireland - you can trade with ECP. And because of the massive product range available , our customers know that we can be relied on to supply the parts they need for their customers.” “Over the years , it is this can-do attitude that has been at the heart of our growth in Belfast. We always find a
way to give the customer the product and service they need,” Comments Michael O’Neil who has headed up the Boucher Road Site for the past 10 years. “With Belfast Castlereagh delivering to the greater Belfast area as well as covering North Down, Newtownards. Downpatrick and east Belfast areas, with many customers getting delivered to within 30mins, offering exceptional levels of service”. Euro Car Parts has three distribution centres in the Midlands areas; the NDC in Tamworth has more than 600,000 sq ft, holding more than 140,000 different part numbers and over at Swadlincote, Derbyshire, more than 185,000 sq ft of warehousing is dedicated to the collision repair parts, including the Platinum Plus range of body panels which come with a lifetime guarantee no quibble warranty and a certificate of matching quality to meet PAS125 standards, plus they claim they are the largest stockiest of OE mechanical, electronics, cooling and air con parts.
checked for quality The facility has expert quality control in place to ensure “cotton wool” handling of all body parts. The company has also just signed a lease at another site in Tamworth, 258,00 sq ft, which will house additional stock for the 20 plus additional branches planned for opening in Q1 and Q2 2014, including a site in Dublin. We are not just about parts, the company has invested heavily into a Trade Website and a Garage Management System known as Autoworks. A business tool with benefits including Advanced VRM
data & Parts imaging data, the System has been developed in partnership with leading automotive software specialist MAM. Designed specifically for workshops, Autowork it links directly to Euro Car Parts’ award winning TopCat electronic catalogue, giving access to 140,000 part numbers 24/7 and a VRM Look up facility powered by DVLA data. The core functions include Estimates (including service and labour times), Job Cards, a Booking-in Diary, MOT Reminders, SMS Quotes and Messages and a full Accounts package, CRM & Reporting and Technical Repair Data
Product range at both Belfast sites Range will include OE brands – NTN SNR, SKF, Bosch, Pagid, Textar, Lemforder, Sachs, LuK, Valeo, Denso, NGK, Exide batteries, Contitech, GKN, Dayco, plus tools from Milwaukee Tools, 3M consumables and oil from Shell, Petronas, Castrol, Valvoline and Triple QX SAE 5W-40 approved by VW. Crosland, Eicher Brakes, Magnetti Marelli lighting, FTE, Airtex, Ocap, Hella, Elring, plus many more. The company have also just announced the agreement to stock MANN-FILTERS from early February They offer over the independent garages a choice, value for money, exceptional delivery service from experienced and friendly staff. The team promise to provide the best possible service The company also offers Garage Equipment, including Tyre and Wheel packages & MOT bays from John Bean, Diagnostics from Bosch and Launch, Thermobile Heaters and much more. A dedicated Garage Equipment Team can plan, design and install. Lease options are available. A true one stop shop. ■
LKQ Coatings on brand for New Year T
he total transition to LKQ Coatings following the recent business acquisitions by LKQ Euro, part of the world leading LKQ Corporation, has been fully realised with the introduction of the new LKQ Coatings branding across its 26 locations nationwide, incorporating 80 vans, and initial training and inductions completed for its 350 staff. New signage, stationery, clothing and sales collateral have been rolled out ready to kick off the New Year reinforcing to customers LKQ Coatings’ high service levels, wider choice of product, competitive pricing and value-added support enabling repairers to grow their businesses profitably. Steve Horne, director, comments, “Since LKQ Coatings’ inception, we have spent the last few months investing in its infrastructure so we can revolutionise the repair market with more competitive pricing, guaranteed next day delivery, a wider choice of product and proactive support that will help to increase the opportunities for repairers and drive up their profitability. With our values, dedication and expert knowledge of the collision repair industry, we will ensure customers benefit from a professional and rewarding relationship with us
throughout 2014 and beyond.” Richard Steer, managing director of LKQ Coatings, comments, “LKQ Coatings is investing considerable time and money in delivering the strongest and most dynamic proposition to the marketplace for body repairers, motor manufacturers and insurance companies. With the rollout of the new branding and initial training across the business completed, we are kicking off 2014 fully transitioned and in full force. This is going to be an exciting year ahead for all our stakeholders and for LKQ Coatings.” ■ garagetrader - 5
GTNEWS
NGK Golf Day N
GK Spark Plugs (UK) Ltd customers have taken part in the company’s 21st Northern Ireland Golf Day that saw Cecil Holmes, of Karkraft Belfast, win the coveted NGK Shield after a closely fought competition. Played in glorious weather at Lisburn Golf Club, he finished a point clear of Robin McMullan, of Motorparts Strabane, with Patrick Cunningham from Autoparts Direct Belfast finishing two points further behind in third place. In the high handicap section, Alan Graham, of Lagan Motor Factors, Lisburn edged home a point ahead of Clive Jardine, of Auto Spares of Comber, with Matthew Maguire from North Down Motor Factors in Newtownards taking third place. Other winners on the day included Paul Doran, of P+R Wholesale in Newry, who won the longest drive competition and Matthew Maguire who earned the prize for finishing nearest to the pin. The NGK staff prize was won by Stewart Neill, Area Manager (Ireland), NGK Spark Plugs (UK) Ltd. Following the event, the competitors adjourned to the Ramada Encore Hotel in Belfast, when an evening meal and prize giving ceremony was held in the Potted Hen Restaurant. ■Top Right: Competitors get ready for the start of the NGK Spark Plugs (UK) Ltd Northern Ireland Golf Day Bottom Right: NGK Spark Plugs (UK) Ltd Northern Ireland Golf Day prize-winners
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NEWSGT
2014 CV Show – bigger and better than ever W
ith just a few months to go until the doors of Birmingham’s NEC open for the 2014 Commercial Vehicle Show, the level of stand bookings already received clearly indicates that for the road freight industry and its myriad ancillary providers and suppliers, business is definitely on the up. Among the 290 exhibitors already booked, the CV Show organisers are pleased to welcome the return of bodywork and trailer builders including AlKo Kober, Cartwright, GM Coachwork, Lawrence David, Montracon, Magyar, Maisonneuve, Maxi-Low, Road Tankers Northern, SDC Trailers, SOMI Trailers, Strongs Plastic Products and Whale Tankers. The Cool Pavilion in particular is getting a warm reception from companies such as Gray & Adams, Paneltex, Quinn and Solomon Commercials, plus specialist refrigeration equipment suppliers Frigoblock and Thermo King. With 60% of the Cool Pavilion already booked, it looks set to provide visitors with a variety of exhibits not seen since 2008. The light commercial sector will also be well-represented. Steve Bryant, Vauxhall’s Commercial Vehicle Brand Manager said: “As Britain’s biggest van manufacturer, Vauxhall is delighted to be back at the UK’s largest Commercial Vehicle Show. Vauxhall has always been a big supporter of the CV Show and is very much looking forward to returning to Birmingham in 2014”. It is particularly interesting to note that, while exhibitor numbers are currently up 26% on 2013, actual space occupied is 17% greater, reflecting the return of many SMEs to the Show for the first time since business declined in late 2008. A positive indication that next year’s Show really will have something for everyone. More information from www.cvshow.com. The 2014 Commercial Vehicle Show will run from 29 April – 1 May 2014 at the NEC in Birmingham. For further information, visit www.cvshow.com, e-mail: enquiries@cvshow.com or call +44 (0)1634 261262. ■
KYB awarded top Group Auto International prize K
YB Europe has been awarded ‘supplier of the year’ by Group Auto International. KYB is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of original equipment shock absorbers, with one in four of all cars leaving production lines worldwide fitted with KYB as standard. In addition to world class shock absorbers, KYB in Europe also supplies a comprehensive range of coil springs, along with suspension mounting kits and protection kits. Over the past few years, KYB has won almost all categories, which is a great success. However, being elected by the whole community of over 1,200 Group Auto members as the best in all categories is an outstanding certificate of excellence. KYB Europe has been a partner with Group Auto for many years and has a proven record for business development with its members. Mike Howarth, Vice President of KYB Europe explains: “KYB Europe has worked alongside Group Auto International for a long time and greatly values its business partnership. I’m delighted that the members have recognised our hard work and support over this time by voting KYB as their best supplier. It’s really an honour to receive this prestigious award”. ■
Revive! franchise revs up in Northern Ireland R
evive, the car repair franchise, is looking for ambitious, commercially minded people to join them as franchise owners in Northern Ireland where there are defined territories packed with huge business potential. The Revive management team has almost 20 years experience in the SMART repair industry and a network of 70 existing franchises. The company has twice won best in class in the British Franchise Association’s Annual Awards including the 2010 BFA Award for “Best Franchise Support”. Revive is a van based franchise which allows franchise owners to take the service direct to customers. It offers freedom and flexibility plus the benefit of low overheads. All Revive vans are equipped to a very high standard providing franchise owners with state-of-the-art mobile workshops housing specialist equipment and specialised paint mixing systems. Franchise owners work with any type of customer requiring cosmetic repairs to their vehicle paintwork such as bumper scuffs and kerbed alloy wheels. There is also scope to work commercially providing car repair services to car dealerships. For further information please visit www.revive-uk.com/franchise, call the Northern Ireland franchise recruitment manager directly on 07793 054233 or email: suzie@platinumwave.co.uk. ■
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GTRT AUTOPARTS
RT Autoparts Trade Show Directors at the show from FG7 and RT Autoparts - (left to right) David Millar, Mickey McLarron and Tom Patrick
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ookstown automotive components distributor RT Autoparts held a trade show for their customers at the FG7 warehouse in the town at the end of October. The show was a chance for RT’s customers to meet the suppliers as RT Autoparts are now part of the FG7 buying group and offer a massive range of parts and equipment. Customers were able to avail of a 10 per cent discount at the trade show, while some stands had special offers on the tools and equipment on display. There were a number of diagnostic demos at the two day event which also included a prize draw.
The range of supplier stands was vast and included: 3M, Comline Autoparts, Delta Adhesives, Exedy Clutch, Farecla, Federal Mogul, Finishing Brands, GS Batteries, GT Exhausts, GYS, Indasa, Mahle Aftermarket, Meyle, Mipa, Mudbuster, Nissens, Optimal, SKF, SMPE, Somora, Suplex, TRW Automotive, WAI Global and ZF Services. Tom Patrick of RT Autoparts commented, “Since joining the FG7 group we can now offer our customers an even wider range of parts at great prices. The event was a marvellous opportunity to meet our customers and show them the wide range of automotive parts, equipment and tools we can supply.” ■ Brian McGuigan demonstrating the latest diagnostic equipment to Graham Neilands, RT Autoparts
RT Autoparts members of staff welcome customers Ivan McKeown (right) and son Mark (left) to the trade show event at FG7
Enjoying the RT Autoparts Trade Show held at FG7 premises in Cookstown
Hayley Patrick, Helen McKenzie and Lynda Taylor preparing tea for customers
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RT staff members Alison Campbell and Julie Gilkinson promoting the Christmas charity toolbox raffle worth over £2,200
RT AUTOPARTS GT
The busy trade show held at FG7 Cookstown
Traders and guests at the successful RT Autoparts Trade Show
John Bowman (centre) representing Meyle, shows some of the latest quality parts to customers Kevin McElhennon and Niall McKenna
Chris Manton SMPE
Gavin Dixon, SKF with customers
Customer Mark Nelson (left) discussing the latest parts with Cyril Daly, TRW
FG7’s David Millar (centre) chatting to Ian (right) and Peter Scott, Carryduff Autoparts
Tracey Hunter and Gilbert Tunney from GT Exhausts pictured with Jamie Hutchinson, RT Autoparts
John Keenan, Somora Motor Parts
Suppliers at the show
Suppliers at the show
Suppliers at the show
John from RT Autoparts in the vintage vehicle
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GT
New steering and suspension catalogue offers industry leading part and vehicle coverage F
ederal-Mogul’s steering and suspension brand MOOG has launched its latest light vehicle catalogue with significant parts number expansion resulting in industry leading vehicle coverage. The new catalogue (CATMO1201) includes hundreds of new references across all steering and suspension categories, with comprehensive coverage of the latest popular applications, including the 2011 Audi A1, Citroën DS3 and Dacia Duster. The brand’s Asian nameplate coverage has also grown with newly available parts for such high-volume models as the Toyota Avensis T27. “The MOOG brand is positioned as the easiest and most trustworthy choice for workshop professionals,” said Richard Knox, Federal-Mogul product manager, steering and suspension products. “Customers have told us that our quality, coverage, cataloguing and technical support help make their jobs easier. They appreciate the fact that our exceptional quality helps them protect their customer relationships. Now we’ve extended this important advantage with wheel-end bearing kits and strut mounts so workshops can rely on MOOG for more jobs every day.” The catalogue highlights Federal-Mogul’s coverage in two key new product categories, wheel-end bearings and strut mounts. The expanded MOOG steering and suspension range also includes OE-quality tie rod ends, drag links, axial rods, steering rack gaiters, pitman arms, tie rod assemblies and centre rods, ball joints, wishbones and control arms, stabilizer link bars, and rubber-tometal components. The brand’s all-new wheel-end bearings range – comprising an industryleading 1.200 references – is featured in a separate application section within the catalogue to help distributors and workshop professionals save time in identifying and ordering the right bearing products for virtually any light-vehicle application. The MOOG range includes every bearing style, including the latest Generation III and sealed hub assemblies, with each part featuring OErecommended designs and premium materials for fast, easy installation and exceptional performance. ■
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NEWSGT
Going Mobile MAHLE Aftermarket launches app I
nstant access to the entire MAHLE and Knecht parts catalogue is now possible with the launch of an Aftermarket app by the premium German engine components manufacturer. Automotive factors and workshop technicians can use their smartphones or tablets to check which replacement parts are required for any car, or which spare part matches the original. The MAHLE Aftermarket app is compatible with iOS and Android operating systems and is available in both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Technical brochures and customer information are also accessible in concise format via the app, and bookmarks are saved in the documents, which lead directly to comprehensive data covering individual vehicle manufacturers. Launching this latest aftermarket service, Arnd Franz, General Manager Aftermarket business unit, explained: “All our catalogues are now presented in a convenient electronic format and are available with various search functions, bookmarks and indexes. These will allow app users to get quick search results or find the desired product faster than ever before.â€? â–
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GTGT EXHAUSTS
Top quality exhausts from GT at RT’s G
T Exhausts (NI) Ltd. has been manufacturing exhaust systems for cars, vans, light commercials and agricultural, along with plant and industrial, from its manufacturing headquarters in Enniskillen, for 38 years. The company has successfully overcome logistical and economic disadvantage, to rank in the top four leading exhaust manufacturers in the UK. The family-run independent firm was recently received a national Best British business award and the judging panel were impressed by the company’s unique female organisational structure and capacity to self-finance all stages of its success. The company was founded and led, up until his retirement, by father, Gilbert Tunney and over the past three decades, each of Mr Tunney’s eight daughters has worked in various roles in the typically male-dominated world of precision engineering. Today, his daughters Tracey, Joelene, Claire, Edel and Gail continue to work in GT Exhausts, driving it forward. In 2000, GT Exhausts built a state-of-the art manufacturing plant, employing 80 people in Enniskillen. The founder’s Members of the Tunney family presented with their Overall Best British Business Award by policy of making each of his businesses self-sufficient and Kate Moloney of Best Business Awards. Pictured (l-r): Gilbert Tunney, founder of GT Exhausts (NI) Ltd., Ms Moloney, Ms Tracey Hunter and Ms Claire Napier. self-financing has meant, that GT Exhausts could re-invest profits into R&D and expand its distribution network across Award GT Exhausts Sales Director Tracey Hunter, thanked staff and family who the UK, Ireland and parts of Europe. That strategy has today have contributed to the company’s success over the years. She said: “We owe proved to be one of the keys to GT Exhaust’s longevity, while many other our success to the dedication of our family members and the commitment of businesses have fallen foul of cheap lending, in good economic times. our staff.” Lucrative contracts with car parts giants, in the UK and Ireland has increased The full range of GT Exhausts is available through RT Autoparts. ■ overall sales by 66 per cent year-on-year. Picking up the Best British Business
P R EMI UM E XHAUST SY S T E M S GREENER
LOGOGA TE D
CLEANER
All Shapes, Makes & Sizes Plant & Industrial
MO O H
The Noise Busters! NI
- R OI - U K
Cars & Light Commercial SUV, MPV 4x4 Agri. Tractors
16,000 Different Applications www.gtexhausts.co.uk
Proud to Support
Group
Which are
Quietly the Best and Better by Far 12 - garagetrader
RT AUTOPARTSGT
Nissens Radiators from RT Autoparts N
GS Battery Perfection
issens has specialized in manufacturing and supplying radiators, interccolers, fans and condensers for the automotive aftermarket. Nissens’ product range covers most of the models from the world’s 30 leading car manufacturers. Nissens is recognized as an OES/OEM supplier to PSA, SAAB, Fiat, Mazda, VW, Toyota, Honda, Scania, Lamborghini and Aston Martin. With a range of more than 10,000 products, Nissens has the broadest product range in the market, and their 24-hour delivery system offer easy and rapid access to all the products and solutions. Furthermore, Nissens’ First Fit system means that most radiators fit into more than one car model, thus saving both storage capacity and number of part nos. Finally, all cooling products are delivered with all the required mounting rings and bolts.
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he complete range of GS Batteries are available from RT Autoparts. It comes as no surprise that the new range of batteries from GS have all the hallmarks associated with Japanese perfection. Dependability and the highest levels of performance throughout the service life of a GS battery come as standard, and the quality of the craftsmanship for every product in the range is testament to the true values of Japanese technology. The all-powerful range developed specifically for the aftermarket includes the new Titan and Titan AGM car and light van batteries, which alongside the Specialist Japanese and Traditional range will cover over 99% of the UK vehicle parc. The range also includes the impressive Hercules and Neptune batteries for commercial vehicle and leisure use.
Yuasa Battery Sales (UK) Ltd Unit 13, Hunts Rise, South Marston Park, Swindon, Wiltshire, SN3 4TG
Phone: +44 (0) 1793 833555 Fax: +44 (0) 1793 833583 Website: www.yuasaeurope.com
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GTRT AUTOPARTS
Optimal
A great deal from Farécla H
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ptimal UK is one of Britain’s leading independent suppliers of alternative, quality automotive aftermarket components. The company is a major supplier to RT Autoparts of Cookstown, a well-known motor factor in the area, providing a quality service to local garages and workshops. Optimal provides key replacement parts for both car and light commercial vehicles and is constantly adding new replacement components. In the past six months the company has added over 1000 new product references with coated brake discs being the most recent addition. Optimal offers a fast and efficient, 24-hour delivery service on all standard components from their West Midlands warehouse facility. For non-standard items a 48 hour turnaround service operates from the company’s major, stateof-the-art warehousing facility in Germany. ■
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ere is your chance to grab a bargain. Farécla is currently running two great money-saving promotions which offer significant discounts off the list price on selected flatting and polishing products together with a FREE Tote bag worth £30 to hold tools and consumables. Bodyshops can choose from either the kit bag packed with 2 x 1 litre bottles Advanced G3 Liquid, Advanced G Mop Compounding pad, a pack of G Sand film backed Abrasives (P1500) and a pack of G Sand foam backed discs (P3000). Alternatively, they can choose the Tote bag which contains 3 x 1kg G3 Paste, 2 standard G mop Compounding pads, 1 pack of waterproof whole sheets and 3 Finishing Cloths. Either choice offers a great deal to repairers, but hurry. This limited offer is available only while stocks last. Contact RT Autoparts for further details. ■
RT AUTOPARTSGT
Air Mass Meters from SKF Bearings from RT Autoparts SMPE R
T Autoparts stock the full range of air mass meters from Standard Motor Products Europe. The air mass meter is a critical component in today’s modern vehicle. It is responsible for measuring the incoming air mass and feeding this as an electronic signal to the ECU. The ECU uses this information to calculate the exact amount of fuel and ignition timing required for the engine loading. This in turn ensures that optimum vehicle performance and emissions targets are achieved. A faulty existing unit or poor quality replacement unit can have a severe impact on a vehicles performance and economy. O.E quality sensors employ platinum sensor technology. Whilst many aftermarket alternatives use inferior technology and materials the SMP manufactured sensors use an in house designed platinum sensor element similar to that found in many
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O.E systems. This element has a proven record for long life and high performance. Although quite simple in operation the SMP produced air mass meter is an extremely complex component. The platinum element is held at a constant temperature of 380 C. The complex electronic circuitry ensures that this temperature is maintained regardless of the volume of air entering the inlet tract thus cooling the sensor. The ECU interprets the current draw required to maintain the temperature of the sensor and so provide the appropriate injector and ignition control. ■
he complete range of SKF’s automotive bearings are available from RT Autoparts. SKF recently received the prestigious Fiat Qualitas Award as the best quality supplier. The Fiat Qualitas Award is given to Fiat’s best suppliers and recognizes companies for their outstanding contribution to improved vehicle value. SKF was recently nominated to supply the SKF wheel hub bearing units (HBU) for the front and rear wheels for four different models of Fiat and Jeep on the new X-UV platform. With the quality award and business agreements, Fiat recognizes SKF’s expertise to develop solutions with the optimized performance and quality needed for each vehicle model. Another appreciated key factor is SKF’s local presence and support in both engineering and manufacturing with a strong global footprint. These characteristics are the basis for this cooperation’s continued growth and to develop both innovative and energy efficient solutions. ■
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GTBATTERIES
Manbat – The Future’s Bright 2
013 was a busy year for Manbat, as it introduced a new leisure battery range, took the initiative to move into new markets, won new own-label business and grew its unit sales and operating profits to boot. After a couple of challenging years for the battery market as a whole, Manbat’s battery sales grew significantly in 2013, particularly with its brands at the premium end of the market, such as VARTA® and Lucas. This growth came partly as a general improvement in the sector, but largely because Manbat has continued to invest in its stock, branch network and staff to ensure that it can provide the very best in support services, like marketing and
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training, to back up its high quality product offering. This approach has paid dividends with businesses looking for a longterm battery partner on whom they can truly rely. Many customers will testify that the level of customer service provided by Manbat sets it apart from any other battery supplier, and it does it all year round, not just when the demand for batteries is low! When it comes to developing business in new markets, Manbat was very active, exhibiting at events at home and abroad. In the UK it was present at IMHX with its industrial division, Naidex, the country’s largest mobility focused show and the Motorhome & Caravan Show, where it took the wraps off its latest high performance leisure battery, the Numax DCXV27. Manbat also continued its export push by making its first appearance at Equip Auto in France, where it
BATTERIES GT
generated a great deal of interest from both an automotive and leisure perspective, for the Lucas and Numax brands respectively. As GROUPAUTO members will be aware, in 2013 Manbat was awarded the supply contract for the Powerstart brand. Available through the G-Logix distribution centre, the Powerstart range provides members with a quality product at extremely competitive prices and also comes with the benefit of a two-year warranty. As a result, members have a brand that will allow them to react to the demands of their customers when price becomes the central issue. When it comes to 2014, Manbat is already implementing a growth strategy that will bring benefits to its customers and its commitment to maintain its highly regarded customer service remains central to these plans for 2014 and beyond. â– For further details, please call Manbat Customer Services on: 01743 218500 or visit: www.manbat.co.uk
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Magic Bullet Goes Global Stanley Watson, of Global Oils, has returned from the SEMA Exhibition in Las Vegas with a full order book for his range of ECO friendly products. Much interest in the US and Asian markets was shown in the Magic Bullet Fuel Treatment which is a 100% hydrocarbon based, nonhazardous, non-toxic, non-flammable and chemical free Eco-friendly product. One of only three companies from the UK who exhibited at the gigantic annual motor vehicle aftermarket event, Global Oils have worked hard to develop a range that covers all engines from motorbikes, cars, vans and trucks to agricultural, commercial and marine. Global Lubricants have opened a warehouse in Atlanta where Business Development Manager Ron Stone offers a range of products. Global also stock all the products at their Lisburn base, from lubricants to anti-freeze, and brake fluids, using the latest technology to ensure that From left - Right Michael Shields, Stanley performance levels of the lubricants stay ahead of changing engine and Watson, Valerie Thompson, Ron Stone on equipment design. Their new generation fully synthetic super engine oil the Sema exhibition in Atlanta is produced for today’s high performance petrol and diesel engines, and their fully synthetic multigrade engine oil is formulated using the latest developments in synthetic technology. Stanley says, ‘The full range of our ECO-friendly products allow you to do your bit to save our planet.’
For further information contact him on 0044(0)2892666123 or www.addthemagicbullet.com
The Global Oils - Magic Bullet Motor Cycle left to right Gareth Evans, Patricia Fernandez (American AMA 600 champion) Tom Elwood, Dane Westbury (American supersport champion) Stanley Watson and Timothy Elwood.
www.addthemagicbullet.com Global Lubricants (NI) Limited, 15 Ferguson Drive, Knockmore Hill Industrial Est, Lisburn, Co. Antrim, Northern Ireland BT28 2EX
REFINISH GT
Free jacket or sander with promo packs of Farécla abrasives T
o help bodyshops get off to a good start in 2014 Farécla is running a number of exciting and great value promotions during January as part of the launch of its enhanced fine abrasives range. As well as the change of branding to G Sand the key changes to the range are a switch from packs of 100 discs to 50’s, and the addition of a blending disc and P1500 and P2000 wet and dry half sheets. All the promotions have a valuable free gift included in the special promotional packs available from all good distributors. The first Promotion is a FREE Chicago Pneumatic 5mm sander with a trade value of £166.40 when you buy a starter pack of Farécla sanding consumables which themselves are offered at great discounts to normal trade prices. Each boxed starter pack contains the free sander along with a box of each of four different fine grades of 150mm film-backed discs, a box of P3000 foam-backed discs, two grades of waterproof half-sheets, a box of 35mm denibbing roses and all the associated ancillary products: foam interface pad, wet or dry flatting block, waterspray bottle and a denibbing block. The second promotion is a free fleece-lined, soft-shell jacket when you buy four boxes of foam backed P3000 G Sand fine abrasives. Alternatively, you can buy four boxes of P1500 discs or four boxes of the new blending disc and get one of these super smart jackets. Each box contains 50 abrasive discs. If you haven’t yet tried the new G Sand fine abrasives range this is the perfect opportunity to experience the benefits. Bodyshops that are using this innovative, quality range of fine abrasives for blending and postpaint defect sanding are won over by the speed of cut, longevity of the discs and the pigtail-free, even finish that makes a perfect platform for reduced polishing times with a great final finish. The promotion packs (part numbers KTA018, KTA001, KTA006, KTA012) are all available now from leading distributors, but only while stocks last. ■
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Serfac Limited, Hilary House Belgard Road, Dublin 24 Tel: 01 459 8700 Fax: 01 459 8709 Email: sales@serfac.ie Web: www.serfac.ie
SERFACGT
Valeo joins Serfac Limited brand range S
erfac Limited has added Valeo to its comprehensive range of high quality brands. Initially the company will offer Valeo wiper solutions to customers, with more products added over coming months. Valeo is a leading supplier of wipers to both the Independent aftermarket and the OE Spares market. Maintaining its lead through style and innovative technologies that originate from OE technology, Valeo produces a comprehensive range of front and rear wiper blades in a variety of brands that are designed to be attractive, efficient and easy to adapt to all vehicle types. Valeo closely collaborates with vehicle manufacturers on future wiping
technologies and offers a choice of brands for both passenger car and LCV wipers. Valeo’s Silencio range is the UK’s premium blade and comprises of 188 part numbers that incorporate all of the technology available at OE including spoilers, curved blades, BBI rear blades, blades equipped with a spray bar and over 90 Flat Blades. Each Silencio wiper is produced on the same production line as Original Equipment products and is manufactured to Original Equipment quality standards. New to the Silencio brand is the HBlade™ – combining elements of a conventional and Flat Blade, now available in 4 specific kits. Compact is Valeo’s premium wiper
brand, adapted to the aftermarket. In addition to a concise range of conventional blades, the brand includes Compact Evolution - a range of 17 Uni-Click Flat Blades designed to cover over 85% of the Flat Blade car parc and Compact Revolution - 9 part numbers allowing upgrade from conventional to Flat Blade technology. Magnum is Valeo’s value for money brand – a short range of 9 universal blades covering 75% of the UK & Ireland conventional car parc. Valeo wiper motors meet the highest requirements and are therefore fitted by all major car makers in the world. One of the leading OE suppliers for wiper motors,
Valeo now offers a wide range of 100% valeorigin front and rear wiper motors for many applications. Liam O’Donohoe, commercial manager, Serfac Limited, comments: “We’re delighted to add Valeo to the Serfac product portfolio. The brand’s wiping range guarantees a premium wiping solution for almost every vehicle. Tested for wiping quality, durability, corrosion resistance and the ability to withstand extreme weather conditions, Valeo can supply a high performing wiper solution for just about any application.” Contact the Serfac sales team on 01-459 8700 or sales@serfac.ie for more details of special Valeo launch offers and promotions. ■
Tenneco on Tour arrives in Dublin S
erfac Limited, Irish distributor of Monroe Shock Absorbers, recently hosted a day at Tenneco on Tour for its customers during Tenneco’s recent visit to Ireland. Tenneco on Tour is a unique automotive roadshow delivered via a demo truck that gives visitors the opportunity to view and experience the entire range of Tenneco products and be the first to hear about all the company’s new technologies direct from the Tenneco sales and technical teams. The truck has a full schedule and spends approximately 150 days
per year visiting key automotive events around the world such as Automechanika and Equip Auto. Over the course of the truck’s day in Dublin, Tenneco hosted a series of presentations and a lunch for Serfac customers. “Customer feedback following the event was very positive, said Serfac sales manager Graham LaGrue. “It was great for our customers to have the opportunity to meet the Tenneco team and hear about the latest developments in shock absorber and suspension technology.” ■
George Tohill, Parts for Cars, Fintan Parsons, Serfac and Eugene Hilliard, Finglas Auto Parts
Gillian Fanning, Serfac, Graham LaGrue, Serfac, Anne Lynskey, Partway Motor Factors
Graham LaGrue Serfac, Hayley Ryan and Barney mahon from BM Motor Factors
Jason Ford, Tenneco
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GT DAYCO
Buyers beware warns Dayco on one size policy D
ayco Aftermarket UK has a word of warning for members of the trade who are wisely looking to increase their front-end auxiliary drive (FEAD) system sales. “Alongside timing belt kits, that factors and workshops now deal with every day, the sale of FEAD components is one of the few under developed opportunities left in the aftermarket,” explains technical manager, Chris Showan. “However, the proliferation of parts that has occurred in virtually every sector of the business has also affected the auxiliary belt market and led some suppliers to limit the number of belt options they offer. Their theory being that some belts will fit several applications, even though the officially specified application is a different length. They base this assumption on the faulty premise that the movement of the automatic tensioner will take up the disparity in the length of the belt. “This is a very risky approach however, not least because the technician is actually installing the wrong part, but also because in recent years the amount of movement in an automatic tensioner has reduced by as much as 80%. So whereas it might have been possible in the past for a tensioner with 100mm of movement to take up the slack in a longer than specified belt, a modern automatic tensioner with only 20mm of movement would leave the belt dangerously under tension. “Although the auxiliary belt is not directly a safety critical component, there have been cases where the belt has snapped/shredded and broken the timing belt cover and as a result, debris has entered the timing drive system and caused the failure of the timing belt. “In addition, as the auxiliary belt now drives so many vital components – alternator, power steering pump, air conditioning compressor, vacuum pumps etc. – even if its failure does not directly stop the vehicle, it could certainly leave the driver without power to some parts of the vehicle, which could in effect, make it undriveable.” Dayco is in no doubt that only auxiliary belts of the correct specification are suitable when fitting a replacement and with more than 800 in its range, is able to provide the solution for virtually every vehicle the workshop is likely to come across. For more information regarding the complete range of Dayco auxiliary belts and tensioners, email: info.uk@dayco.com or visit: www.dayco.com
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■
NEWSGT
Website set up by former Autotrader team
A
fter the recent payoffs in Autotrader Ireland the experienced Autotrader magazine and digital sales team from Belfast are proud to have launched Ireland’s innovative motoring website www.everythingmotoring.com. With over thirty five years combined experience in the motoring advertising business with one of Ireland’s leading motoring titles, Andy Haddock, James Vance, Damien Devenney and Tom Camlin have
taken their expertise and passion and driven it into a one of its kind, unique 32 county, all Ireland motoring website that they call ‘The Solution for Everything Motoring’. Whether it is advertising a motoring related business, showcasing vehicles for sale, promoting a motoring service or a consumer selling their own private car, they have it all. ‘It was imperative that we didn’t put together just another motoring website,’ says account manager Andy Haddock. ‘It would have been easy for us to set up another classified car website, but instead we asked ‘the experts,’ the people who would use it to find out what they wanted. So having taken the feedback and advice both at planning and development stage, together we have all created one website that incorporates a number of different ways for a motoring
business to be found and generate response. After fifteen months in the making to perfect it, we now have a very well thought out and structured website designed by local businesses and local people for anything and everything motoring related. If Carlsberg did motoring websites they would struggle to claim that theirs was probably the best motoring website in the world!’ he adds modestly. ‘Although the used vehicles categories (all with video capability and document or brochure upload as standard ) are an additional benefit to our site, they are not our main focus. That is why we offer a ‘sell it for Free’ option. Listings for new and used vehicles such as cars, motorcycles, caravans and motorhomes, vans, trucks, farm machinery, plant machinery, damaged repairables, breakers, parts
are all completely free of charge. Not ‘free for a limited time only’ or ‘first one free, pay for the rest’ setup as a teaser to get your money.’ ‘Our specialist motoring directory is very special indeed. With over 300 separate motoring categories tailored for all business types, this is an ideal opportunity for any motoring related business to sell the main benefits of their own business to our readers in up to five of these target specific categories. A BMW franchise dealership for example would want to be found in the following: Used car dealer, New car dealer, Car parts, Car Finance, BMW Specialist; across 1-32 counties depending on their business needs.’ If you are interested in becoming a member of ‘The Everything Motoring Family’ call 028 95 608150 or log on and register now at www.everythingmotoring.com . ■
Top European award for VW Ireland M
embers of the Volkswagen Ireland sales and marketing team travelled to Bordeaux, France earlier this month to collect an award for being the number one car brand in their market. The Volkswagen Number 1 awards recognised five Volkswagen teams from Europe, each of which is at the top of their game and achieved the number one market position in 2012. The award ceremony, which was celebrated in the Château Pape Clément, Pessac, recognised the work of Volkswagen teams in Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Ireland and Spain. Awards were presented by Mr.Christian Klingler, Member of the Board of Management, Volkswagen AG Group, Sales and Marketing and Xavier Chardon, Head of Sales Europe. Commenting on the award, Volkswagen Operations Director Paul Burke said: “We are very proud of our status as the number one passenger car brand in Ireland and we are delighted to receive the recognition of our peers in other markets”. Volkswagen was the best-selling car brand in Ireland in 2012, the first time that the brand achieved this in its history in Ireland. According to figures from the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) Volkswagen registered 10,073 new cars in 2012 (12.67% market share). The Volkswagen Number 1 event was the first year of what will now become an annual event. ■
Pictured at the Volkswagen Number 1 awards are (from left toright): Mr. Christian Klingler, Member of the Board of Management, Volkswagen AG Group; Paul O’Sullivan, Head of Marketing, Volkswagen Passenger Cars Ireland; Simon Elliott, Managing Director, Volkswagen Group Ireland; Paul Burke, Operations Director, Volkswagen Passenger Cars; Paul Hunt, Head of Product & Planning, Volkswagen Passenger Cars; Xavier Chardon, Head of Sales Europe, Volkswagen AG.
Everything Motoring, Conway Mill, 5-7 Conway Street, Belfast BT13 2DE. Tel: 028 95 608150 • Email: info@everythingmotoring.com Everything Motoring Ireland, 6-9 Trinity Street, Dublin, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 209 1941 • Email: info@everythingmotoring.com
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GTABP Show
ABP National Meeting at Lisburn Civic Centre
Tim Griffin and Mark Adams from Finixa
Andy Millar from The Country Garage in Ballymena
Mirka was represented by Stuart Denholm and Keith McGuire
Matyn Rowley from Audatex
The Team from the Donnelly Group: Declan McDermott, Tony Magee, Tommy Downes, Gary Haffey and Chris Montgomery
The Carbon Group stand: Karl Walsh from Akzo Nobel, Derek Lockhart from the Carbon Group, Peter Daly from Akzo Nobel, Eddie Tweedie and David Campbell from the Carbon Group
Stuart Alexander, National Sales Manager from Car-O-Liner
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Stephen Bell and Oliver Boulton from FarcĂŠla
Mark Mooney and John Cooney from Karkraft Autocolour
ABP SHOW GT
The Team from CIP Insurance: Antony Birch, Paul Williamson, Mary Beth O’Neill and Jimmy Ray
Michael Shaw, Andrew Bell, Jonathon Martin, David Cunningham and Raymond Moore from Charles Hurst Parts
The team from EMACS - Darren Hargreaves and Chris Mortimer
The Team from PPG: Danni Aiken, John McGowan, Gethyn Davies, Andy Smith, Tim Mason, Mark Clarke & front kneeling Paul McGuinness and Damien Kenny
David Frizzell and Colin Hagan from Riverpark Training
Martin Hutchinson of the IMI with Glen Smyth and Hugh McGready
The show was well attended by NIBA members
Jeffrey Donaldson MP was the guest of honour
A number of companies made presentations to NIBA
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GTNEWS
Audatex UK launches Audamobile & Audavin+ Increasing ‘right first time’ assessments and reducing repair cycle times
A
udatex, the global claims solutions provider, continues to invest in the value of its services with the launch of its latest innovations, the AudaMobile iPad App and AudaVIN+, designed to help bodyshops increase data capture accuracy at the vehicle and streamline the repair workflow. AudaMobile puts the power in the hands of the Vehicle Damage Assessors (VDA) by allowing them to capture damage and calculate assessments at the side of the vehicle, increasing ’right first time’ estimating and avoiding costly supplementaries. Richard Wright of Wright ARC Dromore said, “One of the main benefits our team of assessors has found is that it saves them time. Capturing damage and calculating assessments at the side of the vehicle means there is no duplication of data entry as details can be loaded quickly and simply in AudaMobile. In addition, AudaMobile images allow you to see the finer details of the car, giving a more accurate estimate. The ability to increase “right first time” estimating is another great advantage of the AudaMobile App, enhancing the overall customer experience.” Fully integrated with AudatexEnterpriseGold, the Audatex claims management platform, the new App will reduce duplication of data entry as details can be loaded quickly and simply in AudaMobile to speed up the claim process. This in turn improves VDAs productivity, and reduces repair cycle times. Because AudaMobile allows bodyshops to engage with customers, it helps to improve conversion rates as work is assessed and priced with the customer at the vehicle. This also provides opportunities to up-sell services by offering additional repairs for non-
"
Richard Wright of Wrights Accident Repair Centre, Dromore
claim related damage, such as scratches and minor dents. By having the latest technology at their fingertips, bodyshops can enhance their professional image and build upon their customer service reputation. Dougie Spiers from Wright ARC Belfast commented, “We’re trying to be a paperless business so the AudaMobile App has been a tremendous help in achieving this goal. And because AudaMobile is so easy to use it really has streamlined the estimating process, making us far more efficient – as well as reducing the amount of paperwork we generate! In addition to boosting productivity, we’ve seen that the App has enhanced the customer experience because it conveys a higher level of the professionalism; something our customers take great comfort in.”
One of the main benefits our team of assessors has found is that it saves them time. Capturing damage and calculating assessments at the side of the vehicle means there is no duplication of data entry as details can be loaded quickly and simply in AudaMobile.
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"
Paul Sykes, Sales & Operations Director for Audatex UK, states, “Audatex is always looking for new ways to help improve the claims process. With the exciting launch of the AudaMobile App, bodyshops can perform calculations at the vehicle, cutting paperwork and increasing “right first time” whilst reducing repair cycle times.” Shortly after the launch of the AudaMobile App, Audatex introduced yet another innovation to aid bodyshops in improving ‘right first time’ estimating - AudaVIN+. Launched at this year’s ABP Club Convention, AudaVIN+ is a new search facility built into the latest release of AudaEnterpriseGold (AEG) and enables bodyshops to work even smarter by identifying the correct factory fitted options. AudaVIN+ is an addition to the current AEG model search facility, and uses vehicle manufacturers’ data to instantly identify factory fitted options. The tool also offers graphics showing pre-selected model options to further enhance accuracy and efficiency. Paul Sykes explains: “With
so many vehicle models now on the market, it has become increasingly difficult to identify the correct factory fitted options. AudaVIN+ helps bodyshops decrease their key to key cycle time and boost their bottom line by significantly reducing the risk of ordering the wrong part, disrupting the repair process and adding supplementaries to the original quote; all of which equals poor customer service. “Both the AudaMobile App and AudaVIN+ strengthen our growing stable of vehicle damage assessment and claims management solutions, ultimately geared towards improving repair cycle times and profitability for bodyshops. Fundamentally, both have been developed as a direct result of what our customers are telling us and the priority they place on profitability in a competitive marketplace. Both offerings are just the start of a rolling programme of products and service to be released by Audatex in the coming months. It’s exciting times for us and our customers.” ■
RIVERPARK GT
Riverpark Training has had amazing success at the annual Bodyshop Magazine Awards. Riverpark Training have won the Education Award and the Best Supporting Role.
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odyshop Magazine held their annual awards at the Birmingham Metropole Hotel on the 20th September; this is a glittering event with over 800 attending, this year presented by comedian Dom Jolly. This event celebrates the best of the Accident Repair Industry and Riverpark Training was delighted to be recognised at such a high level. The ‘Education Award’ was presented to the Riverpark team for their efforts spent ensuring their 2 competitors from the UK World Skills team received the best possible support prior to competing at World Skills 2013 and the practical training commitment made to all young students enrolled on their training programmes. The “Best Supporting Role Award” was based on responses from Bodyshops in Northern Ireland that had responded to the awards team over the summer months.
New Intake for 2013 Despite the recent down turn in the economy, there seems to be an up-turn for the Motor Industry. Riverpark Training has doubled its apprenticeship intake this September with many more employers taking on employed apprenticeships. The training team have worked hard over the summer months, interviewing and selecting candidates wishing to take up apprenticeships in the Motor Industry. The training team have also been very impressed with the commitment we have observed from these candidates applying for apprenticeships. We also now have the biggest intake for 5 years on the Body Repair course and the new Parts course is growing steadily. ■
Dom Joly (second left) presents the Education Award to David Frizzell and Colin Hagan of Riverpark Training. Also inlcuded are Mark Hadaway, Bodyshops editor and on the extreme right, Owen Stafford from sponsors LKQ Coatings
Vehicle Damage Assessor Course 2013 T
he new VDA course started on the 13th November and is still open to anybody who wants to gain this new IMI Award qualification, as this is a qualification route prospective candidates will need to be able to access computer based estimating systems and will also have to pay a deposit to secure a position on course, details of this can be obtained by contacting Riverpark Training on 028 90 342 400. ■
Riverpark Training win IMI Awards “Specialised Centre of the Year 2013” The Riverpark Team: Patricia Robinson David Frizzell and Colin Hagan
O
n the 31st October the Riverpark Training Team attended the annual IMI Awards ceremony at Franshaws Hertford. The training provider award was split this year to allow a more specific range of centre to compete for IMI Awards highest accolade for its top performing training centres. Riverpark Training received the “Specialised Centre of the Year Award” having been selected from over 550 IMI Awards centres. The award was based on the exemplary commitment Riverpark Training have given to promoting skills in the accident repair industry and nurturing talent
New Skills being sought for World Skills 2015 Sao Paulo Brazil Riverpark training are currently seeking apprentices to take part in a regional competition in January 2014, this will be a feeder competition to “Squad Selection” for World Skills 2015. We are currently seeking Autotech, Autobody Repair and Car Painting students who will be under 22 years of age in August 2015. This is an opportunity for skilled young people to demonstrate their ability to the “World Skill Managers” who will be overseeing this event. For further details contact reception on 028 90 342 400 or complete the general enquiry form on the website: www. riverparktraining.com ■ garagetrader - 29
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In this edition we talk to
in the
Derek Lockhart
driver seat s ve edri rssea th
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GT DRIVERSSEAT
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• inth ed eat s s
t • inthe sea d
Sector Manager, Automotive Paints & Equipment at the Carbon Group
Tell us about your career so far? Started working life as a Vehicle Painter in C R Morrow’s in Bessbrook, Co Armagh. Worked in Carparts from 1982-2008 and CD Group from 2008-2012. Now working in the Carbon Group in the Automotive Paints & Equipment Devision. Started March 2013. It’s very exciting. Carbon is a very customer focused business.We don’t just supply products to the market, but seek to help customers with all aspects of their business. Our company branding is Carbon Group Intelligent Solutions, delivered
Did you plan to get involved in this industry? Yes I did.It’s an industry that gets into your blood. I love cars,bikes,trucks etc. It’s an industry that always has something exciting and challenging taking place. If you don’t like change, then it is not for you.
What was your biggest disappointment? Being involved in sales, disappointment is a waste of energy! Accept what happens and move on.
What was the best piece of advice you ever received? The joy of a good price Is long out lived by the bad taste of poor quality.
Whom do you most admire? Dale Carnegie .
What is the most difficult aspect of your job? The market we all work in. Even taken as a whole market, Ireland is very small in terms of people and subsequently potential customers so any business you get is hard earned.
What is your most effective or personal asset? Listening and learning.
You’ve won the lottery. What car would you rush out and buy? I am sorry and don’t wish to appear greedy but I would have to buy two cars. Something like a practical Range Rover for every day and an outrageous track car like an Ariel Atom
How do you relax? Music, Golf, Motorcycles
Tell us something surprising about yourself? I collect coins. 30 - garagetrader
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For Advertising details please contact: Eileen Wilson on 028 9078 3225 email: eileenwilson@greerpublications.com Gladys Greer on 028 9078 3224 email: gladysgreer@greerpubications.com