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UPCOMING EVENTS
First Tuesday Each Month, 6 - 8pm Northern MN Collision Shop Meeting TBA Northern MN
First Wednesday Each Month, 8 – 9:30am Southern Metro Collision Shop Meeting MN ADAS, Bloomington
Second Wednesday Each Month, 7:30 – 9:30am Central MN Area Collision Shop Meeting APH Headquarters, St. Cloud
Third Tuesday Each Month, 9 - 10am Mechanical Zoom Meetup
Third Thursday Each Month, 9 - 10am Collision Zoom Meetup
By Dan Gleason, AASP-MN Mechanical Division Director
uncertainty in the political landscape, we look for some things that have not changed. AAA is still reporting an increase in the average age of America’s fleet on the road. The average for cars and light duty trucks is 12.6 years – a trend we are glad to hear is continuing, because we know it means job security and more opportunities to continue to grow your customer base and business.
With more vehicles needing service and potentially large repairs, have you reviewed your marketing to make sure you are casting your nets in the right spots? Navigating the four generations of customers that are out there is challenging. Understanding the differences between them will help you choose the right kind of lures to catch your target. Your old trusty mailings are loyal.
You’ve got a bite! Now, how to land a lifetime customer? Just about everywhere we go, from the grocery store to coffee shop or gas station, has a loyalty program. It may be an app or a punch card, but it’s some tangible thing that gives you a small discount or incentive to return to them. The fact is, it works. We seek out a
November Election Stakes in Minnesota
Presidential election years normally have outsized impact and draw attention in a way that midterm years do not, but 2024 was slated to be a slightly quieter presidential year than others here in Minnesota. While all 134 members of the Minnesota House of Representatives are up for election as they are every two years, neither the state Senate nor the Governor’s office were scheduled to have elections in 2024. But because Governor Walz has joined Vice President Harris’s ticket, we may indeed have a new Governor when the next legislative session begins in January 2025, current Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. In addition to Governor Walz, another Minnesotan is making a move from state politics to the national stage: former state Senator Kelly Morrison resigned her state Senate seat this summer so she could focus her efforts on a Congressional race for the Third Congressional District this fall.
While a special election for one state Senate seat would not normally be worthy of too much examination, the stakes for this particular special election for Senate District 45 change that calculus. Because the DFL held the slimmest of possible advantages in the 67 seat Senate in 2024, 34-33, this election will single handedly determine which party controls the state Senate. For Republicans, who have been out of power in both legislative chambers since 2022, this provides an incredible opportunity that they would otherwise not have had until 2026 when the rest of the state Senate seats will be on the ballot.
The DFL has enjoyed complete control of Minnesota state government since 2023 and hopes to maintain control of all three branches for the upcoming biennium as well. The open state Senate seat is drawing a great deal of outside interest and outside money, and while state race polling is hard to come by, all indications are that this race will be close. While both President Biden and Governor Walz were able to carry this district in 2020 and 2022, and Senator Morrison won fairly convincingly in 2022, two straight years of full DFL control in Minnesota has fired up Republican efforts to turn things around in 2024 and they have a well funded candidate with legislative connections and campaign experience.
In addition to a potentially new slate of committee chairs and leaders in the state Senate if Republicans can win Senate District 45, we also may be swearing in a new Governor as well. If Governor Walz becomes Vice President, Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan would move into the role of Governor to finish out the final twoyears of the term that began in 2023. She would become the first Native American woman to hold the office of Governor in the history of the United States.
And as if there weren’t enough moving pieces and potential changes to keep track of, if Lieutenant Governor Flanagan does indeed ascend to the Governor’s office, it would trigger yet another special election to fill the seat
by Sam Richie, AASP-MN Lobbyist
of current state Senate President Bobby Joe Champion, who would move from his current position to fill the Lieutenant Governor role. While Senator Champion’s state Senate seat is a safe DFL district, with such a razor thin margin in the Senate even a slowdown of a couple of weeks to hold a special election could have huge impacts on the ability to move legislation at the Capitol.
The state House races also promise to be interesting to track this election cycle as well. While all 134 seats are technically up, there are really only a handful of seats where races are expected to be competitive, so we will look to those to see what trends we can learn from this election season. Races are expected to be close in a handful of suburban seats as well as races in a few regional centers, namely St. Cloud, Winona and on the Iron Range.
AASP-MN will update members on the results of the election in November, what those results indicate for AASP-MN’s legislative strategy in 2025 and how you can get involved in the coming weeks and months.
Why Join WIN?
WIN offers education, mentoring and leadership development opportunities to build critical skills for success in the collision repair market.
• Local/Regional Networking Events
• Annual Education Conference
• Educational Webinars
• Mentoring Opportunities
womensindustrynetwork.com
• Scholarship Program
• School Outreach Program
• Most Influential Women (MIW) Award
$2 Million Available for Small Businesses to Upgrade or Purchase Capital Equipment
The MPCA is accepting applications for the Small Business Environmental Improvement Loan!
Zero percent interest loans are available to assist Minnesota’s small businesses in improving their business practices to meet or exceed environmental regulations. More information can be found on the small business environmental improvement loans webpage at pca.state.mn.us/ grants-and-loans/small-businessenvironmental-improvement-loans Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Funding available
Approximately $2 million in funding is available. The minimum loan amount is $1,000 and the maximum loan amount is $75,000. The interest rate is zero percent.
Eligible applicants and projects
Eligible applicants include existing Minnesota small businesses that must have:
Latuff Brothers Auto Body Recognized with Customer Experience Award
The Minnesota Retailers Association recently recognized AASP-MN member Latuff Brothers Auto Body (St. Paul) with the Customer Experience award as part of its 2024-2025 Minnesota Retail Champions program.
“Latuff Brothers Auto Body embodies what it means to prioritize the customer,” said Bruce Nustad, president of Minnesota Retailers. “Their dedication to clear communication, top-quality workmanship and outstanding customer satisfaction sets a high bar
in their industry. Customers expect expertise alongside convenience and transparency, and Latuff Brothers consistently delivers on both, making them a true leader in customer experience across Minnesota.”
Robert Latuff, one of the proud owners of Latuff Brothers Auto Body, explained their customer-centric approach: “The reason customers love coming to us is because they trust us. They know that when they bring their vehicle in, we have the expertise and a long history of delivering excellent service, which gives them peace of mind.”
Latuff Brothers Auto Body was nominated by the Midway Chamber of Commerce and is the sole recipient of the Customer Experience award in the Minnesota Retail Champions program. The award was presented at the Retail Rally event on October 10 at Brookview in Golden Valley. Congratulations to the Latuff Brothers team!
AASP-MN THANKS OUR 2024 SPONSORS!
Premium Sponsor LKQ Minnesota
Platinum Sponsor Lube-Tech
Optimize Digital Marketing Revv ADAS
Gold Sponsors 3M
AASP National Auto Value /Benco Equipment BASF CBIZ
NCS/Single Source
Silver Sponsors
Axalta Coating Systems
Colonial Life
Enterprise Mobility
O’Reilly Auto Parts
PPG Automotive Finishes
Sherwin-Williams
Suburban GM Parts
United Fire Group
Vestis
Bronze Sponsors
aaa Auto Parts
C.H.E.S.S.
Dentsmart PDR
Precision Diagnostics
Evolving Generations Change DIFM Buying Habits
By the end of the decade, there will be significant changes in the Do-It-For-Me (DIFM) share held by each of the three consumer generations that currently total about 90 percent of the DIFM market: Millennials, Gen Xers and Baby Boomers. Lang Marketing is conducting a nationwide consumer study focused on how these major generations, and Gen Zers, differ and the impact on their DIFM repair behavior.
Lang Marketing’s latest consumer research breaks new ground in exploring how the generations differ in their values and perceptions of the DIFM experience and how best to market auto repair to each generation. See the all-new 2025 Lang Aftermarket Annual for analysis of how consumer generations differ in their changing shares of overall DIFM market and the emerging o2o (online to offline) segment of eCommerce-based DIFM repair.
Consumer Generations
Three distinct generations account for about 90 percent of the current Do-It-For-Me (DIFM) auto repair market: Baby Boomers, Gen Xers, and Millennials (Gen Y).
Gen Z will begin to significantly impact the DIFM market starting in 2026.
Generation Age Ranges
Baby Boomers, born between 1946 and 1964, currently range in age from 60 to 78. Gen Xers have birth-year brackets of 1965 and 1980 and are 44 to 59 years old. Millennials (Gen Y) were born between 1981 and 1999 and are between 25 and 43.
Lang Marketing’s current consumer study is focused on these three generations. Gen Zers (born between 2000 and 2014) will be included in Lang’s expanded consumer research scheduled for early next year.
DIFM Market Volume Shift
Each consumer generation represents different portions of the DIFM market across the U.S. as their share of the nation’s population changes.
Baby Boomers accounted for approximately 33 percent of DIFM volume in 2013, declining to 23 percent of the 2023 market. In contrast, Gen Xers have expanded their DIFM market share, climbing from 32 percent to 35 percent between 2013 and 2023. Millennials (Gen Y) have recorded the fastest growth in DIFM share, soaring from 28 percent of 2013 volume to 33 percent by 2023.
Consumers born before 1946, and Gen Zers represented less than 10 percent of 2023 DIFM volume.
Changes By 2030
Over the balance of the decade, significant changes will occur in each generation’s DIFM share.
Lang Marketing estimates that by 2030, Baby Boomers’ DIFM share will fall below 12 percent, followed by Gen Xers with approximately a 36 percent share. Millennials will generate the largest portion of DIFM volume by 2030, and Gen Zers will account for nearly 14 percent share.
Generation Differences in the Auto Repair Experience
The three generations that are currently largest in the DIFM market were asked about their preferences for
purchasing auto repair: doing it online, calling repair outlets, or visiting repair outlets.
Lang Marketing found significant differences between generations for all three purchase experiences.
Online Outlet Selection
While approximately one-third of consumers across the three generations prefer to buy auto repair online, there are significant differences between the generations.
Nearly half of Millennials prefer buying auto repair online rather than calling or visiting repair outlets.
In contrast, only one-fifth of Baby Boomers prefer going online to purchase auto repair and less than one-third of Gen Xers favored this approach.
These differences reflect the varying contributions to o2o (online to offline) DIFM growth made by each generation.
Call Repair Outlets
Just over 30 percent of all consumers prefer calling repair outlets to purchase auto repair. Again, there are significant differences between the three generations.
Calling repair outlets is the most popular option for Gen Xers (over 35 percent), and the second choice for Baby Boomers, just under one-third. However, only about onequarter of Millennials prefer to call repair outlets.
Visiting Repair Outlets
Nearly half of Baby Boomers prefer to visit repair outlets to purchase auto repair. However, they are alone in this strong inclination.
About 30 percent of Gen Xers prefer to do so, and only approximately one-fifth of Millennials want to visit repair outlets as their first choice.
In fact, visiting auto repair outlets is over twice as likely to be the top choice among Baby Boomers than Millennials. In contrast, buying auto repair online is more than twice as popular with Millennials as with Baby Boomers.
Deeper DIFM Understanding
Within each of the three major generations, there are significant differences in auto repair purchasing based on gender, vehicle nameplate (domestic versus foreign) and vehicle age, among other factors.
Lang Marketing is exploring the significance of video in communicating with all generations, particularly Millennials. The power of video as a communications and marketing tool will be analyzed in future issues of the iReport.
Six Major Takeaways
• Currently, three consumer generations account for about 90 percent of DIFM auto repair: Baby Boomers, Gen Xers, and Millennials (Gen Y). Gen Zers will begin to significantly contribute to the DIFM market in 2026.
• Many changes are underway in the DIFM share held by each generation, with Millennials recording the most significant increase between 2023 and 2030. In contrast, Baby Boomers will suffer the largest DIFM share loss.
• More than twice as many Millennials purchase auto repair online as Baby Boomers. This reflects the different
contribution that each generation is making to the growth of the eCommerce-based DIFM market.
• Baby Boomers are over twice as likely to visit outlets to purchase auto repair as Millennials. However, Baby Boomers’ market impact is rapidly diminishing and their DIFM share will be in the low double digits by 2030.
• Millennials are the least likely of the three major generations to call or visit repair outlets to purchase auto repair. This underscores the leading role that Millennials are taking in the growth of o2o (online to offline) transactions in the evolving DIFM market across the U.S.
• Lang Marketing’s consumer research is breaking new ground in understanding how generations differ in the values and perceptions they bring to the DIFM repair market. Future issues of the Lang iReport will analyze the power of video in communicating and marketing auto repair to consumers, especially Millennials. See the all-new 2025 Lang Aftermarket Annual for analysis of how consumer generations differ in their share of the overall DIFM market and the share that they represent of the emerging o2o segment of the eCommerce-based auto repair market.
Enhanced Mobility and Shop Safety with RAE Mobile Battery Lifting Table
When repairing sophisticated electric vehicles, proper disassembly and handling of EV batteries is a must. RAE’s Mobile Battery Lifting Table is a game changer, taking the stress out of lifting and storing EV batteries as well as motors and transmissions.
The table’s sturdy build and smooth hydraulic system ensure precise lifting and lowering, allowing repairers to position the battery exactly where it’s needed with the ability to safely handle loads up to 1.5 tons, with a pneumatic-hydraulic drive powering smooth and reliable lifting.
it’s not just limited to batteries; repairers can use this to lift, hold and store many heavy components in the repair process.
With approvals from Ford, Lucid and Rivian, this Mobile Battery Lifting Table is a solid investment, not only cutting down on time spent with manual labor but also making battery handling more efficient to improve overall productivity in the shop.
Page 6 – 2nd column – Last paragraph in the conference write-up. Remove the word “easy” from the last line.
With adjustable features including a mechanical drop safety device, 3-step handle and slopes on both axes, operators can be confident of precise positioning. An extendable platform (adjusting from 1830mm to 2130mm) fits various battery sizes, but the lifting table’s versatility means
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If you’re looking for a solution that combines safety, ease of use, and durability, this Mobile Battery Lifting Table is exactly what you need. The team at Reliable Automotive Equipment is ready to help with this and any equipment concerns you may have; please contact us today at raeservice.com to learn more about our array of collision repair products, training and support.
The RAE Mobile Battery Lifting Table has a lifting capacity of 3,080 pounds, ensuring safe maintenance procedures.
Page 22 – Ryan Vick will be providing me contact names and new phone numbers for each of the locations listed. I will send that over as soon as I get it.
OFFICIAL MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION
As a member of the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of Minnesota (AASP-MN), we will abide by the Association’s Code of Ethics, bylaws and other conditions of membership as established by the Board of Directors. We understand the AASP-MN logo must be used in accordance with the logo guidelines. It is understood membership in AASP-MN is subject to acceptance by the Association and is non-transferable. It is also understood that AASP-MN membership dues may be deductible as a business expense for federal income tax purposes, but are not deductible as a charitable contribution.
***PLEASE PRINT OR TYPE***
BUSINESS INFORMATION:
Business Name:
Business Representative Name: _________________________________________Title:
Number of Full-Time Employees: _______________ Number of Part-Time Employees:
PRIMARY DIVISION: (check one) Collision Mechanical/Transmission Associate Educational List other specialties: _________________________________ Date you started in business:
- $1,000,000 $1,000,000 - $2,000,000 $2,000,000 - $2,500,000 $2,500,000 - $5,000,000 $5,000,000 - $10,000,000 More than $10,000,000
WHAT BENEFITS MOTIVATED YOU TO JOIN AASP-MN?
I hereby consent to allow AASP-MN to receive details on my participation in association-recommended benefit programs including, but not limited to, account information and pricing, insurance premium, dividend and claims information. I further agree that by providing my mailing and email addresses, telephone and fax numbers, I consent to receive communications sent by or on behalf of AASP-MN via regular mail, email, telephone or fax. I understand that the AASP-MN sign and logo policy authorizes businesses that are members in good standing to use the AASP-MN logo. Should my membership in AASP-MN expire, I agree, at that time, to discontinue all uses of the association’s logo and signs.
*If you have more than one additional location, please attach a list of them to this application.
PAYMENT OPTIONS: _____ Check enclosed, payable to AASP-MN _____ Credit
Note: AASP-MN adds a 3% surcharge to all credit card payments. This surcharge is not greater than our total cost of accepting credit cards. Surcharge does not apply to debit cards.
Lithium-ion batteries, while e cient and powerful, can be prone to thermal runaway if damaged or improperly handled. This could result in a fire that is di cult to extinguish, posing significant danger to the entire repair area. Protect your workers and shop with our fire containment blanket.
WS 1100 FIRE CONTAINMENT BLANKET
High-performance fire protection blanket for hybrid and e-vehicles. This non-flammable blanket is certified to consistently withstand temperatures up to 2012 °F and can endure short-term temperatures up to 2462 °F, preventing flame spread and buying crucial time for emergency responders. It can be swiftly deployed by two individuals within 1 minute, thanks to its excellent air permeability and lightweight nature. Ensure safety standards in repair shops with our top-tier fire protection solution!
MITIGATES DAMAGE AND MINIMIZES RISKS DURING REPAIRS
PROVIDES RELIABLE PROTECTION FROM POTENTIAL BATTERY HAZARDS
OEM APPROVALS
CAPABLE OF WITHSTANDING EV FIRES EXCEEDING 2000°F
Automotive Education Advances to Meet New Demands
Last month, AASP-MN News shared how two schools’ automotive technology programs are thinking outside the box to address the challenges they face in providing students with the tools and knowledge they need to become successful shop employees after graduation, but with today’s technology advancing faster all the time, several enlightened educators have seen the opportunity to take things a step further by creating new initiatives that specifically target some of the industry’s changing demands.
These schools have taken the initiative to offer unique courses that address shops’ developing needs. Two years ago, Minnesota State Community and Technical College (Moorhead) received a $349,652 grant from the National Science Foundation to implement a program to provide automotive technology students with training on electric vehicles (EVs). “Only three percent of technicians are trained to work on these vehicles, yet the market is growing rapidly,” instructor Shannon Mohn indicated in 2022 when the school announced the grant.
“The project will have the ability to impact the automotive industry and college automotive technology programs on a local, regional and national level. The
curriculum and resulting e-textbook and lab materials we develop will be shared with multiple National Science Foundation centers around the country, allowing any automotive technology program to use them.”
Minnesota State’s course offering now includes three courses on this subject matter – Advanced Automotive Electrical Systems, Hybrid Vehicle Technologies and Electric Platform Technologies – which allows students to obtain knowledge and demonstrate their abilities in this rapidly growing division of the automotive repair world. The trend is slowly catching on. Earlier this year, Ridgewater College (Willmar) began offering a onecredit course on maintenance for EVs and hybrids. More recently, Saint Paul College (Saint Paul) developed a cutting-edge training lab with the intention of debuting its “Intro to EV/Hybrid” class in 2025.
Diagnostics represents another subset of the industry that is developing at unprecedented rates, which presents training challenges for shops and schools alike. Anoka Technical College (Anoka) seeks to address that shortcoming with the addition of the first advanced diagnostic program in Minnesota. In addition to its traditional two-year program that equips students
with the basic skills required to get started in the automotive industry, the school offers a oneyear program consisting of two semesters: Automotive Electronic Diagnostic Specialist, which is open to up to 14 recent graduates of a two-year automotive program as well as relatively new technicians working in the field.
“Our program goal is to take a two-year graduate to the next level by focusing on the diagnosis of electronic systems and circuits, covering a wide range of systems on ICE, hybrid and electric vehicles,” explains program instructor David McFarland. “The one-year diagnostic program was designed to answer the following question that we asked our advisory board: ‘Are you happy with automotive technical college’s graduates?’ The answer is mostly no.
“The word ‘green’ is used a lot,” he continues. “A two-year automotive technical college will provide a dealership with someone who possesses a lot of skills but often lacks the experience and confidence to be self-starters. On average, it takes a recent graduate five to eight years to become a main-line technician, someone who can handle anything that comes in the door. Sometimes, a technician won’t see a check engine light for a month. The Automotive Electronic Diagnostic Specialist program is designed to shorten that timeframe into two semesters (nine months). Within those semesters, the student will learn to diagnose vehicle concerns by building on those skills learned in a two-year program, thereby giving the industry a go-to technician right out of school.”
“We receive donations from the public, which we use and are very grateful for, but they don’t fill the need because most of those vehicles are used up,” contributes David Holmquist, the automotive program’s other instructor. Providing students with mentorship opportunities is another challenge. “Internships help the students gain
valuable experience and provide employers with a means to mentor them. Part of the contract with the employers is to give the students the opportunity to work in the area we just covered at school; however, far too often, they are left in the lube bay. Many of us older technicians had the benefit of one or two good mentors, and that support makes a huge difference.”
Anoka Tech helps students find job placement after graduation,
by Chasidy Rae Sisk
but students often report concerns when it comes to pay, “whether it’s being dissatisfied with their hourly wage because they ‘can make more working at McDonald’s’ or simply being nervous about moving to a flat-rate position,” Holmquist observes. “Our industry doesn’t always do a very good job of paying our entry-level techs, and we still have the attitude that entry-level technicians need to pay their dues.
continued on pg. 16
continued from pg. 15
“The most disappointing aspect of this topic is that many of our graduates don’t last in the industry for more than five years,” Holmquist adds. “Sadly, some of our top students have left the automotive industry for these very reasons. In some cases, they are disparaged for not being tough enough for the auto industry. I believe we still have work to do as far as changing the culture in the industry, though this varies from shop to shop based on management and personnel.”
These schools have taken the initiative to go beyond thinking outside the box to break free of the barriers that previously prevented automotive technology educators from producing high-quality entry-level technicians for shops to hire, but once those students graduate, they leave the capable hands of their instructors and wind up in workplaces that may or may not be able to retain them.
The instructors are doing their part, but now it’s YOUR turn – are you ready to think outside the box and evaluate your shop culture to ensure you’re offering the type of environment that will retain the next generation of technicians? Stay tuned to an upcoming edition of AASP-MN News for some suggestions on improving your shop’s culture!
MECHANICAL DIVISION DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE
continued from pg. 4
deal; it is part of human nature. We may even drive a little further to continue the incentive program. This isn’t a new idea, but maybe it has been a while since you implemented it or gave it a fresh look. Several companies now offer apps for automotive shops. No more keeping track of punch cards - it’s all digital. It tracks reward points and much more. When the customer hears you say that they have earned enough rewards and their oil change is free, that can be the hook set that keeps them coming back.
Going beyond rewards points, you can really stand out with appreciation marketing. It can be small things like freshly baked cookies, a little thank you note or all kinds of promotional products. In a recent podcast on Ratchet and Wrench Radio, Lauralee Schmidt talks about going the extra mile to stand out. She started small, spending time getting to know her customer base, and grew it into a full-time position in their repair shop. The role included getting small gifts for every customer, recognizing life events and holding customer events like a Mom’s night, or inviting all the customers that owned Honda Odysseys in for a fun evening. The possibilities are endless, but not all of us have the budget and staff to start this big.
It is hard enough to just get the cars in and out and fixed right the first time, but it can result in growing a loyal customer base where there is no limit.
Spectrum Auto Body, Belle Plaine
From working out of a trailer to celebrating his 10-year anniversary as owner of Spectrum Auto Body, Sam Brummund’s entrepreneurial spirit has evolved the business into a thriving fixture in Belle Plaine.
Hopping around different shops in his earlier years, Brummund always felt he brought more to the table than his employers. It was his desire for excellence and ability to offer services of the highest caliber that led him to build a mini body shop in a 10x10 trailer, which he equipped with an air compressor, generator and full mixing bank.
Offering mobile services and working in parking lots at dealerships, Brummund “crushed it” his first summer, so much so that he made enough money to open his first shop in Burnsville at age 26. Now 36 years old, he has been in the industry for 15 years. As a high school student, he recalls, “I always wanted a sweet car, but came to the question of, ‘How do I BUY one?’ I figured, ‘Well, I can work on them!’” Automotive repair was an obvious career path choice for Brummund, who had displayed a strong talent for mechanical repair from a young age, starting out working on his own bikes. Brummund’s high school had many technical classes, which helped him decide to ultimately focus on the trade; he has stuck with it ever since.
When he started in the business, he figured he’d be doing more than just auto body repair. “I had been doing dealership stuff, insurance
and a little bit of custom work, so I thought that I’d be doing a broad ‘spectrum of things,’ but ultimately, I fell into collision work.” This is where the Spectrum brand was born as Brummund wanted to be more creative when naming his business as he wasn’t entirely in favor of naming it after himself. He then set out to create an eye-catching logo that accomplished the “resemblance to a franchise” that he was ultimately looking for.
Brummund rented a space in Burnsville where he worked with one other person. After six years, business grew exponentially, allowing him to raise enough money to transition the business to Belle Plaine.
When he took over the establishment, “it was obvious that no one had invested in renovations in a long time. I came in and put siding on, did a bunch of updates to make it look a lot nicer and built an addition in the back. It was a good transition from renting to owning the building. I like the small town over the metro that Burnsville was, and having a bigger team has been a tremendous help.” Including himself, six people make up the Spectrum team, with employees ranging from ages 20 to 72 years old! The business blends experience with fresh perspective, ensuring they cater to every customer with personalized care.
Mike Walter, a technician who had worked at the location before Brummond bought it, has proven to be instrumental to his team as
“the master tech; he’s really good at everything. He’s kind of like the ‘dad over here.’ He has all the knowledge and helps a lot when it comes to decision making and advice.”
Bryan Kahle, the shop’s general manager handles “all the phone calls, estimates, billings and office duties.” Long-time friends from high school, the pair reconnected post-college after Brummund moved back to their hometown. Kahle has been with the team for three years now. “We grew up just 10 minutes away from Belle Plaine, which helps us bring in those local ties and expand our business to the surrounding areas.”
Central to Spectrum Auto Body is their commitment to honesty and reliability. In having worked at a lot of places, Brummond has experienced a variety of approaches when it comes to customer service. As a business owner, he looks to break stereotypes associated with auto body shops in aiming to provide transparent service from the moment a car enters the shop. By tailoring services to match a particular individual’s needs, he ensures that “someone who comes in and doesn’t know anything about their vehicle can have the process explained to them in a way that leaves them confident that their car is in good hands.”
As a smaller shop, the team offers “family service” by optimizing operational efficiency and customer convenience. To minimize the time clients are without their car, “we ensure all the paperwork is worked out and parts are on order before taking in the car. After determining the state of the vehicle, we decide whether it is necessary for it to be left that same day or if it can continue to be driven for a few days, if someone doesn’t have a rental. We have found that this helps with convenience and ease of the overall process.”
Fostering a skillful and knowledgeable team is important for Brummund in maintaining their reputation for excellence in Belle Plaine and its respective surrounding
Spectrum Auto Body celebrated its 10th anniversary this past summer
by Kaitlyn Gavidia
areas. By being selective when hiring new additions to his team, he has been fortunate to have people who “are naturally good at mechanics. I get really good help upfront from someone who is already highly skilled and possesses the knowledge.
“For us, it’s not just about certifications on paper, it’s about proving ourselves through word-of-mouth and consistently delivering high quality services,” he adds. This dedication to customer satisfaction is evident in stories like that of a frustrated Subaru owner who turned to Spectrum after a dealership failed to communicate progress for weeks. “We got her car fixed within a week,” he recalls. “It’s moments like these that reinforce the importance of our reputation and the trust our community places in us.”
Navigating the complexities of insurance dealings stands out as a significant challenge for Brummund. One of the primary issues he faces is the frustratingly slow response times from insurance companies. “Having to go through the website and the general emailing slows down the process.” He’d like to see legislative changes that would mandate faster responses from insurance companies. “There should be a law that requires insurers to reach out within two days,” he suggests. The prolonged delays not only impede Spectrum’s ability to serve their customers promptly, but also contributes to ongoing disputes and extended wait times before repairs
can even commence.
Despite these challenges, he remains proactive in addressing industry issues through his involvement with AASP-MN, since he became a member this past spring. At the meetings he’s attended thus far, he recalls “having met good people and participated in great conversations. I liked what I saw, and I met other guys, some of whom own big shops with 30 employees, and I’m able to turn to them for advice. They’re not like competitors, but rather a great source of advice, and I can ask them questions like, ‘What do you use for this?’ and they are willing to provide support.” The networking aspect was definitely a factor for Brummund in joining, and he enjoys the community aspect of it all. “Getting to see the same people every week and the connectivity from body shops to tech colleges is pretty cool!”
Reflecting on his journey, he finds fulfillment in Spectrum’s role beyond repairs. “Auto body work isn’t just about fixing cars,” he believes. “It’s about providing peace of mind and reliable service to our neighbors.”
As Spectrum Auto Body celebrated its 10th anniversary this summer, Brummund and his team continue to deliver premium service with a personal touch. With each repair, they reaffirm their role as a trusted local business committed to excellence and lasting relationships within their community.
Safeguarding the Shop: Managing Hazardous Waste in Auto Body Shops
Auto body shops, while essential for vehicle repair and maintenance, can also generate a significant amount of hazardous waste. Improper handling and disposal of these materials can pose serious risks to both human health and the environment. This article will explore common hazardous wastes found in auto body shops and provide practical tips for their safe management.
Common Hazardous Wastes in Auto Body Shops
• Solvents: Used in cleaning, degreasing and paint preparation, solvents like acetone, toluene and xylene can be harmful if inhaled or ingested.
• Paint and Coatings: Paints, primers, and other coatings often contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that contribute to air pollution.
• Batteries: Lead-acid batteries, commonly found in vehicles, contain hazardous materials like lead and sulfuric acid that require proper disposal.
• Fluids: Automotive fluids such as antifreeze, brake fluid and transmission fluid can be harmful to the environment if not disposed of correctly.
• Cleaning Agents: Certain cleaning products used in auto body shops, especially those containing chemicals like acids or bases, can be hazardous.
Best Practices for Managing Hazardous Waste
• Proper Storage: Store hazardous materials in designated areas, away from heat sources and direct sunlight. Ensure containers are labeled clearly and securely sealed.
• Spill Prevention: Implement measures to prevent spills, such as using drip pans and containment trays. In case of spills, clean them up promptly and safely.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Provide employees with appropriate PPE, including gloves, eye protection and respiratory protection when handling hazardous materials.
• Employee Training: Conduct regular training sessions to educate employees about the hazards of hazardous waste, proper handling procedures and emergency response plans.
• Recycling and Disposal: Recycle or dispose of hazardous waste in accordance with local, state and federal regulations. Work with licensed waste transporters haulers to ensure proper disposal.
• Compliance with Regulations: Stay informed about local, state and federal regulations regarding hazardous waste management. Ensure that your shop is in compliance with all applicable laws and permits.
By following these best practices, auto body shops can significantly reduce their environmental impact and create a safer working environment for their employees. Proper management of hazardous waste is not only a legal requirement but also a moral obligation to protect public health and the environment. Learn more about hazardous waste requirements at: pca.state. mn.us/sites/default/files/w-hw1oo.pdf. You can also contact the MPCA Small Business Environmental Assistance Program for confidential assistance on regulatory matters at (651) 282-6143 or e-mail smallbizhelp. pca@state.mn.us
At LKQ, the “R” in P.A.R.T. stands for Recycled OEM parts LKQ first began 25 years ago through the acquisition of several auto salvage yards, and through the years, LKQ has grown to become the largest recycler of vehicles in the industry. LKQ now operates more than 125 auto recycling yards across North America. Through its stateof-the-art processes, LKQ recycles or re-sells more than 90% of the materials from end-of-life vehicles that would otherwise end up in landfills.
ESTIMATING TIPS
Visit degweb.org to submit a Database Inquiry and contribute to database accuracy!
HELPING TO IMPROVE COLLISION REPAIR ESTIMATE INFO THROUGH REPAIRER FEEDBACK
If you’re performing automotive repairs of ANY kind, you need to utilize the DEG! Check out some recent Database Inquiries - and their resolutions - below!
Mitchell: Mix Toners – DEG Inquiry 12029 shares Mitchell feedback that, “labor to mix toners from color bank to achieve a color” is NOT INCLUDED. Due to variables in color formulas and product types, an on-the-spot evaluation would be required to determine labor and material costs.
Solera Qapter (Audatex): Insert Manual Line – Qapter
Estimating allows users to insert a manual line anywhere on their repair plan instead of the very end of the sheet. Users can select the “” icon and select “manual” line where they want to insert the line item.
CCC One Web: Resource Tab – CCC One Web users can locate Guide to Estimating (MOTOR Guide) and Recycled Assemblies Guide to Estimating (RACED Guide) under the resource tab on the top right corner of the estimate screen.
Mitchell: Information Tab – Mitchell users can select the “Information” tab to view general OEM Position Statements, recall information, special cautions and other vehicle-specific information.
Qapter users can find the “Air Bag Matrix” for required inspections after a collision with or without deployment, in the “Airbag/Srs” zone selection.
Mitchell: Applying Clear Coat to Undersides and Inner Panels – Refinish operations that require additional clear coat for inner panels and undersides may require the end user to manually check the “Clear Coat” box on the labor operation line.
CCC One Web: Parts Code Table – CCC One Web users can quickly add multiple parts code table operations in a single sequence instead of creating a new line each time.
Solera Qapter (Audatex): Seam Sealer Application for Door Skin – Per Audatex DBRM https://degweb.org/wp-content/ uploads/2023/12/ADXE_DBRM_Nov_2023.pdf, Section 4-3
Outer Panel replacement only includes labor to seam seal on the perimeter flange to create a watertight seal. If additional labor is necessary for “OEM aesthetic appearance matching of sealants, sound deadening or bonding materials,” this would be NOT INCLUDED per section 4-2 Labor Exclusions on page 44-45.
“Replace labor does not include additional labor to repair the replaced panel and/or adjacent panels which may become distorted, burned or damaged by welding, drilling, grinding and straightening.” This is also NOT INCLUDED per section 4-2 Labor Exclusions.
AASP-MN MEMBER PREFERRED PROVIDER PROGRAMS
PROPERTY/LIABILITY AND WORKERS’ COMP INSURANCE
CBIZ
Contact: Brad Schmid
763-549-2247 / bschmid@cbiz.com
CBIZ AIA and United Fire Group (UFG) have created a program for members that includes a special premium discount, exclusive coverage and potential safety group dividend. CBIZ AIA can present quotes from multiple carriers and, as an added bonus, offer members an exclusive 10% discount on their property/liability insurance premiums.
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
CBIZ
Contact: Brad Schmid
763-549-2247 / bschmid@cbiz.com
AASP and CBIZ are partnering to help make the process of purchasing employee benefits a lot less stressful for members. The CBIZ platform provides increased transparency and more options for savings, the ability to predict rate increases early, and guidance from CBIZ benefits experts. New Health Insurance Options Now Available!
EMPLOYEE VOLUNTARY BENEFITS
Colonial Life
Contact: Deb Ferrao
612-600-4135 / deb.ferrao@coloniallifesales.com or Tracy Bailey 612-801-0139 / tracy.coloniallife@gmail.com
Dedicated representatives can help members transform their benefit package with competitive rates, value added services at no cost and complimentary legal document preparation service. Colonial Life has the tools and flexibility to create a plan to fit everyone’s needs.
UNIFORM & LINEN SUPPLIES
Vestis (formerly Aramark)
Contact: Ryan Vick 612-269-2303 / vick-ryan2@aramark.com
Discounted pricing to members on rental of uniforms, entrance mats, shop rags, etc. Purchases are also discounted. Members receive annual rebate equal to 10% of their business with Vestis each year.
Competitive rates for AASP-MN members. Terminals and printers sold at cost.
LEGAL CONSULTATION
Fryberger, Buchanan, Smith & Frederick 800-496-6789
Members receive free, over-the-phone legal assessment and consultation (some restrictions apply) with an attorney who specializes in the area of law that is the subject of the call.
WEBSITE AND INTERNET MARKETING SOLUTIONS
Autoshop Solutions
Contact: Tony Mercury 919-267-1731 / tony@autoshopsolutions.com
Autoshop Solutions has developed the most cutting-edge marketing platform for AASP members. Really Powerful Marketing (RPM) is an all-in-one program that bundles your website, pay-per-click, search engine optimization, social media, and much more! With five levels of RPM to match your budget, goals, and competition, it’s built to drive your shop forward!
Members receive discounts on a variety of products and services they use every day! From discounts on paint and rental cars to office supplies and phone services. Over 50 programs available!
Mitchell 1 offers AASP members a $10 per month discount on any eligible Mitchell 1 subscription.
Mitchell International
Contact: Mitchell International Representative 800-238-9111
AASP members receive $350 off Mitchell's MD-500 all-in-one solution for scanning, calibration, estimating, and blueprinting.
TECHNICAL INFORMATION HOTLINE
IDENTIFIX
800-745-9649
Members enjoy a 20% annual savings on Direct-Hit and Direct-Help subscriptions, the industry's most reliable source for experience-based repair information.
CHECK GUARANTEE SERVICES
Certegy Check Services
877-520-2987
Discount rate of .75% to AASP-MN members. Use existing credit card terminal. Fast claim payments.
Contact: Carol Keyes 651-481-9787 / carkey@chess-safety.com
AASP-MN members receive a 20% discount on Safety Data Sheet Management (SDSLinks), Right to Know(RTK)/Hazard Communication program customized for your facility and monthly safety reminders, and other safety, OSHA or environmental assistance.
Members receive 20% discount off standard payroll, time and attendance, and HRIS products and services.
LIVE-ONLINE & ON-DEMAND TECHNICAL TRAINING
Automotive Seminars
Contact: Tim Houghtaling 920-866-9813 / tim@automotiveseminars.com
Discounted pricing to AASP-MN members on all live-online events, as well as on-demand training videos. Automotive Seminars specializes in diagnostic training that provides automotive technicians with knowledge, testing techniques and data interpretation skills needed to diagnose today’s vehicles. The live-online events and on-demand training videos focus on automotive electronics and engine management systems and are written and created by some of the industry’s leading diagnostic technicians.
BUSINESS COACHING
180BIZ
540-833-2014 / info@180biz.com
Members receive a 25% discount on Rick White's Pocket Business Genius subscription, offering independent auto shop owners fast access to actionable business advice from a leading industry expert.
Over 2,500 vehicle-specified units in stock Up to 3-Year/100,000 Mile Warranty Manual Transmissions
