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Bodyshop - February 2003

Features

NACE Provides A Snapshot of the World
Delgates at the International Autobody Congress and Exposition got a taste of the world as a Friday afternoon session uncovered worldwide challenges in collision repair. And while Canadian collision repairers themselves face an array of concerns and obstacles, the message from the rest of the world was alternatively encouraging and frightening. The old addage that the grass is always greener on the other side seemed most appropriate by the end of the two hour session.

Cross Canada Report: The Door's Open...We're At The Table
Profitability, attraction and retention, insurance relations, industry support ... these are among the many concerns that repairers across Canada voiced in Bodyshop Magazine's annual Cross Country Report. In a resounding consensus coast to coast, collision repairers report better dialogue and more respect from partners such as government and insurance. Clearly, the industry's emerging -- the doors are opening, and we're finally getting a seat at the table.

Body Tech: 2003 Volvo XC90
Volvo's first foray into the SUV segment features seven passenger capacity, Haldex electronically controlled all-wheel-drive system, the newly developed Roll Over Protection System and a computer- controlled system called Roll Stability Control, which helps reduce the risk of rolling over.

Body Shop Initiative Awards: Putting People First
The recipient of Bodyshop Magazine's first annual Initiative Award for Employee Retention And Attraction, Etobicoke Ontario-based 427 Auto Collision Ltd. can attribute the distinction to an entire evolution of corporate philosophy.

Industry: CCIF - A West Coast Kick Off
The Canadian Collision Industry Forum kicked off its 2003 skid with a 130-plus delegate meeting at Vancouver's Delta Airport Hotel on January 18. The event featured topical speakers, two-way discourse and tremendous turnout by repairers, insurers and suppliers.

Recruitment: An Action For Attraction
One of the biggest obstacles facing collision repair -- and all aftermarket automotive trades -- is the attraction of young talent. A 1999 human resource study found that only 7.5% of the industry is under 25. The Canadian Automotive Repair And Service (CARS) Council has created an initiative to attract more young people to the industry. Their new package attacks all fronts in pulling new people into the profession.

Regulation: Ontario - Law's Passed, What's Next?

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