The first of 10 planned Independent Repairer calls hosted by the NBRA highlighted a range of challenges still facing the sector, particularly when it comes to work provider relationships.
The call addressed keys issues such as parts availability, work provision, mobility, sustainability and staffing issues, but the influence of work providers remained a recurring theme.
Many independents complained of over-engineering, with ADAS being removed from estimates indiscriminately in some cases, while others reported up to 25 communications from work providers before the vehicle had even arrived on site. Excessive and disruptive audits was also a concern for some repairers, who questioned why there was still so little trust between certain work providers and bodyshops.
The calls have been organised by the NBRA to provide a platform for independents to share their experiences and discuss steps that can be taken collectively to improve practices within the market.
