Category: Training

ARC360 news round up – Friday 30 September 

30 September 2022
Audio, Covid 19, Environment, Insurance, People, Technology, Training and Words

What the data tells us

The exclusive motor conference next week will see four data presentations on specific specialist areas. This will be followed by a panel discussion to decipher how the data all interlinks and what more might it be able to tell us about how insurers are ‘advancing’ when it comes to claims.

Click here to see the full agenda!

Fix Auto UK announces new apprenticeship partner

Fix Auto UK has announced a new partnership intended to enhance and improve apprenticeship recruitment and development throughout its network.

AutoRaise Rally set to break £200,000 barrier 

The AutoRaise Rally is on track to break the £200,000 fundraising barrier after 62 teams and 160 people took part in the U-Pol-backed three-day event last week. 

Between them they covered more than 21,000 miles in support of the charity that is tackling the current skills gap by promoting the industry to new talent and then helping them find apprenticeship roles. 

Thatcham Research welcomes latest intake 

Thatcham Research has this week welcomed its latest intake of apprentices.  

The latest cohort represent 2Excel Engineering, Apollo Motor Group, Artis Accident Care, DLG Auto Services, FMG Repair Services, Foray Motor Group, Lillywhitegarage, RJM Repair and Paint, Rolls Royce, Smart Answers and Solus Accident Repair Centres. 

Thatcham Research Academy delivers practical and online learning, covering the latest technologies, including ADAS and electric vehicles. 

Thieves set their sights on car parts 

New research has revealed a fresh target for car thieves – car parts. 

According to data from LV= General Insurance, the theft of steering wheels has risen by a staggering 133% since 2017 (average claims cost of £7,000), with demand for airbags, gear levers and dashboard components doubling during the same period. 

Steer Group unveils new flagship site 

Steer Group has cut the ribbon on a new prestige flagship facility in High Wycombe. 

The purpose-built 28,000 sqft site has been designed to repair the world’s leading vehicle brands. 

Following the science 

Copart has set science-based targets to reduce carbon emissions throughout its operations. 

The UK’s leading vehicle salvage and remarking company has joined more than 3,000 other businesses that have committed to the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi), which has provided it with a clearly defined pathway towards reducing emissions in line with the Paris Agreement. 

Rising figures mask deeper concerns 

Car and commercial vehicle manufacturing both rose sharply in August, with car output up 43% on August 2021 and commercial vehicles surging by 92.9%. 

Sargeant’s major marathon fundraising effort 

Dave Sargeant, Chairman of AutoRaise and Gemini Managing Director, is running the London Marathon on Sunday to raise funds for prostate cancer research.  

Apollo backs next-gen talent 

Apollo Motor Group has underscored its commitment to developing future talent this week, with Managing Director Paul Clements attending the Careers and Apprenticeship Show at Fratton Park in Portsmouth recently, promoting the industry to more than 1,300 visitors, while at the same time supporting six apprentices as they began their journey at Thatcham Research Academy. 

This six are Liam Fowler (Apollo Horsham), Aiden Faulkner (Apollo Yeovil), Harley Chambers (Apollo Basingstoke), Ben Tomes (Apollo Swindon), Dominic Motani (Apollo Polegate) and Marcus Stepney (Apollo Cheltenham). 

Wejo links AVs with connected tech 

Wejo has unveiled a new autonomous vehicle prototype that integrates with real-time connected vehicle technology such as the number of cars on the road, pedestrians, cyclists, road barriers and road conditions. 

DLIVEREE has been created to support the further development of autonomous vehicles. 

Founder and CEO Richard Barlow said, “Wejo is not entering the race to develop autonomous vehicles. We are ultimately supporting the creation of the most experienced driver on the road.” 

Redde Northgate reports ‘encouraging’ results 

Redde Northgate has told shareholders that the future looks encouraging with trade remaining strong despite post-Covid challenges and claims and services recovering well. 

Appointments

A1 ADAS Solutions has welcomed Paul Harris to its team. ADAS-qualified, he brings a wealth of main dealer experience with hi having worked at Audi and Jaguar Landrover.

David Dollar has been promoted to Senior Body Repair Claims Specialist, EMEA, Tesla.

ITAS has appointed Mark Thorns-by as new Regional Performance Manager. 

Rebecca Winterhalder has been named Head of Motor Claims, Accidental Damage at Hastings Direct.  

Catch up on exclusive ARC360 content 

WebinARC: Making the right connections

ARC360 Podcast Episode 25: Kelvyn Waugh, Prasco UK 

Feature Interview: Kevern Thompson, Commercial Manager, CAPS 

Fix Auto UK announces new apprenticeship partner

30 September 2022
Bodyshop, Environment, People, Supplier, Training, Vehicle Repair and Words

Fix Auto UK has announced a new partnership intended to enhance and improve apprenticeship recruitment and development throughout its network.

It is partnering with Able To (Support Services), founded by Bob Linwood, which will now manage the apprenticeship programme for its franchisees.

Any Fix Auto repairer interested in taking on an apprentice will simply contact Able To, which will source appropriate candidates and then conduct a six-week pre-employment programme to enhance engagement and increase the chances of a successful outcome.

Mark Hutchins, Head of Commercial for Fix Auto UK, said, “Able To’s proposition takes the recruitment onus off our franchise partners; they simply must make Able To aware they’re able to employ apprentices and Able To takes on the challenge of finding the right candidates and manages the entire process. The pre-employment process is a game-changing addition as it ensures both the candidates and repairers make the right choice. Once employed, franchise partners and their apprentices can also benefit from a unique learning journey management programme and safeguarding support.” 

Bob said, “While some repairers are fortunate when a proactive individual knocks on their doors asking for an apprenticeship, they are few and far between compared with the numbers required in our industry. It is our role to find perfect candidates for the network and once they have been employed, to ensure they have a positive journey through their apprenticeship. The support modules we provide are unique and we know that repairers don’t always have the time and energy to focus on the apprentices ever developing needs.

“For me, it’s all about education, which is where we come in. There are large numbers of opportunities that need presenting to the right candidates to enlighten and illustrate the great careers within the vehicle repair sector.”

AutoRaise Rally set to break £200,000 barrier

27 September 2022
Bodyshop, Environment, Insurance, People, Supplier, Technology, Training, Vehicle Repair and Words

The AutoRaise Rally is on track to break the £200,000 fundraising barrier after 62 teams and 160 people took part in the U-Pol-backed three-day event last week.

Between them they covered more than 21,000 miles in support of the charity that is tackling the current skills gap by promoting the industry to new talent and then helping them find apprenticeship roles.

The rally began in Stratford-Upon-Avon on Wednesday morning before the convoy parked up at Tynrhyd Retreat in Aberystwyth for a BBQ and live music and dancing on the Service Certainty Live Stage. 

Thursday took the Rally through the Brecon Beacons and some of the most scenic roads in the UK before the 340-mile journey ended at St David’s Voco in Cardiff, where participants enjoyed a Thatcham Research-hosted Gala Dinner.

Steve Thompson, AutoRaise Vice Chairman and Director at Industry Insights, said, “The challenges this industry faces are well known. The skills shortage is critical and AutoRaise is here for one reason – to promote apprenticeships in the bodyshop sector to young people. AutoRaise has directly impacted on 500 apprenticeship starts in the industry and secured more than £1m levy funding. The money raised from this Rally will help us continue this important work.

He continued, “U-Pol’s partnership is invaluable in making the Rally a reality, and I also want to thank our supporting sponsors, SYNETIQ, Axalta, and Egertons Recovery Group.”

Meanwhile, to celebrate the Rally’s return after a two-year Covid-enforced break, a number of awards were also presented:

  • Fancy Dress:  Team Baywatch from GT Motive (Richard Edwards, Martyn Rowley and Luke Le Souter)
  • Veteran Car: The Porsche 928 driven by the team representing National Windscreens and Industry Insights
  • Best Design: The Renault Dauphine, designed by Gemini’s John Henderson
  • Best Design ‘banger’: The VW Beetle designed by Gemini Rotherham’s Craig Hand
  • Best Photo: Prasco
  • Best fundraising: Martyn Rowley (£3,145 and counting); Gemini Rotherham (£3,110); National Windscreen (£2,850) 
  • Veteran Driver: Martyn Rowley, with honourable mentions for Rye Street Group’s Billy Duffy and Lee McNaughton, Fix Auto Dagenham’s Neil Parker, and Enterprise Rent-A-Car’s James Titchener
  • Oldest Car on the Grid: The Austin A30 (Steven Hames, Solera)

Government extends support package to businesses

22 September 2022
Bodyshop, Car Rental, Environment, Finance, Insurance, Mobility, People, Salvage, Supplier, Technology, Training and Words

The government has announced a substantial support package that should see energy bills for UK businesses halved this winter.

The new scheme, which follows the £150bn plan for households, will take affect from 1 October and remain in place for six months, although it could be extended for vulnerable businesses.

As part of the plan, wholesale prices will be fixed at £211 per MWh for electricity and £75 per MWh for gas.

Prime Minister Liz Truss said, “As we are doing for consumers, our new scheme will keep their energy bills down from October, providing certainty and peace of mind. At the same time, we are boosting Britain’s homegrown energy supply so we fix the root cause of the issues we are facing and ensure greater energy security for us all.”

Names revealed for November’s ARC360

16 September 2022
Bodyshop, Car Rental, Environment, Finance, Insurance, Mobility, People, Salvage, Supplier, Technology, Training, Vehicle Repair, vehicle sales and Words

ARC360 has revealed the first insight into the agenda for its ‘Gaining Ground Together’ themed event taking place on Thursday 24 November at the Manufacturing Technology Centre, Coventry.

Included in the line-up is Andrew Eade, Head of AD Strategy & Fulfilment at First Central; Nick Sweetman, Head of Vehicle Repair & Service Operations for UK & Ireland, Enterprise Holdings; and Chris Weeks, Executive Director of the NBRA.

The day will include a host of ‘quickfire’ sessions focused on providing greater insight and context to current market conditions. It will provide a ‘state of the nation’ look at market data and how it actually translates to everyday operations and future planning; explore procurement and battling the challenges of rising claims inflation; and discuss the importance and impact of ESG on the supply chain.

Mark Hadaway, co-founder of ARC360 said, “The Gaining Ground Together mantra of ARC360 is, arguably, even more pertinent for this event.

“We’re all acutely aware of the many challenges currently faced by the sector. By late November we may have greater insight into how they are evolving, what the true impact is on businesses throughout the supply chain and how we can try to support positive outcomes for all.”

ARC360 is supported by Corporate Partners: Solera Audatex; BASF; BMS; CAPS; Copart; EMACS; Entegral; Enterprise; Innovation Group; Mirka; Nationwide Vehicle Recovery Assistance; S&G; and Sherwin Williams; along with Partners: Repairify; The Green Parts Specialists; Indasa; and Prasco UK; and Associate Partners: Gemini ARC; Trend Tracker; and Thatcham Research.

More details of the event, along with further names on the agenda will be revealed in the coming weeks.

Tickets, sponsorship and exhibition spaces are all now available for the event.

To find out more click here.

ARC360 news round up – Friday 16 September

16 September 2022
Bodyshop, Environment, Finance, Insurance, People, Technology, Training, wellbeing and Words

Register NOW! 

webinARC: technology in motor claims 2022

Wednesday 21 September @ 1.30pm 

In this webinARC we look at the latest ways in which technology is being used to seamlessly connect the motor claims cycle. 

Featuring: 
– Claire Hart, National Sales Manager, Entegral 
– Jim Loughran, CEO, e2e 
– Dave Shepherd, Director, Shepherd Advisory Services 

Names revealed for November’s ARC360

ARC360 has revealed the first insight into the agenda for its ‘Gaining Ground Together’ themed event taking place on Thursday 24 November at the Manufacturing Technology Centre, Coventry.

Included in the line-up is Andrew Eade, Head of AD Strategy & Fulfilment at First Central; Nick Sweetman, Head of Vehicle Repair & Service Operations for UK & Ireland, Enterprise Holdings; and Chris Weeks, Executive Director of the NBRA.

Bodyshops back AI implementation 

Bodyshops are increasingly in favour of artificial intelligence being used to streamline the claims process, according to a new survey by Audatex. 

It found that 56% of respondents believe AI could increase estimating efficiency, 51% said it could improve customer service and half thought it could also streamline and accelerate the parts ordering process. 

Meanwhile, the survey also revealed that recruitment remains the biggest challenge for two thirds of bodyshops, with parts ordering (54%), assessment times (46%) and waiting for insurer approval (45%) the main factors slowing cycle times. 

Copart continues Scottish investment 

Copart UK is creating a raft of new jobs in Scotland after announcing its sister company, CashForCars, is opening new headquarters in the Fife area. 

CashForCars buys vehicles directly from customers and re-sells them through Copart’s patented online auction platform. 

Meanwhile, Copart has launched its support for Ben’s Automotive Industry Charity Awareness Days, which will enable colleagues to speak to Ben’s Outreach Team about health and wellbeing support services. 

Tesla sets new safety standards

Tesla’s Model Y set a new safety benchmark in the latest round of Euro NCAP testing. 

It achieved 98% in the Safety Assist category, the highest score ever, and 97% in Adult Occupant Protection. 

Meanwhile, Chinese models the ORA Funky Cat and WEY Coffee 01 scored 93% and 94% in Safety Assist respectively. 

EV uptake leaves training lagging 

The IMI has warned that the EV skills gap will hit the UK in 2027, a year earlier than anticipated. This is despite more technicians becoming eligible for IMI TechSafe recognition in the first half of the year since its introduction in 2016. 

It reports there are now 32,900 technicians qualified to work safely on electric vehicles – the equivalent of 15% of in the UK.  

However EV uptake is accelerating even quicker with nine million zero emissions vehicles expected to be on UK roads by 2030. 

NBRA supports flexible payment plan 

The NBRA has announced it is joining forces with BUMPER to support bodyshops cope with the cost-of-living crisis and the soaring gas and electricity bills. 

Bumper helps drivers split repair bills into interest-free payments over a period of six months, while delaying second payments by up to 40 days. 

PPP Consultancy announces new sustainability partnership 

PPP Consultancy has announced a new business venture with Plastrepair EU. The partnership follows 12 months of collaboration.  

PPP Consultancy works with the automotive industry to improve performance, process and people throughout the claims journey, while Plastrepair aims to significantly reduce automotive’s CO2 footprint and plastic waste. 

Gemini attends Lords ceremony 

Gemini Technical Training and Development Manager John Henderson represented the group at the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employer lunch held at the House of Lords of 7 September. 

The lunch celebrated the country’s top apprenticeship employers. 

Gemini, which has made the top 100 list before, was named 70th this year. 

Inter-est launches upgraded site 

Inter-est has gone live with a new, user-friendly website.  

The company develops innovative and bespoke technology to streamline motor claims management for insurers. 

Insurers remain motorists’ first port of call 

Motorists involved in minor collisions are likely to make insurers their first call, according to research commissioned by independent road safety charity IAM RoadSmart. 

Of the 1,004 motorists surveyed, 36% said they’d call their insurance company first compared to 30% who said they would call a family member, 28% who would call the police, and nine per cent who would call a friend. 

Audatex and AutoFlow announce deeper collaboration 

Solera Audatex and AutoFlow have announced a new collaboration to develop a two-way data feed intended to enhance integration between the two estimating platforms. 

By ensuring a transparent data exchange between AudaEnterpriseGold and Qapter Intelligent Estimating, users will benefit from a real-time view of the status of the repair across all systems. 

Exclusive Motor Claims Conference reveals leading agenda 

ILC’s Exclusive Motor Claims Conference returns to Landing Forty Two, London on 6 October with a highly influential speaker line-up, discussing some of the key matters impacting the sector. 

Themed ‘Future Focus’, the event will delve into some of the most pressing issues currently impacting the sector as well as provide a host of market intelligence, keynote insights and future inspiration via a host of key speakers and sessions. 

Champagne moment 

Vertu Motors’ Group Bodyshop and Cosmetic Repair Director Neil Hall presented a bottle of champagne to Paul Bonner after he completed his Management Development programme. 

Appointments 

Graham Henwood has been appointed as Compliance Manager at EV Bodyshops. 

IRG Innovation Repair Group has named Rickelle Woodbridge as Group Commercial Manager. 

Jason Donohoe has been appointed as Group Commercial Relationship Manager at Motorcare North West. 

Clare Davies has been appointed as new Chief Operating Officer at Solus. 

EV skills gap to hit a year early

13 September 2022
Environment, People, Supplier, Technology, Training, Vehicle Repair and Words

More technicians underwent EV training in the first half of 2022 than ever before, but it’s still not enough to meet demand with the Institute of Motor Industry now suggesting the skills gap will hit crisis point a year earlier than expected.

The IMI found that in the first six months of the year more technicians took an EV qualification eligible for IMI TechSaf recognition since its introduction in 2016.

It reports there are now 32,900 technicians qualified to work safely on electric vehicles – the equivalent of 15% of in the UK.

However, as the uptake of EVs continues to accelerate it says the shortfall between qualified technicians and vehicles on the road will now hit in 2027. This is based on Auto Trader’s latest Alternative Fuel Vehicle (AFV) parc data, which predicts there will be nine million pure EVs on UK roads by 2030.

Steve Nash, CEO of the IMI, said, “We have stood shoulder-to-shoulder with our automotive industry peers and the education sector to bang the drum to government about the critical importance of bolstering investment in EV training. The significant uptick in technicians seeking EV qualifications this year, which in turn makes them eligible to obtain IMI TechSafe recognition, is incredibly positive and proves our collective efforts have paid off.

“Furthermore, indications are that the third quarter of 2022 will see record numbers continue, which is fantastic news for the automotive industry.”

Ian Plummer, Commercial Director, Auto Trader and a Non-Executive Director of the IMI added: “As increasing numbers of motorists transition to EVs it is vital that the infrastructure is there to keep them on the road. A hugely significant part of this is the ability to get vehicles serviced and repaired safely, quickly and efficiently. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that the investment is made now in the skills training that is essential to ensure a smooth road ahead for EV adoption.”

NBRA welcomes Synetiq as part of green parts push

9 September 2022
Bodyshop, People, Salvage, Supplier, Technology, Training, Vehicle Repair and Words

UK salvage, dismantling and vehicle recycling company Synetiq has joined the NBRA in a bid to raise awareness and uptake of green parts.

Research has found that nearly 30% of bodyshops do not use green parts in repairs, although most say this is down to resistance among customers and work providers.

The NBRA and Synetiq argue this proves that more needs to be done raise the economic and environmental benefits of using green parts in repair.

David Bradley, Head of Green Parts at Synetiq, said, “We’re proud to become a member of the NBRA and to have the chance to engage and listen to their members across the UK. One of the main reasons for our collaboration is that we share such similar values, and we exist for the same purpose – to transform our industry for the better. We can only do this by working together, particularly to raise the awareness of green parts and the benefits they bring.

“We’re already seeing the tide of change in opinions of using green parts and collaboratively we aim to keep this momentum going by listening and acting on feedback. We want members to help shape the future of green parts and I believe that together, we are a powerful voice that can make an impactful difference to our industry, our customers and in the global efforts of reducing carbon emissions.”

Chris Weeks, Director at NBRA, said, “NBRA have been pushing the environmental message for many years now and in October this year will host our third Greener Bodyshop Awards. However, profitability, parts delays and speed of repair is almost a more immediate challenge for repairers, one which can be significantly counteracted with intelligent use of recycled parts.

“Synetiq are incredibly proactive in this space and very keen to work more closely with the NBRA and to understand what more can be done to assist the sustainability of both repairers and the environment. We are very pleased to announce this collaboration.”

ARC360 news round up – Friday 2 September    

2 September 2022
Environment, Insurance, People, Training, Vehicle Repair and Words

Register NOW! 

webinARC: technology in motor claims 2022 

Wednesday 21 September @ 1.30pm 

In this webinARC we look at the latest ways in which technology is being used to seamlessly connect the motor claims cycle. 

Copart Colchester upgrades underway

Copart is continuing its commitment to its Plan-Net-Zero strategy with major infrastructure upgrades underway at its Colchester Operation Centre. 

In line with the sustainability blueprint established at the recently refurbished Bristol Operation Centre, Copart’s Colchester site is following a programme of upgrades that will include state-of-the-art insulation, low energy LED lighting, and new onsite waste treatment facilities to filter and clean water. 

Brown secures Solera appointment 

Solera Audatex UK has appointed Ian Brown to its account management team. 

With more than 20 years’ experience in the industry, he said, “I have worked closely with Solera over the last few years and when I was offered the opportunity to join the organisation I had no hesitation in accepting.” 

Galaxy stars with new abrasive technology

Mirka is promoting its new high technology abrasive, Galaxy, which combines a new innovative self-sharpening ceramic grain, a clog-resistant coating, and the new multi-fit hole configuration to promote both endurance and effectiveness.   

Coles part of Green solution 

The Green Parts Specialist has appointed Andrew Coles as new Client Relationship Manager. 

He will work with existing clients while building relationships with new ones. 

Andrew said, “With repairers facing massive challenges due to supply chain issues, I’m excited to build partnerships with our insurers and bodyshops to promote a greener, more sustainable future in their repair network.” 

Askin earns AIG promotion 

Doug Askin has been promoted to Head of UK Motor Claims at AIG UK. 

He said, “It’s an absolute honour to be asked to lead our UK motor claims and a privilege to work with such a talented group of individuals.” 

First repairer sets new VBRA standard 

D Gawthrope ACR has become the first business to secure certification to the new Structural Truck & Van Body Repair standard. 

Introduced by the VBRA in partnership with the IMI, the standard has been developed to measure and monitor the skills required to repair large vehicles safely, in line with modern technologies.  

Further registrations to the standard are now being processed.  

Tesco Underwriting extends FMG collaboration 

Tesco Underwriting has enhanced its partnership with FMG by appointing the claims management specialists to provide repair and mobility solutions for Tesco Bank Car Insurance customers. 

This follows the news last month that FMG had been appointed to deliver a vehicle repair management solution to Tesco Underwriting policyholders. 

Wyndon secures Tesla approval 

Wyndon Motors Coventry has added Tesla to its list of prestige brand approvals that also includes Aston Martin and Mercedes-Benz. 

It secured approval after vigorous testing and assessments and is now certified to carry out safe repairs to the entire Tesla range.  

ACIS high with O’Neill appointment 

ACIS has named Ryan O’Neill as new Head of Sales. 

In his new role he will be responsible for developing new business opportunities from multi-site operators and work providers such as insurers, network managers and insurer clients. 

Road Safety Week theme revealed 

Road Safety Week will take place from 14-20 November under the theme, ‘Safe roads for all.’ It will raise awareness of new government legislation around vehicle technologies, speeds, safe roads, and the new hierarchy of road users. 

Managed by Brake, Road Safety Week is the UK’s largest road safety campaign.

ARC360 news round up – Friday 26 August 

26 August 2022
Bodyshop, People, Training, Vehicle Repair and Words

Talent spotting within automotive 

With a focus on the next generation of automotive talent, this month’s ARC360 on-demand webinARC met three individuals who are all thriving in very different roles within the sector. 

Taking part in this one-off session were Adam Daloub, Operations Manager Credit Hire & Recoveries, Carpenters Group; Elyse Bell, UK & Ireland Account Specialist, Entegral; and Matt Turner, Multi-Skilled Accident Repair Technician, Gemini ARC. 

Trend Tracker surveys sector  

The Trend Tracker survey, supported by ARC360 and NBRA, is available to complete now: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/TTracker2022  

The survey which forms part of Trend Tracker’s key accident repair market report is more in depth than ever this year to better reflect and understand the challenges and trends affecting the sector during these unprecedented times. 

Feature interview: Dave Sargeant, Managing Director, Gemini ARC 

According to the Institute of the Motor Industry, the automotive industry could face a 160,000 shortfall in skilled labour by 2031.  

Here, we speak to Managing Director Dave Sargeant, who is also Chairman of AutoRaise, about the company’s commitment to developing the next generation, and how the industry can appeal to a wider demographi

U-Pol answers AutoRaise Rallying cry 

AutoRaise has announced that U-Pol has signed up to support the AutoRaise Rally 2022 as headline sponsor. 

After sitting in the pit lane throughout the pandemic, the rally returns with a 370-mile journey through the Midlands and Wales from 21-23 September. 

Fix Network World confirms GCC expansion 

Fix Network World is continuing its international expansion with a new partnership with Gulf Motor Company in Saudi Arabia and the GCC countries.  

As part of the collaboration, it will open six collision centres and six quick services centres in the region with the collision repair service named Fix Auto Collision, and the mechanical service and repair centres named Fix Auto Service. 

Fairlight secures BSI certification 

Fairlight Coachworks has secured its Vehicle Damage Repair Kitemark, after successfully undergoing a BSI audit.  

The Peacehaven-based repairer is also PAS 2060 certified and approved by a list of manufacturers including Fiat, Peugeot and Vauxhall. 

Backing for BEN 

Enterprise Holdings and North West-based retailer Halliwell Jones have backed automotive charity BEN to the tune of £2,000. 

Chris Brown, Head of Replacement Sales, Enterprise, said, “It was great to handover an Enterprise Holdings Foundation cheque to BEN on behalf of Enterprise and Halliwell Jones. It will go towards supporting anyone who works or has worked in the automotive industry.” 

Commercial role for Rickelle 

Innovative Repair Group (iRG) has appointed Rickelle Woodbridge as Group Commercial Manager.  

She joined the company from ERS in 2017 and has held roles as Head of Customer Service and Quality Assurance Manager. 

AW Repair Group names new GM 

Anthony Fuller has been appointed as General Manager at AW Repair Group. 

He has more than a decade in the industry, having previously worked as Operations Director at XPress Centres and Head of Production Operations at ABL 1 Touch Group. 

More than a Fife dream 

Scotland-based repair group Elder and Paton has welcomed on board the first technicians it has recruited from Africa. Accommodation has been provided for them near the company’s R B Bruce Coachworks site in Fife, where they will work.  

New IMI-approved EV course launched 

RWC Training is introducing a new electric vehicle course that it believes is more suited to technicians than the current Level Four Qualification. 

Its new IMI-approved Electric Vehicle Technician Accreditation is a two-day course is a step up from Level Three Qualification and covers battery technology and the safe handling of high voltage components. 

Top marks for Birmingham repairer 

Birmingham-based independent repairer Clarke & Evans Accident Repair Specialists has achieved a 100% score in its Volkswagen audit. 

Sherwood lands top job 

Avant Consult has named Micah Sherwood as new Network Operations Manager. 

She has previously worked at Innovation Group, Nationwide Crash Repair Centres and Foray Motor Group. 

Automotive output on the up 

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders has reported that car manufacturing rose by 8.6% in July to 58,043 units, with production of hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles surging by 24.7%. 

Meanwhile, UK commercial vehicle production rose 43.9% to 8,097 units in the best July since 2016 and 11th consecutive month of growth.