Words Archives - Page 4 of 147

Silverlake champions low-cost routes into motorsports

28 February 2025

Bodyshop, Mobility, People, Supplier, Training, Vehicle Repair, vehicle sales and Words

Silverlake Automotive Recycling is supporting the British Racing and Sports Car Club [BRSCC] as title sponsor of the newly launched DS3 Cup, debuting in 2025 and offering a cost-effective entry point into club racing.

The Silverlake DS3 Cup is a one-make series featuring the Citroen DS3 1.6VTi.

In addition to title sponsorship, Silverlake is creating a ‘How To…’ video series, guiding competitors through every step of building their DS3 Cup race car – from buying the donor car to completing the build.

Silverlake is a longtime partner of the BRSCC and title sponsor of the C1 Racing Club series. It supports the motorsports sector with the nationwide supply of OEM reclaimed parts, quality-graded, warranty-assured and with full provenance history, while the Silverlake racing team also takes a selection of relevant reclaimed parts to race meetings where they are participating.

Allen Prebble, Managing Director at Silverlake said, “Silverlake is proud to support the BRSCC in their new venture in the DS3 Cup, to provide another cost-effective sprint racing option for competitors next season. Alongside our continued support and involvement with the C1 Endurance Series for 2025, collectively this shows that Silverlake and the BRSCC are aligned in providing a superb low-cost pathway to get new drivers into motorsport, and it’s a natural fit for us to be involved on all fronts.”

Paul McErlean, BRSCC added, “I’m delighted that Silverlake has chosen to support the new DS3 Cup alongside the Club for 2025 and beyond. This exciting new project is a big step forward, and having Allen and his team on board from the very start is a strong statement of intent. We’re looking forward to seeing the DS3 Cup grow into another successful BRSCC series, and Silverlake’s involvement will play a key role in making that happen.”

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ARC360 Conference 2025: Unpacking the future of claims and collision repair

16-04-2025

Repair sector urged to act now to secure apprenticeship talents

14-04-2025

ARC360 News – Friday 11 April 2025

11-04-2025

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Fix Auto UK expands with new Bristol Repair Centre

27 February 2025

Bodyshop, Insurance, People, Supplier, Vehicle Repair and Words

Brothers Dan and Ashley Mustoe have reinforced their commitment to Fix Auto UK by opening their second accident repair centre, Fix Auto Bristol Central. This expansion comes less than a year after they joined the network with Fix Auto Caldicot, demonstrating their rapid growth within the industry.

The newly acquired 5,500 sq ft facility, located in the heart of Bristol, operates within a secure gated compound and features two workshops and office space. Within just a month of taking over the site, the brothers have successfully achieved BS10125 certification, gained Vehicle Manufacturer Approved status for Suzuki, and are currently working towards Stellantis approval.

Ashley Mustoe explained the strategic move: “When we took over the business from our father and joined Fix Auto UK, we had clear ambitions to expand. The opportunity to acquire an established site in Bristol came at the right time, and it perfectly complements our existing Caldicot operation.”

The proximity of the two centres allows for an optimised workflow, with the Bristol team handling light and medium repairs while heavier repairs are triaged to the larger Caldicot site. This streamlined approach is set to enhance efficiency and service levels across both locations.

Dan Mustoe highlighted the role Fix Auto UK has played in their growth: “Joining Fix Auto UK has opened many doors for us. The support and confidence we’ve received have been instrumental in helping us take our business to the next level. Fix Auto Bristol Central strengthens our offering and positions us for further success.”

This latest addition to the Fix Auto UK network mirrors the expansion strategy seen in Wales, where Paul Gravell and Matthew Davies scaled up their operations by launching Fix Auto Pontypridd following the success of Fix Auto Swansea West.

Fix Auto UK’s Operations Director, Mark Hutchins, praised the Mustoe brothers for their drive and business acumen: “Ashley and Dan are part of a new generation of ambitious bodyshop owners. They are smart, determined, and fully committed to delivering high-quality repairs. Their expansion into Bristol is not only a win for them but also for the entire Fix Auto UK network.”

Fix Auto Bristol Central is now fully operational and ready to serve customers across the region. With the Mustoe brothers’ proven track record of excellence and their strong support from Fix Auto UK, the new site is set to become a key player in the accident repair industry.

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ARC360 Conference 2025: Unpacking the future of claims and collision repair

16-04-2025

Repair sector urged to act now to secure apprenticeship talents

14-04-2025

ARC360 News – Friday 11 April 2025

11-04-2025

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Rising BTCC star joins over 20 major insurance brands for repairer event in May

26 February 2025

Bodyshop, Mobility, People and Words

Toyota Gazoo Racing UK rising star Ronan Pearson will make a special guest appearance at ARC360’s ‘A new era – the changing dynamics of a sector’ conference in May.

The team’s first driver for the 2025 Kwik Fit British Touring Car Championship campaign, Ronan is one of the most highly-rated of the BTCC’s current crop of young guns. The Scot was a multiple race-winner and title contender in the fiercely disputed MINI Challenge prior to joining the touring car grid in 2023, and took his maiden BTCC victory at Brands Hatch last season.

Ronan will compete in the Speedworks Motorsport-run outfit in a Corolla GR Sport with the season curtain-raiser taking place on 26/27 April at Donington Park.

He said, “I feel really proud to be representing the world’s number one car brand on the biggest stage in British motorsport – it’s a dream for any young driver.”

Christian Dick, Team Principal, Toyota Gazoo Racing UK, said: “We are fortunate to have worked with some of the very best drivers in the business during our time in the BTCC so far, and in the space of just two seasons, Ronan has already made a significant impact in the championship and marked himself out as a star of the future.”

Taking place on 22 May at the British Motor Museum, Gaydon ARC360’s event already has confirmed attendance from more than 20 major insurance brands and over 60 of the sector’s leading repairers.

The event will provide attendees with an understanding of the current market dynamics, the impacts they are having and what it means for the future of business; an insight into what is top of insurer priorities and what solutions you can offer; chance to contribute to how we all have a role to play in making the industry ‘future fit’; interaction with industry experts on how their specific sectors are evolving and the opportunities it is creating; and the ability to align with the opportunities the future industry will bring.

Mark Hadaway, Co-Founder of ARC360 said, “We are really excited to have Ronan join us in May for ARC360’s 2025 conference. His achievements to date and future potential match perfectly with the ‘new era’ theme of the event but so too align with ILC’s broader focus on encouraging ‘new generation’ talent into the insurance claims sector.

“We’re very much looking forward to welcoming Ronan to the community, following his journey and working closely with him in future.”

The event is supported by ARC360 Corporate Partners: BASF, CAPS, Entegral, Enterprise, NWVA, Mirka, S&G Response and Solera Audatex, along with Partners e2e, Prasco and Repairify, and Vehicle Manufacturer Partner Stellantis. Event sponsors include Activate Group and Thatcham Research.

To find out more about the event – including the sponsorship opportunities available and how to purchase tickets – contact Liane on liane@iloveclaims.com.

For a full insight into last year’s occasion, click here to read the Better Tomorrow post-event publication.

Ronan would welcome the opportunity to speak with any ARC360 community members about exclusive ILC sponsorship packages for the forthcoming season. For more information, contact Ben Taylor on +44 (0)7908 188060.

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ARC360 Conference 2025: Unpacking the future of claims and collision repair

16-04-2025

Repair sector urged to act now to secure apprenticeship talents

14-04-2025

ARC360 News – Friday 11 April 2025

11-04-2025

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Survey unveils key barriers to employing apprentices

25 February 2025

Environment, Finance, Insurance, Mobility, People, Supplier, Training, Vehicle Repair, vehicle sales and Words

A recent survey conducted by Apprenticeship Central has highlighted the primary obstacles businesses face when considering apprenticeships with the most common being a lack of time for training, concerns about cost and difficulty finding suitable candidates.

The findings reveal that the top concern is a lack of time for training, scoring 31%. With increasing pressures around profit margins, KPIs and key to key times, dedicating time for teaching can be a challenge.

In close second, concerns about cost registered 28%. Businesses seem wary of the upfront and ongoing investments required but it has been proven that apprentices, when well-managed, can become profitable within the first year.

The difficulty in finding suitable candidates received 25% of the responses, indicating that many companies experience challenges in recruiting the right skills for their operational needs.

Meanwhile, uncertainty about the overall apprenticeship process scored 13%. This suggests that while process related hesitations exist, they are less prominent than time and cost concerns.

Apprenticeship Central is committed to supporting businesses to overcome the challenges that hold them back from investing in the next generation of talent.

Through the RECRUIT service, it offers a Pre-Employment Programme which identifies only the best candidates and connects businesses with local, motivated young talent—streamlining the entire candidate search and onboarding process.

Complementing this, RETAIN service offers ongoing support, safeguarding expertise and proactive retention strategies to ensure apprentices remain engaged.

Their tailored solutions tackle resource constraints, manage all administrative tasks and handle the necessary legwork, allowing businesses to focus on the technical elements of an apprenticeship.

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ARC360 Conference 2025: Unpacking the future of claims and collision repair

16-04-2025

Repair sector urged to act now to secure apprenticeship talents

14-04-2025

ARC360 News – Friday 11 April 2025

11-04-2025

Corporate Partners

Partners

Associate Partners

Stellantis expands its Eurorepar parts range

24 February 2025

Bodyshop, Insurance, Mobility, Supplier, Vehicle Repair, vehicle sales and Words

Following the successful launch of Eurorepar Body Parts last year, Stellantis has announced that the range has been extended with an additional 20 new bumpers and 14 front grilles.

This brings the total number of Eurorepar body parts available to 254, covering a wide range of popular models across the Stellantis passenger car and commercial vehicle brands.

The Eurorepar parts range is designed to meet the needs of a market where cost control is a key customer expectation. It helps to maintain the fleet of older vehicles by controlling repair costs, and also meets the economic criteria required by insurance companies.

Parts, available to order via Audatex, GT Estimate & PartsLink24, come with a minimum two-year warranty, competitive pricing, and a guaranteed 1:1 fit.

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ARC360 Conference 2025: Unpacking the future of claims and collision repair

16-04-2025

Repair sector urged to act now to secure apprenticeship talents

14-04-2025

ARC360 News – Friday 11 April 2025

11-04-2025

Corporate Partners

Partners

Associate Partners

ARC360 News – Friday 21 February 2025

21 February 2025

Bodyshop, Environment, Finance, Insurance, Mobility, People, Salvage, Supplier, Technology, Training, Vehicle Repair, vehicle sales, wellbeing and Words

ARC360 conference set to unlock the future of vehicle repair

With the motor claims, vehicle repair and mobility sectors continuing to undergo significant change, ARC360’s 2025 conference is set to offer a unique opportunity to stay ahead of the curve.

Taking place on Thursday 22 May at the British Motor Museum, Gaydon, the event is already set to bring together over 25 leading insurer brands, more than 75 key repairers and in excess of 10 vehicle manufacturers, along with some of the industry’s most influential supply chain voices. Full story

Leading voices in the UK automotive repair industry came together at Oulton Park for the AutoRaise Power Panel, a discussion on the future of apprenticeships, industry perception, and breaking down barriers to entry.

Solus, an Aviva company, has announced that Managing Director Simon Smith has become a gold member of the Automotive 30% Club.

Fix Auto UK has appointed Fix Auto Bedford to its network. Formerly known as Quality Repair Centre or QRC for short, the business is owned by Marcin Macioszek and serial entrepreneur Ali Khan.

As an NBRA partner, ILC attended the Ageas Group and NBRA/VBRA Equipment EXPO in Wolverhampton this week, which explored the latest innovations.

Elder and Paton’s Angus Site is now officially a Tesla Approved Bodyshop.

Karen Jakes from Thatcham Research and Martyn Rowley from the NBRA have passed the £25,000 fundraising barrier. They are Trekking the Sahara Desert to raise funds for BEN.

Bolton-based Perfect Finish has passed its latest BSI Kitemark BS10125:2022 audit with 100% compliance.

Perfect Paint is now an official approved Genesis Select Accident Repairer for the Milton Keynes area.

Gillbrand Accident Repair has announced it will offset the costs of installing nine EV Chargers with solar roof panels that will generate 70KWH per hour.

SprayStyle Body Masters has announced it will unveil a new bodyshop in Newcastle-Under-Lyme this summer. To support the development it has appointed automotive Director Dave Willet.

On 7-8 June Lloyds Motor Group Bodyshop Manager Tim Parkinson will take on the Cateran Yomp in aid of the Army Benevolent Fund.

Fix Auto Basingstoke is now PAS2060 certified, meaning its vehicle repair services are fully carbon neutral.

Liam Kenny Motor Body Repairs has successfully passed its latest Mercedes-Benz audit.

Stellantis unveils STLA AutoDrive, hands-free and eyes-off autonomous technology

Stellantis has unveiled STLA AutoDrive 1.0, the Company’s first in-house-developed automated driving system, delivering Hands-Free and Eyes-Off (SAE Level 3) functionality. STLA AutoDrive is a key pillar of Stellantis’ technology stragety, alongside STLA Brain and STLA Smart Cockpit, advancing vehicle intelligence, automation and user experience. Full story

Polestar adds car keys in Apple Wallet, enabling users to lock, unlock, and start their vehicle with iPhone and Apple Watch

Thanks to an over-the-air (OTA) software update, Polestar 3 customers can now enjoy the convenience and added benefits of their car keys in Apple Wallet. Drivers can automatically unlock or lock, and start their vehicle while leaving their iPhone in their pocket or by simply wearing their Apple Watch. Full story

Fireman Access, an exclusive innovation by Renault Group, is now available with a free licence

Renault Group has decided to make the Fireman Access patents freely available to the entire automotive industry. Car manufacturers and parts suppliers can now obtain a free licence for this innovation through the open collaborative platform at www.renault.fr/universalpatent. In return, as part of this collaborative principle, licensees agree that any upgrades will be made available to other members of the community. Full story

Toyota develops new fuel cell system, contributing towards a future hydrogen society

Toyota has announced development of a third generation fuel cell (FC) system as part of its continuing efforts towards realising a hydrogen society. The all-new system is designed to meet the particular needs of the commercial sector, offering the same durability as conventional diesel-powered engines. Full story

Kia February’s front runner as UK’s hottest used car

Auto Trader has revealed the hottest used cars in February, with Kia models taking the top two spots. Both the Kia Ceed (petrol, up to a year old) and the Kia Carens (5-10 years old) are currently taking an average of just 11 days to sell, which is significantly faster than the overall market average of 29 days. Full story

NBRA challenge to non-payment of repairers by EDAM administrators

It has been reported that at least 93 bodyshops are unlikely to receive any payouts on the money owing since EDAM went into administration. The NBRA suggests the number of bodyshops who will not get paid is even higher than the number reported, but is working to challenge to the non-payment. Full story

AutoRaise Power Panel sparks industry action at Oulton Park

Leading figures from the UK’s automotive repair sector gathered at Oulton Park for the AutoRaise Power Panel, a landmark event designed to tackle the pressing issues facing the industry. Chaired by outgoing Dave Sargeant and incoming Simon Smith, the discussion focused on shaping the future of apprenticeships, changing industry perceptions, and removing barriers to entry for new talent. Full story

Enterprise Car Club announced as the new provider for Newcastle City Council

Enterprise Car Club has been announced as the new provider for Newcastle City Council, offering Newcastle businesses and residents access to pay-as-you-go vehicle hire from a wide range of locations across the city. Vehicles are provided by Enterprise Car Club from designated parking bays in the city centre and in residential areas. Full story

Thatcham Research partners with Elixirr to deliver more value for its insurance members

Elixirr, the established, global award-winning challenger consultancy, has partnered with Thatcham Research, the leading provider of automotive risk intelligence. Elixirr will deliver greater value for Thatcham Research’s members through its custom-built Value Optimiser model. Full story

National Windscreens announces new site in Luton

National Windscreens continues to expand its UK network with the opening of a purpose designed, 4,600 sqft fitting and calibration centre in Luton. This new centre is designed to meet that demand, with four fitting and calibration bays, complete with specialist LED lighting that facilitates use of the latest ADAS calibration technology by highly trained technicians. Full story

Annual Press Conference on February 28

On Friday, February 28, 2025, the Annual Press Conference of BASF SE will be held in Ludwigshafen, Germany. At 11am. (CET) BASF’s Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors Dr. Markus Kamieth and CFO Dr. Dirk Elvermann will present the 2024 financial results. Full story

Elevating polishing with the help of the new Mirka AIRP 300

Mirka UK is expanding its robotic polishing tool range with the launch of the new Mirka AIRP 300, a cutting-edge solution designed for high-precision and high-efficiency polishing. This new rotary polisher provides an alternative to traditional oscillating polishers and is suitable for use across a range of industries, including automotive. Full story

International Assistance Group expands NWVA partnership

International Assistance Group has expanded its relationship with NWVA Nationwide Assistance Group, by selecting them as Assistance Partner for roadside assistance solutions in Spain. Full story

Colleges Week 2025: Building brighter futures using WorldSkills UK benchmarking resources

Colleges Week 2025, organised by the Association of Colleges (AoC), will take place from Monday 3 to Friday 7 March. This year, the focus will be on celebrating the vital role that colleges play in shaping brighter futures for learners, giving them the skills and confidence to succeed in the workplace. Full story

New Careers Advice Toolkit empowers young people to explore apprenticeship and technical career paths

WorldSkills UK has launched a new Careers Advice Toolkit designed to inspire and empower young people to explore apprenticeship and technical career opportunities. This easy-to-use digital resource provides engaging employability skills and career information, helping students make informed decisions about their future. Full story

VRAC’s Parts Platform will have an estimated 5 million+ parts

In an era where technology is evolving at an unprecedented pace, a ground-breaking new Parts Platform led by the Vehicle Recyclers’ Association Certification (VRAC), is setting a new standard for innovation across our industry. Full story

FMG Repair Services launches in-house skills competition across the UK

Accident repair specialist FMG Repair Services continues its support of the next generation of industry talent with the creation of an automotive body repair competition for its apprentices. Full story

Supreme Court allows NFDA to intervene in motor finance case, Treasury bounced out

The National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) has been given permission to intervene in the motor finance case taking place in the Supreme Court. It emerged that the Treasury had not been given permission to intervene and will now have to watch events from the sidelines. Full story

Government apprentice requirement reduction a ‘bad fit’ for automotive

Government plans to reduce maths and English requirements for apprentices over 19 could increase overall numbers says Easy2Recruit, but the agency helping garages hire overseas talent is urging the automotive sector to instead work to attract higher-qualified candidates who would thrive in the high-tech industry of tomorrow. Full story

Lloyds puts aside a further £700m for compensation over car finance scandal

Lloyds Banking Group has been forced to put aside a further £700m for potential compensation over the ballooning car loan commission scandal, in a move that knocked its annual profits by 20%. The latest provision brings the sum it will hold back for payouts to almost £1.2bn. Full story

Number of supercars in the UK hits new record with more than half Ferraris

New research has revealed that the number of supercars in the UK is up 4% as the total hit 23,323 for the year ending June 30, 2024. The data from accountancy group UHY Hacker Young showed that Ferrari was the most popular supercar brand in the UK, with 14,714 currently on the road. Full story

Plugged-In: EV Collision Insights 2024 Year in Review

Claims frequency for collision-damaged, repairable battery electric vehicles (BEVs) rose to 2.71% in the US and 3.84% in Canada in 2024, a year-over-year increase of 38% and 34% respectively. US total loss frequency for BEVs increased to 10.2% in 2024 (up from 8% in 2023). Full story

Quarter of drivers affected by bright headlights drive less at night as a result

A quarter of drivers (25%) who find vehicle headlights too bright are driving less at night as a result, while 22% say they wish they could, a major new study on headlight glare from the RAC shows. Findings from what is believed to be the most in-depth research into motorists’ views on the issue reveal that three-quarters (75%) of those who drive less do so because intense headlights make the experience uncomfortable or more difficult. Full story

Industry Insights has welcomed Alan Cottrill to the motor claims business consultancy team.

Charlie Holmes, Customer Services Executive at Thatcham Research, is running the Reading Half-Marathon to raise funds for Ben.

More Insights

ARC360 Conference 2025: Unpacking the future of claims and collision repair

16-04-2025

Repair sector urged to act now to secure apprenticeship talents

14-04-2025

ARC360 News – Friday 11 April 2025

11-04-2025

Corporate Partners

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ARC360 conference set to unlock the future of vehicle repair

19 February 2025

Bodyshop, Mobility, Supplier, Technology, Training, Vehicle Repair, vehicle sales and Words

With the motor claims, vehicle repair and mobility sectors continuing to undergo significant change, ARC360’s 2025 conference is set to offer a unique opportunity to stay ahead of the curve.

This year’s theme, ‘A New Era – The Changing Dynamics of a Sector’, sets the stage for essential discussions on the key trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the industry today and in the future. Through expert-led sessions, interactive discussions, and an extensive supplier exhibition, attendees will gain:

Insights into market trends and the evolving role of ESG in the sector
A better understanding of how technology is influencing claims and repair decisions
Exclusive perspectives on insurer priorities and how supply chains can align
Valuable takeaways on repair, salvage, and recycling strategies
The chance to network with senior industry leaders and decision-makers

The event is backed by ARC360 Corporate Partners: BASF, CAPS, Entegral, Enterprise, NWVA, Mirka, S&G Response, and Solera Audatex, alongside Partners: e2e, Prasco, and Repairify, and Vehicle Manufacturer Partner: Stellantis. Onyx and Thatcham Research also join as event sponsors.

With industry leaders already confirmed to join discussions from Allianz, Ageas, Steer Automotive Group, NBRA, National Accident Repair Group, and S&G Response, this is the chance to be part of the conversations shaping the future of the industry.

Secure your place now – for attendance or sponsorship opportunities – contact Liane at liane@iloveclaims.com.

For a look at last year’s insights, visit ARC360 2024 Recap.

More Insights

ARC360 Conference 2025: Unpacking the future of claims and collision repair

16-04-2025

Repair sector urged to act now to secure apprenticeship talents

14-04-2025

ARC360 News – Friday 11 April 2025

11-04-2025

Corporate Partners

Partners

Associate Partners

NBRA challenge to non-payment of repairers by EDAM administrators

18 February 2025

Bodyshop, Finance, Mobility, People, Supplier, Vehicle Repair and Words

It has been reported that at least 93 bodyshops are unlikely to receive any payouts on the money owing since EDAM went into administration.

The NBRA suggests the number of bodyshops who will not get paid is even higher than the number reported, but is working to challenge to the non-payment.

It said, “Following EDAM’s administration, well over £750,000 is owed to repairers, and the group’s administrators have stated that they don’t intend to pay.

“As the repairer’s trade body, NBRA feel it’s their duty to challenge this and do as much as possible to ensure that bodyshops are paid. Because this is an ongoing administration, there are some complex legal issues to overcome, but NBRA have sought external advice to improve their chances of securing payments. They’re confident that there will be constructive discussions with the administrators in the near future, and this confidence is based on a solid legal foundation.

“To help secure a positive outcome, it’s important that NBRA’s case isn’t undermined by sharing any further details of which companies are affected, or financial details of how much is owed. A united repair industry will be much better placed to support affected companies and secure a settlement for every repairer involved.

“As part of this united front, NBRA would encourage any affected repairers to get in touch via the survey link, so that we can all work together to find the right legal advice and reach the best possible resolution.”

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More Insights

ARC360 Conference 2025: Unpacking the future of claims and collision repair

16-04-2025

Repair sector urged to act now to secure apprenticeship talents

14-04-2025

ARC360 News – Friday 11 April 2025

11-04-2025

Corporate Partners

Partners

Associate Partners

AutoRaise Power Panel sparks industry action at Oulton Park

18 February 2025

Bodyshop, Environment, Mobility, People, Supplier, Technology, Vehicle Repair and Words

Leading figures from the UK’s automotive repair sector gathered at Oulton Park for the AutoRaise Power Panel, a landmark event designed to tackle the pressing issues facing the industry.

Chaired by outgoing Dave Sargeant and incoming Simon Smith, the discussion focused on shaping the future of apprenticeships, changing industry perceptions, and removing barriers to entry for new talent.

A key theme of the discussion was the need to rebrand the automotive repair sector to attract new talent. With the industry often perceived as dirty or outdated, there was broad agreement that a modern, professional image must be promoted to bring in a more diverse workforce – including more women.

Simon highlighted the urgent need for inclusivity, noting that even basic facilities, such as female toilets in workshops, are still missing in many bodyshops.

The panel agreed that the industry must take active steps to create welcoming environments that encourage talent from all backgrounds.

TV personality and bodyshop owner Richard Hammond joined the event via live feed, offering his perspective as both a public figure and business owner.

He reinforced the need for practical training, better support systems, and a stronger industry push to attract and retain skilled technicians.

He said, “We need to open the doors to all types of people in the automotive sector—not just because it’s the right thing to do, but because we need every possible mind working on the industry’s future. This is about more than just apprenticeships—it’s about making sure everyone sees a place for themselves in automotive repair, engineering, and beyond.”

Meanwhile, former apprentice Rosie provided a powerful insight into how many young people view apprenticeships as a fallback option rather than a long-term career.

She stressed the need for clearer career pathways, improved working conditions, and competitive pay to make the trade more attractive to younger candidates. Mentorship also took centre stage, with discussions on how newly qualified apprentices could mentor the next generation.

This approach is set to be formally developed through the new AutoRaise Youth Voice Committee, ensuring apprentices are actively involved in shaping the future of training.

The event also highlighted the AutoRaise Bursary Fund, which provides financial assistance for small bodyshops to take on apprentices.

Attendees highlighted the need for further collaboration with education providers to expand funding opportunities and ensure apprentices get the support they need, and one of the most pressing takeaways from the event was the need for government reform of the Apprenticeship Levy.

The panel discussed how adjustments could make training more accessible and financially viable for bodyshops and education providers alike.

The AutoRaise Power Panel showcased a shared commitment to tackling the sector’s biggest challenges. Attendees left with a renewed sense of urgency and a clear plan of action to drive positive change.

Emma Speed, MD of Autoraise, said, “This event reinforced that while the challenges are significant, the industry is ready to take them on. Collaboration and action will be key to making apprenticeships more attractive, accessible, and successful.”

More Insights

ARC360 Conference 2025: Unpacking the future of claims and collision repair

16-04-2025

Repair sector urged to act now to secure apprenticeship talents

14-04-2025

ARC360 News – Friday 11 April 2025

11-04-2025

Corporate Partners

Partners

Associate Partners

Fix Auto UK begins 2025 with Bedford appointment

17 February 2025

Bodyshop, Environment, Mobility, People, Supplier, Vehicle Repair and Words

Fix Auto UK has appointed Fix Auto Bedford to its network.

Formerly known as Quality Repair Centre or QRC for short, the business is owned by Marcin Macioszek and serial entrepreneur Ali Khan.

The 5,500 sqft repair centre joins the group having been founded in January 2023. Today, the site is BSI10125 certified, boasts a team of 11 including six productives and is currently repairing up to 20 cars a week with scope for more.

Marcin said, “Like so many business owners in the industry, I have worked my way up from the shop floor. In my case, I have been a spraypainter before stepping up to the day-to-day operations. But I have always held the ambition to have my own repair centre and it was a meeting with my partner, Ali, who has provided the platform to make it happen.

“I am extremely proud of what we have achieved in such a short amount of time. But I am realistic and I know my strengths and weaknesses. Running a workshop is my strong point and my ’shop is progressing well, running a business in this industry is different which is why being part of Fix Auto UK and having access to the business support has been a priority of mine from the outset.”

Fix Auto UK’s Operations Director Mark Hutchins, added, “I am delighted to have Marcin, Ali and their team on board. Strategically, Fix Auto Bedford is ideally placed but I am excited to have someone as ambitious as Marcin on board who is so passionate about improving their business. It really is an exciting appointment.”