NACE

I just got back from an autobody convention called NACE (National Autobody Convention and Exposition). This is the biggest convention for our industry. I enjoyed attending the California Autobody Association Board Meeting. California has led the country in laws and regulations regarding our industry. The best part of NACE is hearing from other shop owners all around the nation. Some areas are having a hard time financially and others are just now learning about the low VOC paints we use here in California. I was disappointed in how many shops are dying to become a DRP (direct repair provider) for insurance companies. They think this is the only way to get work. DRPs do provide a steady flow of customers that are steered to their shop, but this is not the only way to get work. I believe in the old fashioned way of advertising, networking and getting out in the community so people know and trust you. There are a few shop owners like me, but they are few and far between. They weren't at NACE. Perhaps they are dissillusioned like me. I pledge to work with the CAA and other body shop owners to prevent the takeover of our industry by the insurance companies (just as they have taken over the medical field). I welcome your comments.

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