The biennial Collision Repair Expo has become the region’s major exhibition of body finishing materials, crash repair equipment and tools because organisers delivered on the demands identified by visitor research.

To be held from 6 to 8 April 2017 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre – the Collision Repair Expo is now the must attend event for industry suppliers and distributors, and for the nation’s body shop owners and managers.

Hosted by the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA), entry to the Collision Repair Expo is free to qualified industry professionals and technicians.

AAAA Executive Director Stuart Charity said research conducted among exhibitors and visitors at all previous shows provided direction for the organising committee of industry executives.

Stuart Charity said there are five compelling reasons for industry members to attend the Expo. “First, with up to 55 leading Australian and international brands exhibiting, it is a comprehensive showcase of everything new in workshop products and services,” said Stuart Charity.

“Second, as an Expo visitor, you will be among the first to learn about the latest technologies. This vast visual catalogue that is the Expo can be your source for new supplies and suppliers.

“Third, you will have the opportunity to participate in interactive presentations. The Lowbake onsite demonstration spray booth is a highlight of the surface finish area and you can get personal presentations of the latest chassis and panel repair jigs and tools.

“Fourth, the two day educational Seminar Program features topics that address current industry challenges. These comprehensive seminars are designed to make a difference to your bottom line. You can book for you and your team to attend the sessions of your choice and learn from leading Australian and international experts.

“Fifth, you have a great opportunity to connect your business to other organisations. The Expo offers an outstanding opportunity to network in an information exchange environment that is unique in the industry.

“Tens of thousands of visitors to previous Collision Repair Expos have labelled them as the industry information hub. This is the only ‘one stop industry shop’ in the region that combines all of these benefits in a single three day event.

“In 2017 we will welcome visitors from all states and territories, and New Zealand and many other countries. You can plan your Expo experience now by visiting www.collisionrepair.com.au where you will find a list of exhibitors, demonstration highlights and the complete Seminar Program,” said Stuart Charity.

Emerging technologies a Seminar Program focus

Among the eight Collision Repair Expo Seminar Program topics to be addressed on 7 and 8 April are some challenges to your current business practices. Working with constantly advancing technology is a critical issue for collision repair businesses.

The subject “Discover Key Collision Repair Emerging Technologies” will encourage you to open your mind to new ways of doing things. This seminar will be addressed by an expert panel representing major vehicle manufacturers at 2.15 pm on Friday 7 April.

You will hear representatives from BMW, Ford, Toyota, Subaru and Suzuki discuss and field questions on vehicle technology and its effect on collision repair. The panel will look at repair methods, telematics, advanced driver systems, as well as the future of vehicle manufacturing technology and provide facts about OEM repair requirements.

The panellists will also provide invaluable insight for collision repairs, not only for work you are confronted with today, but the key rapidly emerging aspects for the very near future, which will need to be clearly understood to correctly repair vehicles.

The session will be facilitated by Robert Renwick from I-CAR NZ, who has developed and delivered I-CAR OEM courses for over 30 years and brings an invaluable perspective to this forum.

The panel includes Ben Kirby, BMW Bodyshop Programme Manager; Christinne Quix, Ford Australia Senior Collision Product Specialist; Darren Thomas, Toyota Australia Body and Paint Field Manager; Andrew Minns, Subaru Business Development Manager Preferred Collision Repair Network; Tom Bakas, Suzuki General Manager Aftersales.

Seminar entry is free and bookings are essential. Visit www.collisionrepair.com.au/visiting/seminar to select and book the sessions you and your team wish to attend.