Global Repair Solutions looks to fast track

While Suncorp is apparently investing significantly to grow its SMART program around Australia, independent repairers in the UK recently got together to look at a fast track repair system.
According to PAC Total Solution's Mike Preece, there has been more and more focus on fast track repair systems, particularly in the last couple of years.
For example, paint manufacturers are developing products specifically for this market segment, he said.
Preece said the fast track repair system in the UK, as reported on the ABP Club newsletter, appeared to be an interesting way for independent bodyshops to deliver a solution that both work providers and car owners are looking for.
"It is certainly interesting to think about the possibilities for a program like this in Australia," he said.
Many of the UK's leading independent repairers gathered in the Midlands recently to hear how the system, which is hosted within a fixed site accident repair business, will deliver on time, 24-hour key to key repairs for insurance accident management and fleet clients for Global Repair Solutions.
Global has worked on the concept for over two years and is not only in discussions with a number of work provider customers, but is set to launch a working pilot next month.
The concept behind the fast track repair system is simple. Repairers commit to working to a designed, consistent process in a standardised way through a national network of repairers. A knowledge-based, menu-priced system allows repair damage to be triaged, which determines whether the repair falls into the Fast Track Global environment or become a standard repair procedure.
Either way, the Global Repair Solutions centre is able to complete the repair, removing any need to source an alternative solution. The fast track solution provides a guaranteed cycle time of seven days to the customer from point of notification to invoice.
All Global Repair Solutions centres will hold the Thatcham BSI Kitemark (PAS 125) industry standard guaranteeing fully qualified staff manage the repair from start to finish, including the initial assessment by an ATA vehicle damage assessor.
"All [repairers] we've spoken to have indicated their backing of the concept and willingness to join Global,” Global Repair Solutions and Minimec director Neil Berryman told the ABP Club newsletter at the launch.
“In fact, we've had several sign up today and many other have expressed their intent to join."
Rob Ward of Automotive Consulting and Training, who has assisted Global in developing the offering, added: "The key to the guaranteed 24-hour repair time is that repair stage targets are set up-front. This process provides a true win win with the bodyshop and its technicians understanding where the job needs to be at any stage during the 24-hour window and the driver is guaranteed their vehicle back within 24 hours. The menu pricing also enables a simple pricing mechanism for the work provider customer, saving them money on the traditional process."
Global has partnered with Cunbar Paints, Inter-est Henkel, Farecla, Octoral, 3M and Mirka Abrasives to provide a consistent offering from each of the Global Repair Solutions centres.
Visit: www.globalrepairsolutions.co.uk (still under construction) or contact Neil Berryman at neil.berryman@globalrepairsolutions.co.uk.