Yes, it's happening - barring the outbreak of an Epsilon Zombie variant - the Mecca for all things collision repair and aftermarket is coming back bigger and better than ever after its enforced break thanks to the pandemic. Here at Paint & Panel we can't wait to catch up with the latest and greatest trends, information and, most importantly, collision industry movers and shakers next year. All in a COVID-safe environment.
Taking place at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre and co-located with the Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAE), the combined expos are the nation’s only showcase of Australia’s $25 billion automotive repair and service industry.
The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) announced the show will bring together the industry’s best and brightest, and showcase the country’s leading companies, all under one roof between 7 – 9 April 2022. The theme: ’The future of collision repair is here’, will debut a range of initiatives and features, making it an unmissable event.
The Expo showcases the latest collision repair equipment, products, tools and accessories, new technology and trends plus a comprehensive training and education program.
“The automotive industry in Australia is undergoing unprecedented change driven by the complexity of the car parc, changes in vehicle technology and the changing capabilities and needs of our workforce and customers," said Stuart Charity, CEO of the AAAA.
"Vehicles with advanced driver assistance systems, pass through technology, embedded telematics and hybrid and electric powertrains are on Australian roads today. These vehicles will need to be safely repaired and maintained for their useful life, anywhere in Australia.
“CRE 2022 will bring together experts from across the industry to provide the latest information and practical tips on how and when businesses will need to adapt to these changes. The expo aims to help visitors prepare for the future, to embrace and capitalise on the evolution of the industry, and the trends and technology that are rapidly developing.”
This years’ expo will feature a ‘Workshop of the future pavilion’, which will include a display of the latest in equipment and technology as well as regular presentations from industry experts covering workshop management systems, EV repair techniques, ADAS calibration and diagnostics and tooling, including J2534 pass through technology.
For the first time, the expo will incorporate a stand-alone seminar stage on the CRE show floor, which will deliver a free comprehensive training and education program sponsored by I-Car and display live demonstrations from the onsite Lowbake Spray Booth via a big screen.
Other exciting components of the 2022 Collision Repair Expo include a modified and classic vehicle display area in the show concourse, celebrity appearances, interactive displays and competitions. Over 250 of Australia’s leading brands will display across 19,500 square metres of floor space.
With free entry available to all members of the automotive trade, the expo is expected to see 10,000 visitors attend over the three day event.
For more information: www.collisionrepair.com.au.