Andrew Affouf, owner of ABS Smash Repairs had custom covers made for his welding machines, and it is this meticulous attention to detail that inspires confidence in his whole approach to running a successful repair shop.
The ABS livery is modern, intriguing and smart. It greets you at the beautifully maintained shop exterior in Kogarah and then again in the inviting reception/open office area.
Affouf has 25 years experience in the trade and ABS has been operating out of this Kogarah site for 14 years.
The shop is Subaru approved, a Suncorp partner repairer and a Wesfarmers preferred repairer.
Both the office and workshop are a haven of cleanliness and order. Affouf inherited the organised gene and applies common sense to every aspect of the business.
Consumables are bought every six months in bulk at a good rate, this saves ordering time and money.
Affouf has developed his own workshop planning system and uses Flexiquote.
ABS employs four panel beaters, two spray painters, a manager, two estimators and a detailer who repair around 15-18 cars, mostly drivable, per week.
It is a family owned business and Affouf believes in looking after his staff with social events and barbecues. The judges enjoyed a sample from a tray of excellent baklava Affouf’s sister had made, laid out in the lunch room.
Staff are also offered financial incentives to achieve production and quality goals.
Affouf has moved with the times both in terms of keeping the workshop bang up to date and in understanding the importance of marketing. ABS has an excellent website, mails out to its customer database, engages with the community, taking in local school trainees, and sponsors a local soccer team.
There’s a gleaming Car-O-Liner for electronic measuring in the workshop, the latest welders (beautifully cared for) and the shop will be switching to waterborne next year.
Of course it’s no good having the latest equipment if you don’t know how to use it and Affouf makes sure he and his staff are highly trained.
As well as attending I-Car courses, they also have the advantage of being a Subaru approved repairer and enjoy plenty of training direct from the manufacturer.
ABS has expanded its product offering to include mechanical services and car hire too.
ABS is a professional, well presented, well organised shop that ticks all the boxes. Affouf has drawn on his experience and expertise to adapt and excel in a difficult market. The future doesn’t seem to phase him. “You just have to move with the times and keep one step ahead” he says.
Powell’s comments
A well presented body shop with good signage and suitably located work areas complimented with the latest equipment to cater for all types of repairs in today’s market.