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October 24.2025

2 Minutes Read

Join the Excitement: Upcoming Collision Repair Conferences in 2026

Collision Repair Conferences 2026: bustling trade show floor scene.

Get Ready for the 2026 Southeast Collision Conference

The anticipation for the 2026 Southeast Collision Conference (SCC) is intensifying as vehicle repair professionals prepare for a transformative event. Scheduled for April 23-24, 2026, at the Embassy Suites in Charlotte, North Carolina, this conference promises to be a hub of innovative education and networking. This year, it will focus on connecting collision repairers with cutting-edge advancements and industry practices.

This fifth annual conference, organized by the Carolinas Collision Association (CCA) and the Washington Metropolitan Auto Body Association (WMABA), is designed to cater to a diverse audience, including shop owners, managers, and technicians. Kyle Bradshaw, CCA president, emphasizes the importance of collaboration in pushing the industry forward. The event features speakers and sessions focused on relevant industry realities, ensuring that attendees stay updated on the fast-evolving repair landscape.

Insights from the NORTHEAST 2026 Automotive Service Show

Just before SCC, the NORTHEAST 2026 Automotive Service Show will take place from March 20-22 at the Meadowlands Exposition Center in Secaucus, New Jersey. Recognized as the largest collision repair trade show in the U.S. after SEMA, it attracts thousands of industry stakeholders. This year, the event will feature over 100 exhibitors, engaging workshops, and insightful educational sessions led by industry experts.

The NORTHEAST show not only emphasizes technology and tools but also fosters crucial networking opportunities among participants, creating a vibrant community atmosphere essential for business growth.

Building Connections in the Collision Repair Community

Both conferences highlight a growing trend: the importance of community and connection in the collision repair industry. The emphasis on hands-on workshops, interactions with leading vendors, and collaborative experiences serves to strengthen ties within the industry. As the repair landscape evolves, events like SCC and NORTHEAST provide essential platforms for learning, sharing knowledge, and building lasting relationships. Attendees are encouraged to take advantage of these opportunities, ensuring they are well-equipped to navigate potential challenges.

Prepare and Participate

Registration for both events is now open, with early bird rates available for exhibitors. Attending these conferences is not just about gathering information; it's about participating in an industry dialogue that shapes the future of collision repair. Start your preparations now, and don’t miss out on the chance to connect with leaders in the field. For more details, visit AASP/NJ and CCA.

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10.30.2025

Boyd Group’s Latest Acquisition of Joe Hudson’s Collision Centers: A Game Changer in the Collision Repair Market

Update Boyd Group Expands Its Reach in Collision Repair Industry In a significant move signaling further consolidation within the collision repair sector, Boyd Group Services Inc. has announced its acquisition of Joe Hudson's Collision Center (JHCC) for $1.3 billion. This acquisition, set to close in the fourth quarter of 2025, will add an impressive 258 locations to Boyd’s existing network, bringing its total to 1,273 facilities across North America. The Impact of Growth in Collision Repair Centers This deal positions Boyd as a stronger competitor in a rapidly evolving market. The collision repair industry has seen substantial growth, and Boyd’s latest acquisition aims to capitalize on this momentum by enhancing its presence in the lucrative Southeastern region of the U.S. Since TSG Consumer’s investment in JHCC in 2019, the company has more than doubled its footprint, growing to 258 locations across 18 states. Strategic Advantages of the Acquisition Boyd Group’s CEO Brian Kaner expressed confidence in the alignment of both companies’ strategies and cultures, stating that JHCC’s operations mirror Boyd’s growth approach. The acquisition is expected to generate annualized run-rate synergies of $35 million to $45 million, enhancing Boyd’s profitability and operational efficiency immediately after the deal closes. The Broader Trends in Collision Repair The collision repair sector has become increasingly competitive, with large operators like Boyd seeking to obtain smaller chains to enhance service delivery and operational capabilities. JHCC has established a strong reputation for high-quality repairs, and under the Boyd umbrella, there are expectations of improved service offerings and customer experience. Current trends suggest that larger operators are well-positioned to thrive, as consumer demand for seamless and quality repair services continues to rise. Looking Ahead: What This Means for the Industry This acquisition not only signals a strategic growth opportunity for Boyd Group but also sets a benchmark for future transactions in the collision repair industry. As companies adapt to the ever-changing market landscape, consolidations like this one may become more common. With Boyd aiming to return to its leverage ratio of 2.7 by 2027, the future looks promising for a sector that thrives on building lasting relationships with customers and insurance partners. Conclusion: A New Era for JHCC The merger represents an exciting new chapter for Joe Hudson's Collision Center, which has a proud legacy built on quality and service. Under Boyd Group's leadership, it stands poised for further growth and success. The collision repair industry is quickly adapting to consumer preferences and market demands, and Boyd's latest move could create a ripple effect, prompting more acquisitions and strategic partnerships across the region.

10.29.2025

Axalta's Refinish Segment Faces 7% Sales Decline: What Lies Ahead?

Update Axalta's Q3 Reflections: Navigating a 7% Sales DeclineIn its recent earnings report, Axalta Coating Systems revealed a significant 7% decline in net sales within its Refinish segment, dropping from $554 million to $517 million year-over-year. This downturn, as articulated by CEO Chris Villavarayan, stemmed from lower claims activity and shifts in customer ordering patterns predominant in the North American market.Despite the decrease, Axalta has managed to generate about $90 million in incremental net sales through strategic growth initiatives aimed at expanding its partnerships with over 2,200 body shops. Villavarayan maintains a cautiously optimistic outlook, stating, "We believe we’re well-positioned for growth in the business as volumes are expected to stabilize and grow into next year."Stabilization on the HorizonThe decline in sales has been influenced by various factors, including lower body shop activity and unexpected shifts in customer orders. These elements collectively contributed to a decline in organic net sales, which Axalta previously anticipated would improve in the third quarter. Now, expectations have been adjusted, forecasting a mid-single-digit decline in sales amid softer demand and external challenges.Pricing Strategy and Future ExpectationsLooking ahead, Axalta is keen on sticking to its pricing strategy of a modest 2% increase. Villavarayan affirmed that the company’s strategy had proven effective and sees no need for drastic changes. CFO Carl Anderson echoed this sentiment, noting that the stabilization of insurance rates in over half the states contributes to a more predictable pricing environment, with repair costs starting to decline.Market Environment and Future Growth OpportunitiesThe current state of the industry has left many stakeholders uncertain, yet there’s an underlying stability that presents opportunities for growth. Villavarayan points out that insurance costs are decreasing in many states, while vehicle costs continue to grow. This balance is indicative of a market poised for recovery. Furthermore, Axalta expects that the Refinish segment will turn positive by Q2 of 2026 as destocking pressures lessen and new business strategies unfold.Investor Sentiment and Strategic FocusInvestor confidence remains strong, as evidenced by Axalta's proactive share repurchase strategy, aimed at bolstering its valuation against perceived undervaluation in the market. This is complemented by a disciplined approach to cost-cutting and efficient capital allocation, positioning the company strategically for the anticipated recovery in the Refinish segment.Conclusion: A Forward-Looking PerspectiveIn conclusion, while the current figures reflect a transient dip in performance, industry experts remain hopeful for a turnaround in the Refinish segment. Axalta’s focus on managing costs and capitalizing on new market opportunities may very well navigate the company through these temporary challenges and set a firm foundation for future growth.

10.21.2025

Stellantis' $13 Billion U.S. Investment: What It Means for Canadian Workers

Update Stellantis' $13 Billion Investment and Its Impact on Canadian Jobs In a bold move, Stellantis has announced a $13 billion investment over the next four years aimed at bolstering its manufacturing operations in the United States. This ambitious initiative, touted as the largest in the company's history, is expected to create over 5,000 jobs across Illinois, Ohio, Michigan, and Indiana, ultimately increasing annual vehicle production by a staggering 50%. The investment will fund the launch of five new vehicles and enhance the production of a newly developed four-cylinder engine, marking a significant moment for the auto giant. Shifting Production and Canadian Concerns While the investment is a win for many American workers, it has raised alarms among Canadian labor unions. Unifor, the largest private sector union in Canada, has vocally expressed its outrage as Jeep production moves from the Brampton Assembly Plant in Ontario to the Belvidere Plant in Illinois. Union President Lana Payne condemned the shift, emphasizing that Canadian jobs are being "sacrificed on the Trump altar"—a reference to the ongoing implications of U.S. tariffs imposed during the former administration. The loss of the Jeep Compass model production not only threatens jobs but also creates uncertainty in the already fragile Canadian automotive sector. Government Reactions to Stellantis’ Decisions In response to these developments, the Canadian government has threatened legal action against Stellantis if the automaker fails to adhere to previous commitments to its Canadian workforce. Industry Minister Mélanie Joly highlighted that the company had entered an auto pact agreeing to significant performance incentives contingent on maintaining a Canadian production presence. With high stakes involved, the federal government is ready to uphold its obligations and protect workers’ interests. The Broader Economic Implications Industry analysts are raising concerns about the long-term implications of Stellantis' decision. The shift represents a critical moment in Canadian and American automotive relations, showcasing the impact of trade policies and economic strategies that favor domestic production over international commitments. Experts warn that without meaningful action to address these changes, Canada may face a continued decline in automotive assembly jobs, as the competitive landscape increasingly favors U.S. manufacturing. Conclusion: The Future of Automotive Manufacturing With a significant investment aimed at enhancing production capabilities in the U.S., Stellantis is poised to reshape its manufacturing landscape. However, the repercussions in Canada remain profound, emphasizing the urgent need for governments and unions to act decisively to safeguard jobs and investments in the North.

Join the Excitement: Upcoming Collision Repair Conferences in 2026

Get Ready for the 2026 Southeast Collision Conference

Insights from the NORTHEAST 2026 Automotive Service Show

Building Connections in the Collision Repair Community

Prepare and Participate

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