Toronto, Ontario — August 23, 2019 — In covering the collision industry, there is a tendency to get bogged down in the issues of the day, and miss the broader trends. EVs, certifications, and other concerns about the near future loom large. Less exciting changes get overlooked.
This week, the AIA released the latest Canadian Collision Industry Workbook, which serves as an excellent antidote to an over-focus on the issues of the day.
While much ink may be spilled on the supposed decrease in reliance on automobiles among young people, increasing consolidation of the industry, the report shows that, compared to 2017, there are more drivers on Canada’s roads, more repair facilities in operation and more money being spent on collision work.
It also highlights trends that are less frequently discussed in the trade press, like the continued increase in the average age of vehicles driven by repairers, and a decrease in the distance the average vehicle travels each year.
Don’t get me wrong: EVs are a big deal for the repair sector, as are certification programs and everything else—but those are hardly going to sneak up on anyone if they are regular readers. There are businesses that are banking their futures on the impact those vehicles will have. I have yet to hear, however, of a facility preparing to be the go-to space for older vehicles in generally good condition—whoever comes up with that business plan may just as well open a mint!
