ALLDATA Europe took centre stage at the UK Garage & Bodyshop Event with an expert panel discussion on the transformative trends shaping the automotive aftermarket. Hosted by Simon Frost, UK sales director, the panel explored critical topics.

Hosted by Simon Frost, ALLDATA Europe’s UK sales director, the discussion centred on the critical changes that are reshaping the sector. The topics included the influence of EVs and ADAS, as well as rapid advancements in service and repair methods and exploring how original, accurate repair data, such as that from ALLDATA Repair, is a vital resource to professionals.

The panel also focused on how the industry, collectively, can make it an increasingly attractive one to work in.

Steve Scott, founder of the SimplyDiag network and host of the YouTube channel, Simply Diagnostics, Karl Booth, the head of sales and marketing for Opus IVS in Europe and the Rest of the World, and James Dillon, technologist, diagnostics expert and trainer – also founder of Technical Topics and host of the Harmonic Podcast – all voiced views on their specialist subjects but also listened to the opinions of their colleagues and engaged in a lively but respectful discussion.

What was discussed?

Challenges of new vehicle technologies: Panellists discussed the evolving landscape of automotive repair, emphasising the need for foundational training to keep up with technological advancements. 

Steve said: “A workshop’s awareness of these technologies (is the biggest challenge). From front-of-house and technicians to the first-year apprentice, it’s crucial to understand the implications of getting it wrong when working on EVs and ADAS. 

“We have a responsibility to work safely, comply with regulations and manufacturer guidelines. We need to ensure that systems, especially ADAS, are calibrated correctly and fully functional when they leave our workshops.”

Importance of VM data: The necessity of access to reliable VM data, such as ALLDATA Repair, was highlighted as the basis for effective diagnostics and repairs.

Steve continued: “Access to VM data sources, like ALLDATA Repair, is essential for providing functional descriptions, system information, and critical safety bulletins. Training, information, and equipment should be viewed, not as hurdles, but as necessities for efficiently and profitably working on these systems.” 

Investment in tools and training: The discussion also stressed the importance of continuous outlay in high-quality diagnostic tools and ongoing staff training to maintain a competitive edge.

Karl said: “Modern vehicles are equipped with many sensors and computer systems. Diagnostic tools can talk to these systems to retrieve error codes; however, that only will ever give a steer; there is still a lot more work to be carried out at this point – and that’s where data plays a massive part. Both sides are needed to help determine which path you take in problem solving in diagnostics.  

“Traditional diagnostic methods often require guesswork or a lengthy process of elimination. Diagnostic tools and data together in one solution can provide precise and accurate information about the problem, reducing the time needed to identify issues and making the process more effective, which, in turn, will mean the workshop will be more efficient and profitable.”

Staff recruitment and retention: Strategies for efficient recruitment and retention of skilled staff were identified as crucial for workshop profitability and sustainability.

James argued: “Staff retention is key; retaining staff relies, not only on a competitive wage structure, but also on a well-equipped and well-resourced workshop. 

“Factors which slow down a tech’s work rate are bad for the wage packet of the tech and for the profitability of the business. Typical slow-down factors are linked to the availability of the tools required do the job, the type of cars in the workshop and having access to highly accurate technical service bulletins, wiring diagrams and service and repair manuals.” 

Comprehensive business strategy: The role of a robust business strategy and targeted marketing efforts in ensuring the success of automotive workshops was stressed.

James advised: “Ditch unprofitable work and replace it with profitable tasks using the CAR/CUSTOMER matrix. Develop a customer proposition to attract profitable work and build a loyal customer base. Then aggressively market it.

"If a phone constantly rings with ‘unknowns’ seeking price quotes, it signals that word-of-mouth marketing is ineffective. This situation could attract unprofitable customers. 

“Measure and manage all aspects of a business rigorously. Without measurement, effective management is impossible. Incorporate a robust business management system and reporting into all management decisions.”

Conversations, leads and sales mark “excellent show”

While the panel session was the headline act of ALLDATA Europe’s UK Garage & Bodyshop Event, Simon reported that the team’s stand was a hive of activity too, with existing customers and new prospects offered a warm welcome; in fact, ALLDATA Europe is delighted to confirm that dozens of professionals signed-up for a month’s free trial, while many also took advantage of the ‘show offer’ of signing up and paying 11 months for the price of a 12-month subscription.

Simon added: “Naturally, our panel was a vital part of our UK Garage & Bodyshop Event; we were pleased that many of the audience found their way back to our stand at the conclusion of it – we had some great conversations. On behalf of everyone, I would also like to thank James, Karl and Steve for their co-operation and support. 

“On the stand, we enjoyed meeting our growing customer base. We also gave them the chance to meet the faces behind the Info Centre Service, a great resource that our customers can utilise when in need of extra support when using ALLDATA Repair.”