IBIS Mexico proves success

IBIS Mexico 2017 attracted 70 key influencers from all corners of the Mexican collision repair industry to discuss global topics, applied at a local level.

Taking place on Tuesday 7 November, the event – delivered in partnership with global IBIS partner AkzoNobel – took place at the Camino Real Hotel, Polanco for the second year running.

Introducing the event, David Trejo, technical services manager, and Arminda Perales, country manager, AkzoNobel welcomed the OEM, insurer, bodyshop and supply chain guests.

Following an introduction to IBIS, Jason Moseley, CEO of IBIS, presented a global summary of challenges and topics the collision repair sector is facing around the globe. Two critical themes were made prominent – vehicle technology and skills. A good, interactive discussion ensued with the local market recognising the need for safety, skills and standards.

Jason then presented a session focusing on the global economic and autos outlook, with data provided from IBIS partner BMI. The key trends highlighted a return of confidence to the global economy and increased gross domestic product. Jason pointed toward how the Mexican market will face significant ‘headwinds’ as consumer credit for auto loans gets squeezed, however he also acknowledged a ‘significant opportunity’ existed for the development and adoption of electric vehicles.

Keith Malik, global key account director, AkzoNobel presented a view of how markets mature particularly relative to multi-site bodyshop operators (MSO). This generated dynamic conversation and saw the steps along the curve towards market maturity actively debated. Keith challenged the audience to articulate where they thought the Mexico market was in terms of its MSO development timeline.

Finally, the opportunity of maximising bodyshop profitability was presented through a use of ‘rapid repair’ techniques. The session relayed the message that repairers are often missing ‘huge upsell opportunities’ for small damage/cosmetic repairs. The session highlighted how investment for such types of repairs are minimal given the potential throughput that a bodyshop can make. It was discussed that communication and training was a key element of successfully utilising it across dealerships, franchises and bodyshops.

The formal conference was followed by a networking lunch allowing delegates to further discuss the day’s topics.

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