CARSTAR Canada Shifts into High Gear at Velocity! Conference

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CARSTAR Canada concluded its action-packed 2024 conference, aptly named “Velocity!,” with a day brimming with learning, industry insights, and a touch of 90s nostalgia. The three-day event, held from July 9th to 11th, marked a significant milestone – the 30th anniversary of CARSTAR’s presence in Canada.

Embracing Change, Charting the Course:

The final day of the conference emphasized the theme of change and adaptation. Dave Foster, VP of Operations and Development for CARSTAR Canada, highlighted the importance of embracing change to navigate the evolving auto repair landscape. He thanked the dedicated vendor partners who contributed to the vibrant vendor expo and congratulated the franchise partners on their well-deserved award recognitions.

Dr. Kimberley Amirault-Ryan, a renowned expert in strategic performance excellence, set the stage for the day with a captivating keynote address. Her insights focused on maximizing potential and achieving success in both business and personal endeavors.

Following the keynote, Tony Mammone, VP of Strategy and Analytics at CARSTAR, provided valuable insights into the network’s performance and key initiatives planned for the coming year. This informative session was complemented by a dynamic panel discussion featuring representatives from a collision repair facility, an insurance company, an OEM partner, and an industry expert. The panel delved into the complexities of the collision repair industry, exploring the interconnected challenges and opportunities often referred to as the “Bermuda Triangle” of the sector.

Breakout Sessions and Vendor Showcase:

Throughout the day, attendees participated in a series of targeted breakout sessions. These sessions tackled crucial topics like optimizing profitability with Original Equipment (OE) parts and the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in future claims processing.

The afternoon saw the return of the popular vendor tradeshow. In a bustling environment, the tradeshow provided a crucial platform for North American vendors to showcase innovative products and services that will empower the CARSTAR network and its procurement program.

A Night to Remember: 90s Throwback and Award Recognition:

The conference culminated in a dazzling gala evening. Attendees, embracing the spirit of the event’s theme, donned their finest 90s attire, transporting themselves back to a time of iconic fashion choices. The evening featured a special sports-themed auction, alongside other fundraising initiatives held throughout the week. These efforts combined raised valuable funds to support Cystic Fibrosis Canada, a cause close to the hearts of many in the CARSTAR family.

The highlight of the gala was the much-anticipated awards ceremony, where top-performing franchise partners were recognized for their outstanding achievements. Don Morton, owner of CARSTAR London Centre, was crowned the distinguished “CARSTAR Canada Franchisee of the Year.”

Additional awards were presented across various categories:

CARSTAR Canada President’s Club:
- Public Provinces: CARSTAR Raydar Group (Bill Davidson & Brad Green)
- Ontario: CARSTAR North Toronto & CARSTAR Toronto St. Clair
- Alberta: CARSTAR Red Deer
- Quebec: CARSTAR St-Urbain
- Atlantic Canada: CARSTAR New Minas
CARSTAR Canada Rookie of the Year: CARSTAR St. Eustache
CARSTAR Canada Ironman Award: Javier Torres, owner, of TORCAM Group
CARSTAR Canada Vanguard Award: David Kember, Ezra Kember & the Kember Family

Celebrating 30 Years of Legacy:

The “Velocity!” conference was a fitting tribute to CARSTAR Canada’s remarkable 30-year journey. Established in 1994 with the vision of building a nationwide network of high-quality auto body repair centers, CARSTAR Canada has consistently delivered on its promise of consistent service and integrity across its locations.

The selection of Victoria, BC, as the host city held special significance. CARSTAR boasts a strong regional presence, sponsoring the BC Lions CFL team. Additionally, the upcoming 2024 Grey Cup, hosted in nearby Vancouver, further solidifies CARSTAR’s commitment to the Canadian automotive landscape.

With a focus on innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to excellence, CARSTAR Canada is well-positioned to navigate the ever-changing automotive repair landscape. The “Velocity!” conference was a powerful testament to the network’s dedication to continuous improvement and unwavering commitment to serving its customers and communities.