05/06/2018

Bodyshops realise importance of technology advancements

Over two thirds (68%) of UK bodyshop decision makers have invested in the adoption of new technologies to support wider strategic business objectives, according to research released by Audatex.

The findings have been announced alongside the launch of Audatex's second eBook, based on its New Rules of the Road research that explores how technology is transforming the vehicle repair industry.

The relentless introduction of new vehicle technology, such as ADAS, and the increasingly technical methods now required to repair vehicles has created a widening skills gap, with technicians unable to educate themselves quickly enough on new developments.

Unsurprisingly, Audatex's research has revealed that improving staff training is a priority within the industry, with three quarters (73%) of decision makers recognising it as their biggest concern.

As a result, a similar percentage (72%) of decision makers within the UK vehicle repair industry are investing in technology to support the development of new and existing talent, to support this technology-led future.

Audatex's research also revealed that: 76% of bodyshops are using technology to transform the way they operate, 72% of bodyshops are currently focused on launching new services and 66% have already witnessed an appetite from customers to purchase additional products.

With bodyshops being forced to adopt a more customer-centric approach to satisfy the instantaneous, on-demand nature of customer requirements, three quarters (74%) expect technology adoption to improve customer loyalty and satisfaction.