July 10, 2012—Several shop operators and collision repair industry vendors recently gathered to discuss concerns about State Farm Insurance’s online parts bidding and ordering program through PartsTrader during a meeting facilitated by the Automotive Service Association (ASA) of Michigan.
The meeting, which was held June 28 in Lansing, Mich., was meant to present up-to-date facts about State Farm’s pilot program, and provide statements of concerns from both repairers and suppliers in the Michigan region. Main concerns highlighted by the 100 attendees included how the PartsTrader application will affect profitability, how it could impact relationships between shops and suppliers, and the overall “climate” between repairers and insurers.
“Anytime there is a ‘game-changing’ situation—as this pilot is for the industry—it is imperative that we inform the industry with factual information, allow time to digest that information, and work together to provide solutions on behalf of the membership and potential members,” said Ray Fisher, president of ASA-Michigan. “During these challenging economic times we must focus on helping repair facilities generate revenue.”
“The opportunity for ASA to participate in a discussion with ASA members and vendors in the pilot area of Grand Rapids, Mich., is invaluable in understanding the overall climate impression around the State Farm pilot,” said Denise Caspersen, collision division manager for the ASA.
The ASA said its members are able share their concerns, comments and experiences regarding State Farm’s pilot program by contacting Caspersen at [email protected].
