Category Archives: glassBYTEs Original Story
D’Ieteren Group Outlook is Continued Growth
D’Ieteren Group, which owns 50.01% of Belron, showed a strong recovery in the first half of 2021 compared to 2020. Belron operates Safelite AutoGlass and Safelite Solutions. According to a statement, all businesses owned by the Group contributed to its … Continue reading
Class Action Lawsuit Against Allstate Dropped
A Texas law firm has dropped a proposed class-action lawsuit accusing Allstate of regularly calling unqualified expert witnesses. The Estes Law Firm, based in Richmond, Texas, filed the suit in January 2021 and represented nearly 10,000 Texas lawyers and law … Continue reading
Before and After: Three Industry Groups Support Multi-brand Scanning Tools
The Equipment and Tool Institute (ETI), Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA) and the Auto Care Association (ACA) are unified in their position to support use of multi-brand scanning tools in aftermarket, not just original equipment manufacturer (OEM) scan tools. The … Continue reading
Mopar Launches Certification Program for Auto Glass Installers
Mopar has introduced what it calls a new certification program for installers who want to work on Mopar/FCA vehicles. Mopar says proper glass replacement and repair has never been more important and complex. “Today’s windshields contain ever-changing technologies, and are … Continue reading
Belron Shares Repurchased and Disposed in Contract
D’Ieteren Group, which owns Belron, the parent company of Safelite AutoGlass and Safelite Solutions, announced the purchase and disposal of treasury shares between Sept. 3 and Sept. 7, 2021. D’Ieteren Group signed a liquidity contract on Sept. 3 with Kepler … Continue reading
Guess Who Profited Most in the Pandemic?
The Consumer Federation of America (CFA) and the Center for Economic Justice (CEJ) have estimated that auto insurance companies made a nearly $30 billion profit in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Both say state insurance regulators have failed to … Continue reading
Ohio Court of Appeals Rules Against Safelite
Shonda Hicks, a licensed insurance surveyor with the Safelite Group, won her appeal in Ohio court Sept. 2 in a workers’ compensation case involving her falling in a parking lot. On the morning of Feb. 8, 2018, Hicks, who was … Continue reading
Auto Glass Technician Takes Us Through Slider Replacement in Sierra/Silverados
glassBYTEs welcomes back Aaron Bradford of Driftwood Auto Glass LLC to show us how to replace sliders on the Sierra and Silverados. According to Bradford, the late model Sierra/Silverados have seen some changes that make replacement of the sliders a … Continue reading
Allstate and AGA Ordered to Schedule Settlement Conference in Windshield Lawsuit
U.S. Magistrate Judge Daniel C. Irick issued an order in Orlando District Court Wednesday for the scheduling of a settlement conference in Allstate* vs. Auto Glass America and Charles Isaly. Just a couple weeks ago, both sides argued over inclusion … Continue reading
New Orleans Without Electricity After Hurricane Ida
The hurricane season hit the auto glass industry in New Orleans on Sunday with the second most intense hurricane to make landfall in Louisiana. Reminiscent of Hurricane Katrina, which devastated the state in August 2005, auto glass shops and other … Continue reading
Former Auto Glass Exec Arrested for Sexual Assault, Sheriff Declines to File Charges
“Which office do I go to [to] get my reputation back?” First uttered by former Labor Secretary Raymond J. Donovan upon the dropping of larceny charges against him in 1987, those words ring true to Mike Boyle of Bend, Oregon. … Continue reading
Miles Driven Report Continues to Show Travel Increase
Americans traveled 14.5% more on roads in June 2021 than in June 2020, according to the Federal Highway Administration’s (FHA) most recent numbers. June 2021 saw 35.7 billion more vehicle miles logged than June 2020. Travel for June 2021 was … Continue reading
Allstate vs. AGA: The Battle Over Expert Testimony
An Orlando judge has ordered that expert witnesses provided on both sides in the case of Allstate* vs. Auto Glass America and its owner Charles Isaly (AGA) will be permitted to testify in the case. The August 19 order follows … Continue reading
A New Type of Glass Rail
Paris designer Thierry Gaugain has designed a train for the 21st Century traveler to see the world in luxury—and it’s the first all glass train ever made. “We tend to think about rail transportation only in terms of speed, moving … Continue reading
Industry Mourns Untimely Deaths
This week started on a sad note for the AGRR industry. Just this morning brought the passing of long-time industry expert Frank Levesque. Levesque, 72, retired in June 2015 after more than five decades in the industry, most recently serving … Continue reading
Cost of AG Goods Continued to Rise Year Over Year
Prices for materials used in the auto glass industry showed a very slight decrease in July 2021, according to recently released Producer Price Index (PPI) data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The monthly PPI, which includes auto … Continue reading
Remembering Diane Reister
Diane Reister, an auto glass repair and replacement industry veteran, passed away at 63 years old on Aug. 16, 2021. The staff at AGRR magazine and glassBYTEs sends its condolences to her family and friends during this difficult time. Reister … Continue reading
Woman Up: Glass Installer Overcomes Gender Bias
After five years as a mobile glass installer for a major auto glass retailer, Jaymie Percival says she was considered the company’s best installer in Texas. “They knew it, but they didn’t treat me that way,” Percival, 53, said. She … Continue reading
NSG Group Shows Significant Rebound in Auto Glass
NSG Group, parent company to Pilkington, saw an 83% increase in automotive glass revenues in the most recent quarter compared to the same period last year, according to its latest financial report. NSG reports sales in this segment totaled $645.5 … Continue reading
Next Victim: Rohlfing Follows First Mystery Novel with Prequel
A young woman is the victim this time in the second book of the Detective Sasha Frank Mysteries. “Cold Consequences” was released in late July and follows the death of a young woman who sustained an injury playing soccer in … Continue reading
Investors Consider Cash-Out of Belron Shares
A single-asset secondary transaction is on the table for consideration by Clayton Dubilier & Rice that could garner $4 billion for the Belron Group. Clayton Dubilier’s United Kingdom-based glass repair company, Belron, operates in 40 countries with 27,000 employees working … Continue reading
Leaky Times: Readers Respond to Class Action Lawsuit Against Chrysler
A class action lawsuit between David Cox and Chrysler that settled in September 2020 garnered various responses from car owners who read glassBYTEs.com and continues to do so. According to a judge’s order, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) agreed to pay … Continue reading
Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill Holds Potential Funding for U.S. Transportation Updates
Poor road and surface conditions are one major cause of broken auto glass, and a $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill under debate on the United States Senate floor this week could improve conditions. The bill may delay the legislation’s August … Continue reading
Safelite Group Acquires Advanced Glass and Trim
Safelite® Group, a vehicle glass services and recalibration company and owner of Safelite AutoGlass®, announced an agreement to acquire the assets of Advanced Glass and Trim in Jackson, Wyo. The transaction was completed on Friday, July 30, 2021. Advanced Glass … Continue reading
Is It a Secret? Florida Court Decides Confidentiality Issues
After more than two years in litigation, the case of Allstate* v. Auto Glass America and its owner Charles Isaly continues in court. “Having waded through page upon page of ad hominem attacks and accusations of lies, “contumacious” and “perfidious” … Continue reading
Say It Isn’t So, Flo: Lawsuit Alleges Progressive Underpays
Two New Yorkers filed suit against Progressive Corp. on July 22, alleging the car insurer is underpaying and arbitrarily undervaluing claims by New York policyholders for totaled vehicles by deceptively adjusting the claims process. Plaintiffs Dominick Volino of Duchess County … Continue reading
No Myth About it: Calibration is Important
For Barry Lintner, owner and partner of Lloyd’s Glass & Correct Calibration Services in Pensacola, Fla., calibration has always been important “but none of us knew it,” he says. Lintner’s company, which he owns with his son, performs 100 calibrations … Continue reading
To Calibrate or Not to Calibrate? There Is No Question
The importance of calibration was highlighted in a panel discussion in early June at Auto Glass Week 2021, and audience members heard it straight from the source in “Learning from Auto Glass Shops that Offer Calibration Services.” “So we’ve heard … Continue reading
A Pole Dance You Never Want: Windshield Slows Projectile
A Phoenix, Ariz., woman escaped impalement by a metal pole Thursday while driving on Arizona State Route 51 in Phoenix. As reported by KPNX Action News on Monday, Mandy Poff was preparing to exit Route 51 about 11:53 a.m. on … Continue reading
Part 2: To Retarget or Not to Retarget?
Marketing makes the business world turn round the sun every day. How else can you get information out about your business in an age when digital is king? Email services are available so that when customers simply click on your … Continue reading
ADAS: Here to Stay, Not Driving Away
“One of the most important things we try to convey [about calibration training] is the best practice, knowing your environment, and really what the manufacturer needs or what that system needs to calibrate,” said Emily Jackson, marketing director of Mygrant … Continue reading
Marketing Strategy Targets—and Retargets — Potential Customers
Visit Safelite’s website and you just might become a target, or rather a retarget, of the auto glass giant. Visitors to Safelite AutoGlass’ website may have noticed they may receive automatic emails for glass services within a few days of … Continue reading
Safety First: Glass Recalls Announced in Several Vehicle Models
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration alerted consumers Monday about safety recalls on windshields and windows in certain vehicle models which require repair as soon as possible. Inform your customers of the recall, and encourage them to call the NHTSA … Continue reading
What do the Numbers Mean? Label Date Creates Confusion
A label from Fuyao Glass Industry Group Co. confused at least one auto glass technician when he installed a windshield in early July and the glass was dated 9/04/2021. Or was it? A representative with Fuyao Glass America, the company … Continue reading
Where is It? Delays Prompt Online Search for Answers from Tool Supplier
The COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect the operations of businesses across the country. Not only are businesses experiencing staffing issues, but also shipping and supplies are a concern. The auto glass industry is not excluded from supply and shipping issues … Continue reading
Lucky 13? D’Ieteren Group Sells 13% to New Shareholders
D’Ieteren Group announced Sunday July 11 that Hellman & Friedman, BlackRock-Managed Funds and GIC are joining the company’s list of shareholders and will acquire up to a total of 13 percent of Belron. This ownership change will give Belron at … Continue reading
Meet Chip—Marketer—and Mascot—Extraordinaire
Once John Perkins, president of Genuine Auto Glass in Seattle, Wash., decided he wanted to create a company mascot, he shared his idea with vice president/general manager Jeff Crane. Crane pulled out a napkin, drew an original draft and sent … Continue reading
Fight Over Documents in AGA vs. Allstate Case Spills Over into Allstate vs. AGA Case
It’s gotten even more complicated. If the defendants in the Allstate vs. Auto Glass America and Charles Isaly (AGA) have their way, a recent decision by a state district court in Broward, Florida will be a factor in their case … Continue reading
The Big Easy is Working Hard on Rental Fleet Repairs
Enterprise Rent-A-Car’s Quarter One 2021 report tracking the average length of car rentals reveals that Louisiana saw the largest drivable increase and also the largest increase in non-drivable claims. Drivable claims refer to claims in which a vehicle is operable … Continue reading
New Car Prices at Record High—If You Can Find One
J.D. Power forecasts the average cost of a new vehicle at $38,088 for the first half of 2021, a new record high and a 10.1 percent increase from 2020 (14.1 percent up from 2019). Sales of new vehicles for June … Continue reading
PPI: Automotive-Related Products Pricing Generally Positive in May
Prices for materials used in the auto glass industry showed mostly increases in May 2021, according to recently released Producer Price Index (PPI) data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The monthly PPI, which includes auto glass*, increased both … Continue reading
Rookie and Veteran Competitors Make Mark at AGW
This year’s Auto Glass Week™ (AGW) competitions were fierce. From June 7-9, the country’s finest repair and replacement technicians, calibrators and customer service representatives battled inside the walls of the Orange County Convention Center. When the dust settled and the … Continue reading
Is State Farm’s New Offer One the Industry Can’t Refuse?
A new offer is on the table from State Farm to auto glass providers in its National Glass Program. Effective Monday, July 5, State Farm will be offering a labor rate of $42 per NAGS labor hour in Zones 1, … Continue reading
One Shop Owner’s Action: Smart Business—or Just Plain Evil?
A woman came into Auto Glass Experts on Saturday, June 19, crying. She said someone had thrown an object through the back window of her Nissan Sentra, smashing the backlite, and glass had gotten on her and her dog. “A … Continue reading
2021 Fortune 500 List Sees Insurance Companies Shift
Fortune’s 67th edition of its Fortune 500 list ranked America’s largest companies, detailing the pandemic’s ‘winners and losers.’ The insurance industry (property and casualty (mutual) featured several. The top five companies in this segment were: State Farm Insurance (39), Nationwide … Continue reading
And Tree Breaks Three: Tesla Model 3 Gets Just That
A1 Custom Auto Glass and Electronics in Manalapan Township, N.J., does routine repair and replacement work for customers daily. But a glass replacement job on a 2019 Tesla Model 3 this month proved to be more extensive than usual. “We … Continue reading
Mygrant Glass Increases Surcharge Rate Due to Ongoing Supply Chain Challenges
Rising industry surcharge rates are the latest indication of an uncertain economic recovery in the auto glass industry. Effective Monday, June 21, Mygrant Glass increased its fuel surcharge to $8 per delivery: “As we continue to navigate a very challenging … Continue reading
Adhesive Manufacturers Talk Adhesive Supply Chain
Last week, glassBYTEs reported that suppliers have begun notifying their customers of anticipated shortages of some adhesives. Courtny Squibb, director of national product sales and distribution at NOVUS Glass, weighed in on SRP’s supply-chain management during COVID-19. “Given that our … Continue reading
Auto Glass Techs Take on Western Heat Waves
California Gov. Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency Thursday, addressing power grid concerns spurred by scorching temperatures that have climbed as high as 118 degrees, according to the National Weather Service. It’s the latest in the heat-wave crisis that … Continue reading
Mitchell Analyzes Evolving Auto Industry
Every facet of society is being re-worked and reimagined—no industry is immune to the ever-evolving ‘normal,’ which seems to shift by the quarter. Mitchell, parent company of NAGS and a provider of technology, connectivity and information solutions to the collision … Continue reading
Committees Meet in Orlando
The Auto Glass Safety Council (AGSC) and its National Windshield Repair Division (NWRD) met Wednesday and Thursday June 9 and 10 in Orlando as Auto Glass Week ’21 was winding down. The Automotive Glass Replacement Safety Standards (AGRSS) Committee met, … Continue reading
Auto Glass Week Ends on a High, Celebratory Note
Auto Glass Week concluded on Wednesday with the announcement of the winners in the windshield repair and auto glass replacement competitions. The successful event proved the industry was ready to come back together, learn how to further their business, and … Continue reading
Industry Supply Chain Challenges Continue
Suppliers are beginning to notify their customers of anticipated shortages of some adhesives. Pam Oliver, sales representative at Mygrant Glass Company, recently addressed raw material supply chain challenges in an email to the company’s U428+ users: “Dow is having difficulty … Continue reading
2021 Auto Glass Week Competition Winners Announced
The winners of the Pilkington Clear Advantage Automotive Glass Technician Competition (AGTO), Delta Kits Windshield Repair Competition (WRO) and the grand champions of the Calibration and Customer Service (CSR) competitions were announced Wednesday night at Auto Glass Week™ 2021 in … Continue reading
Tech Change is the Theme at Auto Glass Week Close
“The car is a computer on wheels, and you need to be educated on its software and technology,” was the ominous warning issued by the closing speaker as the Auto Glass Week education program concluded in Orlando. Frank Terlep is … Continue reading
Auto Glass Week: Calibration Takes the Stage
A staple of Auto Glass Week is the annual ADAS Summit, and this year was no different–show attendees were eager to hear of the latest on calibration. Two special panels took place, where experts in the field shared best practices, … Continue reading
AGTO, WRO Narrow Down Finalists
It wouldn’t be Auto Glass Week without the Auto Glass Technician Competition (AGTO) and Windshield Repair Competition (WRO). Preliminaries have been held over the last two days and now both fields have been narrowed down to four finalists. Vying for … Continue reading
Auto Glass Week Kicks Off in Orlando
Auto Glass Week, the industry’s annual gathering kicked off today in Orlando before a large audience, and still more participating virtually. Opening day, complete with exhibitors, competitors and seminars, was a welcome attraction for so many who had not been … Continue reading
AGW Competitors Gear up and Share Strategies
The Auto Glass Week™ competitions, to be held June 7-9 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Fla., are fast approaching. How are competitors prepping for the showdowns? TJ Tirado, owner of Windshield Fitters Inc. and Rock Chip USA, … Continue reading
Apple’s New Patent Focuses on Windshield Area Intrusion Control
In what could be a revolutionary development for the auto industry, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office has officially granted Apple a patent related to windshield area intrusion control. Apple’s granted patent (11,021,126), which has been covered and analyzed by … Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ Welcomes ALLDATA as a Cobalt Sponsor
Auto Glass Week™ (AGW) is pleased to welcome ALLDATA as a Cobalt sponsor to the world-class event starting next week in Orlando. ALLDATA provides unedited OEM automotive repair and collision information. Its more than 115,000 subscribers worldwide rely on ALLDATA … Continue reading
Auto Glass Week Announces Updated Health Protocols
Organizers of the upcoming Auto Glass Week™ have announced new safety and health protocols for the event. In accordance with CDC guidelines, AGW now has its final health safety protocols in place. These include: 1. Not attending if you are … Continue reading
Auto Glass Safety Becomes Law in Maryland
Auto glass safety legislation requiring the state to adopt regulations that “meet or exceed” the ANSI/AGSC/Automotive Glass Replacement Safety Standard (AGRSS) has been enacted by the State of Maryland. The bill was passed by the state legislature in April and … Continue reading
Attending Auto Glass Week™? Show Your Badge, Save Money and Have Fun
Auto Glass Week™ (AGW) and Visit Orlando have teamed up to provide attendees with even more great ways to enjoy their stay in the Sunshine State and even save a few dollars. AGW, June 7-9 at the Orange County Convention … Continue reading
Allstate Seeks to Keep Safelite Documents Under Wraps
The flurry of motions in preparation for a November trial has continued in insurance giant Allstate’s federal litigation against Auto Glass America and its owner Charles Isaly (AGA). The most recent back and forth involved Allstate’s filing of a Motion … Continue reading
AGRR™ Magazine Offers FREE Trade Show Pass to Auto Glass Week™
AGRR™ magazine offers a FREE Trade Show Pass to attend Auto Glass Week™ (AGW). This year’s event will be held June 7-9 in Orlando, Fla. in the Orange County Convention Center. Attendees can attend in person in Orlando or online … Continue reading
MA Right to Repair Law Headed to Trial
The issue of a consumer’s “right to repair” was in the news last week with the release of the Federal Trade Commission’s “Nixing the Fix” Report to Congress. Massachusetts has been “ground zero” on the issue with passage of voter … Continue reading
First-Time Attendees Take Note: These 3 Tips Can Improve the AGW Experience
Event planners know that the customer experience is the top priority. The Auto Glass Week™ (AGW) team is proud that, in post-event surveys, more than 87 percent of attendees say they would return the following year. Value creation is key: … Continue reading
AsTech Gears Up for Auto Glass Week
In anticipation of Auto Glass Week™, asTech’s Jake Rodenroth, Director of OEM and Industry Technical Relations, is gearing up for Calibrations: “Are You Calibrating Correctly?”—his live demo at the Orange County Convention Center on Monday, June 7 from 3 p.m. … Continue reading
In COVID-19’s Aftermath, U.S. Auto Glass Shops Begin Anew
On May 13, exactly 14 months or 426 days after the U.S declared a national emergency due to COVID-19, the CDC announced that fully-vaccinated individuals no longer need to wear masks or practice social distancing indoors or outdoors, except under … Continue reading
AGW Welcomes Protech Automotive Solutions as a Cobalt Sponsor
Auto Glass Week™ (AGW) is excited to announce that Protech Automotive Solutions has signed on as a cobalt sponsor. Protech’s certified technicians restore vehicle-safe driving technology systems to manufacturer specifications—such as blind-spot monitoring and collision avoidance. AGW is created and … Continue reading
Allstate vs. AGA Lawsuit Continues
Thousands of pages of documents have been filed with the U.S. District Court of the Middle District of Florida concerning more than 3,000 windshield damage claims in the case of the Allstate Insurance and its related entities (Allstate) vs. Auto … Continue reading
FTC Highlights Burdens Placed by Repair Restrictions
“Furthermore, the burden of repair restrictions may fall more heavily on communities of color and lower-income communities.” That sentence, which was prominently placed by the Federal Trade Commission in the Executive Summary of their report submitted to Congress last week, … Continue reading
Busy Season is No Reason to Skip AGW—Attend Virtually!
Your book of business is booming. COVID-19 restrictions are waning, and more people are ready for repair and replacement services. How could you possibly take time for Auto Glass Week™ (AGW) 2021? Here’s how. The AGW team understands that June … Continue reading
FTC Report Cites Safelite Comments
Safelite, LKQ and others were among the companies highlighted by the Federal Trade Commission in its report to Congress last week as being critical of certain OEM practices of automobile manufacturers. The FTC report listed several ways in which manufacturers … Continue reading
Take it from Anderson Cooper: 90 Minutes Could Lead to a Lifetime of Results—Register for Auto Glass Week™ to Learn More
“I’ve always been pretty skeptical of the whole body language thing I’ve seen on TV, but I like Janine Driver a lot. I think she’s got really good concrete advice. And she’s changed the way I’ve noticed things in conversations … Continue reading
NSG Feels Impact of COVID Economy, Forecasts Stronger 2022
NSG Group, a global glass manufacturer and parent company of Pilkington, saw a decline in revenues in fiscal year 2021 compared to 2020 yet still exceeded its expectations, according to a recently released financial report. The company totaled $4.57 billion … Continue reading
Allstate Employees Press Retirement Plan Fight
A group of present and former employees of Allstate Corp. continued their legal fight over alleged mismanagement of retirement funds in an Illinois federal court last week. Employee plaintiffs in an Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) suit against the … Continue reading
BidClips Joins Auto Glass Week™ as Copper Sponsor
Auto Glass Week™ (AGW) is pleased to welcome BidClips as a Copper-level event sponsor. BidClips is the premier sales platform for the glass industry. They created BidClips to help you take your leads from propose to close faster with automated … Continue reading
DuPont Invests in R&D and Manufacturing Resources in Europe
DuPont Mobility and Materials announced it is investing $5 million in capital and operating resources at its manufacturing facilities in Germany and Switzerland to increase capacity for its high-performance automotive adhesives. The investment will expand capacity to support growing demand … Continue reading
AGW Attendee Benefit No. 741: Certification Training and Testing─Compliments of Auto Glass Week
Still not convinced of the value of attending Auto Glass Week™? Here’s one more reason: All attendees at Auto Glass Week (AGW) will have access to the AGSC certification training and testing program, as well as the NWRD windshield repair … Continue reading
Boyd Group Has Slower Start to 2021
A major player in the North American auto glass replacement and collision market saw a near-10% decline in sales through the first part of 2021. Company officials attribute the slump to lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Boyd Group, … Continue reading
Colonial Pipeline Restarted as Shops Assess Damage
The 5,500-mile Colonial Pipeline began restarting its operations Wednesday evening after a ransomware attack that crippled the system for six days and led to gas shortages across the Southeast, according to CNN. Pipeline operators have cautioned that it could take … Continue reading
Massachusetts Shop Owners Allege Losing Work: Allege Safelite Solutions Told Customers Shops Weren’t Properly Licensed
Three Massachusetts glass shop owners allege to glassBYTEs that they started noticing an alarming trend in mid-April—customers who called their insurance carriers to get windshields replaced by their shops were told those companies weren’t properly licensed, when in fact they … Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ is Just Four Weeks Away; Registration Still Open
We are heading into the final laps for Auto Glass Week™ and what may just be the best event yet in AGW’s long history. “We are definitely sensing the industry’s excitement for our first event since 2019,” said Tricia Lopez, … Continue reading
AGW Welcomes Agile Truck Tools as Cobalt Sponsor
Auto Glass Week™ (AGW) is pleased to welcome Agile Truck Tools as a Cobalt sponsor to the world-class event in June. Agile is a master distributor of Autel ADAS equipment, diagnostic scan tools, battery testers and TPMS tools. It offers … Continue reading
Shop Alleges Unfair and Deceptive Trade Practices, Seeks Injunction
A Massachusetts auto glass company has sued Safelite Solutions and five insurance companies accusing the glass claims administrator of making false statements about it in an alleged attempt to steer business away. The company asks the court for a preliminary … Continue reading
Ford Recall Brings Remediation Work to Glass Shops Throughout North America
The Ford F series trucks are some of the best-selling vehicles in the United States. So, the Ford recall earlier this year of over 87,000 F-150 and Super Duty trucks across North America due to windshield issues is now resulting … Continue reading
Is Inaction Action? Florida Legislature Addresses AOB Legislation
The 2021 Florida Legislative Session concluded last week and quiet settled over the auto glass services industry with the recognition that the much-ballyhooed legislative fight over Assignment of Benefit legislation never materialized and the bill finally died with the end … Continue reading
7 Easy Things to do Before Heading to Auto Glass Week
If you are making your way to Auto Glass Week™(AGW), here are 7 steps to help ensure you have the best possible experience. 1. Review the agenda and plan your days. 2. Check out the show floor online to see … Continue reading
Bad Roads Mean Higher Car Repair Costs–a Comparison by State
The state of U.S. infrastructure has been in the news lately, but just how much does that infrastructure affect the amount of car repairs (including auto glass repair and replacement)? Plenty, as it turns out. A state-by-state fact sheet produced … Continue reading
Allstate Strikes at Defendant’s Business Practices
A trial brief filed by Allstate Insurance last month in its litigation against Auto Glass America and its owner, Charles Isaly, (AGA) gave an indication of how contentious the litigation has been. The case was filed in December 2018, and … Continue reading
Geico Data Breach Leads to Class-Action Lawsuit
Plaintiffs Alexander Mirvis, Betty Butler and Lainie Froehlich filed a class action complaint against defendant Geico over a recent data breach that compromised the Social Security numbers, addresses, credit card numbers and driver’s license numbers of current and former customers. … Continue reading
Fuyao Revenues Edge Down in 2020; Company ‘Overcame Impact’ of Pandemic
China-based auto glass manufacturer Fuyao saw a near 6% decrease in sales in a pandemic-ridden 2020, though the company still remained profitable, according to a recently released annual report. Fuyao recorded overall revenues of $3.07 billion*, down 5.7% from the … Continue reading
Hotel Discounts for AGW Ending Soon – Reserve Your Rooms Today!
Still deciding where to stay for Auto Glass Week™? Your options are plenty but if you are considering a room at one of our partner hotels, discounts expire on May 14. The Rosen Centre Hotel and the Rosen Plaza Hotel … Continue reading
Arizona Defendants Plead the Fifth in GEICO Case
Arizona defendants Sean Alexander, Terry Godfrey and Anthon Godfrey, in the auto glass services business as A&G Auto Glass and sued by GEICO in federal court for alleged fraudulent insurance claims, have pleaded their Fifth Amendment rights against self-incrimination. In … Continue reading
Strategic Materials Joins Auto Glass Week™ as Cobalt Sponsor
Auto Glass Week™ (AGW) is pleased to welcome Strategic Materials as a Cobalt-level event sponsor. With over a 100-year history, Strategic Materials is North America’s largest and most comprehensive glass recycler, with nearly 50 locations in the United States, Canada, … Continue reading
Safety Council Looks Toward Building Crash Data
The Auto Glass Safety Council (AGSC) is working to improve the collection of data regarding windshield failures in automobile crashes. There is, unfortunately, a history of anecdotal evidence of windshield failure as a cause or exacerbation of crashes and as … Continue reading
Bruce McDonald Loses Battle with Cancer
Delta Kits has announced the passing of William Bruce McDonald, who died on April 9, 2021 after being diagnosed with cancer a few months ago. McDonald was a sales representative and lead trainer at Delta Kits for more than 12 … Continue reading
Safelite Imposes New Documentation Requirements
Safelite Solutions, a leading third-party administrator to the auto glass industry, has issued new policies and procedures for auto glass services companies to submit documentation for reimbursement for recalibration services. Safelite’s new rules, to become effective as of April 23, … Continue reading
GEICO Files Another Arizona Lawsuit
GEICO has filed a $300,000 federal lawsuit in Arizona against A&G Auto Glass for alleged fraudulent or non-reimbursable claims for windshield replacement services. GEICO claims that A&G Auto Glass did not actually provide the claimed replacement services and did not … Continue reading
Custom Glass Solutions Works One Million Hours Without a Lost-Time Injury
On March 17, Custom Glass Solutions reported that its windshield manufacturing plant in Upper Sandusky, Ohio, had achieved 1 million hours of work without a lost time injury. Employee health and safety manager Victor Foss, is pleased but is focused … Continue reading
PRO Act Passes the House but Fate in Senate Remains Unknown
The Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act passed in the U.S. House of Representatives (HR 482) March 9, seeking to redefine what constitutes an independent contractor. That move has everyone from union leaders, to small businesses trying to figure out … Continue reading
Calls on Calls Extraordinary Answering Service Joins Auto Glass Week™ as Cobalt Sponsor
Auto Glass Week™ (AGW) is pleased to welcome Calls on Calls as a Cobalt-level event sponsor. If you are ready to improve your business, enhance your skills and meet other industry leaders, you need to attend AGW. This year’s event … Continue reading
AGRR Magazine Receives Design Award
Key Media & Research (KMR), parent company to AGRR magazine, received five awards this week from the American Society of Business Publication Editors’ (ASBPE) Azbee Awards of Excellence. Tara Taffera, editorial director, and Dawn Campbell, art director, received Bronze in … Continue reading
Trial by Jury Set for Allstate v. Auto Glass America Case
A November 1, 2021 trial date has been set by the U.S. District Court in Orlando, Fla., in the long running Allstate v. Auto Glass America litigation. At a Status Conference held last month with the parties District Judge Carlos … Continue reading
PPI: Automotive-Related Products Pricing Generally Positive in March
Prices for materials used in the auto glass industry showed mostly increases in March 2021, according to recently released Producer Price Index (PPI) data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The monthly PPI, which includes auto glass*, increased by … Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ Recognizes Six Sponsors That Help Make It All Happen
It takes a village to put together a conference and Auto Glass Week™ (AGW) is no exception. “It’s very important that AGW attendees are aware of the important contributions our sponsors make to the overall success of this event,” says … Continue reading
Belron Allocates New Term Loans
Global auto glass company Belron, parent company of Safelite AutoGlass in the U.S., has launched a syndication in the institutional loan market for new term loans on a best effort basis. According to the company, the new loans of $2.6 … Continue reading
NSG Begins Laurinburg, N.C. Furnace Rebuild
NSG Group is rebuilding one of its furnaces at its float glass plant in Laurinburg, N.C. The project started on March 10, 2021 and is expected to be completed in late June 2021. “The investment is part of our ongoing … Continue reading
Response Filed in Sunroof Class Action Suit
Another amended complaint has been filed by Bruce Pickens against Mercedes-Benz USA (Mercedes-Benz) for spontaneous sunroof breakage. Originally the class action lawsuit included Saint-Gobain Sekurit (Saint Gobain), and Napleton Autowerks of Indiana, Inc. (Napleton Autowerks) as defendants. The amended complaint … Continue reading
Bonding Issues Center of Several Recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently issued three recalls – two from Mercedes-Benz USA LLC (Mercedes-Benz) and one from Hino Motors Sales U.S.A., Inc. (Hino). Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz recently issued a safety recall for the following vehicle models that … Continue reading
Safety Insurance Now Under Safelite Solutions
Safelite says it’s all part of its usual routine, but some New England auto glass shop owners say it’s anything but. The “it” is a move to Safelite Solution’s claims processing platform by Safety Insurance. Network auto glass shops are … Continue reading
From Windshields to Decorative: Norman Foxworth Looks Back on 50+ Years
Today’s glass industry isn’t the same as it was in 1968 when Norman Foxworth founded Dependable Glass in Covington, La. “Back then, he says, “we didn’t have the diversity [of products] that we do today.” Over the past 50-plus years, … Continue reading
Miles Driven Shows All Regions Decline in Latest Report
All road and street travel in the U.S. decreased by 11.3%, or 28.4 billion vehicle miles, for January 2021, compared to January 2020, according to the Federal Highway Administration’s (FHA) most recent numbers. Overall travel for the month is estimated … Continue reading
Sales Decrease by 8.5% in Boyd Group Financial Report
Boyd Group Services Inc. (The Boyd Group) released its 2020 fourth quarter and full year financial report recently and noted COVID-19 impacted its financial results. According to the report, sales decreased by 8.5% to $2.1 billion from $2.3 billion when … Continue reading
Postal Vehicles Get Glassy Thanks to Multi-Billion Dollar Contract
The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) announced it awarded a 10-year contract to Oshkosh, Wis., based Oshkosh Defense, to manufacture a new generation of U.S.-built postal delivery vehicles that will incorporate more auto glass. The investment is a part of a … Continue reading
State Farm Seeks Trial in $1.4 Million Suit Against Auto Glass Company
State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company and State Farm Fire and Casualty Company (collectively State Farm) has filed a federal lawsuit in Florida’s Middle District Court against At Home Auto Glass LLC, William Camp and Nicholas Alexander (collectively defendants). The … Continue reading
Latest PPI Report Shows Slight Increase in Industry Material Pricing
Prices for materials used in the auto glass industry showed mostly increases in February 2021, according to recently released Producer Price Index (PPI) data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The monthly PPI, which includes auto glass*, increased by … Continue reading
Webinar Gives an Inside Look into Crash Testing
A recent webinar highlighted the importance of crash testing and how minimum drive-away time (MDAT) relates to calibration. The webinar featured Mike Rea, a senior product engineer for SIKA Corporation (Sika), the webinar’s sponsor. Rea began the Crash Testing in … Continue reading
Belron Profits Rise Despite Pandemic and Decreased Sales
D’Ieteren Group presented its full-year 2020 results, including those of Belron (which owns Safelite Autoglass in the United States). Belron’s organic sales declined by 7.5%, though the Group’s profit before tax improved significantly by 44.6% due in part to what … Continue reading
Organizations Want Your Support with International Year of Glass
The International Commission on Glass (ICG), the Community of Glass Associations (CGA) and ICOMGlass are promoting a United Nations International Year of Glass for 2022. Its aim is to underline the scientific and economic importance of all glass, which includes … Continue reading
AAA Survey Finds Drivers Aren’t Fully Comfortable with Autonomy
The American Automobile Association (AAA), headquartered in Heathrow, Fla., found that drivers aren’t fully sold on autonomous vehicles and that COVID had very little impact, in its annual automated vehicle survey. The survey concluded that most drivers are interested in … Continue reading
Illinois Bill Would Forbid Deviations from OEM Procedures
Illinois has a new piece of legislation. The bill, also known as HB 3133, would amend the state’s current Insurance Code to expressly forbid insurers from requesting deviations from OEM repair procedures, except for parts or ADAS calibration tools. “No … Continue reading
The Auto Glass Industry Highlights Women for International Holiday
Women have many countless contributions to every segment of society, including the auto glass industry. In fact, the first windshield wiper was invented by Mary Anderson in the early 1900s. Today glassBYTEs is celebrating International Women’s Day by highlighting a … Continue reading
Is OE Glass Really Necessary, or Are Aftermarket Products a Solid Alternative?
When it comes to original equipment (OE) and aftermarket glass, car makers are clear: When performing replacements, OE glass should be used. Even if the aftermarket version is manufactured to the same tolerances, it doesn’t matter: their position statements set … Continue reading
Mercedes Gets Hit With Lawsuit for Alleged Panoramic Sunroof Defect
A class action complaint has filed in Northern Georgia against Mercedes-Benz USA, LLC and Daimler Aktiengesellschaft (collectively Mercedes) for alleged spontaneous breakage found in the auto manufacturer’s panoramic sunroofs. The plaintiff is seeking a trial by jury, monetary relief, and … Continue reading
Allstate Auto Glass Acquires A&R Auto Glass and Expands Service
Jon Shellington, owner of Allstate Glass Company, headquartered in Holbrook, Mass., has purchased A&R Auto Glass, headquartered in Southwick, Mass. The acquisition included the current A&R Auto Glass location, which will provide space in Western Massachusetts for Allstate to have … Continue reading
Case Closed – Parties Agree to Settle Out of Court on Defective Windshield Suit
The ongoing class action lawsuit, originally filed by Hakeem Hasan in Illinois Federal Court, against American Honda Motor Co., Inc. (Honda) is over, as the judge has dismissed the case. The 2019 suit centered on Hasan’s allegations that Honda was … Continue reading
Recalls to Keep an Eye On
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently issued three recalls from Ford Motor Company (Ford), BMW, Newmar Corporation (Newmar), and Daimler Vans USA, LLC (Daimler). Ford Ford recently issued a safety recall for select truck models. According to the … Continue reading
Miles Driven Shows Less Drivers are Getting Behind The Wheel
All road and street travel in the U.S. decreased by 10.3%, or 28.1 billion vehicle miles, for December 2020, compared to December 2019, according to the Federal Highway Administration’s (FHA) most recent numbers. Overall travel for the month is estimated … Continue reading
Only 100 Days Until the Industry’s Most Popular Event.
Are YOU registered for Auto Glass Week™? Auto Glass Week™ (AGW), June 7-9, 2021 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Fla., is the only event that offers the original equipment (OE) and aftermarket auto glass repair and replacement … Continue reading
Utah Legislature Passes Bill, Awaits Governor’s Action
A Utah bill to amend provisions related to advanced driver assistance features and enact provisions related to auto glass repair recently passed in the Senate and the House. The bill, also known as S78 also seeks to amend provisions related … Continue reading
A Snowstorm Didn’t Stop These Businesses
“Mother Nature is going to do what Mother Nature wants to do,” said Jim Ricci, Vitro business development manager, US ARG, of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, Texas area, as he recalled last week’s snowstorm. “Until it happens you can’t anticipate … Continue reading
Do Better Tools Mean Less Injuries?
Setting devices and wire cut-out tools are often touted as devices that make installations safer for technicians but are they actually delivering on the promise? The possibility of an auto glass technician getting hurt on the job is not a … Continue reading
PPI: January 2021 Shows Rise in Industry Material Pricing
Prices for materials used in the auto glass industry showed mostly increases in January 2021, according to recently released Producer Price Index (PPI) data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The monthly PPI, which includes auto glass*, increased by … Continue reading
AGRR Editorial Director Delivers First Novel
AGRR editorial director Tara Taffera isn’t all about auto glass. Taffera recently completed her first novel, Love Ordained, which has been published by Winged Publications. The book is available in print and on Kindle at Amazon.com. Completed in March 2020, … Continue reading
LKQ Posts Positive Financials for Fourth Quarter and Full Year; Poised for Growth
LKQ Corp. reported fourth-quarter and full-year 2020 results today showing some revenue decreases, but the company is still positive despite the “headwinds faced throughout 2020.” In fact, some of the gains posted were company records. LKQ reports that it was … Continue reading
What COVID Has Taught the Industry
The onset of COVID-19 quickly impacted the auto glass repair and replacement industry and businesses had to adapt to new safety regulations early on. Now some are saying they’ll keep some of last year’s lessons and changes throughout 2021. AGRR … Continue reading
Xinyi Canada Glass Suspends Proposed Float Facility in Stratford
Xinyi Canada Glass Ltd. has released a statement updating the public about its proposed float glass facility in Stratford, Ontario. This comes two months after company president Tommy Wong released a statement addressing local pushback and defending the proposal. The … Continue reading
Breaking Down the Government’s Latest Aid Efforts
As businesses continue to struggle from the effects of COVID-19, there are Government funding options available, as the Economic Aid Act was signed into law on December 27th, 2020. It includes an expanded employee retention tax credit, and round 2 … Continue reading
Maryland Senate Discusses Auto Glass Safety in Committee Meeting
Maryland’s Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee meeting had an in-depth auto glass discussion as several industry members weighed in on SB 445, which would require those installing auto glass in the state to follow the AGRSS Standard. A similar bill, HB … Continue reading
Volvo Tries to Stop Defect Lawsuit
Volvo Cars of North America LLC and Volvo Car Corporation (collectively Volvo) fought back in Federal Court against a renewed motion for class certification in its ongoing legal battle centered on alleged defective sunroofs for select models that has gone … Continue reading
Insurance Group Helps Auto Glass Businesses Prepare and Stay Protected
“Cyber liability is a major concern and there are two major factors – a data breach and the cyber risk associated with an outside hack with some of the vehicles,” said Ken Deason, of Federated Insurance, as he gave an … Continue reading
Gerber Collision & Glass Acquires Repair Center in Florida
The Boyd Group Inc. (the Boyd Group) recently announced the acquisition of a collision repair center in Longwood, Fla. This location has operated as a collision repair center for 20 years, according to the company. “We look forward to continuing … Continue reading
Auto Glass Technician Outlines Tips for 2020 Civic Back Glass Replacement
Thanks so much to Aaron Bradford, of Driftwood Auto Glass for writing an article for glassBYTEs on how to install the Civic back glass on the 2020 model. Bradford told us that the back glass was a particularly difficult install, … Continue reading
More Issues Surface With Right To Repair Law – Does it Pose Cybersecurity Threats?
“I said I was going to rule from the bench,” said U.S. District Court Judge Douglas Woodlock at the end of a video conference hearing about Massachusetts’ Right to Repair legislation. “And I have ruled from my chair, so you … Continue reading
Steep Decline for all Regions in Latest Miles Driven Report
All road and street travel in the U.S. decreased by 11.1%, or 28.9 billion vehicle miles, for November 2020, compared to November 2019, according to the Federal Highway Administration’s (FHA) most recent numbers. Overall travel for the month is estimated … Continue reading
Some Shops Say COVID Sanitation Fees Being Denied
Augie DeFeo wants to know why GEICO is suddenly denying the $25 reimbursement for COVID sanitizing even though cases continue to soar. “GEICO has consistently been paying a standard fee of $25 per job for cleaning/sanitizing the vehicle,” says DeFeo, … Continue reading
Midwest Company Expands In Florida
City Auto Glass (CAG) has a strong reputation spanning across several states, including Minnesota, western Wisconsin, northern Iowa, and most recently, mobile locations in central and southern Florida. Two of the company’s representatives share insight on future company expansion, mobile … Continue reading
What You Need to Know Before You Compete
“My first time being at Auto Glass Week was awesome and it completely blew me away,” said Macenzie Curbow of Novus Auto Glass, during an online session. Curbow was joined by Alfredo Calva of Alfredo’s Auto Glass and Rose Williams … Continue reading
PPI: December 2020 Shows Solid Rise in Auto Glass Material Pricing
Prices for materials used in the auto glass industry showed mostly increases in December 2020, according to recently released Producer Price Index (PPI) data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The monthly PPI, which includes auto glass*, increased by … Continue reading
Industry Members Share Their Predictions for the Year
FY 2021 is in full swing and auto glass senior leadership and business owners have shared why they think this year is filled with optimism. “Forecasting for 2021 was quite difficult, but we were fortunate enough to open up a … Continue reading
Industry Members Share Their Thoughts on The Vaccine
The coronavirus changed how people live and do business, and now as vaccines are becoming more available, the auto glass industry could find itself adapting yet again. A few auto glass members weigh in on the vaccine, and if they … Continue reading
Learn How Auto Glass Companies Fared Through COVID-19 and Their Expectations for the Future
Auto Glass Week Preview Day held Tuesday January 12, gave attendees the opportunity to get a sneak peek of what to expect during the live show in June. During the event a COVID session dominated discussions, as a panel of … Continue reading
Safelite Takes Over Country Financial’s Auto Glass Services
Safelite has begun administering claims for Country Financial’s auto glass program. LYNX Services (LYNX) was the previous claims administrator. The change was effective January 1, 2021. “We’re excited to enhance our partnership with Country Financial and to have them join … Continue reading
Auto Glass Executive’s Second Act Includes Murder
After a long career in business and auto glass that gave David Rohlfing the opportunity to travel the continent, he decided to write his first novel, Deliberate Duplicity. Rohlfing’s debut novel, published on January 5, 2021, explores the twisted, vengeful … Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ Preview Day Offers $100 Gift Card to Top Leaderboard Winner
Plan to be a part of the Auto Glass Week™ AGW Preview Day on January 12. Get a preview of what you will see in Orlando in June—free and online by attending AGW Preview Day. When attendees login to the … Continue reading
LYNX Services Adds Recalibration Services and More to Participant Profiles
LYNX Services (LYNX) has made some updates to its auto glass program participants’ profiles, which include whether or not the shop has recalibration services, with the aim of enhancing its policyholder experience. LYNX sent communication out to its auto glass … Continue reading
Final Rule to Provide Clarification for Employee Versus Independent Contractor
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) announced a final rule Wednesday, clarifying the standard for what constitutes an employee versus an independent contractor under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). U.S. Secretary of Labor Eugene Scalia said the rule brings … Continue reading
Attorney General Fights to Dismiss the Alliance’s Right To Repair Suit
The Alliance for Automotive Innovation (the Alliance), a trade association for the automotive industry, recently filed a lawsuit in Massachusetts’ federal court. The Alliance aims to block enforcement of the Right to Repair ballot initiative, which was passed by state … Continue reading
What’s Essential Nowadays?
Throughout the pandemic through which we are living, there has been a lot of confusion and ignorance around who or what is considered “essential.” For companies, being considered essential has meant the difference between being able to stay open or … Continue reading
Safelite to Close Business Unit
Safelite Autoglass is notifying employees and key customers today that it intends to end its wholesale operation, Service Auto Glass, this week. Safelite Group will officially sunset the Service Auto Glass brand and the wholesale side of its business on … Continue reading
Lawyers Address Employer-Required Vaccinations
COVID-19 vaccinations are beginning to be administered to frontline health workers and those in long-term care facilities in the U.S. It’s not yet known to whom the vaccines will be made available in the second round, but the Washington Post … Continue reading
Xinyi Canada President Addresses Claims About Proposed Ontario Float Plant
Since news about Xinyi Canada Glass Ltd.’s proposed $400 million float glass facility in Stratford, Ontario, became public knowledge, there has been some pushback from citizens and opposition groups. Company president Tommy Wong released a statement addressing several recent claims … Continue reading
Bryan Hovey Receives Award for Extraordinary Service to KMR
Bryan Hovey, Key Media & Research (KMR) web developer, received the company’s 2020 Award for Extraordinary Service. KMR is the parent company of AGRR magazine and glassBYTEs™. The honor is presented annually and was named after vice president of media … Continue reading
PPI: November 2020 Shows Steady Rise in Auto Glass Material Pricing
Prices for materials used in the auto glass industry showed mostly increases in November 2020, according to recently released Producer Price Index (PPI) data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The monthly PPI, which includes auto glass*, increased by … Continue reading
Mitchell International Sees Three Trends Stemming From COVID
Mitchell International, the parent company of National Auto Glass Specifications (NAGS), highlighted key data trends and its impact on the industry in its 2020 Fourth Quarter Industry Trends Report. “One thing most of these digital transformations have in common is … Continue reading
Neighborly Named to Inc.’s Inaugural Best in Business List in Enduring Impact
Neighborly has recently been named to Inc.’s inaugural Best in Business list in the Enduring Impact category. The Best in Business Awards, created by Inc., honor companies that have gone above and beyond to make a positive difference, according to … Continue reading
Gerber Collision & Glass Acquires Repair Center in Georgia
The Boyd Group Inc. (the Boyd Group) recently announced it acquired a collision repair center in Morrow, Ga. This location previously operated under the name Heritage Cadillac Collision Center. This is Gerber’s second repair center in Morrow, Ga. “We are … Continue reading
A Closer Look at Calibration Documentation and Technical Changes
“There are various steps involved when you discuss calibration and it’s important to understand and document,” said Darrell Amberson, Collision Industry Electronic Commerce Association (CIECA) calibration committee member, as he began describing the business review related to calibration in an … Continue reading
What COVID Did to NSG
NSG Group reported a decline in revenue in fiscal year 2020, largely due to the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the NSG Group Integrated Report 2020, the company’s 2020 revenue was nearly $5.4 billion USD*, down from approximately $5.9 billion in … Continue reading
Automotive Experts Explore Smart Cities, Electrification and COVID’s Impact
The automotive industry has evolved within the last few decades and some experts have taken a look at how COVID-19 has taken a toll on the industry. Many have agreed that the virus has not only changed the way business … Continue reading
New Technology Keeps Safety First With Larger Displays
“If you’re going 30 miles an hour it takes you a little less than a second to look down at your speedometer and come back up and at that speed you go 46 feet in that time frame, which is … Continue reading
The Future of ADAS and Proper Vehicle Calibration
“You need to take this [factors to consider for ADAS calibrations] seriously and perfect your CRAFFT,” said David DeBoer, Burke Porter Group president and CEO, during an industry meeting. DeBoer defined CRAFFT as: Calibrated gage – ensuring the gage is … Continue reading
Gerber Collision & Glass Acquires 11 Locations in California
The Boyd Group Inc. (the Boyd Group) announced it recently acquired 11 locations in California. The acquisitions include 10 repair centers and one intake center in the counties of Riverside and San Bernardino in southern California, east of Los Angeles. … Continue reading
Research Highlights Elements of Disruption in Collision and Auto Glass Markets
With so much disruption taking place in 2020 due to COVID-19, the industry may be wondering about the affect all of this has had on the overall market—taking a look at the collision repair market sheds some light on the … Continue reading
How to Get a Windshield for Any Car – Even Those Not Made Anymore
Did you ever think reverse engineering and 3D could work together to create a windshield? Well it can and it has. Exact Metrology (EM) personnel from the company’s Brookfield, Wis., office used reverse engineering to help a vintage vehicle owner … Continue reading
Latest Miles Driven Report Shows Sharp Decline for All Regions
All road and street travel in the U.S. decreased by 8.6%, or 23.4 billion vehicle miles, for September 2020, compared to September 2019, according to the Federal Highway Administration’s (FHA) most recent numbers. Overall travel for the month is estimated … Continue reading
Is Winter Still the Slow Season?
December is here, and although the first official day of winter is still a few weeks away some auto glass businesses are preparing for what some find as the “slow season.” AGRR magazine/glassBYTEs.com reached out to a number of U.S. … Continue reading
Windshield and Sensor Patents May Impact the Industry
Apple says its application for a patent for technology that detects when a windshield is cracked has been approved. According to the patent, the proposed system would monitor the resistance of a conductive film that would be located within a … Continue reading
November Brings Avalanche of Court Filings in Insurance Case
The case of Allstate vs. Auto Glass America and its owner, Charles Isaly (AGA) produced more than 30 separate legal filings in the month of November—an average of more than one per business day. The filings appear to coalesce around … Continue reading
Adhesion and Visibility Issues Cause Recalls for Two Manufacturers
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently issued two recalls from Tesla Inc. (Tesla) and Toyota. Tesla Tesla, Inc. (Tesla) is recalling certain 2016 Model X vehicles. According to NHTSA, the front and spine cosmetic roof trim may have … Continue reading
AGRR Businesses Reflect on Everything from Holiday Promotions to Why They are Thankful
Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate what we are thankful for while surrounded by family and friends. This year the holiday might look a little different as many are preparing to travel, while also trying to adhere to updated safety … Continue reading
Pandemic’s Tie to Miles Driven – Is It More or Less?
“Americans have gotten comfortable [with] working from home and buying online,” said Gary Silberg, KPMG International Limited (KPMG) partner and automotive sector global head. Do the changes in lifestyle and increased reliance on travel in motor vehicles mean we are … Continue reading
North Carolina Auto Glass Shop Files for Reorganization
A-1 Auto Glass Inc. (A-1) filed for voluntary Chapter 11 bankruptcy petition in North Carolina’s Middle District Court earlier this month. The company is headquartered in Yadkinville, N.C., according to the bankruptcy protection form. According to A-1’s filed voluntary Chapter … Continue reading
PPI: October 2020 Shows Overall Continued Rise in Auto Glass Material Pricing
Prices for materials used in the auto glass industry showed mostly increases in October 2020, according to recently released Producer Price Index (PPI) data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The monthly PPI, which includes auto glass*, increased by … Continue reading
Of Consequence or Not? DOT to Consider Petitions
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), are preparing to look into compliance issues—or more specifically, an inconsequential noncompliance issues—regarding two batches of laminated glass as far back as November 2017. Since the two … Continue reading
Big Guns Line Up in AOB Fight
In another sign that the State of Florida is gearing up for major battles concerning the assignment of benefits (AOB) in auto glass cases, a former state insurance regulator has joined a firm involved in lobbying the legislature regarding benefit … Continue reading
Former TruRoad Exec Forms Collision Repair Company
Rich Harrison has a new job. The co-founder and senior manager of TruRoad, and prior to that COO for Safelite, has announced the formation of CollisionRight, a regional multi-shop operator of auto body services in the Central United States. Harrison will … Continue reading
Massachusetts Voters Vote Yes on Right to Repair Bill
Massachusetts residents spoke out and voted “yes” on the Right to Repair Bill. According to the results, Massachusetts voters overwhelmingly voiced their support at the ballot box for Ballot Question 1, which will preserve vehicle owners’ rights to have access … Continue reading
How Has Boyd Group Fared Through the Pandemic?
Boyd Group Services Inc. (The Boyd Group) released its 2020 third quarter financial report recently and noted its financial results were impacted significantly by the pandemic. According to the report, sales decreased by 10.3% to $508.3 million from $567.0 million … Continue reading
Calibration Service Launched by Pilkington
NSG Group’s Pilkington North America Aftermarket Glass Replacement business unit recently announced the launch of The Calibration People™. It’s a new service that is designed to provide additional access to remote and local calibration and for auto glass installers. “As … Continue reading
Digital Honor Wall Highlights Veterans
The men and women who have served or are serving in the military are recognized for their sacrifice and hard work. This year, K&K Glass, which has several locations in Florida, tried something new and has put up a Veterans’ … Continue reading
Safelite Buys the Assets of Lee & Cates Auto Glass
The auto glass division of the 94-year old Lee & Cates Glass has been sold to Safelite Auto Glass. The third generation family-owned business is based in Jacksonville, Fla., and has ten locations. Safelite has purchased the auto glass portion … Continue reading
He’s The Real Election Night Winner
Auto glass businesses have done just about everything to gain potential customer’s attention, and in Kerry Soat’s case wearing his company’s tee shirt was all it took to propel him into national television news. Soat is the CEO of Fas-Break … Continue reading
All Regions Show Decreases in Latest Miles Driven Report
All road and street travel in the U.S. decreased by 12.3%, or 35.3 billion vehicle miles, for August 2020, compared to August 2019, according to the Federal Highway Administration’s (FHA) most recent numbers. Overall travel for the month is estimated … Continue reading
The Claims Bridge International Launches Cloud-Based Technology for Industry Claims
The Claims Bridge International (TCBI) recently announced the U.S. launch of EziClaims Suite, its cloud-based technology. According to TCBI, the technology will assist the collision industry and deliver contactless hail claims for customers. As part of the launch, TCBI is … Continue reading
Study Says Need for Re-Calibration is Overlooked
adasThink, a Toronto-based software company has released a study showing that Advanced Driver-Assistance System (ADAS) re-calibrations are routinely missed. Its study focused on Canadian collision repair shops and included the following OEM vehicle models: Acura, Audi, Buick, Dodge, Ford, GMC, … Continue reading
Potential Windows Falling Out and Driver Visibility Issues Spark Latest Recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently issued two recalls from Volvo Trucks North America (Volvo) and Ford Motor Company (Ford). Volvo The recall, according to NHTSA, states that windows may become detached from the impacted vehicles, which would … Continue reading
Where’s Xinyi? Company Close to Choosing Canadian Location
Officials in Stratford, Ontario, say Xinyi Canada Glass could be coming to town. According to Stratford’s economic development corporation, investStratford, potential development for Xinyi’s first Canadian facility is being considered on lands at the southwest corner of Stratford near the … Continue reading
Judge Rules Against Release of Documents
The judge in the case of Allstate* vs Auto Glass America and its owner, Charles Isaly (AGA), has ruled that certain documents provided in the case will remain confidential and not be made public. AGA had asked U.S. District Court … Continue reading
LKQ Corporation Third Quarter Financials Out
LKQ Corporation (LKQ), parent company of PGW Auto Glass, reported a decrease in its revenue in the third quarter, which ended September 30, 2020. According to the financial report, which was released today, the company’s revenue is $3.0 billion; a … Continue reading
A Country–and an Industry–in Transition
AGRR columnist Lyle Hill shares Part Four of his historical review of the auto glass industry. After World War II, many auto glass business owners were eager to expand into a bigger facility or perhaps add a second, maybe even … Continue reading
Visibility Issues Cause Recalls for Two Manufacturers
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently issued two visibility recalls from Chrysler (FCA) and Ferrari North America, Inc. (Ferrari). FCA The recall, according to NHTSA, states that missing driver side mirror glass reduces driver visibility, which would increase … Continue reading
J.D. Power Reports Auto Insurance Claims Satisfaction Climb to Record High
One silver lining to the COVID-19 pandemic: a 22% decline in frequency of auto insurance repairable claims, translates into a record high level of customer satisfaction, according to the J.D. Power 2020 U.S. Auto Claims Satisfaction Study. Why the transformation? … Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ 2021 Welcomes Back Auto Glass Safety Council™ as Co-Sponsoring Organization
Auto Glass Week™ 2021 (AGW) is excited to welcome back the Auto Glass Safety Council™ as a Co-Sponsoring organization of the event. The show offers three days packed with live demonstrations, competitions, exhibitions and quality educational seminars. The event will … Continue reading
NSG Group and University of Cambridge Sowing Seeds for Future Glass Applications
The NSG Group and University of Cambridge are collaborating on new glass applications, while using the latest technology to realize the future of manufacturing. The group, which owns Pilkington United Kingdom Limited, is currently working with the University’s Fluids in … Continue reading
PPI: September 2020 Shows Continued Rise in Auto Glass Material Pricing
Prices for materials used in the auto glass industry showed mostly increases in September 2020, according to recently released Producer Price Index (PPI) data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The monthly PPI, which includes auto glass*, increased by … Continue reading
Sunroof Express Inc. Joins Auto Glass Week™ 2021 as a Cobalt Sponsor
Auto Glass Week™ (AGW) is pleased to welcome Sunroof Express Inc. as a Cobalt sponsor to the power-packed live event in June. AGW is created and designed specifically for the original equipment (OE) and aftermarket auto glass repair and replacement … Continue reading
Judge Denies Request to Conceal Testimony
In a month of contentious legal wrangling that has seen 24 documents (motions, responses, orders etc.) filed this far, the judge in the Allstate vs Auto Glass America (AGA)* lawsuit and its counter suit ruled today upon an item both … Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ 2021 Gets New Sponsors
Auto Glass Week™ 2021 announces new sponsors. It will take place on January 12-14 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL. Register to attend in person or from home at autoglassweek.com.
Several Industry Companies Make List of Largest Franchise Systems
Companies in the auto glass industry and related sectors have made the Franchise Times Top 200+ list, an annual ranking of the 500 largest franchise systems in the U.S. based on the previous years system-wide sales. To qualify, franchisees must … Continue reading
Gain Auto Glass Market Insights at Auto Glass Week 2021
The Auto Glass Week™ 2021 educational program kicks off with Nick St. Denis, director of research for Key Media & Research, with a discussion on the auto glass replacement market. St. Denis will cover key indicators of auto glass demand … Continue reading
Collision Course: Can the AGRR and Collision Repair Industries Co-Exist?
If you have been in the business for a few decades you know it has changed a lot. While auto glass companies and collision companies, for example, used to stay in their own lane, today there is a great deal … Continue reading
Vitro Wants Claims Dismissed in Ongoing Boycott Lawsuit
Vitro lawyers have filed a request for an order of dismissal in the ongoing boycott civil lawsuit between O.E.M. Glass Network Inc. and Brooklyn Wholesale Glass Inc. (known together as OEMGN). The stipulation for dismissal would only apply to the … Continue reading
Training Time: Performing a Replacement and Calibration on the 2020 BMW X5
Working on the BMWs are always interesting and the BMW X5 is no different–the unique design makes it easy but at the same time very technical, says Alfredo Calva, president of Alfredo’s Auto Glass, and a trainer for Auto Glass … Continue reading
Service King Donates Car to San Antonio Resident Through Recycled Rides Program
Service King Collision (Service King) recently repaired and donated a 2016 Ford Focus to Brittney Jones, a San Antonio resident, through the National Auto Body Council’s (NABC) Recycled Rides program. Recycled Rides is a community action initiative where NABC members … Continue reading
Celebrating 30 Years in the Industry
Although this year may have been filled with twists and turns many auto glass shops, including City Auto Glass (CAG), have celebrated milestones. Mike Schenian, CAG president and Jon Laski, CEO, shared some of the business’ strengths leading up to … Continue reading
Secrets to a Successful Calibration
The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) recently hosted a webinar for service technicians titled, ADAS Calibration – Do It Right and Document What You Do! The webinar was presented by Brent Johnson, Vehicle Service Group global product management … Continue reading
Glass Evidence: Was A Second Shooter Involved in President Kennedy’s Assassination?
Conspiracy theories about what happened on the day of President John F. Kennedy’s assassination have been in abundance for decades, but an encounter at the Smithsonian led glass consultant Chris Barry to analyze whether a second shooter could have been … Continue reading
Another Technology Earthquake for Windshields
Holographic windshields may become the next big thing in vehicle glass. Though they have been around for a number of years, investors are looking more seriously at bringing the technology to market, and are backing up the look with an … Continue reading
Former Employees Fight For Wages in Class Action Complaint
Elizabeth Longoria and Melissa Gomez have become the lead plaintiffs in a class action lawsuit against defendant American Automobile Association (AAA). The class action complaint alleges the association violated the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and the Arizona Wage Act. … Continue reading
Wildfires and Their Impacts on the Industry
Wildfires have severely impacted businesses, homes and more on the West Coast, and according to news reports, California recorded its first gigafire in modern history this week. A gigafire is a term for a blaze that burns at least one … Continue reading
Owner Retires from Fas-Break Glass
Fas-Break Glass took to its social media page to congratulate Kevin Massick, Fas-Break owner, located in Billings, Mont., on his retirement. Massick bought a distributorship and joined the Fas-Break Corporation in 1994, according to the company. “Kevin is a rock … Continue reading
Case Closed: Final Verdict Issued in Defective Sunroof Suit
The defective sunroof lawsuit between plaintiff Tom Kondash and defendant Kia Motors America, Inc. (Kia) has come to an end. According to the final judgement, several motions were denied that included excluding expert testimonies. It is ordered and adjudged that … Continue reading
Pilkington Releases New Automotive Glazing Option
Pilkington recently launched Pilkington Sundym™ Select, which the company states is the latest glazing innovation from its automotive division. According to Bill George, Pilkington’s business planning director, there was an industry need for this type of technology. By using suspended … Continue reading
You Can’t Look Out the Back of These Cars, Recalls Issued
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently issued two visibility recalls from Nissan North America Inc. (Nissan), and Ford Motor Company (Ford). Nissan The recall, according to NHTSA, states that the rear window glass may separate from the vehicle, … Continue reading
Latest Miles Driven Report Shows Drivers Stayed Off of the Roads
All road and street travel in the U.S. decreased by 11.2%, or 33.2 billion vehicle miles, for July 2020, compared to July 2019, according to the Federal Highway Administration’s (FHA) most recent numbers. Overall travel for the month is estimated … Continue reading
Fix Auto Saint John East Upgrades Facility
Fix Auto Saint John East announced the expansion of its operations following an upgrade of its facility. The company says the new facelift will boost its current repair capabilities by three times and will include high-performance technologies and systems designed … Continue reading
Judge Rules Against Class Certification in Lawsuit
U.S. District Court Judge Matthew W. McFarland, recently issued an order denying class certification the alleged defective sunroof lawsuit between plaintiff Tom Kondash and defendant Kia Motors America, Inc. (Kia). According to the order, Kondash’s class action request was denied … Continue reading
COVID Boosts Digital Age for Auto Claims
Some auto glass members say having digital options for customers is needed and COVID-19 increased demand. The insurance claims side of the industry has offered customers options to file and check claim status reports online, and experts agree on its … Continue reading
Mercedes-Benz Requests Class Action Complaint to be Removed or Dismissed
A recent motion in the class action lawsuit between Bruce Pickens and defendants Mercedes-Benz, Daimler AG, Saint-Gobain Sekurit (Saint Gobain), and Napleton Autowerks of Indiana, Inc. (Napleton Autowerks) seeks to put this case to rest. Defendants Napleton Autowerks recently filed … Continue reading
Update: Auto Glass Shops Continue Moving Forward During COVID
Auto glass businesses, like many other companies were impacted by the onset of COVID-19. glassBYTES reached out to a few auto glass businesses to see how they’ve faired with safety changes, stay-at-home orders and more. “We actually got shut down … Continue reading
Allstate vs. AGA Lawsuit and Countersuit Continues
The lawsuit filed by Allstate Insurance* against Auto Glass America and its owner Charles Isaly (AGA) and AGA’s countersuit continue to work their way through the U.S. District Court in Orlando. The past two weeks have seen motions concerning witnesses, … Continue reading
Part Two: Mitchell International Highlights Augmented Reality in the Industry
Mitchell International, the parent company of National Auto Glass Specifications (NAGS), highlighted new industry trends that include augmented reality impacting the industry in its 2020 Third Quarter Industry Trends Report. glassBYTEs previously highlighted the view of Ryan Mandell, the company’s … Continue reading
Number of Calibrations Doubles from Last Year
Mitchell International recently published its 2020 Third Quarter Industry Trends Report. It highlights several items including an increase in calibrations, vehicle scanning and data-driven trends that impact the property and casualty industry. According to Ryan Mandell, Mitchell International claims performance … Continue reading
What It Takes to Be a First Place Winner—Twice
Ace Auto Glass, the Hawaiian based auto glass repair and replacement (AGRR) company, recently won two awards for top AGRR services on the island. Company president, Calvin Tamaye, believes the awards coincide with the way Ace handles the jobs that … Continue reading
Artificial Intelligence Gains Traction Among Insurers
Autonomous, vehicles will increase auto glass and visibility services as well as the length in vehicle ownership, says Frank Terlep, CEO of Autotechcelerators. Terlep spoke during a webinar entitled Industry Disruptions: What They Are & How They Will Disrupt the … Continue reading
Chrysler’s Leaky Sunroof Class Action Lawsuit Ends
The ongoing class action lawsuit between David Cox and Chrysler has been settled. According to U.S. Magistrate Judge Tonianne J. Bongiovanni’s order, Fiat Chrysler automobiles (FCA) has agreed to pay attorney’s fees, costs and an incentive reward separately from the … Continue reading
Class Action Suits Hits Kia Over Alleged Defective Windshields
Yandery Sanchez has become the lead plaintiff in a class action complaint, filed in Central California, against Kia Motors America Inc. (Kia). Sanchez alleges Kia is responsible for knowingly selling defective windshields. Sanchez states the allegedly defective windshields crack, chip … Continue reading
PPI: August Shows Upswing in Auto Glass Material Pricing
Prices for materials used in the auto glass industry showed mostly increases in August 2020, according to recently released Producer Price Index (PPI) data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The monthly PPI, which includes auto glass*, increased by … Continue reading
Auto Glass Productivity Ideas Debunked in 20 Minute Webinar
Ongoing improvement and growth are two common goals for industry business owners, and a driving force to several discussions and focus groups. Today two industry experts highlighted several ways shop owners can see progress in their business’ productivity in just … Continue reading
Potential Witness Fights Subpoena
Activity continues in the lawsuit and counterclaim between Allstate Insurance* against Auto Glass America and its owner Charles Isaly (AGA). On September 1, attorneys for William Melton filed an objection regarding Allstate’s subpoena of Melton. The objection says the requests … Continue reading
Auto Insurance Fraud Halted By California Insurance Department
Three Californians have been charged with multiple felony counts of auto insurance fraud and forgery, according to the California Department of Insurance. Luis Manuel Burgos self-surrendered to the Fresno County Jail shortly after being charged for allegedly filing fraudulent auto … Continue reading
FCA Adds to Safety and Security Technology Glossary
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) has expanded its safety and security glossary with terms auto glass professionals should be aware of. The listing defines commonly used industry terms related to auto glass repair and replacement. Two of the most common include … Continue reading
CIECA Holds Semi-Annual Meetings
The Collision Industry Electronic Commerce Association (CIECA) recently held its semi-annual member meetings virtually and covered topics including: scanning and calibration, repair order and status, vehicle damage and imaging, as well as first notice of loss and glass. Each topic … Continue reading
New Guidance Suggests Making Autonomous Vehicles Pandemic Proof
Zenzic (formerly Meridian), a company created by the UK government and automotive industry to focus on key areas in the global connected and self-driving sector, teamed up with Aurrigo, an autonomous company, to develop an industry-wide set of guidelines in … Continue reading
Auto Glass Companies Left Picking Up the Pieces Following Hurricane Laura
Auto glass businesses in Lake Charles, La., along with many other areas were impacted by Hurricane Laura. The Category 4 storm swept through many of the Southern States causing structural damage to industry shops and homes, leaving several without power, … Continue reading
Loose Windshield Wipers Result in Visibility Recall
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently issued a visibility recall on select Volvo Car of N.A., LLC (Volvo) models. The recall impacts 2018-2020 Volvo XC60 vehicle owners. “The nuts that secure the front wipers may not have been … Continue reading
Judge Seals Information in Case
The two sides in the Allstate vs. Auto Glass America and Charles Isaly (AGA) lawsuit and its counter claim have finally found common ground and the judge in the case agreed. Magistrate Judge Leslie Hoffman ordered that much of the … Continue reading
Latest Miles Driven Report Shows Drivers Aren’t Taking to the Roads
All road and street travel in the U.S. decreased by 13%, or 36.5 billion vehicle miles, for June 2020, compared to June 2019, according to the Federal Highway Administration’s (FHA) most recent numbers. Month-over-month miles driven went up by 15.6% … Continue reading
Mercedes-Benz Recalls More Than 30,000 Vehicles
Mercedes-Benz Australia (MB) has recalled 30,105 vehicles, citing issues with its sunroof glass panel and its sliding roof frame as the cause. The vehicle models impacted include the company’s: C, CLK, CLS and E Class models that were manufactured between … Continue reading
When Calibration Doesn’t Work
“There are several things that come to mind when you think about all of the factors that can cause a calibration to fail, especially when you can work with [vehicle] systems that won’t always indicate that there is an issue,” … Continue reading
Alleged Sunroof Defect Sparks Kia Canada Lawsuit
Marina Roy has become the lead plaintiff in a class action lawsuit against Kia for alleged panoramic sunroof defects. The class action lawsuit is seeking compensatory damages at an amount to be determined at a later date, as well as … Continue reading
Judge Orders AGA to Turn Over Financial Records
Judge Leslie Hoffman was clearly frustrated with both sides. Hoffman, a magistrate judge for the U.S. District Court in the Middle District of Florida (Orlando) had summoned lead attorneys involved in the Allstate Insurance vs. Auto Glass America and its … Continue reading
The $11,000 Reason Not to Break the Glass
Replacing the windshield in a half-a-million-dollar car might sound intimidating but head auto glass technician Gary Blakely says the key is to just, “get out of your head.” “At the end of the day it’s four wheels, some sort of … Continue reading
Mitchell Announces Cloud-Based Glass Claims and Repair Management Solution
Mitchell recently announced the availability of the Mitchell® Cloud Glass solution, a glass repair and replacement system that directly links original equipment manufacturer (OEM) repair procedures found in the Mitchell® TechAdvisor database to National Auto Glass Specifications (NAGS). According to … Continue reading
Safelite Solutions Ends Deal with Westhill Inc.
Safelite Solutions recently announced it has terminated its strategic partnership with Westhill Inc., an Atlanta insurance technology company after seven months. Both companies had announced the new partnership in late January of this year. “Over the past few months, it … Continue reading
Judge Dismisses Arizona AOB Fraud Lawsuit
U.S. District Court Judge Susan Brnovich approved the stipulation for dismissal in the suit between Government Employees Insurance Co., GEICO Indemnity Co., GEICO General Insurance Company and GEICO Casualty Co. (collectively Geico) and defendants, Auto Glass Express (AGE) and its … Continue reading
Several Updates Made in AOB Suit
A Florida Middle courtroom has been filled with filings lately in the legal assignment of benefits (AOB) battle between Allstate Insurance Company, Allstate Fire and Casualty Insurance Company, Allstate Indemnity Company and Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Company (collectively Allstate) … Continue reading
AAA Study Finds Active Driving Assistance Systems Do Less to Assist Drivers
“[The] American Automobile Association (AAA) has repeatedly found that active driving assistance systems do not perform consistently, especially in real-word scenarios,” said Greg Brannon, AAA automotive engineering and industry relations director, speaking about a recent AAA study. AAA evaluated four … Continue reading
PPI: July Shows Mostly Increases in Auto Glass Material Pricing
Prices for materials used in the auto glass industry showed mostly increases in July 2020, according to recently released Producer Price Index (PPI) data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The monthly PPI, which includes auto glass*, increased by … Continue reading
Financial Results for Boyd Group Proves Impact of COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic definitely made an impact on industry companies, as was shown through the recent financial results for Boyd Group Services Inc. The company, which owns, Gerber Collision and Glass and Glass America, issued its financial results for the … Continue reading
NSG Group Reports Drop in Revenue, Operatizing Profit
NSG Group reported a drop in revenue and operating profit for each of its segments in the first quarter (Q1) of fiscal year (FY) 2021 (April through June 2020) compared to FY2020 Q1. In total, the company reported $859.9 million* … Continue reading
Webinar Highlights the Importance of OEM Certification
“You’re making the investment today for the return down the line,” said Connor Smith, CARSTAR original equipment manufacturer (OEM) manager, as he began describing the value in auto glass businesses gaining OEM certifications in an industry webinar. The webinar, The … Continue reading
AGSC Announces New Meeting Dates
The Auto Glass Safety Council™ (AGSC) has rescheduled its meetings originally scheduled for September. The meetings have been moved to the week of January 11, 2021 in Orlando, Fla. All AGSC and NWRD meetings scheduled for September, including the AGRSS … Continue reading
Calibration Highlighted in UK Insurance Requirements
Thatcham Research (Thatcham), a not for profit insurer-funded research center, recently published its UK Insurance Industry Requirements (IIR), which, according to the research center, promotes safe repairs for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) equipped vehicles. There is also a specific … Continue reading
Judge Issues Stipulations and Proposed Protection Order in Ongoing Boycott Lawsuit
A Federal Court Judge recently issued new stipulations and a “proposed” protection order in an ongoing boycott lawsuit that involves several industry companies. The proposed protection order is designed to safeguard confidential business and trade secret information that is consistent … Continue reading
Connecticut Auto Glass Bill Doesn’t Make it Out of 2020 Session
The auto glass legislation introduced earlier this year has failed to make it out of Connecticut’s 2020 session. The House Bill, also known as HB 5294, looked to “establish an auto glass temporary license to allow auto glass companies doing … Continue reading
SEMA 2020 is Cancelled
The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show will not be taking place this year. The association made an announcement this afternoon and stated COVID-19 and concerns about unavailable event facilities and services were the cause. “While both event organizers and … Continue reading
AGSC Issues Recalibration Guidance
The Auto Glass Safety Council (AGSC) has recently released a checklist for use with vehicles that require an Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) recalibration after having an auto glass replacement. “Proper calibration of the ADAS system in a vehicle after … Continue reading
CSN Collision Centres and 1Collision Network Merge
CSN Collision Centres (CSN) and 1Collision Network (1Collision) recently announced the merger of their businesses. The CSN and 1Collision footprint now has 240 locations across North America, with a combined network revenue of over $550 million USD ($750 million CAD). … Continue reading
Decreases For Miles Driven in Every Region in Latest Report
All road and street travel in the U.S. decreased by 25.5%, or 72.9 billion vehicle miles, for May 2020, compared to May 2019, according to the Federal Highway Administration’s (FHA) most recent numbers. Month-over-month miles driven went up by 24.1% … Continue reading
Is There a Coin Shortage and Could it Affect Your Business?
Yet another casualty of COVID-19 is a shortage of coins in the U.S., according to media reports and confirmed from the Federal Reserve. This may or may not be affecting retail auto glass businesses, as most people pay via credit … Continue reading
LKQ Corporation Second Quarter Results Report Improved Revenue Trends and Debt Reduction
LKQ Corporation released its second quarter 2020 revenue of $2.6 billion today which is down 19.1% year-over-year, according to the company. Other results include a net income of $119 million (down 21.2%), an adjusted net income of $161 million (down … Continue reading
Leaky Windshield Class Action Suit Gets Pulled from Federal Court
The lead plaintiff in a class action lawsuit against Jaguar Land Rover North America LLC (JLRNA), that alleged the manufacturer was responsible for a number of leaky windshields, has filed a notice of dismissal in Tennessee Federal Court. According to … Continue reading
Corning Emerges with Strong Second Quarter Report
Corning Inc. (Corning) highlighted its strength and positive performance despite COVID-19, attributing it to several initiatives during the company’s second fiscal quarter financial report conference call. Corning manufactures Gorilla Glass, which is found in both the smartphone and automotive industry, … Continue reading
Class Action Suit Gets a New Set of Stipulations
New stipulations and court dates have been set for an ongoing class action lawsuit centered on alleged defective sunroofs for select Volvo models. The class action suit was filed on behalf of Plaintiffs Joanne Neale, Keri Hay, Kelly McGary, Svein … Continue reading
PPI: June Shows Upswing in Auto Glass Material Pricing
Prices for materials used in the auto glass industry showed increases in June 2020, according to recently released Producer Price Index (PPI) data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The monthly PPI, which includes auto glass*, increased by 2.3% on … Continue reading
Auto Glass America Renews its Protective Order Motion
Auto Glass America LLC, (AGA) revived its motion for a protective order against Allstate this week. The motion is in an effort to “prohibit the disclosure of irrelevant and non-discoverable financial records and information” by AGA’s certified public accountant, Lacy … Continue reading
OSHA Reminders for Work During Extreme Temperatures
With temperatures soaring across the U.S., the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reminds companies to protect workers during heat exposure, both indoors and out. In the auto glass industry, technicians are busy doing installations, and in glass plants they … Continue reading
Progressive Issues New Market Pricing
Progressive Insurance recently sent out a notice regarding its new policy on glass market pricing for static, dynamic and dual recalibrations. The auto insurance’s new pricing policy became effective for glass shops at the beginning of the month. Progressive notes … Continue reading
Let’s Get Inventive: Auto Glass Inventors Share Their Stories
If you missed the May/June issue of AGRR, then you neglected to hear the stories of a few auto glass technicians such as Ben Rorick of TechnaGlass and Jacques Navant of Don’s Mobile Glass, turned inventors, who were profiled in … Continue reading
AGSC Issues Manual on Providing Services During Pandemic
The Auto Glass Safety Council has issued a new manual on providing services during the COVID-19 crisis. Dealing with COVID-19 in the Workplace provides manufacturers, suppliers and auto glass repair and replacement companies with information on proper procedures and equipment for … Continue reading
Volkswagen Dodges a Class Action Lawsuit Over Alleged Defective Sunroofs
Krzysztof Ziarno has voluntarily dismissed a class action lawsuit he filed in April of this year against Volkswagen Group of America (VW). Ziarno was suing the auto manufacturer after alleging the company “knowingly sold models with defective sunroofs” that leaked … Continue reading
Safelite Solutions Now Powers MAPFRE Insurance’s Auto Glass Program
Safelite Solutions (Safelite) will soon take over claims administration for MAPFRE Insurance in a Massachusetts auto glass program. MAPFRE refers to the program as a single end-to-end management solution that is expected to benefit all of its auto glass claims. … Continue reading
Federal Judge Denies Motion to Dismiss
U.S. District Judge, Carlos Mendoza, denied Auto Glass America (AGA) and its owner Charles Isaly’s motion to dismiss for lack of subject matter jurisdiction in its assignment of benefits (AOB) fraud lawsuit yesterday. The ongoing legal battle is between Allstate … Continue reading
NOVUS Glass Welcomes First Exclusively Mobile Franchise in Canada
Daryll O’Keefe, regional vice president for Fix Network Ontario, recently welcomed Steve Ramdan and Brian Ganase as the first franchise strategic partners to offer auto glass repair and replacement services using the NOVUS Glass mobile van. The van is prepared … Continue reading
Another Lawsuit Reaches Settlement
The Florida assignment of benefits (AOB) fraud lawsuit between Government Employees Insurance Co., GEICO Indemnity Co., GEICO General Insurance Company and GEICO Casualty Co. (collectively GEICO) and the defendants: Smart Ride (originally organized under the name Chipio Windshield Repair, LLC), … Continue reading
GEICO Dismisses AOB Fraud Lawsuit Following Settlement
The Central California lawsuit between Government Employees Insurance Co., GEICO Indemnity Co., GEICO General Insurance Company and GEICO Casualty Co. (collectively GEICO) and Winaffix Auto Glass LLC (WAG) and its owners, Tal Elzari and Navid Vatankhahan has ended. According to … Continue reading
General Motors Posts ADAS Resources
General Motors (GM) recently published a guide for auto glass businesses, auto insurers and consumers on Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). The recently published document provides a list of available systems, components involved, and when these require a calibration procedure … Continue reading
Auto Glass America Issues Response to Lawsuit
Just prior to the official kickoff to the July 4th holiday weekend Auto Glass America (AGA) and its owner Charles Isaly filed a response to a motion for a protective order filed by Auto Glass Inspection Services Inc. (AGIS). This … Continue reading
Holiday Weekend Update: See Which Shops are Open
Independence Day falls on a Saturday this year and this week glassBYTEs asked auto glass business if they would be open or closed tomorrow in observance of the holiday. The chart below shows the results of our poll. Closed Friday … Continue reading
Class Action Complaint Filed Against Land Rover For Alleged Windshield Leaking Issue
TH Chiro, PLLC has become the lead plaintiff in a class action complaint, filed in Tennessee, against Jaguar Land Rover North America LLC (JLRNA). In the class action complaint, Chiro alleges the auto manufacturer is responsible for windshield leaks that … Continue reading
Webinar Highlights What the Industry’s Future in Repair Could Be Like
As more states continue reopening the Collision Industry Electronic Commerce Association (CIECA) took a closer look at the current landscape of the industry. The association hosted a webinar titled “Back to the Future of Collision Repair & How CIECA Brings … Continue reading
Report Shows Link Between Distracted Driving and Auto Insurance Premiums
The Coronavirus forced the country into a state of constant change for months as medical professionals and government leaders tried to learn as much as they could while offering safety guidelines. The auto glass industry was directly impacted when states … Continue reading
New Hampshire Bill Dies in Committee
A bill that was pre filed at the end of 2019 and introduced in New Hampshire’s House earlier this year failed to make it out of the Senate. The bill, also known as HB 1455, would have made it “an … Continue reading
Visibility Issue Prompts NTHSA to Issue Recall
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently issued three visibility recalls on Highland Ridge RV, Keystone RV Company (Keystone), and Thor Motor Coach (TMC). Each recall states the affected vehicle models have bonding issues. Highland Ridge RV The recall, … Continue reading
Class Action Complaint Filed Against Mercedes-Benz for Alleged Spontaneous Sunroof Breakage
Bruce Pickens has become the lead plaintiff in a class action complaint, filed in Illinois, against Mercedes-Benz, Daimler AG, Saint-Gobain Sekurit (Saint Gobain), and Napleton Autowerks of Indiana, Inc. (Napleton Autowerks). In the class action complaint, Pickens alleges the German … Continue reading
Auto Glass Related Companies Make Fortune 500 Listing
Fortune 500 magazine ranked the biggest American companies in its June/July 2020 issue, a few of which are related to the auto glass and insurance industries. Several were in the top 100: Ford Motor landed the 12th spot earning $155,900 … Continue reading
Judge Weighs in on Another Protective Order
Auto Glass Inspection Services Inc. (AGIS) urged the Court to grant an order of protection in relating to Auto Glass America, LLC’s (AGA) notices of deposition Duces Tecum. A Duces Tecum is a type of subpoena that requires a witness to … Continue reading
PPI: May Shows Increase in Auto Glass Material Pricing
Prices for materials used in the auto glass industry showed increases in May 2020, according to recently released Producer Price Index (PPI) data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The monthly PPI, which includes auto glass*, increased by 1.8% … Continue reading
Judge Grants Plaintiff’s Class Certification Motion
Federal Court Judge Joseph Dickson made rulings on several matters in Volvo’s ongoing sunroof class action lawsuit this week. According to Judge Dickson’s order, the plaintiffs’ renewed motion for class certification is to be served on the defendant Volvo, on … Continue reading
Adhesion Issue Sparks Recall
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issued a new safety recall of certain Jayco, Inc. (Jayco) buses, medium, and heavy vehicles. The recall states the affected vehicle models’ adhesive bond between the glass and the metal hinge frame of … Continue reading
Ford Cautions Against the Use of Aftermarket Glass
Ford Motor Company issued a statement earlier this month, outlining what it says is the need for OEM glass to be used in replacement on the company’s vehicles. The statement says that the “[w]indshield and side glass play an integral … Continue reading
Guardian Europe Finalizes Sale of Automotive Aftermarket Glass Fabrication and Distribution Business
Guardian Europe S.à r.l. (Guardian) has finalized the sale of its Guardian Automotive aftermarket glass fabrication and distribution business to PARTER Capital Group AG (PCG). The transaction includes automotive glass fabrication operations in Llodio and Valencia, Spain, and a warehouse … Continue reading
Webinar Highlights ADAS Calibration Importance
A recent webinar highlighted the importance of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) calibrations and why your technicians should have a record of what they’ve done during the process. The webinar featured Brent Johnson, Chief Collision Technology global product management director, … Continue reading
PPPFA Guidelines Could Help Your Auto Glass Business
The President signed the Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act (PPPFA) into law on June 5, which is geared towards small businesses, including auto glass companies, who qualified for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). The House passed the PPPFA on May … Continue reading
Judge Dismisses Order of Protection Request
A request for an order of protection filed by Auto Glass Inspection Services Inc. (AGIS) was denied this week, as was a motion to reject a non-party Subpoena Deposition Duces Tecum filed by Allstate. In the ongoing lawsuit between Allstate … Continue reading
Round Two of Subpoenas in Allstate Lawsuit
The ongoing lawsuit between Allstate Insurance Company, Allstate Fire and Casualty Insurance Company, Allstate Indemnity Company and Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Company (collectively Allstate) and defendants Auto Glass America LLC (AGA) and its owner, Charles Isaly show no signs … Continue reading
Glass in Space? Check Out the SpaceX Cockpit.
A recent trip into space has become an Internet sensation for many in the glass business, as the shuttle now sports a full glass cockpit. On Saturday, May 30, 2020 SpaceX’s Falcon 9 launched Crew Dragon’s second demonstration mission from … Continue reading
Vitro to Close Evansville Plant
Vitro Automotive Glass (Vitro) has announced it is closing its auto glass manufacturing plant in Evansville, Ind., by the end of the year. According to Vitro, the economic impact of COVID-19 was a factor in the decision. Vitro previously had … Continue reading
International Panel Discussed Changes to Auto Insurance Claims in Webinar
Several states have slowly begun to re-open, which means more drivers are expected to return to the roads – a relief for the auto insurance industry. The Claims Bridge International (CBI) hosted a free webinar yesterday; titled “Is COVID-19 Driving … Continue reading
Hyundai Owners Allege Windshields Spontaneously Break in Class Action Complaint
Lorenzo Ford and Tina Forehand (collectively the plaintiffs) recently filed a class action complaint against Hyundai Motor America (HMA) and Hyundai Motor Company (HMC), (collectively Hyundai or defendants) in Central California. The plaintiffs allege Hyundai manufactured, marketed, distributed, and sold … Continue reading
Tesla Owner Sues Automaker Over Alleged Defects
Entewan Faragalla recently filed a class action complaint in California against Tesla Inc. and Tesla Motors (collectively Tesla). Faragalla alleges the auto manufacturer’s vehicles are “defective insofar as they are equipped with defective touchscreen media control units (MCU(s)) which routinely fail … Continue reading
NSG Releases Fiscal Year Financials
Nippon Sheet Glass (NSG) recently released its 2020 fiscal year financial results and it noted the company’s automotive glass sales revenue decreased when compared to the same period last year. NSG is one of the largest auto glass manufacturers in … Continue reading
Top Private Fleets List a Wide Cross Section – Including AGRR Companies
FleetOwner magazine ranked the top 500 private fleets based on the number of trucks and tractors they operate in its April issue. The list, according to the company, is based on a FleetSeek database that’s continuously updated. FleetOwner noted its data is … Continue reading
Auto Glass Business Owners Grapple with Employees Who Don’t Want to Come Back
A recent report in FORBES magazine discussed a situation that a number of business owners have found themselves in, and auto glass company owners are no exception. The Federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act provides an additional … Continue reading
Paul Morris Participates in Idea Sharing Summit for Businesses
Paul Morris, president of Jack Morris Auto Glass – Memphis, was recently featured in the Finding Funding segment of a New Normal virtual summit developed by the Tennessee Chamber of Commerce in cooperation with Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland. Jack Morris Auto Glass didn’t … Continue reading
Auto Glass Inspection Service Objects to Subpoena in AOB Lawsuit
The legal face-off between Allstate Insurance Company, Allstate Fire and Casualty Insurance Company, Allstate Indemnity Company and Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Company (collectively Allstate) and defendants Auto Glass America LLC (AGA) and its owner, Charles Isaly continues to heat … Continue reading
Boyd Group Reports Sales
Boyd Group Services Inc. (The Boyd Group) released its 2020 first quarter financial report today and noted its sales increased by 12.6% to $628.4 million when compared to the same period in 2019. According to the report, its same-store sales … Continue reading
California Clamps Down on 1099 Contractors
California often serves as a bellwether for legislation that is slowly adopted in other states throughout the country and an Assembly Bill could have serious implications for auto glass companies that subcontract work to installers as independent (1099) contractors. Assembly … Continue reading
Mediator Cancels Scheduled Session in Auto Glass AOB Fraud Lawsuit
Mediator Stanford Blake of Tampa, Fla. filed a notice of cancellation today for a virtual mediation set for May 27, 2020 via Zoom in the ongoing legal showdown between Allstate Insurance Company, Allstate Fire and Casualty Insurance Company, Allstate Indemnity … Continue reading
Auto Glass Replacement Businesses Donate PPE Supplies
The PipeKnife Company (PipeKnife) teamed up with Clean Plus Inc. (Clean Plus) to make a donation of personal protective equipment (PPE) to the Loveland, Colo. police department. The two companies also donated sanitizer, sprayers and nitrile gloves. The donation, which … Continue reading
Fuyao Releases 2019 Year-End Results and Highlights Future Goals
Fuyao Glass Industry Group (Fuyao) recently released its 2019 annual financial report, which ended on December 31, 2019. The company highlighted its revenue growth, global response to COVID-19, and more in its report. “In 2019, the global economic growth weakened … Continue reading
Reimbursements Land State Farm in Supreme Court
MRI Associates of Tamps Inc. (MRI Associates) went to the Supreme Court in hopes of overturning a previous ruling in favor of State Farm Insurance Co. (State Farm). The lawsuit centers on State Farm’s method for calculating reimbursements under Florida’s … Continue reading
Allstate Asks Court to Extend Mediation Date – Court Issues Response
The beginning of May saw new movement in the ongoing assignment of benefits (AOB) fraud lawsuit between Allstate Insurance Company, Allstate Fire and Casualty Insurance Company, Allstate Indemnity Company and Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Company (collectively Allstate) and defendants … Continue reading
Judges Deny Class Certification in Honda Lawsuit
A panel of judges denied an appeal which had sought to gain class action status in a lawsuit against Honda Motor Co. (Honda). The lawsuit alleged Honda sold its Pilots with defective power windows. Circuit Court Judges Johnnie Rawlinson and … Continue reading
Geico Sends Notice On New Market Pricing
Geico recently sent out a notice regarding its new policy on glass market pricing for recalibrations, in the U.S. excluding Florida. The auto insurance’s new pricing policy will become effective for glass shops May 14, 2020. Geico says the rate … Continue reading
Geico Files Another AOB Fraud Lawsuit – This Time in Arizona
Government Employees Insurance Co., GEICO Indemnity Co., GEICO General Insurance Company and GEICO Casualty Co. (collectively Geico) filed a complaint in Arizona Federal Court against defendants, Auto Glass Express (AGE) and its owners and managers, Danielle Dean and Saxton Lafasto … Continue reading
First Quarter Results Out for LKQ
LKQ Corporation (LKQ), parent company of PGW Auto Glass, reported several decreases in its first quarter in 2020, according to its latest financial report. The company’s first quarter revenue went down by 3.2%, to the tune of $3 billion. Net … Continue reading
Volvo Urges Judge to Dismiss Plaintiff Subpoenas in Sunroof Lawsuit
Volvo defense attorneys filed a letter to the presiding judge urging the court to dismiss subpoenas, filed by the plaintiffs, requesting additional information from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in an ongoing leaking sunroof class action lawsuit. “Nearly six … Continue reading
Auto Claims Down 50% Says Solera
COVID-19 seems to become more taxing as time continues and more is learned about the virus. Solera recently held a webinar COVID-19 What’s Now and What’s Next, where a panel of the company’s experts addressed how the virus is impacting … Continue reading
Increases For Miles Driven in Every Region in Latest Miles Driven Report
All road and street travel in the U.S. increased by 2.1%, or 5.3 billion vehicle miles, for January 2020, compared to January 2019, according to the Federal Highway Administration’s (FHA) most recent numbers. This is before the COVID crisis hit … Continue reading
Industry Webinar Highlights Tracking Workplace COVID-19 Cases and More
COVID-19 has not been a stranger to the industry as multiple auto glass repair and replacement businesses have made adjustments, and in some cases, have temporarily closed in order to help limit the virus’ spread. Vector Solutions hosted a webinar … Continue reading
National Labor Relations Board Sides in Fuyao’s Favor
Fuayo Glass America Inc. (Fuyao) will not be prosecuted by the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) because the allegations made against the auto glass company in “American Factory” were not timely, according to an agency official. Patricia Nachand, NLRB Ohio … Continue reading
Industry Webinar Highlights COVID-19 Challenges
As COVID-19 continues to impact the industry, the Collision Industry Electronic Commerce As