Tag Archives: AGRR
AGRR Sister Publications Named Finalists for Prestigious Awards
Several AGRR magazine/glassBYTEs.com sister publications were named finalists in two major editorial competitions, including the 69th Jesse H. Neal awards, considered the “Pulitzer Prize of B2B journalism.” The Neals are presented by the Software & Information Industry Association. The December … Continue reading
Nicole Rubio Receives Award for Extraordinary Service to Key Media & Research
Nicole Rubio, marketing coordinator for Key Media & Research (KMR), the parent company of AGRR magazine and the glassBYTEs newsletter, received the company’s 2022 Award for Extraordinary Service. The honor is presented annually and was named after vice president Holly … Continue reading
Ellen Rogers Named Editorial/Content Director for Key Media & Research
Award-winning journalist Ellen Rogers has been named editorial/content director for KMR. She handles the content direction and delivery for all KMR industry sectors, including Auto Glass Repair & Replacement (AGRR) magazine, USGlass magazine, Window Film magazine, and Door & Window … Continue reading
Extreme Heat Requires Extreme Planning for Auto Glass Industry
Triple-digit temperatures in the western United States have auto glass repair and replacement (AGRR) shops navigating the associated issue of adhesive application in high temperatures. With most adhesive manufacturers recommending that such work not be performed in temperatures more than … Continue reading
At the Top: Auto Glass Retailers in 2022
Today, glassBYTEs.com takes a look at top auto glass retailers this year compared to AGRR’s 2020 list. Who remains on top? Were there any major changes? In the number one spot this year and in 2022, Belron and Safelite remain … Continue reading
AGRR Bill Deferred to 2023 in Virginia Legislature
The Virginia House Highway Safety and Policy Subcommittee held a hearing on January 26 to consider 12 bills, one of which is related to auto glass safety and supported by the Auto Glass Safety Council (AGSC). The subcommittee held the … Continue reading
Key Media & Research Earns 11 ASBPE Nominations
Key Media & Research (KMR), publisher of AGRR magazine and glassBYTEs.com, was named a finalist for 11 American Society of Business Publication Editors’ (ASBPE) awards yesterday, showcasing the staff’s outstanding work in print, video and design. The accolades include a … Continue reading
Top Stories of the Decade
As we head into 2020, glassBYTEs.com took a look at the most popular stories of the 2010s. The top ten may not be what you expected but they were the most read based on page views. 1. Honda Requires OE … Continue reading
Global Study Shows How Major Cities are Crafting their Mobility Future
In a recent issue of Auto Glass Repair and Replacement (AGRR) magazine, we looked at how auto glass companies should start preparing today for the mobility changes of tomorrow. That topic of how transportation is changing in the world’s biggest … Continue reading
Industry Professionals Shed Light on If You Should Leave ADAS Features Off
What do you do if a customer brings their vehicle to your shop with its Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) features disabled? Do you turn them back on, leave them off, or refuse to operate on it? Also what if … Continue reading
Additional Sponsors Join Exhibition Floor at Auto Glass Week™
At Auto Glass Week™ you can experience three days of valued education, networking opportunities, exciting competitions and an exhibition floor full of top industry suppliers. Below are some of the recently added Cobalt sponsors attendees can visit at Auto Glass … Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ Announces Educational Program
The educational program, sponsored by XYG, has been announced for Auto Glass Week™ (AGW) 2019, the leading auto glass repair and replacement educational conference and trade show. Auto Glass Week will take place September 4-6 at the Indiana Convention Center … Continue reading
Glass Mechanix Solutions Upgrades to Bronze Sponsor at Auto Glass Week™ 2019
Glass Mechanix Solutions has upgraded its sponsorship from a Cobalt to Bronze-level for Auto Glass Week™ (AGW) 2019. Glass Mechanix Solutions is a world-leading manufacturer of windshield repair tools and supplies in addition to providing VIN lookup and point of … Continue reading
Win a Truck at Auto Glass Week™ 2019!
That’s right! At Auto Glass Week™, taking place September 4-6 in Indianapolis, Ind., one lucky individual will drive away in a brand new truck! How It Works: All eligible* attendees will have up to six chances to receive a key. … Continue reading
Three New Copper Sponsors Join Auto Glass Week™
Auto Glass Week™ (AGW) is pleased to welcome three more Copper-level sponsors to the 2019 exhibition floor. Auto Glass Week will take place at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, September 4-6, 2019. It is the only event that focuses … Continue reading
AGRR Auto Glass Week Video Wins Prestigious National ASBPE Award
Auto Glass Repair and Replacement (AGRR) magazine won the Bronze Award in the video news category from the American Society of Business Publication Editors. The award, presented last week in St. Petersburg, Fla., recognized the work of AGRR editorial director … Continue reading
Carlex Joins Trade Show Floor as Sponsor for Auto Glass Week™
Carlex is sponsoring Auto Glass Week™ once again at the Bronze-level. The company can be found in the exhibition hall at the Indiana Convention Center, to be held September 4-6 in Indianapolis, Ind. Carlex is a global original equipment manufacturer … Continue reading
Four New Companies Join Auto Glass Week™ as Cobalt Sponsors
Auto Glass Week™ (AGW) is pleased to welcome four more sponsors to the 2019 exhibition floor. The event will take place at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, Ind., September 4-6, 2019. It is the only event that focuses on … Continue reading
Key Media & Research Wins Six Awards
Key Media & Research (KMR), parent company to Auto Glass Repair and Replacement (AGRR) magazine, took home six American Society of Business Publication Editors’ (ASBPE) awards on Wednesday—for the Mid-Atlantic region including a Silver for AGRR in the Video News category for … Continue reading
Plan to Attend Auto Glass Week™ 2019 – Registration Now Open!
Online registration for Auto Glass Week™ 2019 is now open! The international event will take place September 4-6 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, Ind. Auto Glass Week is designed for the original equipment (OE) and aftermarket auto glass … Continue reading
AGRR, USGlass Magazines Named Jesse H. Neal Award Finalists
Auto Glass Repair and Replacement (AGRR) and USGlass Metal and Glazing (USGlass) magazines have been named as finalists in the annual Jesse H. Neal Awards competition for editorial excellence. The winners will be announced on March 29 during the annual Neal … Continue reading
Send AGRR Your Best (and Worst)
In the upcoming July/August issue of AGRR magazine we want to feature you the technician. Send us your best stuff: your best install photos, your hardest installations (maybe it was technically challenging or maybe it was difficult due to a … Continue reading
Fuyao Reports on 2017 Successes and Challenges for Future
Fuyao Glass Industry Group released its 2017 annual report recently, which unveiled some interesting insights into the efficiencies of this global glass maker. In the report, the company identified its core competitiveness, successes and challenges for the future. When analyzing … Continue reading
Jack Morris of Tenn.-Based Jack Morris Auto Glass Passes Away
John “Jack” Morris III, the man behind Tenn.-based Jack Morris Auto Glass, passed away on Friday at the age of 87. Morris was known throughout his hometown as a civic leader and businessman, always putting the happiness of those around … Continue reading
Going with Direct Billing? Here are a Few Tips from Auto Glass Shop Owners
If you’re looking to go the direct billing route, here are a few more tips and recommendations that could work for you. For more information on the topic, look to the January/February issue of AGRR magazine. 1. There’s an App … Continue reading
Auto Glass Companies Look Forward to Family Time this Thanksgiving
While most auto glass repair and replacement companies will likely be closed Thanksgiving day, several have opted to let their employees choose whether or not to take off Black Friday. Jeremy Driscoll, owner of JRD Auto Glass in Austin, Texas, … Continue reading
Belron’s Sales Increase, U.S. Profit Falls Slightly
Belgium-based D’Ieteren, parent company to Belron, which owns Safelite AutoGlass, reported that its automotive repair and replacement business, before taxes, reached $109.6 million USD (92 million EUR), up 6.2 percent over the previous year, according to the company’s half-year report. … Continue reading
R.I. Bill to Protect Right to Choose Repair Facility
Rhode Island Senator Dominick Ruggerio introduced a bill that would prohibit domestic and foreign insurance companies from discriminating against individuals in a domestic partner relationship concerning policies issued or renewed in the state. Included in the bill was the domestic … Continue reading
Two New Events to Experience at Auto Glass Week™ 2017
Auto Glass Week™ continues to expand each year to enhance attendees’ enrichment and experience. This year, two new events are available to tempt attendees’ appetites for knowledge—one new competition and an optional sightseeing tour of the gorgeous West Palm Beach, … Continue reading
Sunroof Express to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016
Sunroof Express will sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ 2016 Opens in Just One Week!
Auto Glass Week™ 2016 will kick off in just one week at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio, Texas. This is a not-to-miss event packed full of education, competitions and networking. Continue reading
NGB to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™
NGB will sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
SIKA Corporation Returns as a Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™
SIKA Corporation will sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: The Importance of Your Involvement
“Auto Glass Week™ is October 5-7, and your visit to the international trade show and festivities is the best way to get involved with your industry and take a few days off. San Antonio, Texas, the location of this year’s show, has a lot to offer. Walk along Riverwalk, sip a margarita and enjoy the music seeping out of the many restaurants and bars along the way. Go to historic San Antonio and visit the Alamo. Walk your industry’s trade show floor and learn what is new and upcoming.”—Bob Beranek Continue reading
Onsite Registration is Still Available for Auto Glass Week™
We are only two weeks away from the opening of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio, Texas, Oct. 5-7. Continue reading
T.E.S.T. Kfz-Ersatzteile GmbH to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™
T.E.S.T. Kfz-Ersatzteile GmbH will sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
CallBlu to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™
CallBlu will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
NAGS: Average Weighted Price Change Down 4.62 % for All Parts
Mitchell’s National Auto Glass Specifications Inc. (NAGS) has released the weighted average pricing changes for all parts, as well as top 100 and top 500 parts in its Fall International Benchmark Calculator. Continue reading
SIKA Automotive to Open Brazilian Adhesive Factory
SIKA Automotive will open a new factory in South America for adhesives and acoustic products. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Easy When You Are with the Right People
“Charlie ‘Tremendous’ Jones once said, ‘You are the same today as you’ll be in five years except for two things: the books you read and the people you meet.’” —Mark Liston Continue reading
One DOT Number Awarded to American Company, Three to Asia
The Department of Transportation recently awarded DOT numbers to four automotive glass companies. Continue reading
Clean Plus Inc./CPI Divisions Returns as a Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™
Clean Plus Inc./CPI Divisions will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
NAGS Releases New Calculator with Modest Decline
Mitchell’s National Auto Glass Specifications Inc. (NAGS) has released its Fall International Benchmark Calculator which shows very modest changes in pricing. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: A Look at Full-Strip Procedures
“Last week we looked at tool options for trimming back the urethane bead to the level suggested by the adhesive manufactures (1/16th on an inch) when replacing a windshield. This week we’ll address the procedures that must be employed to make sure the glass is solidly bonded and the installation is leak-free.”—Bob Beranek Continue reading
Auto Windscreens Names New Managing Director
United Kingdom-based Auto Windscreens has named Rupert Armitage as its new manager director. Armitage has been acting managing director since January 2016 and will now lead the business moving forward. Continue reading
glass.com® Joins Auto Glass Week™ as a Sponsor
glass.com® will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Ford Door-Latch Recall Now Encompasses 2.4 Million Vehicles
Ford has expanded a recall over a door-latch issue to cover an additional 1.5 million vehicles at the request of the National Highway Safety Traffic Administration (NHTSA). The total number of vehicles affected is now 2.4 million. Continue reading
Safelite AutoGlass Opens New Location in Maine
Safelite AutoGlass is opening a new location in Portland, Maine, by October 2016 to serve Maine and New Hampshire. Continue reading
A Night Out at Auto Glass Week™
Register by Friday, September 16, for the Auto Glass Week™ Pub Crawl, which is Sponsored by Scorpion Window Film. After Friday, only a limited number of tickets will be available onsite at registration during Auto Glass Week, so hurry and sign up now to ensure your spot in this optional event! Continue reading
National Windscreens Opens Calibration Center
National Windscreens has opened an Advanced Driver Assistance System calibration center in Inverness, U.K. Continue reading
Former Safelite Group CEO Files Complaint Against the Company
Dan Wilson, former president and CEO of Belron U.S. and Safelite Group, has filed a complaint against the company alleging that its nonqualified deferred compensation plan was mismanaged, causing him to lose millions of dollars in owed income taxes, penalty and interest. Continue reading
Seminars for the Industry: New Trends in Auto Glass
Join us at Auto Glass Week™ 2016, October 5-7, and learn from the best in the business. The three-day automotive glass industry event will be held at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center and San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter in San Antonio, Texas. Continue reading
Registration Deadline Approaching for Auto Glass Week™ Golf Tournament at TPC San Antonio
The last day to register for the annual Auto Glass Week™ Golf Tournament is this Friday, September 16. The event will be held Tuesday, October 4 at TPC San Antonio, home of the PGA Tour’s Valero Texas Open. Continue reading
NWRA Solicits Industry Feedback on New Break Identification Standard
The National Windshield Repair Association™ (NWRA) is soliciting comments on its new draft Standard ANSI/NWRA/BIS 001-2016. The proposed Break Identification Standard (BIS) creates a system for identifying where damage has been repaired on vehicles and covers all types of glass in the car, excluding of sunroofs. Continue reading
Last Chance! Auto Glass Week™ Pre-Registration Deals End Friday!
Be sure to pre-register for Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this week to take advantage of discounts that end Friday, September 16. Attendees who pre-register by Friday could save up to $50 per person for a full registration. Continue reading
Shore.com Is a New Sponsor for Auto Glass Week™ 2016
Shore.com will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Banner Glass Files for Bankruptcy
Banner Glass has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in the U.S. Federal District Court of Maryland. Its assets will go up for auction via Tiger Capital Group’s Commercial & Industrial division. Continue reading
Discount Room Rates for Auto Glass Week™ End Saturday
Auto Glass Week™ is reaching record numbers and has sold out at our host hotel. Room nights are still available at the Marriott Riverwalk. The Marriott Rivercenter is full. The hotels are next to each other. Continue reading
Reach Auto Glass Week™ 2016 Via Your Smartphone
Need the latest information about Auto Glass Week™ 2016 while you’re on the go? Thanks to LYNX Services’ Sponsorship, Auto Glass Week’s mobile app on Guidebook is now live. Continue reading
Will Shops Accept the “Offer?”
The AGRR industry had a mixed reaction to news that State Farm is changing its “offer” on September 19. “We’re bracing ourselves,” says Dennis Farrar, president of Oesterle Auto Glass & Paint in Parkersburg, W.Va. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: ADAS: OEM vs. Aftermarket Who Wins?
“What if you came to a corner and found a person hawking Rolex watches for $20? Would you buy one? Two? A dozen for investment purposes? Say you walk farther and another salesperson approaches you selling unlocked I phones for $75. You then find yourself at a street fair where there is a display selling suits with Armani labels for $50 and another with Oakley shades for $5. Is it your lucky day for value? Or would you stop to consider the fact that you just got ripped off by buying inferior knockoffs?” —Neil Duffy Continue reading
Seminars for the Industry: Positioning Your Company to Be a Dominant Player in Your Local Market
Join us at Auto Glass Week™ 2016, October 5-7, and learn from the best in the business. The three-day automotive glass industry event will be held at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center and San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter in San Antonio, Texas. Continue reading
State Farm’s Offer and Acceptance Program to Change and the Offer Is Going Down
State Farm is changing the “offer” in its offer and acceptance program, effective September 19. Continue reading
Novus Glass Opens British Columbia Location, More Coming
Novus Glass has opened a corporate store in Port Coquitlam, British Columbia, Canada. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Labor Day
“Labor Day. Parade, hot dogs and hamburgers, the unofficial end of summer and beginning of school. That is how I remember it.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
AGSC to Offer Training in Virginia in December
The Auto Glass Safety Council™ (AGSC) will hold a regional training and accreditation program in Stafford, Va., in December. The training course and certification exam will be offered twice, once on Wednesday, December 14, and again on Thursday, December 15, at AGSC headquarters. Continue reading
Final Count: Traffic Fatalities Show Highest Increase in Almost 50 Years
Traffic fatalities totaled 35,092 in 2015, a 7.2 percent increase from 2014, according to the final numbers released by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This number ends a five-decade trend of declining fatalities, according to NHTSA. Continue reading
FeneTech, Inc. to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016
FeneTech, Inc. will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens Indiana Location
The Boyd Group Inc., parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, is opening a new collision repair center in La Porte, Ind. Continue reading
Equalizer Launches Auto Glass TV
Equalizer has introduced Auto Glass TV (AGTV™) at warehouses as a way for AGRR company owners and technicians to gain more information, including local weather, traffic reports, industry news, events, education, product demonstrations and more. Continue reading
Keeping up with Robinson
What’s the path full-time ten-time all-star NBA legend, two-time Olympian, and full-time philanthropist David Robinson has taken from basketball to all-star to private equity investor? Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Precision Procedures for Exposed Glass
“The introduction of the exposed-glass mounting has led to a paramount concern for installers not to damage the exposed pinchweld wall. If the pinchweld is damaged during installation, and priming exceeds the underside moulding weather mark, there is a real possibility that our customers will not like the look. This has changed the way we remove the glass and even introduced a new type of tool, the wire-out tools.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ 2016 Welcomes GTS Services as Sponsor
GTS Services will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Judge Dismisses All But One Claim in Alleged Sunroof Defect Case
A judge has granted summary judgment to BMW in a sunroof defect lawsuit on all claims with the exception of one. The class action lawsuit was brought by two plaintiffs who allege their vehicles suffered water damage after the drainage tubes installed to pull water away from the sunroofs did not work properly. Continue reading
Seminars for the Industry: Leadership Skills for AGRR Companies
Join us at Auto Glass Week™ 2016, October 5-7, and learn from the best in the business. The three-day automotive glass industry event will be held at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center and San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter in San Antonio, Texas. Continue reading
AGSC™ Releases Latest E-Newsletter
The Auto Glass Safety Council™ (AGSC) has published its latest e-newsletter. Continue reading
U.S. Bolsters Belron’s Same-Store Growth
Belron’s organic sales growth of 4.6 percent was mainly driven by the United States, the United Kingdom and Germany, according to D’Ieteren’s half-year update. Belgium-based D’Ieteren owns Belron, which in turn owns Safelite AutoGlass in the U.S. Belron’s sales were … Continue reading
American Glass Distributors to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016
American Glass Distributors will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
General Motors Recalls Select Models for Visibility Issue
Windshield wipers could break on 367,808 General Motors’ Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain 2013 models, according to a recall from the automaker. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Who Cares?
“If you are a sports fan I’m sure you’ve already heard all the hubbub about 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick refusing to stand for the National Anthem last Friday night in a preseason game with the Packers. Apparently, this is all about the United States’ treatment of racial minorities.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Miles Driven Continues Upward Spike
Travel on all roads and streets continued its steady climb in June 2016, up 3.2 percent, or 8.6 billion vehicle miles, compared to June 2015. Month over month, miles driven were up 1.05 percent. This is according to the latest figures from the Federal Highway Administration, a division of the U.S. Department of Transportation. Continue reading
Marcy Adhesives to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016
Marcy Adhesives will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Ford Recalls Escape to Reconfigure Power Window Software
Ford reports that the power windows on its 2017 Ford Escape vehicles may close with too much force so it is recalling the models to reconfigure the software. Continue reading
Extractor to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016
Extractor will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
AAA Auto Insurance Captures Top Honors in Harris Poll
AAA Auto Insurance topped State Farm to be named Auto Insurance Brand of the Year by The Harris Poll 2016 EquiTrend Study. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Is Google Marketing Better than Facebook Marketing?
“So the neighbor’s kid knocks a baseball through our windshield.” —Chuck Bankoff Continue reading
Safelite Opens Two New Locations in Boston Market
Safelite AutoGlass is adding two new stores in the Boston area this summer. Continue reading
Seminars for the Industry: The Auto Glass-TPA Relationship–Can This Marriage be Saved?
Learn from the best at Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this October 5-7. The three-day automotive glass industry event will be held at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center and San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter in San Antonio, Texas. Continue reading
General Motors Wants Lawsuit Against Faulty Headlights Dismissed
General Motors (GM) is requesting a judge dismiss a recent lawsuit against the manufacturers that alleges the headlights on its 2014-2015 GMC Sierra 1500 and the 2015 GMC Sierra 2500 and 3500 are defective. The lawsuit comes from plaintiffs Armando … Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—I Cannot Tell a Lie
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—I Cannot Tell a Lie
Chrysler Asks Court for Summary Judgment in Alleged Sunroof Defect Lawsuit
Though numerous plaintiffs filed the original complaint against Chrysler over an alleged sunroof defect, only one remains, according to the automaker’s court document. Chrysler’s attorneys say the automaker did everything it was legally obligated to do under warranty and the lawsuit should be dismissed. Continue reading
Novus Glass in British Columbia Raises Funds for Local Charity
The teams at the Novus Glass locations in British Columbia, Canada, donated their time and resources earlier this month to support the White Rock Princess Party Charity event sponsored by the White Rock Firefighters Charity Association. The event raised $34,000. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Visiting IIHS
“Last week I was invited to tour the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) complex in Ruckersville, Va. All I can say is wow. What an impressive place.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens Louisiana Location
The Boyd Group Inc., parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, has opened a new collision repair center in Slidell, La. Slidell is about 34 miles northeast of New Orleans. Continue reading
Seminars for the Industry: The Next Generation in Automotive Glass
The hard-hitting educational line-up continues to meet the needs of the automotive glass industry. Experts have been hand-selected to speak on areas to help increase your knowledge and provide an unsurpassed experience for all in attendance. Continue reading
AGRR Companies Assess Damage from Louisiana Floods
Eleven are dead and more than 40,000 homes have been affected by the heavy deluge of rain and floods in Baton Rouge, La., that began Friday. Some AGRR companies are just now getting back up and running while others were luckily enough to escape the water’s wrath. Continue reading
Elephant Auto Insurance Expands into Tennessee and Indiana
Elephant Auto Insurance has entered Indiana and Tennessee. Continue reading
Pre-Registration for Auto Glass Week™ 2016 Ends in One Month!
Auto Glass Week™ 2016 is right around the corner, October 5-7, and is the best opportunity for attendees to receive education and meet with suppliers that specialize in the automotive glass industry! Continue reading
Attendees to See Many New Companies Among the Familiar at Auto Glass Week™; Less Than Five Booths Remain
Participants at Auto Glass Week™ always look forward to visiting the sponsors exhibiting at the show. In fact, all previous exhibitors, with one exception, are back for 2016—along with many new companies. In addition to seeing these fine companies, the number of companies has expanded by more than 25 percent. A full quarter of the sponsors will be debuting and displaying their products and services before attendees for the first time. Continue reading
Newscast: Tips for Installing in Hot Weather
As hot weather scorches parts of the country, many AGRR technicians can’t avoid the heat. In the July/August newscast we take a look at hot weather mobile installations. Will urethanes cure properly in hot temperatures? Can you handle the windshield when it’s 115˚ degrees or more? These are just some of the questions we answer in the AGRR™ magazine/glassBYTEs.com™ newscast. Continue reading
Coach Glass to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016
Coach Glass will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Maryland-Based Banner Glass Inc. Closes Its Doors
Employee-owned Banner Glass, which has eight locations covering Maryland and Northern Virginia, has shuttered its doors. Continue reading
UNITED KINGDOM—National Windscreens Renews Contract with Brightside Group
Brightside Group has signed a new three-year contract with United Kingdom-based National Windscreens. Through the contract, National Windscreens will serve as the preferred provider for glass claims for Brightside Group. Continue reading
GNCS Lifts Second-Quarter Sales at Boyd Group
Canadian-based Boyd Group Income Fund, parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, reported that the recent addition of new customers at Gerber National Claim Services (GNCS) boosted same-store sales by 1.4 percent to overall growth of 5.1 percent in the second quarter. Continue reading
Auto Windscreens Installs New Cameras in Techs’ Vans
United Kingdom-based Auto Windscreens is installing VisionTrack’s VT2000 telematics cameras in its technicians’ vans for better incident management and to minimize risks, according to the company. Continue reading
Seminars for the Industry: ADAS and Solutions to Recalibration Issues
Keep the business where you want it. Learn how from the best at Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this October 5-7. Continue reading
AUSTRALIA—Novus Glass Adds New Franchisees in Queensland
Mark and Sam Watt are joining Novus Glass Australia as franchisees in Queensland. The new shop will be located in Hyde Park, a suburb of Queensland, Australia. Continue reading
Rhode Island Updating Licensing Regulations for AGRR Companies
The Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation is revising its more than decade-old licensing regulation to reflect a new law (http://www.glassbytes.com/2015/06/rhode-island-department-of-business-regulation-to-license-agrr-companies/) that was passed by the state legislature last year. The department has scheduled an Automotive Glass Industry Working Group meeting on August 15 to discuss proposals for the revised regulation that will oversee AGRR company licensing. Continue reading
JN Phillips/Windshield Centers Buys Altieri Glass
Woburn, Mass.-based JN Phillips Auto Glass has acquired Rhode Island-based Altieri Glass. Altieri Glass is the sixth local brand added to JN Phillips/Windshield Centers. Continue reading
Last Call for Booth Space at Auto Glass Week™ 2016
If you’re considering exhibiting and becoming a Sponsor at this year’s Auto Glass Week™, don’t wait and miss your chance to reach current and potential customers. Only a few booths remain! Continue reading
Glass Technology Inc. to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016
Glass Technology Inc. will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Burco, Inc., to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016
Burco, Inc., will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
TODAY’s BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Olympic Disappointments
“My wife Mary Kay and I love watching the Olympic opening ceremony. It only happens every four years yet the memories and lessons linger forever.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Safelite to Close Enfield Plant and Exit Automotive Glass Manufacturing
Safelite AutoGlass, the nation’s largest automotive glass installation company, will close its plant in Enfield, N.C., and cease manufacturing automotive glass parts before the end of the year. Officials say the decision was based on the increased complexity—and cost—of manufacturing such parts as their complexity and number of different types are expected to increase rapidly in the future. Continue reading
May’s Miles Driven Top Last Year’s Figure
Travel on all roads and streets continued its steady climb in May 2016, up 2 percent, or 5.5 billion vehicle miles, compared to May 2015. Month over month, miles driven were up 2.5 percent. This is according to the latest figures from the Federal Highway Administration, a division of the U.S. Department of Transportation. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Should We Replace Laminated Sidelites with Tempered Glass?
“In May of 2014, I posted an article addressing the dilemma of whether the use of laminated sidelites were a safety device or a performance device. Recently this same issue came up again. Evidently, some customers have asked an automotive glass shop to install a tempered door glass in place of the broken laminated part due to the lower cost. Should we be installing tempered in place of laminated? Is this a safety concern?” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Meritool LLC to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016
Meritools LLC will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Novus Glass Adds Australian Franchisee
Novus Glass Australia has added Justin Smith as a new franchisee in the Werribee and Footscray suburbs of Melbourne. Continue reading
Founder of Mass.-Based Tiny and Sons Passes Away
James “Tiny” Brown, 81, founder of Pembroke, Mass.-based based Tiny and Sons Auto Glass passed away on July 27, 2016. Continue reading
Minnesota Department of Commerce Enters Settlement with Auto-Owners Insurance
Auto-Owners Insurance Company will pay a civil penalty of $10,000 and stop “using a non-preferred glass vendor’s failure to accept the price offered for automobile glass repair or replacement as the sole basis for performing a vehicle inspection,” as part of a settlement agreement with the Minnesota Department of Commerce. Continue reading
BELGIUM—Guardian Glass Moves European Auto Activities Under New Business Unit
Guardian Glass’ automotive activities in Europe have been integrated into a single business. Guardian Automotive combines the company’s European manufacturing facilities, as well as warehousing and distribution services, which were previously run as separate entities. Continue reading
DINOL to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016
DINOL will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. “DINOL has been a proud sponsor of Auto Glass … Continue reading
NSG Pilkington’s Sales Down Due to Strong Yen, But Profit Up
NSG, parent company to Pilkington, reported that revenues for the fiscal first quarter for automotive glass were below the prior year due the strength of the Japanese Yen. However, at a constant exchange rate, revenues were ahead thanks to increased volumes in Europe and North America, according to the company. Continue reading
Seminars for the Industry: How Davids Beat Goliaths
Join us at Auto Glass Week™ 2016, October 5-7, and learn from the best in business. The three-day automotive glass industry event will be held at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center and San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter in San Antonio, Texas. Continue reading
Collision Works Acquires Auto Masters
Oklahoma-based Collision Works has acquired three locations previously owned by Auto Masters, a multi-shop repair organization in Kansas. The deal includes an automotive glass company and a towing service. Continue reading
Acura Requires Camera Calibration After a Windshield Replacement
Honda requires camera calibration and software-based aiming after a windshield replacement for its Acura models, according to a statement from the automaker. Continue reading
ACI to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016
ACI will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. “It’s a great opportunity to meet with the technicians … Continue reading
Safelite Responds to Minnesota Department of Commerce in Court
Whether Safelite Solutions customer service representatives (CSRs) use the word “may” be or “will” be balance billed by out-of-network glass companies does not make a difference, according to a Safelite Group and Safelite Solutions court filing late last week. Both words are truthful, the company said in its response to the Minnesota Department of Commerce in the court filing. Continue reading
Gerber Collision & Glass Acquires Collision Care Centers
The Boyd Group, parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, has purchased a multi-store operation in Ohio and Kentucky consisting of ten collision repair centers. The locations are based in the Cincinnati region. Continue reading
Novus Glass Names New Colorado Franchisees
Lynn and Lorenzo Washington will be joining Novus Glass as franchisees in the Denver, Colo. area. Continue reading
AGC Group’s Looks to Open African Plant through New Deal
AGC Automotive Europe has reached a basic agreement with Induver Holding, a glass manufacturer in Morocco, to set up a joint venture for manufacturing automotive glass destined both for Europe and for the North African markets. Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ 2016 Seminar Line-Up Announced
Auto Glass Week has released its final full schedule. The 2016 event will be held October 5-7 at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio, Texas, and is once again co-sponsored by the Auto Glass Safety Council™, Independent Glass Association, National Glass Association, National Windshield Repair Association™ and AGRR™ magazine. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Take a Closer Look at TechnaGlass’ Competitions
“Arriving on the Utah Motorsports Campus last week for the TechnaGlass automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, I immediately noticed the technicians would be working on racecars.” —Jenna Reed Continue reading
The PipeKnife Company to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016
The PipeKnife Company will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Share Your Expertise on Hot Weather Installations
Do you perform mobile installations in hot weather? If so, what advice do you offer to perform this work safely? Continue reading
PGW Reports Strong Second Quarter Revenue
Pittsburgh Glass Works (PGW) had a strong second quarter, bringing in $210 million in revenue, Nick Zarcone, LKQ Corp.’s chief financial officer, said during a conference call today. LKQ finalized its acquisition of PGW in April of this year. Continue reading
TechnaGlass Continues Growth with Acquisition of Utah-Based The Glass Shoppe
TechnaGlass, a regional leader in the automotive glass repair and replacement industry, today announced the acquisition of The Glass Shoppe in Roosevelt, Utah. Continue reading
Novus Glass Revamps Structure, Processes
Novus Glass is adapting its structure and processes in order to grow the brand. Continue reading
Guangdong pustar adhesives & sealants co., ltd. to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016
Guangdong pustar adhesives & sealants co., ltd. will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Vitro Could Tap PPG’s Research Capabilities to Improve Automotive Glass
PPG has been out of the automotive glass business since divesting its automotive business in 2008 and selling its stake in Pittsburgh Glass Works to LKQ Corp. in late April of this year. However, Mexican-based Vitro is purchasing the assets of PPG’s flat glass business for $750 million. Vitro produces both OE and aftermarket automotive glass and plans to tap PPG’s research center to expand these offerings, said PPG vice president of flat glass Dick Beuke. Continue reading
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens New Florida Location
The Boyd Group Inc., parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, has opened a collision repair center in Titusville, Fla. The center previously operated as Freddy Curtis Body Shop and will now be branded under the Gerber Collision & Glass name. Continue reading
Geico Names Vice President of New York Operations
Geico has moved Rick Hoagland to the role of vice president of its New York regional operations. He succeeds John Pham, who was named vice president of Geico’s Virginia Beach region and the company’s military, motorcycle and recreational vehicles division. Continue reading
Kelly McDonald to Serve as a Featured Speaker of Auto Glass Week™
We aren’t all fans of the same team, we don’t all have the same favorite color and we don’t all come from the same background. Our customers are often very different from us. Auto Glass Week™ favorite Kelly McDonald is back to teach you how to craft an experience for customers of all types that delights them and makes them the best sales tool you have during the event held October 5-7, in San Antonio, Texas. Continue reading
NWRA Publishes Latest E-Newsletter
The National Windshield Repair Association has published it July-August 2016 e-newsletter. Continue reading
NHTSA Recalls Select Motor Coach Industry Vehicles, Windows May Open Unexpectedly
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued a recall on certain model year 2015-2016 Motor Coach Industries (MCI) vehicles that were manufactured April 14, 2015, to February 22, 2016. NHTSA says the mounting hardware of the non-egress windows … Continue reading
Novus® Glass Welcomes New Washington Franchisee
Novus Glass is proud to welcome new franchisee, Aaron Muller. Aaron will be bringing Novus’ automotive glass service to the Seattle, Washington market. A successful entrepreneur since the age of 11, Muller has owned or co-owned more than 20 companies … Continue reading
Auto Windscreens’ Rapid Response Scooter Takes to the Road for Dash-cam Installations
A new Auto Windscreens Rapid Response scooter took to London’s roads this month and is being used to serve customers requiring in-vehicle camera installations – a secondary service offered by the UK windscreen repair and replacement company. The auto windscreens-branded … Continue reading
Most of Shattered Sunroof Lawsuit Against Hyundai Dropped
Billy Glenn, owner of a 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, has filed a lawsuit against Hyundai after the car’s panoramic sunroof allegedly shattered without cause, only to experience the same incident with its replacement. The plaintiff claims the panoramic sunroofs … Continue reading
Reports Surface about Rain Leading to Odd Color of Tesla Model X Windshield
It’s been a tough year for Tesla. Earlier this year, consumers reported visibility issues with the Model X windshield and now reports are coming out about the glass taking on a reddish color after rain. “Is this normal? This is … Continue reading
NHTSA Recalls Select Commercial Bus Models Because of Glass Issue
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Micro Bird MBII, G5 and CT Series commercial buses over a potential glass issue. Continue reading
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens New N.C. Location
The Boyd Group Inc., parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, has acquired collision repair center in Statesville, N.C. The center previously operated as Black’s Collision Repair and served a six-brand dealership group. Continue reading
David Robinson to Serve as Keynote Speaker for Auto Glass Week™ 2016
Don’t miss this session! If you wish to pose a question to The Admiral, please send it to asktheadmiral@agrrmag.com for inclusion. David Robinson: Star Athlete, Star Humanitarian David Robinson was honored as Sports Illustrated’s Ambassador of Sports for their 50th … Continue reading
Minnesota Refutes Safelite’s Motion for Summary Judgment
What a difference a word makes. The Minnesota Department of Commerce says Safelite Group and Safelite Solutions went beyond telling policyholders in the state that they “may” be balance billed by out-of-network glass companies, and says the company told policyholders they “will” or “would” be charged for the difference between what the shop charges and what the insurer pays. So says the Department of Commerce’s court filing in response to Safelite’s motion for summary judgement. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Self Motivation
“As I mentioned last week, my wife and I were recently in San Diego for the Secret Knock. This was my third Secret Knock event and Mary Kay’s first.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Study: Headlights on Small SUVs Aren’t Up To Standards
According to a test performed by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), most small SUVs aren’t earning acceptable ratings when it comes to headlight evaluations. Out of 21 small SUVs tested, none earned a good a rating, and only four are offered with acceptable-rated headlights. There are 47 headlight combinations available for this group of vehicles, but more than two-thirds of them received a poor rating. Continue reading
Former Employee Enters Private Mediation with Safelite
Former Safelite employee Mauro Castillo Vidal and Safelite Group are entering private mediation to discuss discrimination allegations brought by Vidal against the country’s largest installer. The parties have agreed on a private mediator and have asked to court to give them until September 30, 2016 to complete discussions. Continue reading
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens New Oregon Location
The Boyd Group Inc., parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, has acquired a collision repair center in Portland, Ore. Continue reading
Encompass Insurance Companies Gains New President
The Allstate Corp. has named a new president of its Encompass insurance companies. Patrick Macellaro, vice president of Allstate’s investor relations, is taking on this role. He will report to Don Civgin, president of emerging businesses. Continue reading
Miles Driven Momentum Continues
Travel on all roads and streets continued to climb in April 2016, up 2.6 percent or 6.8 billion vehicle miles, compared with April 2015. Month over month, miles drive were down slightly by 0.2 percent. This is according to the latest figures from the Federal Highway Administration, a division of the U.S. Department of Transportation. Continue reading
Novus Names San Francisco-Based Franchisee
Frank Aguero has joined Novus Glass as a franchisee is the California Bay Area. Continue reading
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Purchases Four Sons’ Automotive Glass Division
ABRA Auto Body & Glass has acquired Four Sons Auto Glass, the AGRR division of Gap, Pa.-based Four Sons Glass & Mirror. The purchase will allow ABRA to expand its automotive glass operations in Philadelphia, Pa., according to a statement released by the company. Continue reading
AEGIS Tools International to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™
AEGIS Tools International will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Rest: Mentally & Physically
“My wife, Mary Kay, and I are in San Diego for an event called “The Secret Knock” (secretknock.co). This means we are ‘officially’ taking a few days of vacation.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Volkswagen Recalls Certain Audi Models Over Sunroof Issue
Volkswagen is recalling model-year 2007-2009 Audi A8 and S8 vehicles saying the sunroof glass may not be properly secured and may detach from the car while driving. If the glass detaches from the sunroof frame, it could become airborne while … Continue reading
Have You Made Your Hotel Reservations for Auto Glass Week™?
With Auto Glass Week™ 2016 steadily approaching, now’s the time to finalize your trip to San Antonio and make sure your hotel reservations are in place. Continue reading
GlasWeld Says Its Expert Witness Testimony Should Stand
In the latest development in the GlasWeld-Boyle lawsuit, officials from GlasWeld have filed a response to Mike and Christopher Boyle’s recent motion to exclude expert testimony. Plaintiff GlasWeld says the U.S. Federal District Court of Oregon should not “entertain” the defendants’ motion. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Setting a True Goal
“There was a thread on the glassBYTEs.com™/AGRR™ magazine forum in which someone asked how to prepare the pinchweld for a windshield installation on the new aluminum Ford F-150. I found the written instructions from Ford for that vehicle and posted them.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ 2016 is Three Months Out! Are You Ready?
With Auto Glass Week™ 2016 now just three short months away, are your plans in place to take full advantage of all that is available to you at this year’s event? Continue reading
UNITED KINGDOM—Nationwide Windscreen Services Opens New Branch
United Kingdom-based Nationwide Windscreen Services has opened a new Leicester branch. Continue reading
Competition Registration Closes in One Month
Still on the fence about competing in one of Auto Glass Week’s™ annual competitions? Showcase your talent and vie for the title of “World’s Greatest” this year in San Antonio, Texas, during the event held October 5-7 at the San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter and Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center. Continue reading
2015 Road Fatalities Up 7.7 Percent Over Prior Year
Roadway deaths for 2015 are up 7.7 percent from 2014, according to preliminary data released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Fatalities among occupants of vehicles that rolled over increased by 5 percent over the previous year. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—The Price of Freedom
“I think it is somewhat fitting that we are reading about Brexit this time of year. The British are exiting from the 28-country European Union 240 years after the United States declared its freedom from the British.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Safelite AutoGlass to Hire 900 at New Mexico Center
Safelite Group will create 900 new insurance claims processing and support jobs in Rio Rancho, N.M., over the next four years as it opens a new center, according to Gov. Susana Martinez. Continue reading
Watch the Relationship Between Windshields and Airbags in Action
As many technicians know, windshields play a vital role in a vehicle’s safety system. When airbags deploy, they bounce off the glass and a properly installed windshield helps to ensure the driver and passenger’s safety in a crash. See this relationship in action thanks to crash test footage supplied by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Also, learn the names of this year’s featured speakers during Auto Glass Week™ 2016. We’ll also share more about the second annual golf tournament to be held just prior to Auto Glass Week in our June newscast. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: New Nissan Directives on Windshield Replacement
“I received information recently from an AllData representative that caused me to do a double take. Did you know that Nissan is requiring that the inside rearview mirror be replaced when the windshield is replaced on four of their most popular models?” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens Greenfield Location in Georgia
Boyd Group Inc., parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, has opened a brand new collision repair location in Dallas, Ga. The center is located on the Charles Hardy Parkway, about 20 miles west of Atlanta. Continue reading
Nissan Recommends OEM Glass, Says Some Mirrors Cannot Be Reused
Nissan says OEM glass should be used for windshield replacements and points to the relationship between glass and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) as a reason. Company officials also say some mirrors cannot be reused and address ADAS recalibration, among other topics, in a bevy of position statements released this month. Continue reading
Safelite Asks Court for Summary Judgment in Minnesota Case
Safelite Group and Safelite Solutions have filed a motion for summary judgment in their lawsuit against the Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Commerce. They ask that the U.S. District Court for Minnesota enjoin and declare invalid enforcement of a state statute which excludes the company “from doing business without the opportunity for a hearing.” Continue reading
TODAY’s BLOG: 5 Best SEO Practices for Your Automotive Glass Shop
“The process of showing up on Google when your customers are searching for windshield replacement, or automotive glass repair can be pretty complex when you get down to the technical nuts and bolts, but there are a bunch of things you can do yourself to stack the deck in your favor. By themselves these tips may not rocket you to number one, but as best practices they can sure help.” —Chuck Bankoff Continue reading
Updated: Brexit Impact on the AGRR Industry Remains to Be Seen
With Britain slated to leave the European Union (EU) following a national referendum popularly known as Brexit, much uncertainty remains. This is particularly true for London-based companies such as Belron, which has both a European and global presence. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Giving Back
“I had the opportunity to go to the U.S. Open last weekend in Oakmont, Pa. Amazing event—especially for a ‘wannabe’ who has always had an appreciation for what it takes to get to this level. At least I thought I did.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
4 Recalls of Interest to You
From glass and lighting issues to faulty hood latches, here are four new National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) recalls to have on your radar. Continue reading
Yih-Tair Ind/Flexline® to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™
Yih-Tair Ind/Flexline® will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
AZ Attorney General Alleges Second AGRR Shop Violated Do-Not Call Registry
Arizona Attorney General Mark Brnovich has filed a lawsuit against a Larmore Auto Glass LLC, operating under the names O’Reilly’s Auto Glass and Freedom Auto Glass, over alleged do-not call violations. The company denies the allegations. Continue reading
A.N. Designs, Inc. to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™
A.N. Designs, Inc. will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
PGW Asks Appellate Court to Overturn Verdict
Pittsburgh Glass Works (PGW) has filed a motion with the Third Circuit Court of Appeals to overturn the verdict in a case where the jury awarded former employee Rudolph Karlo $922,060 in an employment discrimination case. Continue reading
SIKA Global Automotive Adds New Personnel
New executives have joined SIKA Global Automotive’s North American team at the Madison Heights, Mich., and Grandview, Mo., facilities, according to the company. Continue reading
Precision Replacement Parts Returns as a Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™
Precision Replacement Parts will return as a Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. “Auto Glass Week … Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Planning for Retirement
“My best friend, Greg, retired last Friday. Sixty years old and he was able to retire. I hired him in my previous life in 2003. (The same year I met my wife Mary Kay—a very good year!) He retired from that company—13 years and several positions later.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
The Boyles Seek to Exclude Expert Witness Testimony
Mike Boyle, doing business as Surface Dynamix, and his son Christopher, have filed a motion in the U.S. Federal District Court of Oregon, asking the court to issue an order excluding the testimony of expert witnesses Justin Price and Randy Mackey for plaintiff GlasWeld in the alleged patent infringement lawsuit. Continue reading
Glass Mechanix Solutions Returns as a Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™
Glass Mechanix Solutions will return as a Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Mastering the Cold Knife
“You may be thinking cold knives? Why is Bob writing about cold knives when there are power tools and wire-out tools that are taking over the automotive glass removal process? The answer is because it hasn’t happened yet, as much as tool companies and safety advocates would like to make that case. The cold knife is still the most popular tool for glass removal.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
eDirectGlass to Return as Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™
eDirectGlass will serve as a Bronze Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens New Repair Location in Washington State
The Boyd Group Inc., parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, has acquired and opened a collision repair center in Airway Heights, Wash., about nine miles west of Spokane. The center previously operated as City West Auto Body. Continue reading
Arizona Attorney General Says Glass Shop Violated Do Not Call Registry
Arizona Attorney General Mark Brnovich has sued Prescott Valley, Ariz.-based A.J.’s Auto Glass over alleged do not call violations. He says the AGRR company allegedly made unwanted phone calls to consumers listed on the National Do Not Call Registry to advertise windshield repair and replacement services. Continue reading
Now That You’ve Registered, What’s Next?
You’ve taken the first step towards joining us at this year’s Auto Glass Week™ by registering but have you also made the following plans for your trip as well? Continue reading
Farmers Insurance Customers Can File Glass Claims Via New System
Farmers Insurance has introduced an Enterprise First Notice of Loss (EFNOL) system that gives customers one platform to report vehicle claims, including automotive glass claims, according to a company spokesperson. Continue reading
Glass.net Returns as a Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™
Glass.net will return as a Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
PGW Says Age Discrimination Allegations Should Be Dismissed
Pittsburgh Glass Works (PGW) has responded to an appeal by former employees who allege age discrimination after they were terminated as a part of a reduction in workforce for the company in 2009. The company says the Third District Court of Appeals should uphold the lower court’s decision and the appeal should be dismissed. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Building a Team
“I love sports—playing, watching and coaching. Two examples from the past week come to mind about how different leaders built their teams.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
NHTSA Seeking Public Comment on Crash Test Vehicle
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has teamed up with the European New Car Assessment Program, Thatcham and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) to develop a specialized 3D crash model to test vehicles that include Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). The agency has scheduled a public meeting to allow stakeholders to view the vehicle and offer comment. Continue reading
Safelite Group and Former Technician Continue Settlement Discussions
Safelite Group and Yadir Ontiveros, a former technician who says the company violated Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) by paying on a piece-rate basis, have not reached a settlement agreement. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Is Tesla’s Model X Windshield Too Big?
“‘Something we worked very hard on is that the windshield is panoramic,’ said Elon Musk, Tesla CEO, when introducing the vehicle last year. However, the automaker has now released a free sunshade that blocks the top part of the windshield for owners. Doesn’t this kind of defeat the purpose?” —Jenna Reed Continue reading
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Launches Career Development Academy
ABRA Auto Body & Glass is now enrolling students into its Career Development Academy. The academy, located in Eagan, Minn., is set to open later this summer. Continue reading
Central Glass Credits Guardian Deal for Bolstering Full-Year Automotive Glass Sales
Central Glass Co., parent company to Carlex Glass America, reported that fiscal 2015 full-year sales for its automotive glass segment were strengthened by the 2014 purchase of two Guardian subsidiaries. Continue reading
After Winning Company Competition, Two U.K. Techs to Compete at Auto Glass Week™
United Kingdom-based Auto Windscreens’ technicians Lloyd Cullen and Steve Abrahams have secured a trip to compete at Auto Glass Week™ 2016 in San Antonio, Texas, by taking home first and second place in the company’s AGRR competition held this month. Continue reading
Early Bird Deepest Discounts End Friday for Auto Glass Week™ 2016
We know you’re busy, we know you keep meaning to, but the truth is … there is no time left to procrastinate. Continue reading
Chrysler Says There Are No Grounds for Class Action over Alleged Sunroof Defect
Chrysler vehicle owners who filed a nationwide class action lawsuit alleging that a defect in their vehicles’ sunroofs cause them to leak have no grounds for their case, according to Chrysler. Continue reading
Creative Extruded Products Inc. to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™
Creative Extruded Products Inc. will serve as a Cobalt Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Donates $81,000
ABRA Auto Body & Glass has donated $81,000 to the Collision Repair Education Foundation to help support education programs, schools and students. Continue reading
Woman Arrested After Driving into Gate of PGW Float Glass Plant
A 23-year-old Greenville, Pa., woman was arrested Saturday night after crashing her vehicle into the main gate of the Pittsburgh Glass Works (PGW) float glass plant in Meadville, Pa., according to state police. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Remembering Where You Came From
“This past weekend I had a chance to go home, back to Rockford, Ill. where I grew up. My cousin’s son (is that my second cousin?) was getting married and my wife Mary Kay and I decided to go back and enjoy the family event.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
NWRA Releases Latest E-Newsletter
The National Windshield Repair Association has published its latest e-newsletter. Continue reading
Rosekind Says Bus Operator Visibility Should be a Priority
Mark Rosekind, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) administrator, called on the industry to make changes in bus manufacturing that makes operator visibility a priority during a recent Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) Forum on Bus Operator Visibility in New York City. Continue reading
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens New Location in Tulsa, Okla.
The Boyd Group Inc., parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, has acquired a collision repair center in Tulsa, Okla. The center previously operated as Desert Rose Collision and now operates under the Gerber Collision & Glass name. Continue reading
Mainstreet Computers Returns as Sponsor for Auto Glass Week™
Mainstreet Computers Inc. will return as a Cobalt Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Hail Loss Claims Under Auto Insurance Policies Slip Over 3-Year Period
Hail loss claims under personal auto insurance policies from January 1, 2013 to December 31, 2015 declined by 16.4 percent. This is according to a three-year analysis just released by the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB). Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Pulling Cowls: Let’s End the Debate
“In July 2012, I wrote a blog post about the debate between pulling cowls vs. tucking the glass when replacing windshields. The question came up again recently.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Early Bird Deepest Discounts End in One Week!
Early bird registration closes next week on June 10, so register now to start reaping the benefits and guarantee your spot at Auto Glass Week™ 2016! Continue reading
TechnaGlass Accelerates Expansion in Colorado
TechnaGlass, a regional leader in the automotive glass repair and replacement industry, announced it has significantly expanded its footprint in the state of Colorado with five retail locations, providing full market coverage in Denver and Colorado Springs. Continue reading
Miles Driven Continue Upward Trajectory
Travel on all roads and streets continued to climb in March 2016, up 5 percent, or 13 billion vehicle miles, compared to March 2015. Month over month, miles driven spiked by 17.8 percent. This is according to the latest figures from the Federal Highway Administration, a division of the U.S. Department of Transportation. Continue reading
Daimler Vans and Volvo Recall Vehicles Over Glazing Issues
Daimler Vans is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner Sprinter 2500 and 3500 vehicles saying the windows could separate during a crash. Volvo is also issuing a recall for certain model year 2016 XC90 vehicles due to a potential sunroof issue. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Ramifications of Your Decisions
“Waco, Texas, is in the news again. It isn’t about the Branch Davidians that has haunted Waco since 1993. It isn’t about motorcycle gang shootout from 2015. It isn’t about our Fixer Upper TV show that is taking the country by storm. It is about Baylor University and the firing of the football coach Art Briles and sanctions to the athletic director as well as changes with school president Ken Starr.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Frank Werner, a Novus Founder, Passes Away
Dr. Frank David Werner Sr., who patented a two-part epoxy windshield repair resin, died May 7 at age 94 in Jackson, Wy. In 1972, Werner partnered with Gerald Keinath and founded a business in the basement of Keinath’s home in suburban Minneapolis that became Novus. Continue reading
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens New Oklahoma Location
The Boyd Group Inc., parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, has acquired a collision repair center in Sapulpa, Okla., about 15 miles south of Tulsa. The center previously operated as Finishing Touches Auto Body Shop. Continue reading
Mygrant Glass Returns as a Sponsor for Auto Glass Week™
Mygrant Glass will return as a Silver Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. “We were very … Continue reading
Safelite AutoGlass Markets Through Online Content
Safelite AutoGlass appears to be investing in paid advertorials and native advertising to ramp up its market share. The company is utilizing paid search and “significantly” investing in digital advertising, said Gary Lubner, CEO of Belron, in D’Ieteren’s annual 2015 report. Continue reading
Carlex Returns as a Sponsor for Auto Glass Week™
Carlex will return as a Silver Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ Competition Spots are Limited, so Register to Compete Today!
Showcase your talent and vie for the title of “World’s Greatest” at this year’s Auto Glass Week™ 2016 in San Antonio, Texas. Continue reading
Audi Engineer Outlines Next Steps to Autonomous Vehicles
What is next on the path to fully automated vehicles? Kaushik Raghu, senior staff engineer at Audi, said the answer is traffic jam piloting. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Keep Your Customers Coming Back
“Shopping at a big box retailer the other day, I was struck by the lessons that could be learned in customer service.” —Jenna Reed Continue reading
Federal Judge Denies PGW’s Motion to Overturn Verdict
Late last week, a Federal Judge denied Pittsburgh Glass Works’ (PGW) motion to overturn the verdict in a case where the jury awarded former employee Rudolph Karlo $922,060 in an employment discrimination case. PGW had asked the court to alter or amend the judgement and filed a motion for a new trial. Continue reading
LKQ Corp. Joins S&P 500 Index
LKQ Corp., parent company to Pittsburgh Glass Works, announced the company is now listed on the S&P 500 Index. This became effective at the close of trading on May 20, 2016. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Lead Like You Are Going On Vacation
“We got a call from a close friend last year about doing a cruise on the Danube River in Europe this May. I knew this was something that my wife Mary Kay wanted to do for her 50th so of course I said yes! (I didn’t realize she wanted to do the one in France … not Germany, Austria or Hungary).” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Hyundai: California is Not the Right Court for Alleged Sunroof Defect Lawsuit
Hyundai argues that U.S. District Court of California is not the right jurisdiction for a lawsuit brought by vehicles owners who say the automaker’s panoramic sunroofs “spontaneously shatter.” Continue reading
NSG Pilkington to Take Ohio Float Line Offline for Repair
NSG Pilkington will invest an estimated $40 million this summer to repair one of its two float glass lines at its Rossford, Ohio, facility, according a statement released from the company. The Ohio facility produces float glass, some of which supplies Pilkington’s original equipment manufacturing and aftermarket fabrication of automotive glass. Continue reading
Production Underway at PGW Joint Venture Plant in China
Pittsburgh Glass Works (PGW) has opened a new automotive glass manufacturing facility in Zibo, China. The plant was built as a part of a joint venture with Shandong Jinjing Science & Technology Stock Co. The joint venture is called Shandong … Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Part 2: Protect Yourself Against Injury
“Last week we talked about the protection every technician should do to prolong his or her career and reduce the chances of pain and injury. This week let’s talk about protecting the vehicle from possible damage.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: A-Don’t-Miss Event
“Do you have questions about how to recalibrate Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) after a windshield replacement? Auto Glass Week™ 2016 in San Antonio, Texas, is just the place to find answers.” —Jenna Reed Continue reading
NHTSA Extends Public Comment Period for Automated Guidance
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has extended its deadline for industry insight on the agency’s development of guidelines for the “Safe Deployment and Operation of Automated Vehicle Safety Technologies.” Continue reading
Be Part of Auto Glass Week™ 2016: Sponsorships/Space Selections Now Available!
Join the co-sponsoring organizations of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 as we create a world-class event specifically for our industry! Auto Glass Week 2016 will be held this October 5-7 in San Antonio, Texas, at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center and the San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter. Continue reading
Mitchell International Publishes 3rd Edition Older Model NAGS Book
Due to high industry demand, Mitchell International is now publishing a National Auto Glass Specifications (NAGS) book that covers model years 2000 to 2010, according to the company. Continue reading
Boyd Autobody & Glass Acquires British Columbia Licensed Partner
Winnipeg, Canada-based the Boyd Group Inc., parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America in the U.S., has acquired a location operated by one of its long-time licensed partners. Boyd Autobody & Glass “Galaxie” has been a licensed partner since Sept 1997 and has operated in Burnaby, British Columbia, since 1977. Continue reading
Benson Autoglass Returns as a Sponsor for Auto Glass Week™
Benson Autoglass will return as a Cobalt Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
NSG Pilkington Reports Robust AGR Revenue
NSG, parent company to Pilkington, reported “robust volumes” in the automotive glass replacement market for the fiscal year, according the company’s report. Continue reading
Autoglass® Names New Executives
United Kingdom-based Autoglass® has appointed Nick Cleary and Sarah Ringrose to the newly created roles of customer and digital director, as well as head of customer experience, respectively. Autoglass® is owned by Belron. Continue reading
TODAY’s BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Confidence
“I’m not sure if I made up the phrase ‘shooting yourself hot’ but it is something that I believed in as a kid trying to play basketball. Little did I know that it would be a cornerstone for business.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Boyd Group Reports Double-Digit Growth in Sales
Boyd Group Income Fund, which owns Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, reported that first-quarter sales increased by 24.3 percent to $270.5 million USD ($350.4 million CAD), compared to $217.6 million USD ($281.8 million CAD) in the prior year. In addition to acquiring 20 collision repair facilities during the period, the company also purchased Ryan’s Auto Glass, which includes four locations serving the Cincinnati and Dayton, Ohio, area. Continue reading
Increased Automotive Glass Shipments Bolster AGC Group’s Bottom Line
Asahi Glass Co. (AGC Group), parent company to AGC Automotive Americas, reported first-quarter net sales for its glass division of $1.6 billion USD (170.9 billion Yen), up 1.1 percent from the same period in last year. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Protect Yourself Against Injury
“An important aspect of automotive glass installation that is overlooked at our peril is protection. Protection is a term that can be used in two different contexts. One, the protection against bodily injury and two, protecting the vehicle from possible damage during installation. Both are important steps for the well-being of the technician and the successful and profitable conclusion of the installation.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ 2016 Early Bird Deepest Discounts End in One Month
Early bird registration for Auto Glass Week™ 2016 closes on June 10, so now is the time to book your trip and secure your spot before the best discounts end! This year’s event will be held October 5-7 at the San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter and Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center. Early bird registration will save you time and money, up to $80 versus on-site registration. In addition to the early bird discounts, we are also offering a three for two special—if you purchase two full registrations, you get a third one FREE. Continue reading
Do Self-Driving Vehicles Need Rear-View Mirrors? NHTSA Weighs In
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) chief counsel recently interpreted a number of provisions in the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) as they would apply to Google’s self-driving vehicles (SDV). The tech giant asked NHTSA for its feedback on a variety of topics, including rear-view mirrors and the need for windshields wipers, among others. Continue reading
11 Fuyao Glass America Workers File OSHA Complaint
Eleven Fuyao Glass America workers filed a written complaint today with the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) saying they are “extremely concerned about the safety of our workplace,” according to a copy of the complaint provided by the United Auto Workers (UAW). Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Family
“Several years ago I joined a men’s group through church that met weekly to work on our faith. One of the study aids we used was Robert Lewis’s Authentic Manhood series. The three sessions were: The Quest for Authentic Manhood, Winning at Work and Home, and the Great Adventure.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Volvo Given Go Ahead to Reopen Discovery in Sunroof Case
The U.S. District Court for New Jersey has reopened discovery for Volvo in the alleged sunroof defect case brought by vehicle owners. The suit was filed in 2010 in U.S. District Court by Joanne Neale of Needham, Mass., and seven other owners, who asked for class action status. Continue reading
Judge Denies the Boyles’ Motion to Dismiss
The judge overseeing the GlasWeld-Boyle case in the U.S. District Court of Oregon, Eugene division, has denied a motion by Mike Boyle and his son Christopher to dismiss the alleged patent infringement lawsuit for lack of subject matter jurisdiction. Continue reading
U.K.—National Windscreens Launches Country Wide Calibration Service
Following several months of a pilot program, National Windscreens has launched a United Kingdom-based calibration service for windshield-mounted cameras, which are an integral part of the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). Continue reading
C.R. Laurence Returns as a Sponsor for Auto Glass Week™
C.R. Laurence Co. Inc. will return as a Cobalt Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Spring Hail Happens and Can Often Increase Business in Small Path
Spring usually brings severe thunderstorms for various parts of the country. The hail that can accompany these storms often increases AGRR business in a path that can be relatively small. Two companies can be located in the town and the weather may only be bad for one. Continue reading
Former Acting U.S. Surgeon General to Speak at Auto Glass Week™ 2016
World-renowned dermatologist and former acting Surgeon General of the United States Dr. Boris D. Lushniak will be a speaker at Auto Glass Week 2016. The event will be held at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio, Texas, and takes place October 5–7. Continue reading
What’s New with Auto Glass Week™ 2016?
There have been several new developments recently with our annual three-day international event, Auto Glass Week™ 2016. The upcoming show will be held October 5-7 at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center and the San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter in San Antonio, Texas, and will feature the attendee-favorite automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor full of top-notch industry suppliers. Continue reading
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens Rocky Mount, N.C., Location
The Boyd Group Inc. has acquired and reopened a collision repair center in Rocky Mount, N.C., under its Gerber Collision & Glass brand. The location previously operated as Faith Autobody. Continue reading
U.K.—National Windscreens Named AGRR Service Provider for Connected Solutions
United Kingdom-based National Windscreens has developed a strategic alliance with fleet and insurance solutions provider Industry Insights. The company is the sole provider of automotive glass repair and replacement services in the Connected Solutions program operated by Industry Insights. Continue reading
Report: Younger Consumers Show More Trust in Automated Technology
More than half of Generation Y and Z vehicle owners trust self-driving technology, according to a new report from J.D. Power. Older populations such as Generation X, Baby Boomers and Pre-Boomers aren’t quite so trusting. Continue reading
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Searches for New CEO
Duane Rouse, CEO of ABRA Auto Body & Glass, plans step down as chief executive to become vice chairman of the company’s board of directors. Rouse will continue to serve as CEO until a replacement is appointed, according to the company. ABRA has begun its search. Continue reading
Parties Ask Court to Reschedule Expert Disclosures in Campfield-Safelite Case
The parties in the Campfield-Safelite suit have asked the court to reschedule the initial expert disclosures since the court has not yet ruled on a motion to dismiss. Plaintiff Rich Campfield, founder of Ultra Bond in Grand Junction, Colo., filed a lawsuit in August 2015 alleging misleading advertising by Safelite in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio. Continue reading
GlasWeld: Injunction No Longer Possible
In a response to a motion to dismiss part of the alleged patent infringement case by Mike Boyle (doing business as Surface Dynamic) and his son Christopher, GlasWeld agrees that an injunction cannot be entered on an expired patent, but the company’s attorney says the expiration of the patent does not impact subject matter jurisdiction. Continue reading
LKQ Revamps 2016 Financial Guidance Based on PGW, Rhiag Acquisitions
Thanks to the acquisitions of Pittsburgh Glass Works (PGW) and Rhiag, a Pan-European business-to-business distributor of aftermarket spare vehicle parts, LKQ Corp. has pushed its 2016 guidance to higher figures for three out of four financial metrics. This is according to the company’s first-quarter financial report released today. Continue reading
Safelite AutoGlass Donates $340,000 to Afrika Tikkun Charity
A record-setting $340,000 raised from the 7th Annual Safelite Challenge will be donated to Afrika Tikkun, a charitable organization co-founded by Bertie Lubner who also was the co-founder of Safelite AutoGlass’ parent company, Belron. Continue reading
Minnesota Commerce Commissioner Responds to Safelite’s Interrogatory
The Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Commerce has objected to Safelite Group and Safelite Solutions interrogatory questions in the U.S. Federal District Court for Minnesota. Safelite Group and Safelite Solutions filed a lawsuit against the Commissioner in April 2015 … Continue reading
February Miles Driven Top Last Year’s Figure
Travel on all roads and streets continued to climb in February 2016, up 5.6 percent, or 12.4 billion vehicle miles, compared to February 2015. This is according to the latest figures from the Federal Highway Administration, a division of the U.S. Department of Transportation. Continue reading
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens Ohio Location
The Boyd Group Inc. has acquired a collision repair center in Hudson, Ohio, previously operated as Clarke Collision Center. The location will now operate under the Gerber Collision & Glass moniker. Hudson is in northeast Ohio, about 28 miles south … Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ 2016 Welcomes Back Dow Automotive Systems as Sponsor
Dow Automotive Systems will return as a Bronze Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Lubner Discusses Belron Trends in D’Ieteren’s Annual Report
Belron faces declining market conditions in many countries, though, a second strong winter in the United States in 2015 helped to bolster business, says Gary Lubner, CEO of Belron, in D’Ieteren’s annual 2015 report. Continue reading
Crinamex By VITRO to Serve as Gold Sponsor for Auto Glass Week™ 2016
Crinamex By VITRO will serve as a Gold Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Difficult People
“My wife Mary Kay conducted a Lunch and Learn this week for Dwyer Group’s employees on Dealing with Difficult People. I can hear several you already thinking ‘she must be an expert because of the person she has to deal with at home!’” —Mark Liston Continue reading
OSHA Issues Citation to Fuyao Glass America
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued one citation, alleging two “serious” violations at Moraine, Ohio-based Fuyao Glass America. The monetary penalty associated with the citation is $14,000. “In a project as large and complex as this is, it’s not surprising there are going to be areas that we can improve in safety,” says John Gauthier, president of Fuyao Glass America. Continue reading
Belron Says Safelite AutoGlass Served a Record Number of Customers
“2015 was a much better year for Belron,” according to D’Ieteren’s 2015 financial report. Belron’s sales were up 13.2 percent, including a 4.7 percent organic increase and an 8.1 percent positive currency translation impact. Belgium-based D’Ieteren owns Belron, which in turn owns Safelite AutoGlass in the United States. Continue reading
LKQ Corp. Finalizes Acquisition of PGW
LKQ Corp. has completed its acquisition of Pittsburgh Glass Works (PGW) from private equity firm Kohlberg & Co. LLC and PPG Industries Inc. for an enterprise value of $635 million. Continue reading
“The Cog” in the Automotive Wheel
“I would like to share a Honda commercial sent to me by my friend Mark Daniels, a technical advisor for GGG-Gold Glass Group, AEGIS Tools International Inc. and other companies in the automotive glass industry. This video, which ran in Europe several years ago, is called ‘The Cog’ and it intrigued me because it contains several references to automotive glass. The video is the type of ‘Rube Goldberg’ invention which takes a simple task and creates a series of complicated steps to accomplish the action.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Hyundai Seeks Dismissal of Class Action Over Allegedly “Spontaneously Shattering” Sunroofs
Hyundai has asked the U.S. District Court of California to dismiss a class action lawsuit brought by vehicles owners who say the automaker’s panoramic sunroofs “spontaneously shatter.” Continue reading
Former PGW Employees Appeal Age Discrimination Allegations to Third District Court
Former Pittsburgh Glass Works (PGW) employees have appealed a lower court’s decision to the Third District Court of Appeals. The former employees allege age discrimination after they were terminated as a part of a reduction in workforce for the company in 2009. Continue reading
GUEST BLOG: OH NO! THE CREATURES ARE COMING!
“’How to Attract Millennials.’ ‘Millennials in the Workforce.’ ‘Working with Millennials.’ You see some variation of this almost on a daily basis, whether it’s the theme of an article, a webinar or some other related discussion. It’s as if everyone is preparing for the second coming of the Gremlins or something. (Or maybe the third coming … I think there was a sequel. Not sure how well it did, though.) —Nick St. Denis Continue reading
Diatech Returns as Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™
Diatech will return as a Cobalt Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Bertie Lubner Passes Away
Bertie Lubner, the second generation behind PG Group (formerly Plate Glass), and one of the founders of the company that eventually became Belron International, has passed away. Lubner died yesterday at age 85 in Johannesburg, South Africa, just one day shy of his 61st wedding anniversary. Continue reading
Tesla Receives Small Number of Visibility Questions about Model X Windshield
Some Tesla Model X owners are experiencing visibility issues with their panoramic windshields. “We have received only a small number of questions from Model X customers about the windshield and have taken action to address these unique cases,” according to a Tesla spokesperson. Continue reading
AGSC to Hold Training Program in Seattle in June; Includes Free Certification Testing
The Auto Glass Safety Council™ (AGSC) will hold a training and accreditation program in suburban Seattle this June. The course will be held on Thursday, June 2, at the Hyatt Regency Bellevue in Bellevue, Wash. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Taking it to the Next Level
“Leadership means taking things to the next level. Sometimes it is in industry. Other times in business. Still other times in sports. This week I’ve had a chance to experience this at all three levels. In each situation leadership had to be involved to ‘take it up.’” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Safelite Denies Allegations it Violated the Americans with Disabilities Act
Safelite Group has denied allegations it violated the Americans with Disabilities Act in the U.S. District Court, in the Northern District of California. The allegation was made by Christina Castillo, an individual with a disability, according to court documents, who was employed in an inventory control position by Safelite from April 2007 to December 2007. Continue reading
SIKA Restricts SWH’s Voting Rights at Annual General Meeting
Saint-Gobain’s battle for control of SIKA continues on. The latest development came this week when the board of directors for Swiss specialty chemical company SIKA again restricted the voting rights of Schenker-Winkler Holding (SWH) to 5 percent of all registered shares during the annual general shareholders meeting. French conglomerate Saint-Gobain plans to acquire SWH, thus gaining majority voting rights in SIKA. Saint-Gobain has challenged the restricted voting rights’ strategy by SIKA’s board in the Swiss Zug Court. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Training Myths
“A comment recently made on the glassBYTEs.com™/AGRR™ magazine Forum has raised a question we should all consider. In full disclosure, the comment was made regarding Auto Glass University (AGU), a training program I own, although this post is not meant as a commercial. I am giving you my opinion on the art of automotive glass training. I hope it can be used by everyone in the industry to be more effective in their training of new technicians, no matter where or by whom the training is conducted.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
From the PGA Tour to Auto Glass Week™
Want to play on the same turf as the pros? Let’s make it happen. Tune into the PGA Tour’s Valero Texas Open this weekend and watch the best of the best make their way around TPC San Antonio. Then log into http://www.autoglassweek.com/events and register for the second annual industry golf tournament, which will be played on that same course. Continue reading
Tennessee OSHA Completes Carlex Plant Inspection After Workplace Accident
The death of Catherine White, 51, of Lebanon, Tenn., in a workplace accident at the Nashville, Tenn., Carlex Glass America windshield plant triggered an inspection by the Tennessee Occupational Safety and Health Administration (TOSHA). The inspection resulted in the allegation of one citation, which includes two “serious” violations, and a monetary penalty of $9,000, according to the TOSHA report. Carlex contested one of the violations. The incident occurred on January 22, 2016. Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ Schedule at a Glance Now Online
To get a better understanding of what to expect at this year’s Auto Glass Week™, the schedule at a glance has now been posted on the official event website. This should help give you a glimpse into all that is available to gain by attending the 2016 event! Continue reading
AAA Mid-Atlantic Auto Glass to Be Rebranded Safelite AutoGlass
AAA Mid-Atlantic Auto Glass (AMAG) branding will quickly transition to Safelite AutoGlass as a part of the acquisition, says Melina Metzger, public relations manager for Safelite Group. Safelite Group, Safelite AutoGlass’ parent company, is acquiring substantially all the automotive glass repair and replacement assets from AMAG. Continue reading
Boyles Say Patent Has Expired
Mike Boyle (doing business as Surface Dynamic) and his son Christopher have filed a motion to dismiss a portion of the lawsuit filed by GlasWeld over alleged patent infringement. The Boyles say one of the patents at the center of the case expired on April 5, 2016. Continue reading
Anytime Auto Glass Named Finalist for the Arizona BBB Torch Award
Anytime Auto Glass, a Mesa, Ariz.-based AGRR company, is one of three finalists for the Arizona Better Business Bureau Torch Award for companies 11-20 people in size. At five years old, the company was the youngest to be named a finalist this year in its class. Continue reading
Delta Kits Returns as Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™
Delta Kits will return as a Cobalt Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Safelite Acquires AAA Mid-Atlantic Auto Glass
COLUMBUS, Ohio – Safelite® Group, Safelite AutoGlass® parent company, has reached an agreement to acquire substantially all vehicle glass repair and replacement assets from AAA Mid-Atlantic Auto Glass LLC (AMAG). AMAG was a joint venture owned by wholly owned subsidiaries of AAA Club Alliance and Club Assist. Continue reading
NHTSA Gets an Earful about Developing Guidelines for Automated Vehicles
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) held its first public meeting Friday about autonomous vehicles. It is seeking industry insight to develop guidelines for the “Safe Deployment and Operation of Automated Vehicle Safety Technologies.” While NHTSA supports this technology’s rapid introduction, those that took the microphone by and large asked the safety administration to slow down its timetable to set guidance, saying there are still more questions than answers. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Timeless!
“Last Tuesday evening my wife Mary Kay wanted to go up to Dallas and see a group of senior citizens. They play music together and are really good—especially for a bunch of senior citizens.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
AAA: Consumers May Not Be Ready for Autonomous But They Want ADAS
As automakers and technology companies move full steam ahead to produce fully autonomous vehicles in the near future, a big question is whether or not consumers are ready for self-driving vehicles? New study results from AAA indicate consumers may not be ready. Three-quarters of Americans are “afraid” to ride in a self-driving vehicle, according to the research. Continue reading
TechnaGlass Teams Up with Satmetrix to Improve Customer Service
Salt Lake City, Utah-based TechnaGlass has partnered with Satmetrix, the co-creator of the Net Promoter methodology. The regional AGRR company will deploy Satmetrix’s methodology and software to further improve its customer service. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Fuel Economy and Automotive Glass
“Last weekend I read about the Obama administration’s negotiated agreements with auto companies on new fuel economy standards as dictated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). In my classes I mention the fact that many of the new technological advances in automotive design and features are directly related to that agreement negotiated with the carmakers.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
GGG – Gold Glass Group Returns as Copper Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™
GGG – Gold Glass Group will return as a Copper Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
U.K.-Based Autoglass® Launches ADAS Calibration Protocol Nationwide
United Kingdom-based Autoglass® is rolling out its new solution to calibrate Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) throughout the country. The company is also working on an industry code of practice for calibration, which is due for publication later this year. Continue reading
Vitro to Expand its Automotive Glass Production Capacity
Mexico-based Vitro is building a production plant for the automotive glass replacement market as well as a new OE automated line for the bending process. The company is investing $35 million USD to expand operations and plans to have both additions in operation in 2017. Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ Competitions Return for 2016
AGRR™ magazine’s competitions return for their 11th year. The Pilkington Clear Advantage Auto Glass Technician Competition (AGTO) and the GlasWeld Windshield Repair Competition in Honor of Walt Gorman (WRO) are back for Auto Glass Week™ 2016. The exhibition is set … Continue reading
Judge Issues New Ruling in GlasWeld-Boyle Case
The judge overseeing the GlasWeld-Boyle case in the U.S. District Court of Oregon, Eugene division, has denied Mike Boyle and his son Christopher’s request for an extension of time to file Daubert motions. The judge granted the defendants an extension to respond to GlasWeld’s supplemental memorandum in support of partial summary judgement. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Celebrate!
“By Monday night the fans in either Chapel Hill, N.C., or Philadelphia will celebrate their team as the NCAA champs. These unpaid winning athletes will be able to say, for the rest of their lives, they were on that team.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Tesla’s Model 3 Features Continuous Backlite that Turns into Roof Glass
Elon Musk, Tesla CEO, unveiled the Model 3 Thursday night to a packed house. Similar to the Model X, glass plays a huge role in the vehicle’s design. The rear backlite stretches up and over the back roof of the vehicle. “The rear roof area is actually one continuous pane of glass,” said Musk. Continue reading
Gerber Collision & Glass Adds Indiana Location
The Boyd Group, parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, has acquired a multi-store operation in Indiana consisting of six collision repair centers located in the Indianapolis region. The centers previously operated as Collision Cure Body Werks, … Continue reading
IIHS Tests 31 Midsize Cars, Only 1 Headlight System Receives “Good” Rating
If one of your customers complain of visibility issues at nighttime, it is most likely not the windshield, it could be the headlights. This is according to new research from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Continue reading
GlasWeld Returns as a Platinum Repair Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™
GlasWeld will return as a Platinum Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event featuring automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor, is proud to once again welcome GlasWeld as a named sponsor of the GlasWeld Windshield Repair Competition. Continue reading
Newscast: Learn the Latest on ADAS
How will Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) impact your business? Gain insight into this technology and join us as we go behind the scenes at the Novus Super Session in our newscast. And learn some of the topics on the agenda for Auto Glass Week™ 2016. Continue reading
Registered and prospective Auto Glass Week™ competitors can now view the official competition rules and regulations as well as annotated score sheets online. Currently in their 11th year, the GlasWeld Windshield Repair Competition in Honor of Walt Gorman (WRO) and the Pilkington Clear Advantage Auto Glass Technician Competition (AGTO) are back for Auto Glass Week 2016. The exhibition floor is set to be held October 5-7 at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center. This year’s event will encompass everything from educational seminars and exhibits to networking opportunities, as well as the attendee-favorite competitions and the all new Closing Awards Concert and Party. Continue reading
Binswanger Recapitalizes Through New Minority Equity Owner
Yukon Partners, a provider of mezzanine capital for middle market private equity transactions, has partnered with Grey Mountain Partners to recapitalize Binswanger Enterprises. The company has acquired a minority equity interest in the Memphis, Tenn.-based full service glass provider. Continue reading
Rich Harrison Joins TechnaGlass as Minority Equity Owner
Former Belron and Safelite AutoGlass executive Rich Harrison has become a minority equity owner in Utah-based TechnaGlass, a chain of 36 stores with locations in Utah, Wyoming, Nevada, Oregon, Colorado, New Mexico, Mississippi, Kentucky and Ohio. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—A Real Fixer Upper!
“Were you raised in a home like mine where it was drilled in your head that your “word is your bond” and that your actions in life would determine your reputation? When I first heard this as a child I didn’t even know what a ‘bond’ was! Over the years, however, I quickly learned how important a reputation needs to be.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: The Intersection of Collision Body Shops and Glass
“When airbags deploy in a crash, chances are good the glass is damaged. The collision repair and AGRR industries’ relationship goes back for decades. However, in recent years, it appears these ties have become stronger.” —Jenna Reed Continue reading
South African Competition Commission Raids Glass Companies
The South African Competition Commission (SACC) conducted dawn raids on Shatterprufe, PG Glass, Glasfit and Digicall on Wednesday after it received two allegations of “price fixing.” Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Automatic Braking and the Glass Industry
“I read with interest the article recently printed in Automotive News and linked on glassBYTEs.com™ “Automatic Braking Standard: ‘New Model’ or ‘Safety Sellout’?” The article outlines the debate between having regulatory mandated braking systems in new vehicles versus a voluntary buy-in by carmakers. Either way, this change is coming and the automotive glass industry needs to be prepared.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
CEO Looks to Double Boyd Group’s Footprint in Five Years; Acquires J&M Body Shops
Canadian-based Boyd Group Income Fund, parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America in the United States, among others, reported today that 2015 sales grew by 39.1 percent to $757. 4 million USD ($1.2 billion CAD) year-over-year. The company will likely double in size over the next five years, Boyd Group’s CEO said during the conference call. Continue reading
Belgium Terrorist Attacks Occur in D’Ieteren’s Backyard
More than 30 people have died and dozens more injured in terrorists attacks carried out at an airport and metro station in Brussels, Belgium, today. This news hits home for the AGRR industry because the city is headquarters to D’Ieteren, parent company to Belron, which in turn owns Safelite AutoGlass in the United States. Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ 2016 Welcomes Pittsburgh Glass Works Back as Sponsor
Pittsburgh Glass Works (PGW) will return as a Gold Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Glass America Acquires Ryan’s Auto Glass
Glass America, a subsidiary of the Boyd Group, has purchased Ryan’s Auto Glass, which includes four locations serving the Cincinnati and Dayton, Ohio, area. Ryan’s Auto Glass is a business unit of All Service Glass, which is based in Lima, Ohio. The corporate location in Lima is not a part of the deal. Continue reading
Binswanger Hires Director of Automotive Glass
Binswanger Glass has hired Rick Mathis as director of national automotive glass. Mathis will oversee the development of Binswanger’s automotive glass market presence both nationally and at the branch level. Continue reading
Autoglass® Gains Head of Central Operations
Graham Palin has been appointed the head of central operations for United Kingdom-based Autoglass®. He will be responsible for all centrally-managed operational teams, including three service delivery centers and the network of district support teams. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Coaching
“It is March Madness. If you are like me your March Madness brackets were destroyed by day two. In Waco, Texas, our beloved Baylor team was beaten by Yale in the first round. Yes, Yale. The team who had never won an NCAA game and hadn’t been to the tournament for 54 years. ” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Arizona Senate Committee Votes No to Glass Bill
The Arizona Senate’s Military Affairs and Public Safety Committee voted no against Bill 2500, “Unlawful Practices: Auto Glass Repair” on Thursday. The bill would have meant criminal penalties for violations of the legislation. It was approved by the state House of Representatives. The bill will not move forward from the Senate and effectively dies. Continue reading
Auto Windscreens Opens Training Academy
United Kingdom-based Auto Windscreens has opened a new Training & Innovation Academy for automotive glass repair and replacement technicians. The education center is accredited by the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI). Continue reading
NHTSA: Glazing FMVSS Could Pose Obstacle for Autonomous Vehicles
When it comes to the development of autonomous vehicles, the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) could be an obstacle. This is according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which released an initial report that identifies which areas of the FMVSS could prove to be an issue and glazing is one of those spotlighted. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Distribution Dilemmas
“A couple of years ago I explained the history behind the (often repeated) statement that 70 percent of the automotive glass installed in the country was done wrong. Recently, I gave a training course in Baton Rouge, La., that gave me some more insight on this problem.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
LKQ President: ‘We Will Consolidate Some Locations into Our Warehouses’
“Pittsburgh Glass Works (PGW) has 119 locations. A lot of those will be consolidated into LKQ warehouses or vice versa. We’ll combine our distribution,” said Rob Wagman, LKQ Corp. president and CEO during an investor day in New York City on Tuesday. Continue reading
GlasWeld Names Shiloh Spoo President
GlasWeld has announced the retirement of Thomas Spoo after many years as president. Shiloh Spoo will become president. Continue reading
Have You Ever Been to the San Antonio Riverwalk?
Well, now’s your chance! Join us for Auto Glass Week™ 2016 and see why the event has selected San Antonio for its history, social scene, culture and memorable scenery all within walking distance. It’s no wonder the Riverwalk is one of Texas’ top tourist attractions, because it alone provides dueling piano bars, the best of every type of food imaginable, night life and incredible handcrafted artistry all along one gorgeous esplanade. Continue reading
Saint-Gobain Extends Deal to Acquire Controlling Interest in SIKA
French conglomerate Saint-Gobain has extended its deal with the Burkard family, giving the company more time to acquire a controlling interest in Swiss specialty chemical company SIKA AG. The Burkard family owns SIKA’s majority voting rights via Schenker-Winkler Holding. Continue reading
Xinyi Auto Glass (North America) Returns as Gold Sponsor for Auto Glass Week™
Xinyi Auto Glass (North America) Corporation will return as a Gold Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Presidential Candidate John Kasich Visits Fuyao Glass America
Ohio Gov. John Kasich (R) drove his tour bus right inside Fuyao Glass America (FGA) Friday. Approximately 1,100 people were in attendance to hear the presidential candidate speak at the town hall meeting hosted by FGA. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Expect the Best
“Last week I wrote about Bill Prior—founder of Kinetico. His ‘Celebration of Life’ service was amazing. Three of his children told stories about him, as did his brother and a few others.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Novus Franchisees Descend on Georgia
The Novus Super Session was held last week in Jekyll Island, Ga., with an action-packed agenda for franchisees. Topics covers phone etiquette, insurance jobs, certification and plenty of networking opportunities. Approximately 500 attended the bi-annual meeting. Continue reading
AGC to Build a Second Float Glass Production Plant in Brazil
AGC Asahi Glass (AGC) announced it will invest approximately $158.3 million USD (18 billion Japanese yen) in its consolidated subsidiary, AGC Glass Brazil, to build a second float glass production plant in the southeast region of Brazil. The new facility will serve the automotive glass market, among other business units. Continue reading
NHTSA Recalls Mercedes-Benz Models Over Sunroof Issue
Mercedes-Benz is recalling certain model year 2016 C300, C300 4Matic and C450 AMG 4Matic vehicles for an improperly bonded panoramic sunroof. A mix-up in glass labels at the supplier led to a primer not being used, according to the carmaker. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Educating the Consumer
“Last week’s blog was based on feedback about my post ‘Setting the Standard for Safe Automotive Glass Installations.’ I discussed the ease of entering the AGRR industry and the ramifications.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Former N.J. Safelite Manager Alleges FMLA Violations
Former Safelite AutoGlass manager Shelby Klein filed a lawsuit in the Superior Court of New Jersey against the company alleging her termination was a violation of the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA). Safelite was successful in moving the case to … Continue reading
Just Added for Auto Glass Week™ 2016: All New Closing Awards Party and Concert
What better way to close another successful Auto Glass Week™ than to throw a concert in celebration of a great show and the new 2016 competition winners! Continue reading
Arizona Glass Bill Moves Forward through Stakeholders Meeting
A stakeholders’ meeting was held Monday for Arizona House of Representatives Bill 2500, “Unlawful Practices: Auto Glass Repair.” The bill passed the state House and the discussion now revolves around its approval in the Arizona Senate. A glass shop owner … Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ 2016 Welcomes Fuyao Glass America Back as a Gold Sponsor
Fuyao Glass America (FGA) will return as a Gold Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. “Auto … Continue reading
Safelite Adds Three New Executives
Safelite Group, the parent company of Safelite AutoGlass, Safelite Solutions and Service AutoGlass, has named three new hires. Christina Hays has joined as vice president of marketing; Cheri Sagona is now associate vice president of culture and communications; and Abby Zimmerman is director of recruitment. Continue reading
Vista Equity Partners Completes Acquisition of Solera Holdings
Vista Equity Partners has officially closed its acquisition of Solera Holdings, parent company to LYNX Services, GTS and Glaxis. Other key investors include an affiliate of Koch Equity Development LLC, the investment and acquisition subsidiary of Koch Industries Inc., and an affiliate of Goldman, Sachs & Co. Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ 2016 Welcomes Equalizer® Back as Sponsor
Equalizer® will return as a Gold Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Saint-Gobain Remains Determined to Acquire Controlling Interest in SIKA
In 2015, the antitrust authorities gave their “unconditional approval” for French conglomerate Saint-Gobain to gain a controlling interest in Swiss specialty chemicals company SIKA AG, Saint-Gobain management wrote in their 2015 financial report. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Riding the (Automotive Glass) Range
“A few weeks back I wrote a post called Setting the Standard for Safe Automotive Glass Installations. I talked about Auto Glass Safety Council™ Registered Member Companies that were frustrated with the quality of automotive glass work in their market. One took it to his state government for licensing possibilities, and the other owner was frustrated when their competitor passed their AGSC audit but reverted back to bad installation habits immediately after the auditors left. This blog post had several comments and they centered on beliefs that I thought should be discussed.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens New Florida Location
The Boyd Group Inc., parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, among others, has opened a new repair center in Punta Gorda, Fla. Continue reading
Judge Pens New Decision in GlasWeld-Boyle Case, Defendants Respond
The judge overseeing the GlasWeld-Boyle case in the U.S. District Court of Oregon, Eugene division, has denied Mike and Christopher Boyles’ request to strike GlasWeld’s motion for partial summary judgment. In response, the Boyles filed a motion for an extension of time to respond to GlasWeld’s supplemental memorandum for partial summary judgement. Continue reading
TechnaGlass Acquires Precision Auto Glass
Sandy, Utah-based TechnaGlass has acquired Precision Auto Glass in Clackamas, Ore. Continue reading
Belron Credits U.S. for Bolstering Sales
Repair and replacement jobs for Belron increased by 3.2 percent to 10.9 million in 2015, primarily due to a harsh winter in the United States which saw more replacements versus repairs, D’Ieteren management said in their annual report. D’Ieteren is parent company of Belron, which in turn owns Safelite AutoGlass (SAG) in the United States. Continue reading
LKQ Corp. CEO Discusses PGW Acquisition
Pittsburgh Glass Works (PGW) is No. 1 in OEM glass manufacturing with 20 global customers and No. 2 in aftermarket glass, serving more than 7,000 customers, says Rob Wagman, president and CEO of LKQ Corp., when discussing his company’s planned acquisition of PGW today. Continue reading
AGSC™ Publishes Latest E-Newsletter
The Auto Glass Safety Council has published its latest e-newsletter. Continue reading
LKQ Corp. to Acquire Pittsburgh Glass Works
LKQ Corp. has signed an agreement to acquire Pittsburgh Glass Works (PGW) from private equity firm Kohlberg & Co. LLC and PPG Industries Inc. for an enterprise value of $635 million. Continue reading
Arizona House Passes Automotive Glass Bill
In a quick action that took some by surprise, the Arizona House of Representatives passed Bill 2500, “Unlawful Practices: Auto Glass Repair” on Thursday by a vote of 53 to 7. Continue reading
Miles Driven Continues to Gain Momentum
Travel on all roads and streets continued to trend higher for December 2015, up 4.2 percent or 10.6 billion vehicle miles, compared to December 2014. This is according to the latest figures from The Federal Highway Administration, a division of the U.S. Department of Transportation. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Callbacks Part Two: Benefit of Tracking Callbacks
“In my last blog, I suggested that tracking callbacks leads to better management and quality control. Today I want to reinforce that argument with examples and explain how you can use the tracking data collected.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Arizona Automotive Glass Bill May Soon to Go to House for Vote
It appears Arizona House Bill 2500, “Unlawful Practices: Auto Glass Repair” could be heading to the House of Representatives for a vote as early as next month. The bill is designed to amend the insurance statute to regulate the marketing of automobile glass. Continue reading
Mitchell’s GlassMate Is Fixed
Mitchell’s GlassMate experienced technical difficulties yesterday, however the situation has been “fixed,” according to a customer service representative. The system should now be back up and running. Continue reading