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Tag Archives: automotive glass
Auto Glass Week™ 2019 Welcomes Five New Sponsors
Auto Glass Week™ (AGW) is ready to bring you three full days of valued education, networking opportunities, exciting competitions and an exhibition floor full of top industry suppliers. The show will take place at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, … Continue reading
Autel Joins Trade Show Floor as Sponsor for Auto Glass Week™
Autel is joining Auto Glass Week™ once again as a Bronze-level sponsor. The company can be found in the exhibition hall at the Indiana Convention Center, to be held September 4-6 in Indianapolis, Ind. Autel offers diagnostic tools and ADAS … Continue reading
Equalizer Welcomed Back as Auto Glass Week™ Sponsor
Equalizer will be joining Auto Glass Week™ (AGW) September 4-6 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis as a Silver-level sponsor. Auto Glass Week is the only event dedicated exclusively to the original equipment (OE) and aftermarket auto glass repair … Continue reading
VITRO Returns to Auto Glass Week™ 2019 as Platinum Sponsor
VITRO is back as a Platinum-level sponsor at Auto Glass Week™(AGW), taking place September 4-6, 2019 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, Ind. VITRO is a world-wide leading manufacturer of automotive glass for the OEM and ARG market. It … Continue reading
Pilkington North America Returns to Auto Glass Week™ as Platinum Plus Sponsor
Pilkington North America will once again join Auto Glass Week™ as a top sponsor for the 2019 show. The company will be returning as a Platinum Plus sponsor and continues to support the future of the auto glass repair and … Continue reading
GlasWeld Returns to Auto Glass Week™ as Platinum Plus Sponsor
GlasWeld has officially claimed its spot as a Platinum Plus sponsor at Auto Glass Week™ 2019 this fall in Indianapolis, Ind. The company will also serve as the named sponsor of the GlasWeld Windshield Repair Competition in Honor of Walt … Continue reading
DOT Awards Numbers to Three Automotive Glass Companies
The Department of Transportation recently awarded DOT numbers to two international automotive glass companies and one U.S.-based automotive supplies company. Continue reading
Saint-Gobain to Increase its Flat Glass Production Capabilities in Mexico
Saint-Gobain has announced it is building a new flat glass (float) production line in Saltillo in Mexico. This plant, scheduled to come on stream at the beginning of 2020, will manufacture glass for the automotive and construction sectors. It will … Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ Adds WRD Glass Tools Inc. to Its Line-Up
Canada-based WRD Glass Tools Inc. adds its name to the top-notch list of companies sponsoring Auto Glass Week™ this year as a Cobalt sponsor. Be sure not to miss the event’s three exciting days of activities designed with the auto … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines
Tagged Auto Glass Week 2017, automotive glass, WRD Glass Tools
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DOT Awards Numbers to Three International Companies
The Department of Transportation recently awarded DOT numbers to three international automotive glass companies. Asahi India Glass Ltd. (AIS), an automotive and integrated glass manufacturer headquartered in Guragon, India, received DOT Number 1080. AIS, which was established in 1984, has … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines, glassBYTEs Original Story
Tagged automotive glass, DOT, DOT Numbers
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Lawsuit Alleges Nissan Knew about Defective Sunroofs
Nissan is under fire following a lawsuit alleging that certain 2008-present Nissan and Infiniti models have defective panoramic glass sunroofs, causing them to explode spontaneously. The lawsuit alleges that these sunroofs are made from defective tempered glass, which fails to … Continue reading
Pilkington to Invest $7.5 M in Upgrades to Versailles Facility
Pilkington North America Inc., has announced its plans to invest $7.5 million in technology and manufacturing upgrades to its Versailles facilities, said Kentucky Gov. Matt Bevin. The facility has been in operation since 1987. “For the past 30 years, Pilkington … Continue reading
Arizona Transportation Committee Holds Zero-Deductible Bill
A proposed Arizona bill to repeal the “zero-deductible” auto glass repair and replacement law was on the table for discussion yesterday during the state Senate’s Transportation Committee meeting. However, at the last minute it was held and not discussed, effectively … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines, glassBYTEs Original Story
Tagged Arizona, automotive glass, glass repair, glass replacement, senate, windshield
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United Insurance Group to Provide Automotive Glass Services Through TechnaGlass
United Insurance Group, a Utah-based provider of personal and commercial insurance, and TechnaGlass will provide automotive glass repair and replacement services to United Insurance policyholders. Continue reading
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Tagged automotive glass, TechnaGlass, United Insurance Group
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Michigan Legislature Considers Legislation for Automotive Glass Companies
The Michigan House of Representatives is considering legislation requiring automotive glass companies in the state to be registered and regulated. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story
Tagged automotive glass, legislation, Rep. Aaron Miller
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Some Retailers Feeling Bite of Latest NAGS Price Changes
Some glass retailers are viewing the recent Mitchell International’s National Auto Glass Specifications Inc. (NAGS) price changes as business as usual. Continue reading
Automated Vehicles Policy issued by U.S. DOT
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has released its federal policy for automated vehicles. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story
Tagged automotive glass, Department of Transportation, DOT, NHTSA
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Blast Wreaks Havoc on Cars, Glass in Manhattan
It could have been worse—that’s one consensus among New Yorkers regarding the explosion that rocked Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood Saturday, where the bomb blew out windows and damaged cars. And at least one driver witnessed firsthand the power of the blast when his backlite was blown out. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story
Tagged automotive glass, glass, Manhattan, New York
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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
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
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story
Tagged 2500, 3500, AGRR, automotive glass, Daimler Vans, Freightliner, glassBYTEs.com, Glazing, Mercedes-Benz, NHTSA, Recall, Sprinter, Volvo, XC90
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ABRA Expands in Minnesota
ABRA Auto Body & Glass has opened a new franchise repair center in Worthington, Minn. The company now operates a total of 335 repair centers in 24 states. The new franchise location is owned and operated by Aaron Marthaler, owner … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines
Tagged ABRA Auto Body & Glass, automotive glass, Quality Auto Body
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How Will Changing Vehicle Technology Impact Your Business?
The AGRR industry is in for some big changes thanks to new technology that appears to be coming down the pipeline at light speed. In a panel discussion, industry experts addressed new installation methods and calibration requirements that go hand … Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: What are Dams?
“I am interrupting my series on the ANSI/AGSC/AGRSS™ Standard 003-2015 to discuss the use and the slow obsolescence of (some types) of glass dams. A glass dam is a device that holds back a material from going where it is not supposed to go. Dams in our industry are used in three different ways: as a positioning device, an aesthetic feature to hide unappealing material or as a sound barrier between the engine noise and the quiet interior.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story
Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Journal, automotive glass, Bob Beranek, Dams, glassBYTEs.com, Technically Speaking
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Go for a Spin Inside V2V and Automated SUVs in Our Newscast
What is it like traveling in vehicle-to-vehicle communication and automated SUVs? glassBYTEs.com™/AGRR™ magazine editors go onsite to Virginia Tech’s Transportation Institute to find out. Continue reading
Classified: Businesses for Sale
Very established 12 year old auto glass company located in Beaufort Hilton Head, SC. Solid customer base with unlimited potential. Please call 843/379-7222 for more information. Continue reading
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Tagged AGRR, automotive glass, Beaufort Hilton Head, Businesses for Sale, classified, glassBYTEs.com, SC
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PGW Dismisses Lawsuit Against Former Plant Engineer
Pittsburgh Glass Works (PGW) has voluntarily dismissed its complaint against former employee David Adams for misappropriation of trade secrets, breach of contract, conversion, breach of fiduciary duties, and tortious interference with contractual and business relations. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story
Tagged AGRR, automotive glass, David Adams, glassBYTEs.com, Pittsburgh Glass Works
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Precision Replacement Parts Returns as 2015 Auto Glass Week™ Sponsor
Auto Glass Week™, the three-day international event featuring automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor, is proud to announce that Precision Replacement Parts, a leading provider of top-quality mouldings, clips and weather-strips, is once again sponsoring the event at the Cobalt level. Continue reading
Central Glass Reports Increase in Full-Year Automotive Glass Sales
Central Glass Co., parent company to Carlex Glass America, reports fiscal full-year sales for its automotive glass segment of $558.96 million USD (67,000 million Yen), up $79.25 million USD (9,500 million Yen) from the same period last year. Continue reading
Interested in Competing in This Year’s Auto Glass Technician Competition?
If you are currently employed as a technician in a bona fide automotive glass company, showcase your talent and vie for the title of “World’s Best” at this year’s Auto Glass Week™ held September 30 – October 2 in Reno, Nev. Continue reading
Curran Becomes CEO of Binswanger
Binswanger Enterprises LLC, a Grey Mountain Partners portfolio company, has named Tim Curran as CEO. Curran replaces Norm Plotkin, who is transitioning to a role supporting other Grey Mountain Partners portfolio companies. Binswanger is a large full-service designer, retailer and installer of architectural glass and aluminum products within the construction, residential and automotive markets in the United States. Continue reading
NSG Pilkington Reports Sales Upswing
NSG, parent company to Pilkington, reports full-year 2015 automotive sales of $2.63 billion USD (313.96 billion Yen), compared to $2.56 billion USD (305.11 billion Yen) in the previous year full year. Operating profit for the segment is $78.53 million USD (9.37 billion Yen) for full-year 2015, compared to $93.45 million USD (11.15 billion Yen). Continue reading
Free Casino Play for Auto Glass Week™ Attendees
Auto Glass Week™, managed by AGRR™ magazine and co-sponsored by the magazine, Auto Glass Safety Council™, Independent Glass Association, National Glass Association and National Windshield Repair Association, will be held September 30 – October 2 at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines
Tagged AGRR, AGSC, AGW, auto glass, Auto Glass Week, automotive glass, IGA, NGA, NWRA
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Minnesota Supreme Court Denies Safelite’s Petition for Review
The Minnesota Supreme Court has denied Safelite Group and Safelite Solutions petition for further review of an Appellate Court decision that upholds the settlement agreement between the Minnesota Department of Commerce, Insurance Division and Auto Club Group. Continue reading
Court Dismisses Lawsuit Between Auto Glass Now and Former Technician
The case between Justin Daniel and Auto Glass Now over allegations of racial discrimination has been dismissed by the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Alabama, Northeastern Division. Both parties asked the court for dismissal. Continue reading
Jack Welch to Keynote at Auto Glass Week™ 2015
World-renown management expert Jack Welch will be the keynote speaker at Auto Glass Week™ 2015 at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center, October 2. The legendary former GE CEO is one of the nation’s most successful and respected business leaders of our generation and the best-selling author of numerous books. Continue reading
D’Ieteren Releases 2014 Annual Report
D’Ieteren, parent company to Belron and Safelite, has released its 2014 annual report with a Belron chapter titled “Responding to Market Challenges.” A portion of the 166-page report, including a Q&A section with Gary Lubner, Belron’s CEO, is devoted to the business trends for the company’s automotive glass repair and replacement business, which includes Safelite AutoGlass. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story
Tagged AGRR, automotive glass, Belron, D’Ieteren, Gary Lubner, glassBYTEs.com, Safelite, Safelite AutoGlass
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Safelite Asks U.S. District Court for Preliminary Injunction
Safelite Group and Safelite Solutions have asked the U.S. District Court of Minnesota to issue a preliminary junction to temporarily halt enforcement of a Minnesota statute it contends prohibits “insurers and insurance claims processors from engaging in truthful commercial speech.” Continue reading
Canadian-Based Carstar to Expand Glass Services
Carstar Automotive Canada and Uniban Canada have entered a strategic agreement to create a large automotive glass network, according to Carstar’s statement. Carstar stores will become authorized agents for Uniban. Continue reading
Auto Glass Fitters Hires New Regional Operations Manager
Eynon, Pa.-based Auto Glass Fitters has hired David Dunn as a new regional operations manager. Based in Newburgh, N.Y., Dunn will oversee the company’s expansion in that state and other markets. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines
Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Fitters, automotive glass, David Dunn, glassBYTEs.com, Pete Castelline
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Soat: Fas-Break in 19 States, But Growth has Dropped
Kerry Soat, owner of Fas-Break in Chandler, Ariz., says that after 27 years, his business is strong. What are his biggest challenges? Finding new people and staying abreast of all the changes. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story
Tagged AGRR, automotive glass, Fas-Break, glassBYTEs.com, Kerry Soat, windshield repair
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Former Auto Glass Now Technician Files Race Discrimination Allegations Against Company
Former Auto Glass Now technician Justin Daniel has filed a lawsuit alleging that “Auto Glass Now discriminated against [him] based on his race by terminating his employment.” Daniel is an African American who worked in Auto Glass Now’s Huntsville, Ala., branch. The company denies the allegations and has filed a counterclaim, alleging Daniel signed a non-compete agreement and “it came to Auto Glass Now’s attention that Daniel was operating his own business on the side,” according to court documents. Continue reading
Solera Holdings’ Revenues Up 33 Percent for Americas, Largely Due to LYNX Services
Solera Holdings, owner of LYNX Services, reported second-quarter 2015 revenues for the Americas of $148.0 million, up 33.2 percent from the prior second quarter. After excluding revenues for Service Repair Solutions and the Insurance and Services division of Pittsburgh Glass Works, Americas’ revenues grew by 5.9 percent from the prior year. Continue reading
Autoglass U.K. Eyes Mobile AGRR Business Model
Autoglass U.K., which is owned by Belron, appears to be transitioning to an all mobile service model. Approximately 180 employees may be let go as a part of this change, according to a company spokesperson. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story
Tagged AGRR, AGRR magazine, Autoglass U.K., automotive glass, Belron, glassBYTEs.com, Mobile
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Report: AGRR Shops Account for $3.6 Billion in 2013 Collision Repair Receipts
Total sales in the collision repair industry were estimated at $40.1 billion in 2013, with automotive glass repair and replacement companies accounting for $3.6 billion of that total, according to the Auto Care Association’s Digital Collision Repair Trends Report. Continue reading
Solera CEO: Glass Is a $2 Billion Market Opportunity
Solera Holdings’ founder, chairman and CEO Tony Aquila called glass a $2 billion market opportunity during his company’s fiscal first-quarter conference call. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story
Tagged AGRR, automotive glass, glassBYTEs.com, Solera Holdings, Tony Aquila
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Şişecam Group Opens Glass Corp Automotive Glass Facility in Romania
Turkey-based Şişecam Group has opened a GlassCorp automotive glass facility in Romania with an $80.8 USD million investment (€65 million in Euros). The company acquired Romanian-based GlassCorp SA in 2012. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines
Tagged AGRR, Ahmet Kırman, automotive glass, glassBYTEs.com, GlassCorp, Şişecam Group
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Unlicensed Connecticut AGRR Technicians Can Now Be Fined
As of October, Connecticut AGRR technicians who are not licensed or registered as apprentices with the state Department of Labor face a $1,000 fine for a first offense and a $1,500 fine for a second offense, according to Richard Hurlburt, director of the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection Occupational and Professional Licensing Division. Continue reading
Safelite’s Subpoenas Sent to Six AGRR Companies Over Anti-Steering Law on Hold
Six AGRR companies have withdrawn their motions to quash Safelite Group’s subpoenas over Connecticut’s Act Concerning Automotive Glass Work (Public Act 13-67) in the U.S. District Court of Connecticut after the companies have agreed to place the subpoenas “on hold.” Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story
Tagged Action Glass, AGRR, AGRR magazine, an Act Concerning Automotive Glass Work, Auto Glass of New England Hamden, automotive glass, Binswanger Glass, Connecticut Anti Steering Law, glassBYTEs.com, Goulet Glass Inc., LYNX Services, Payless Auto Glass, Plymouth Glass & Mirror, Public Act 13-67, Safelite Group, Safelite Solutions, Sullivan Glass
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Auto Glass Safety Council E-Newsletter Now Available
The Auto Glass Safety Council has published its latest e-newsletter. Continue reading
Guardian Sells Two Automotive Glass Subsidiaries; Retains Custom Glass Solutions
The deal by Guardian Industries Corp. to sell Guardian Automotive Products (GAPI) and Guardian Automotive –E S.A. (GA ESA) to Central Glass Co. Ltd., parent company of Carlex Glass Co., is just the latest move by the company to reduce its automotive glass footprint. Guardian retains a foothold in the marketplace with Custom Glass Solutions and the RV automotive glass claims administration business. Continue reading
Central Glass Group to Expand Carlex Business by Purchasing Two Guardian Subsidiaries
Central Glass Co. Ltd., a parent company of Carlex Glass Co., has resolved to conclude a share transfer agreement to acquire all of the outstanding shares of two subsidiaries of Guardian Industries Corp.—Guardian Automotive Products, Inc. (GAPI), headquartered in Sterling Heights, Mich., and Guardian Automotive-E S.A. (GA ESA), headquartered in Luxembourg. Continue reading
How Could Connected Car Technology Impact You?
The affect evolving technology such as “connected-cars” could have on the auto insurance and collision repair industry are “profound,” writes Sunil Nayak, Mitchell’s senior director of product management in the company’s Third Quarter Industry Trends Report. “Certainly connected car technology may mean fewer or less severe accidents, but it will also revolutionize the way our industries handle accidents when they do occur,” Nayak says. Continue reading
Fuyao to Expand U.S. Footprint by Purchasing PPG Glass Plant
PPG Industries announced today that it will sell all the assets of its Mt. Zion, Ill., glass manufacturing facility to automotive glass manufacturer Fuyao Glass America Inc. Fuyao will rebuild and retrofit the facility’s two production lines to manufacture automotive glass. Continue reading
Some Ford Escapes Recalled for Panorama Roof Glass Urethane Issue
Ford has issued a safety recall for select 2014 model-year Escapes for a “potential issue with panorama roof glass that may have an improperly cured urethane bond between the glass and the attaching bracket.” Continue reading
Safelite Glass Corp. Names Mike Bradsher Director of Manufacturing Operations
Safelite Glass Corp. has promoted Mike Bradsher to director of manufacturing operations for its Enfield, N.C.-based windshield plant, which employs 210 people. In this role, he will lead production, quality, product development, engineering and accounting, according to officials. Continue reading
GM’s Director of Advanced Technology Discusses Innovations in the Pipeline
Sensors and connected vehicles are leading the way toward autonomous driving, says Frankie James, General Motors managing director of advanced technology during a podcast series hosted by FutureThink. “My background is in human machine interaction but I’ve talked with the team that does window glass and know more things about window glass than I ever thought I would before I got this job,” she adds. Continue reading
Safelite AutoGlass Partners with SkillsUSA for Recruitment
Safelite AutoGlass has teamed up with SkillsUSA, a leading national career and technical education association. Originally known as the Vocational Industrial Clubs of America, SkillsUSA serves more than 300,000 students enrolled in technical, skilled and service occupation training programs each year. Continue reading
Registration Now Open for Free AGSC Accreditation Training and Testing in Baltimore
Automotive glass technicians who seek to become Auto Glass Safety Council™ (AGSC) Accredited Automotive Glass Technicians can now sign-up for a training and accreditation program being offered in Baltimore, Md. Continue reading
Caliber Acquires Classic Collision Center and Haddock Collision Centers
Caliber Collision Centers has acquired Classic Collision Center, which includes four locations in and around the Los Angeles market, and Haddock Collision Centers, which has five locations in and around the Raleigh, N.C. market. Continue reading
Belron’s First-Quarter Sales Up 1 Percent
D’Ieteren, parent company to Belron and Safelite, reported that first quarter automotive glass repair and replacement sales were one percent higher over the same period of 2013 largely due to a 3.1 percent organic increase and 2.2 percent growth from acquisitions. Sales were negatively impacted by “unexpected unfavorable weather conditions in Northern Europe, which resulted in temporary overcapacity in those geographies,” officials wrote in the company’s report. Continue reading
D’Ieteren Outlines Belron’s Business in General Presentation
In a presentation earlier this year available on the web, D’Ieteren’s management delved into how Belron contributes to the parent company. The company has two main divisions—Belron and D’Ieteren Auto. Belron, its vehicle glass repair and replacement business, which includes Safelite, contributes 52 percent of sales to the parent company, while its operating result represents 79 percent of business. Ninety-four percent of the company’s staff falls into the Belron category—25,645 individuals. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story
Tagged AGRR, AGRR magazine, automotive glass, Belron, D’Ieteren, glassBYTEs.com
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Auto Glass Perfection Moves Office in Phoenix
Auto Glass Perfection announced it has moved its office in Phoenix to 11811 N Tatum Blvd., Suite 3031. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines
Tagged AGRR, AGRR magazine, Auto Glass Perfection, automotive glass, glassBYTEs.com
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Connecticut Officials File Brief in Support of Anti-Steering Law in Appellate Court
Connecticut officials have responded in the Second Circuit Court of Appeals in support of the state’s anti-steering law, claiming, “Safelite Solutions has been extraordinarily effective at steering consumers to Safelite AutoGlass.” Safelite appealed a lower court’s decision to the Appellate Court, seeking to halt enforcement of Connecticut’s anti-steering law—PA 13-67. Continue reading
Boyd Group Acquires 25 Collision Centers
Boyd Group Income Fund has signed an agreement to acquire 25 collision repair centers in Illinois, Indiana and Florida under the trade name Collision Revision. The collision centers outsource AGRR services.
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Tax Time: Is Your AGRR Company Ready?
Hopefully, you’ve already filed your AGRR company’s taxes, but if not, Dominique Molina of CertifiedTaxCoach.com, said some businesses are saving “a few thousand dollars each year in deductions, and in some cases, they save millions.” What can you do to trim down what you owe the Internal Revenue Service? Continue reading
Glass Doctor Sues Former Franchisee for Alleged Trademark Infringement
Synergistic International LLC (which does business as Glass Doctor) has filed a lawsuit against Mike Compell of Oswego, Ill., in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois for “continuing to conduct a glass repair business under the Glass Doctor name and mark,” including usage of Glass Doctor’s official website and phone number. The company’s attorneys claim Compell is a former franchisee whose franchise agreement was terminated “by mutual agreement” on March 28, 2008. Continue reading
Gerber Collision & Glass Gains New North Carolina Location
The Boyd Group has opened a new Gerber Collision & Glass location in Fayetteville, N.C. Continue reading
Safelite AutoGlass Moves Tucson Shop to Larger Location
Safelite AutoGlass recently relocated its east side Tucson, Ariz., shop from 7381 E Broadway to 1402 S. Kolb. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines
Tagged AGRR, AGRR magazine, automotive glass, glassBYTEs.com, Jesus Vega, John Grimaldi, Safelite AutoGlass
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Former Technician Trainee Sues Safelite Claiming Wrongful Termination under Americans with Disabilities Act
Mathew Howcroft, a former technician trainee with Safelite AutoGlass in Charlotte, N.C. has filed a complaint against the company in the U.S. District Court of North Carolina, Statesville division, claiming, “the termination of plaintiff from his position was in violation of the public policy in the State of North Carolina, specifically, the North Carolina Equal Employment Practices Act … which makes discrimination on account of disability of an otherwise qualified individual an unlawful employment practice.” The plaintiff has had the three middle fingers on his left hand amputated. Continue reading
Belron Selects Coprocess’ for Netting Software
Belron recently chose multilateral netting software hosted by Coprocess. The system will encompass Belron Group’s treasury operations, including Autoglass and Carglass. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines
Tagged AGRR, AGRR magazine, automotive glass, Belron, Coprocess, glassBYTEs.com, netting software
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Delta Sonic Adds AGRR Services
Delta Sonic, which has 30 locations throughout Western and Central New York, Chicago and Erie, Pa., is adding automotive glass repair and replacement to its services. The company, which specializes in big gas islands that feature a car wash, convenience store, fast food and detail shop, is in the process of rolling out automotive glass replacement services throughout the country. Continue reading
NSF International Develops Flat Glass Product Category Rule
NSF International, in collaboration with the Glass Association of North America’s (GANA) Flat Glass Manufacturing Division, has developed a product category rule (PCR) for flat and float glass. Continue reading
GlasWeld Responds to Boyles’ Markman Briefs in Alleged Patent Infringement Case
GlasWeld attorneys argue that the patent terms Mike Boyle (doing business as Surface Dynamix) and his son, Christopher Boyle, seek to define for the U.S. District Court of Oregon, Eugene division, are best used in their “plain, ordinary English meaning.” However, if the court does decide to define the terms, GlasWeld’s attorneys claim in a response brief that their own definitions for the terms at the heart of the alleged patent infringement case should be used. Continue reading
NSG Announces Board Changes
The Nippon Sheet Glass Co. Ltd. (NSG), parent company to Pilkington, announced that George Olcott is retiring from its board of directors. He has served as an external director of the board since June 2008 and is retiring after completing a six-year term. The NSG board has nominated Günter Zorn as his successor. Continue reading
European General Court Reduces Saint-Gobain Fine for Antitrust Violations
The General Court of the European Union has reduced the fine imposed on Saint-Gobain for illegal market sharing and exchange of commercially sensitive information regarding deliveries of automotive glass in the European Economic Area (EEA) from $1.2 billion in U.S. dollars (€880 million Euros) to $984 million in U.S. dollars (€715 million Euros). The fine was imposed in 2008 and Saint-Gobain had asked the court for an annulment of the decision. Continue reading
BMW Files Motions to Dismiss, Strike Class Action Status in Sunroof Case
Though the judge in the U.S. Northern District Court of California recently gave plaintiffs the opportunity to file a second-amended complaint, in two new filings, BMW’s attorneys claim the case should be dismissed for “lack of standing” and have asked the judge to strike the class allegations. The plaintiffs allege their vehicles suffered water damage after the drainage tubes installed to pull water away from the sunroofs did not properly work. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story
Tagged AGRR, AGRR magazine, automotive glass, BMW, BMW 5 series, BMW Alleged Sunroof Defect, BMW Sunroof Case, BMW X3 series, BMW X5, Eric Anderson, glass, glassBYTEs.com, Monita Sharma, sunroof, Sunroof Drains, U.S. Northern District Court of California
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Boyd Group Reports 33-Percent Upswing in Annual Sales
Boyd Group Income Fund, parent company to U.S.-based Gerber Collision & Glass, Glass America, Hansen Collision and Glass and others, has reported a 33.1-percent increase in annual sales to $578.3 million from $434.4 million in 2012. Same-store sales grew by 4.1 percent.
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Chris Thornton New Managing Director at Auto Windscreens
United Kingdom-based Auto Windscreens’ management team has announced Chris Thornton as their new manager director. Continue reading
Volvo Granted Leave to Appeal Class Action Status of Sunroof Case to Third Circuit Court
At Volvo’s request, the Third Circuit Court of Appeals has agreed to review the six-state class action status of a lawsuit which alleges defects to the automaker’s sunroofs. Volvo made the appellate request after a New Jersey District Court judge declined to reconsider the class certification.
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Xinyi Glass and PGW Celebrate 10-Year Anniversary, Strike New Agreement
Xinyi Glass Holdings Limited is celebrating its 10th anniversary of a successful supply relationship with Pittsburgh Glass Works (PGW). The two companies have worked in partnership in the North American automobile glass replacement market since 2004.
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Auto Glass Week™ Announces New Sponsor: Creative Extruded Products
Creative Extruded Products, a manufacturer of OEM mouldings since 1979, is proud to announce its sponsorship of Auto Glass Week™. The three-day international event features automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition/extravaganza where sponsoring companies are showcased. Continue reading
Florida Repair Shops File Antitrust Lawsuit Against State Farm, Other Insurers
A group of Florida collision repair shops have banded together to file an antitrust lawsuit against State Farm and dozens of other insurers, alleging the insurers use their direct repair programs to “illegally control and depress” repair rates and if the shops don’t comply, customers are steered away. This case has potential implications for the AGRR industry, as independent automotive glass repair shops allege similar issues with third-party administrators (TPAs), which handle automotive glass claims for insurers. Continue reading
AGRR-Related Companies Make Fortune’s Most Admired List
Several AGRR-related companies, including insurers and automakers, are named to this year’s “World’s Most Admired Companies” list by Fortune, which is expected to hit newsstands later this month. On the insurance side, Berkshire Hathaway, parent company to Geico, is ranked at No. 4 out of the top 50 companies. Automakers to make the top 50 include BMW at No. 14, Toyota at No. 25 and Volkswagen at No. 36. Additional insurance companies and automakers were scored but did not make it into the top 50. Continue reading
Safelite AutoGlass Says It’s Improved Service for Deaf and Hearing-Impaired Customers
Safelite AutoGlass is now providing its technicians with a video message for deaf and hard of hearing customers that explains the work they will perform. The videos, which are shown on the technicians’ smartphones, were developed after one of its technicians— Portland, Ore.-based Kanyon Hillaire—delivered service to a deaf customer. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines
Tagged AGRR, automotive glass, glassBYTEs.com, Kanyon Hillaire, Safelite AutoGlass
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Dakotaland Autoglass Expands
Though the winter weather “had been tough on business,” Sioux Falls, S.D.-based Dakotaland Autoglass has been expanding. It has acquired CR Autoglass, picked up a former Guardian distribution center and purchased the Praxair paint distribution business. Continue reading
NHTSA: 22 Million Vehicles Recalled in 2013
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that approximately 22 million vehicles were recalled in 2013 and “shattering sunroofs” was a big reason behind automotive glass-related recalls. This is the highest total since 2004 when overall recalls reached more than 30 million.
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Caliber Collision Opens New Mexico Center
Caliber Collision Centers has entered into its seventh western U.S. state with a new greenfield facility in Las Cruces, N.M. The company outsources its AGRR services. Continue reading
Baltimore is the Place to be in 2014!
The 2014 Auto Glass Week™ (AGW), set to be held October 7-9, 2014, at the Baltimore Convention Center and Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, has something for everyone, including the whole family. While the event will offer educational seminars, an exhibition hall and the attendee-favorite, annual competitions, the city delivers an experience like no other. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines
Tagged AGRR, AGRR magazine, AGW, automotive glass, glassBYTEs.com, windshield replacement
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PGW Sees 2014 as a Year of Growth
This year will be one of growth for the distribution business, albeit at an incremental pace, according to Brian Bauer, vice president of sales for PGW. The company is looking to “fill gaps” in its distribution service area and just opened a new distribution facility at 115 West La Cadena Drive, Riverside, Calif. Continue reading
Government is Not Doing Enough, According to glassBYTEs.com™ Readers
In response to President Obama’s State of the Union Address this week, the majority of automotive glass technicians and company owners say the President needs to do more to strengthen the economy, according to a glassBYTEs.com™ poll.
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Third Shift Cut at Safelite Glass Corp.’s N.C. Manufacturing Plant
Safelite Glass Corp. has shut down third-shift operations at its Enfield, N.C., windshield manufacturing plant, affecting approximately 61 of the company’s 277 employees at the plant. Continue reading
PGW and Jinjing to Build New Automotive Glass Facility in China
Pittsburgh Glass Works (PGW) and joint venture partner Jinjing, China, plan to build a new automotive glass manufacturing facility utilizing existing float glass capacity in Zibo, China. The facility will serve automotive OEM customers in the country.
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Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story
Tagged AGRR, automotive glass, glassBYTEs.com, Jinjing, PGW, Pittsburgh Glass Works
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Can Repairs Be Successful in Cold Weather?
With half a foot to ten inches of snow smacking New England and the mid-Atlantic on Tuesday, causing the Federal Government to shutdown yesterday in Washington, D.C., and institute a two-hour delay Wednesday, the question arises: Is it safe to do windshield repairs in cold weather?
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Caliber Opens New Texas Location
Caliber Collision Centers has opened its first greenfield facility in Frisco, Texas, in more than ten years. The location outsources its AGRR services. Continue reading
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Tagged AGRR, automotive glass, Caliber, Caliber Collision Centers, glassBYTEs.com, Steve Grimshaw
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Safelite AutoGlass Foundation Awards $300,000 to Columbus Area Nonprofits
Safelite AutoGlass Foundation has awarded $300,000 in Impact Grants to 12 separate Columbus, Ohio-area, nonprofit groups. Each received $25,000. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines
Tagged AGRR, auto glass, automotive glass, glassBYTEs.com, Safelite, Safelite AutoGlass Foundation, windshields
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New DOT Number Awarded to Poland-based Company
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) recently awarded a new DOT number to Glaspo, which is based in Wroclaw, Poland. Continue reading
Michigan Couple Sentenced to Probation in A2 Auto Glass Embezzlement Case
“We settled on a plea and she and her husband will be at least paying a little back,” says Lynette Hackworth, office manager for A2 Auto Glass based in Washtenaw County, Michigan. Oral and Janice Molden were sentenced to probation this month for allegedly embezzling from the automotive glass company. They have been ordered to pay a combined total of $189,881 in fines. Continue reading
Nationwide Windscreen Services Names Senior Partnership Manager
U.K.-based Nationwide Windscreen Services has appointed Steve Greenway as senior partnership manager. This is a new position within the organization with a view to develop new and existing account portfolio, according to officials.
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Fuyao to Purchase Former Ohio GM Plant for First North American Glass Manufacturing Facility ** Updated
Fuyao Glass Industry Group chairman and founder Cao Dewang announced the company plans to purchase the former General Motors Assembly in Moraine, Ohio, to build its first North American automotive glass manufacturing facility.
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Auto Sales Climb in 2013
Strong vehicle sales growth in 2013 is good news for the automotive glass industry. The 21 automakers selling vehicles in the U.S. moved 15.6 million units in 2013, according to sales tracker Autodata, up 9.2 percent from 2012.
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Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story
Tagged AGRR, automotive glass, Chrysler, Ford, glassBYTEs, GM, New vehicle sales
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Cracked Windshield, Window Film Violation Leads to Capture of FBI Most Wanted Fugitive
Aubrey Lee Price, a wanted man by the FBI, has been resurrected from the dead, all thanks to a cracked windshield and some dark window film. During a routine traffic stop in Brunswick, Ga., the 47-year-old fugitive, who was declared dead about a year ago following an apparently faked suicide, was brought into custody after being pulled over for a cracked windshield and illegal levels of window tint New Year’s Eve on Interstate 95. Continue reading
AGRR Industry Expects Business to Grow as 2014 Unfolds
Almost 70 percent of automotive glass technicians and company owners believe their business will grow in the new year, according to a glassBYTEs.com™ poll. And a big focus for 2014 will be ramping up technology usage.
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Alan Resnick Leaves Glass America
Alan Resnick—who has been with Glass America since 1999, most recently as vice president of sales and operations—left the company at the end of December to pursue new opportunities. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines
Tagged AGRR, Alan Resnick, automotive glass, Boyd Group, Brock Bulbuck, glass, Glass America, glassBYTEs.com, windshields
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Washington-Based Andrews Auto Glass Owners Charged with Tax Fraud
The Washington Attorney General’s office has charged Andrew and Vita Onufreychuk, owners of Andrews Auto Glass, for alleged theft and fraud, accusing them of “falsifying their business tax returns in order to cheat the state out of at least $13,000 in sales tax,” according to the State Department of Revenue. Continue reading
Second Circuit Judge Denies Stay in CT Anti-Steering Case **Updated
Second Circuit Judge Susan Carney has denied Safelite’s request for an emergency stay to halt enforcement of Connecticut’s anti-steering law pending appeal. The law, PA 13-67, went into effect January 1. The judge also ordered that Safelite’s motions for an … Continue reading
AGRR Industry Gives Back This Holiday Season
Though our stomachs are full, Santa has come and presents have been opened, the time for holiday giving continues through the New Year. Many companies in the AGRR industry make the effort to give back whether by supporting the Ronald McDonald House Charities, collecting canned food for food banks, supporting local sports teams and more. Continue reading
AGRR Industry Supports Connecticut Judge’s Decision in Anti-Steering Case
Several automotive glass repair and replacement company owners are calling the judge’s decision to deny Safelite’s motion for a preliminary injunction in the Connecticut anti-steering case a “victory.” Safelite had asked the Connecticut U.S. District Court to put enforcement of PA 13-67 on hold while it challenges the new anti-steering law in the courts. Continue reading
The December Newscast Covers the Future of Automotive Glass and Bloopers
For our last newscast of the year, we look at the future of automotive glass. Also, stay tuned for our annual bloopers from glassBYTEs.com™/AGRR™ magazine anchors. Continue reading
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Tagged AGRR Newscast, automotive glass, Corning, David Kaufman, glassBYTEs Newscast, Guardian Automotive, newscast
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Boyd Group Added to the S&P/TSX Canadian Dividend Aristocrats Index
The S&P Dow Jones Canadian Index Services has added the Boyd Group Income Fund to the S&P/TSX Canadian Dividend Aristocrats Index as part of its annual review. The change is effective after the close of trading on Friday, December 20, 2013. Continue reading
Several Ford F-150 Owners Report Shattering Backlites to NHTSA
More than 20 F-150 Ford owners of the 2010 model year have complained to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that an alleged glitch in their rear defrosters has caused their backlites to shatter or spiderweb in cracks.
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BMW Attorneys Cite Recent Ninth Circuit Opinion as Support to Dismiss
Attorneys for BMW of North America (NA) claim a recent decision by the Ninth Circuit Court supports their motion to dismiss a case brought by BMW owners in the U.S. Northern District Court of California, San Francisco division, over an alleged sunroof defect. BMW’s attorneys filed a statement with the court claiming, “The arguments made by BMW NA to dismiss plaintiffs’ warranty claims are the exact holdings of the Ninth Circuit in [Troup versus Toyota Motor Corp.]”
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Volvo Asks Appellate Court for Leave to Appeal
Volvo is seeking permission to appeal from the Third Circuit Court of Appeals after a New Jersey U.S. District Court judge denied the automaker’s motion to reconsider a six-state class-action certification. The plaintiffs in the lawsuit allege there is a defect in the automaker’s sunroofs, which allegedly allows water to flood their vehicles.
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Staten Island Automotive Glass Shop Owner Faces Drug Charges
Charles Castrovinci, 38, owner of ABC Auto Glass in Charleston on Staten Island, is facing several drug charges after New York Gang Squad detectives searched his business, home and car, according to court papers from New York’s Richmond Criminal Court.
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Guardian Automotive Launches Custom Glass Solutions
Guardian Automotive announced the launch of Custom Glass Solutions today—a division focused on offering glass for the bus, truck, train and off-highway vehicles markets. Officials say this new company “reinforces” their commitment to serving the automotive glass needs of various transportation segments.
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Sika Corp. Names Regional Human Resources Manager
Sika Industry and Automotive USA has named David Brukoff regional human resources manager for the industry target market, North American automotive business unit and R&D center in Madison Heights, Mich. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines
Tagged AGRR, AGRR magazine, automotive glass, David Brukoff, glassBYTEs, Sika Automotive, Sika Industry, Susan Cece, windshields
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Caliber Acquires Temple Collision in Arizona
Caliber Collision Centers has acquired TempleCollision and reopened the location under the Caliber brand. The location offers AGRR services through an outside company. Continue reading
Report: Nation’s Roads Increasingly Deteriorated
The nation’s major urban roads continue to deteriorate costing the average driver more than more $800 a year in some areas, according to TRIP, a national transportation research group based in Washington, D.C. Driving on roads that are increasingly in disrepair can increase consumer costs by “accelerating vehicle deterioration and depreciation and increasing needed maintenance,” such as AGRR services, the group reports. Continue reading
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Acquires Two Wisconsin Repair Centers
ABRA Auto Body & Glass has acquired two Affordable Auto Body Carstar repair centers just south of Milwaukee, Wis. ABRA handles AGRR services via its national call center. Continue reading
Diamon-Fusion International Names Sim New Director of Marketing
Diamon-Fusion International Inc. (DFI) has named Syndi Sim as director of marketing. Continue reading
Delta Kits Donates $25,000 to Charity
Eugene, Ore.-based Delta Kits announced that for the month of December, the company will be donating 50 percent of all windshield repair and headlight restoration service profits to the Eugene Mission. For the year, the company has donated more than $25,000 to charity.
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Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines
Tagged AGRR, automotive glass, Delta Kits, Eugene Mission, glassBYTEs, windshields
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Eastman to Increase Automotive-Grade PVB Prices
Eastman Chemical Co. announced a global price increase for automotive grade polyvinyl butyral (PVB) interlayers effective January 1, 2014 or as contracts allow. Continue reading
TCH Leasing Selects Auto Windscreens as Preferred Supplier
United Kingdom-based TCH Leasing has selected Auto Windscreens as its preferred glass supplier. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines
Tagged AGRR, Auto Windscreens, automotive glass, glassBYTEs, Joy Cooper, Mark Hammond, TCH Leasing
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Safelite AutoGlass Opens Elizabethtown Location
Safelite AutoGlass has opened a new store located at 2408 Ring Road, Suite 100, in Elizabethtown, Ky. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines
Tagged AGRR, AGRR magazine, automotive glass, glassBYTEs, Jeff McIntyre, Safelite AutoGlass
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Guardian Says Closure of Local Distribution Centers to Have Limited Impact on Production, AGRR Divisions
Guardian Automotive management anticipates the company’s exit from the local distribution business will have minimal impact on the production of glass and the automotive glass retail business. Continue reading
Kuraray to Acquire DuPont Glass Laminating Solutions/Vinyls
DuPont and Kuraray today announced that they have signed a definitive agreement for DuPont to sell its Glass Laminating Solutions/Vinyls (GLS/Vinyls), a part of DuPont Packaging & Industrial Polymers, to Kuraray for $543 million (U.S. dollars), plus the value of divisions’ inventories. The sale is expected to close during the first half of 2014 pending customary regulatory approvals. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story
Tagged automotive glass, DuPont, Keiji Murakami, Kuraray, William J. Harvey
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Caliber Collision Centers Acquired by OMERS Private Equity
Caliber Collision Centers has been acquired by Toronto, Canada-based OMERS Private Equity along with existing management, from ONCAP private equity. The company’s locations offer AGRR services throughout the Southwest. Continue reading
Glass Doctor President Presents Top Gun Award to Franchisee
Glass Doctor president Mark Liston recently presented the Top Gun award to Stephen Beavers, owner of Greers Ferry, Ark.-based Glass Doctor of North Central Arkansas. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines
Tagged AGRR, automotive glass, Glass Doctor, glassBYTEs, Mark Liston, Stephen Beavers, Top Gun award
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Glass Doctor Ranked Among Top Global Franchises Opportunities
Glass Doctor, an affiliate company of The Dwyer Group, was ranked No. 281 on the Next 300 list of global franchises determined by world-wide sales by the Franchise Times. Franchise Times also ranked Glass Doctor on its select list of Top Automotive Services.
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Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines
Tagged AGRR, automotive glass, Glass Doctor, glassBYTEs, Mark Liston, The Dwyer Group, windshields
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Gerber Collision & Glass Acquires Three Arizona Repair Centers
The Boyd Group, parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass, has acquired three new Arizona repair centers located in Gilbert, Scottsdale and Tempe. The locations now operate under the Gerber Collision & Glass trade name and offer AGRR services.
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Auto Glass Week™ 2014 Will be in Baltimore
There has been much speculation surrounding the location of Auto Glass Week 2014 and today, we’re making a big announcement. Baltimore will serve as the location for Auto Glass Week™ 2014. The event will be right across from Camden Yards and the picturesque InnerHarbor. Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ 2014 to Be Held October 7-9 in Baltimore
Today Auto Glass Week™ (AGW) announced the 2014 dates and location. The event will be held October 7-9, 2014 at the BaltimoreConvention Center and Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel in Baltimore, Md. Continue reading
Caliber Collision Centers Acquires Denver Repair Group
Caliber Collision Centers has acquired nine Denver-based Global Collision locations, which offer AGRR services, including mobile work. Continue reading
AGC to Open Mexico-Based Laminated Glass Facility
AGC announced it is establishing a new laminated automotive glass plant in Mexico, which is scheduled to start operations in early 2016. The new plant will be located in San Luis Potosi, Mexico, and will produce glass for approximately 750,000 vehicles a year.
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Speaker of the House Boehner Visits Springfield HSG Call Center
Speaker of the House John Boehner (Republican) visited with Paul Gross, president and CEO of Insurance Claims Management, parent to HSG, at the HSG Springfield, Ohio, call center this week to recognize the company’s expansion. Continue reading
Gerber Collision & Glass Adds Two Maryland Repair Centers
The Boyd Group has opened two new repair centers under the Gerber Collision & Glass name in Maryland. One of the new centers is located in Catonsville, situated just west of the Baltimore, while the other is in Ellicott City.
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Ohio Supreme Court Rejects Class Certification in Repair-Based Lawsuit
The Ohio Supreme Court has overturned a lower court’s decision by rejecting the class certification status of a lawsuit that alleges State Farm denied some policyholders full payment on windshield damage claims because instead of paying for replacement of the windshields, it allegedly steered some policyholders toward repair. A lower court upheld the class certification and State Farm appealed the ruling to the Ohio Supreme Court. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story
Tagged AGRR, automotive glass, glassBYTEs, Michael Cullen, Ohio Supreme Court, State Farm, windshields
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SuperGlass Windshield Repair Gains New Franchisee
SuperGlass Windshield Repair has named Jon Lutz as a new franchisee in Summerville, S.C. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines
Tagged AGRR, auto repair, automotive glass, David Casey, glassBYTEs, Jon Lutz, SuperGlass Windshield Repair, windshields
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Audi Issues Recall Over Possible “Sunroof Shattering”
Audi has issued a recall through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for certain model-year 2013 to 2014 Audi A8 and S8 vehicles due to possible sunroof shattering. The defect was traced back to the production of the glass.
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ABRA Auto Body & Glass Adds New Wisconsin Franchise
ABRA Auto Body & Glass has opened a new franchise at 105 Commerce Drive in New Lisbon, Wis., that offers AGRR services. Continue reading
National Windscreens’ Announces Rebranding of European Group
United-Kingdom-based National Windscreens announced that The Automotive Glass Professionals has been rebranded as Automotive Glass Europe. Continue reading
Techna Glass Supports Local Children’s Hospital with Fundraiser
Techna Glass’ Utah auto glass shops recently raised money by inviting consumers to come out and get their windshields repaired with all proceeds going to Primary Children’s Hospital. Continue reading
The Dwyer Group Reports Growth
The Dwyer Group, which owns the Glass Doctor franchise brand, has completed 144 new franchise contracts year-to-date. This includes 11 new Glass Doctor franchise agreements. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines
Tagged AGRR, auto glass, automotive glass, Glass Doctor, glassBYTEs, The Dwyer Group, windshields
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Report: Citizen’s Insurance Offers Zero Deductible for Customers Who Use Preferred Auto Glass Companies
Citizen’s Insurance of Michigan is launching a new platinum program, effective November 1, that features full automotive glass coverage at a zero deductible for customers who agree to use its preferred auto glass companies, including Safelite AutoGlass, according to a company spokesperson. If a customer with this same policy decides to go to an independent auto glass shop for a replacement outside the preferred network, the deductible increases to $100, according to reports from glassBYTEs readers. Continue reading
Happy Halloween from the Key Communications Team
Key Communications, parent company to AGRR™ magazine/glassBYTEs.com, celebrated Halloween last Friday with many of the team members dressing up in creative costumes. From a zombie to a male tooth fairy to Princess Leia and the Mad Hatter, our office was filled with color and spooky characters. Continue reading
New DOT Number Awarded to Italian Company
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) recently awarded a new DOT number to an auto-glass-related product manufacturer based in Italy. Continue reading
AGRR Business Reflects Latest Unemployment Statistics
August unemployment rates were lower in 311 of the 372 metropolitan areas than at the same time in 2012, but higher in 47 areas, and unchanged in 14 others, according to the latest U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. And many auto glass companies, such as B-Rite Glass Co. in an Atlanta suburb, say business demand is increasing as unemployment rates decline. Continue reading
Glass Doctor Gains Four New Franchisees
Glass Doctor has announced the addition of four new franchisees in the third quarter. Continue reading
GlasWeld Asks Court to Deny Rescheduling Motion in Alleged Patent Infringement Lawsuit
GlasWeld attorneys claim in court documents filed with the U.S. District Court of Oregon, Eugene division, that Christopher Boyle’s motion to reset the scheduling order in the alleged patent infringement case “should be denied because Christopher Boyle has not shown good cause” and the request appears to be “intended solely for the purpose of delay.” Continue reading
Mainstreet Computers Celebrates 25th Anniversary of Key Employee
Mainstreet Computers recently recognized the 25th anniversary of one of its key employees—Bill Oeftering, product development programmer. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines
Tagged AGRR, auto glass, automotive glass, Bill Oeftering, David Carnahan, Glas-Avenue, glassBYTEs, Mainstreet Computers, windshields
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Government Shutdown is Over But Economic Uncertainty Continues for the AGRR Industry
While the government shutdown is officially over for now, Mark Liston, president of Glass Doctor, looks at Washington, D.C.’s antics with a skeptical eye, saying it is not helping business. Continue reading
BRAZIL – AGC’s Brazil Plant Starts Glass Production
AGC’s new glass plant in Brazil has started production of glass at the industrial glass complex in Guaratinguetá, São Paulo State, Brazil. AGC Glass Brazil will now produce architectural glass, mirrors and automotive glass, according to company officials. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines
Tagged AGC, AGC Brazil, AGC Glass Brazil, AGRR, auto glass, automotive glass, Davide Cappellino, glassBYTEs
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YH America’s Sealant Division Expands
In addition to recognizing its 15th year in business, YH America Inc.’s Sealant Division, a subsidiary of the Yokohama Rubber Co., Ltd., announced it is doubling the size of its Kentucky manufacturing facility. The division manufactures an array of urethane adhesives and primers used for bonding auto glass windshields, back lites and side lites to vehicles, buses and military vehicles. Continue reading