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Tag Archives: COVID-19
Mygrant Glass Increases Surcharge Rate Due to Ongoing Supply Chain Challenges
Rising industry surcharge rates are the latest indication of an uncertain economic recovery in the auto glass industry. Effective Monday, June 21, Mygrant Glass increased its fuel surcharge to $8 per delivery: “As we continue to navigate a very challenging … Continue reading
Mitchell Analyzes Evolving Auto Industry
Every facet of society is being re-worked and reimagined—no industry is immune to the ever-evolving ‘normal,’ which seems to shift by the quarter. Mitchell, parent company of NAGS and a provider of technology, connectivity and information solutions to the collision … Continue reading
In COVID-19’s Aftermath, U.S. Auto Glass Shops Begin Anew
On May 13, exactly 14 months or 426 days after the U.S declared a national emergency due to COVID-19, the CDC announced that fully-vaccinated individuals no longer need to wear masks or practice social distancing indoors or outdoors, except under … Continue reading
Busy Season is No Reason to Skip AGW—Attend Virtually!
Your book of business is booming. COVID-19 restrictions are waning, and more people are ready for repair and replacement services. How could you possibly take time for Auto Glass Week™ (AGW) 2021? Here’s how. The AGW team understands that June … Continue reading
NSG Feels Impact of COVID Economy, Forecasts Stronger 2022
NSG Group, a global glass manufacturer and parent company of Pilkington, saw a decline in revenues in fiscal year 2021 compared to 2020 yet still exceeded its expectations, according to a recently released financial report. The company totaled $4.57 billion … Continue reading
Boyd Group Has Slower Start to 2021
A major player in the North American auto glass replacement and collision market saw a near-10% decline in sales through the first part of 2021. Company officials attribute the slump to lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Boyd Group, … Continue reading
Mitchell International Sees Evolution of Claims Automation
Mitchell International (Mitchell), the parent company of National Auto Glass Specifications (NAGS), says COVID-19 hastened the pace of digital transformation in auto insurance. According to a company release, when the pandemic began, carriers and collision repairers were forced to find … Continue reading
Concerns About COVID? Register with Confidence for Auto Glass Week
You know the value of Auto Glass Week™ (AGW) but you are still concerned about COVID-19. Not to worry, this year you can register to attend the conference onsite and switch your registration to virtual as late as May 28, … Continue reading
Sales Decrease by 8.5% in Boyd Group Financial Report
Boyd Group Services Inc. (The Boyd Group) released its 2020 fourth quarter and full year financial report recently and noted COVID-19 impacted its financial results. According to the report, sales decreased by 8.5% to $2.1 billion from $2.3 billion when … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines, glassBYTEs Original Story
Tagged 2020 fourth quarter financial, Assured Automotive, Boyd Autobody & Glass, Boyd Group Services Inc., COVID-19, David Brown, decrease, full year financial report, Gerber Collision & Glass, Gerber National Claim Services, Glass America, Independent Chair, Parkland Corporation, Robert Espey, Sales, Tim O'Day
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CDC Updates COVID-19 Checklist for Construction Employers
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has updated its COVID-19 checklists for construction employers and employees. The update includes sections on mental health and wellbeing, which recommends that employees recognize factors than can add work- or home-related stress … Continue reading
Breaking Down the Government’s Latest Aid Efforts
As businesses continue to struggle from the effects of COVID-19, there are Government funding options available, as the Economic Aid Act was signed into law on December 27th, 2020. It includes an expanded employee retention tax credit, and round 2 … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines, glassBYTEs Original Story
Tagged Cares Act 2.0, Cassandra Langley, COVID-19, Economic Aid Act, Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL), Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC), Government funding, gross revenue, IMPACT, Lescault Walderman Accounting, Payroll Protection Program (PPP), webinar
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NSG Sees Positive Notes in Q3 with Auto Glass Division
NSG Group reported it is recovering from the decline it faced in mid-2020, largely due to COVID-19, in its third quarter consolidated financial report. According to the company, economic activity continues to be impacted significantly by the pandemic, although a … Continue reading
What’s Essential Nowadays?
Throughout the pandemic through which we are living, there has been a lot of confusion and ignorance around who or what is considered “essential.” For companies, being considered essential has meant the difference between being able to stay open or … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story
Tagged COVID-19, essential workers, Phase 1C, vaccinations
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Fix Network & RMHC Canada Launch “Season of Giving” Initiative
Fix Network has pledged its support to Ronald McDonald House Charities Canada (RMHC Canada) by launching its Season of Giving initiative to help families. Fix Network’s Canada-wide initiative will help support RMHC’s 34 programs across the country that provide families … Continue reading
Pandemic’s Tie to Miles Driven – Is It More or Less?
“Americans have gotten comfortable [with] working from home and buying online,” said Gary Silberg, KPMG International Limited (KPMG) partner and automotive sector global head. Do the changes in lifestyle and increased reliance on travel in motor vehicles mean we are … Continue reading
New Website Spearheads Next Generation Digital Platform Launch
National Windscreens, an automotive repair supply chain, has been impacted by the shift from offline to online transactions. The company notes that the digital journey has an increasing impact on the overall customer experience. The company teamed up with Vodafone … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines
Tagged ADAS calibration, COVID-19, National Windscreens, Nigel Paling
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J.D. Power Reports Auto Insurance Claims Satisfaction Climb to Record High
One silver lining to the COVID-19 pandemic: a 22% decline in frequency of auto insurance repairable claims, translates into a record high level of customer satisfaction, according to the J.D. Power 2020 U.S. Auto Claims Satisfaction Study. Why the transformation? … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines, glassBYTEs Original Story
Tagged Amica Mutual, auto insurance claims process, Auto-Owners Insurance, COVID-19, head of property and casualty insurance intelligence, J.D. Power 2020 U.S. Auto Claims Satisfaction Study, NJM Insurance Co., Tom Super, use of direct repair program (DRP) shops
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Celebrating 30 Years in the Industry
Although this year may have been filled with twists and turns many auto glass shops, including City Auto Glass (CAG), have celebrated milestones. Mike Schenian, CAG president and Jon Laski, CEO, shared some of the business’ strengths leading up to … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story
Tagged ADAS calibrations, City Auto Glass, COVID-19, Jon Laski, Mike Schenian
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COVID Boosts Digital Age for Auto Claims
Some auto glass members say having digital options for customers is needed and COVID-19 increased demand. The insurance claims side of the industry has offered customers options to file and check claim status reports online, and experts agree on its … Continue reading
Companies on Alert for Potential Scam Emails
An email sent out this morning on behalf of Belron International, Safelite’s parent company, from Humphrey Singer may contain malware. The email contained two attachments, however, it listed “belrone.com” as the sending address, which is not a valid domain, according … Continue reading
Is There a Coin Shortage and Could it Affect Your Business?
Yet another casualty of COVID-19 is a shortage of coins in the U.S., according to media reports and confirmed from the Federal Reserve. This may or may not be affecting retail auto glass businesses, as most people pay via credit … Continue reading
Corning Emerges with Strong Second Quarter Report
Corning Inc. (Corning) highlighted its strength and positive performance despite COVID-19, attributing it to several initiatives during the company’s second fiscal quarter financial report conference call. Corning manufactures Gorilla Glass, which is found in both the smartphone and automotive industry, … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story
Tagged conference call, Corning, COVID-19, financial report, Q2, Tony Tripeny, Wendell Weeks
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Holiday Weekend Update: See Which Shops are Open
Independence Day falls on a Saturday this year and this week glassBYTEs asked auto glass business if they would be open or closed tomorrow in observance of the holiday. The chart below shows the results of our poll. Closed Friday … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story
Tagged closed, COVID-19, Dell Skluzak, Delta Kits, Independence Day, industry poll, July 4th, Kevin Zeiss, Korey Gobin, Mesko Glass, normal, open, open all weekend, Peter Brown, Rex Altree, SafePro Auto Glass, The PipeKnife Company, Tiny and Sons Auto Glass Co. (Tiny and Sons)
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Webinar Highlights What the Industry’s Future in Repair Could Be Like
As more states continue reopening the Collision Industry Electronic Commerce Association (CIECA) took a closer look at the current landscape of the industry. The association hosted a webinar titled “Back to the Future of Collision Repair & How CIECA Brings … Continue reading
New Hampshire Bill Dies in Committee
A bill that was pre filed at the end of 2019 and introduced in New Hampshire’s House earlier this year failed to make it out of the Senate. The bill, also known as HB 1455, would have made it “an … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story
Tagged COVID-19, HB 1455, House, New Hampshire, senate
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Orange County Convention Center offers GBAC STAR™ Accreditation
Auto Glass Week™ 2021 will be held June 7-9, 2021 in Orlando, Fla. at the Orange County Convention Center. The Orange County Convention Center is one of the nation’s largest venues to receive GBAC STAR™ accreditation on outbreak prevention, response … Continue reading
Vitro to Close Evansville Plant
Vitro Automotive Glass (Vitro) has announced it is closing its auto glass manufacturing plant in Evansville, Ind., by the end of the year. According to Vitro, the economic impact of COVID-19 was a factor in the decision. Vitro previously had … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story
Tagged Closure, COVID-19, Evansville, Salvador Minarro, Vitro Automotive Glass LLC
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NSG Releases Fiscal Year Financials
Nippon Sheet Glass (NSG) recently released its 2020 fiscal year financial results and it noted the company’s automotive glass sales revenue decreased when compared to the same period last year. NSG is one of the largest auto glass manufacturers in … Continue reading
Auto Glass Business Owners Grapple with Employees Who Don’t Want to Come Back
A recent report in FORBES magazine discussed a situation that a number of business owners have found themselves in, and auto glass company owners are no exception. The Federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act provides an additional … Continue reading
Paul Morris Participates in Idea Sharing Summit for Businesses
Paul Morris, president of Jack Morris Auto Glass – Memphis, was recently featured in the Finding Funding segment of a New Normal virtual summit developed by the Tennessee Chamber of Commerce in cooperation with Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland. Jack Morris Auto Glass didn’t … Continue reading
Boyd Group Reports Sales
Boyd Group Services Inc. (The Boyd Group) released its 2020 first quarter financial report today and noted its sales increased by 12.6% to $628.4 million when compared to the same period in 2019. According to the report, its same-store sales … Continue reading
Auto Claims Down 50% Says Solera
COVID-19 seems to become more taxing as time continues and more is learned about the virus. Solera recently held a webinar COVID-19 What’s Now and What’s Next, where a panel of the company’s experts addressed how the virus is impacting … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story
Tagged Arnaud Agostini, Atul Vohra, COVID-19, David Shepherd, industry webinar, Ramon Suarez, Solera, technology
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Industry Webinar Highlights Tracking Workplace COVID-19 Cases and More
COVID-19 has not been a stranger to the industry as multiple auto glass repair and replacement businesses have made adjustments, and in some cases, have temporarily closed in order to help limit the virus’ spread. Vector Solutions hosted a webinar … Continue reading
Speedy Glass Canada Created a Safety Measure for its Customers During COVID-19 Outbreak
Speedy Glass Canada (Speedy) created a glass barrier to protect its employees and customers limit the spread of the novel coronavirus in its operating businesses. The barrier, according to the company, can be created from vehicle windshields.
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines
Tagged COVID-19, Speedy Auto Glass, Speedy Auto Glass Canada, windshield
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Industry Webinar Highlights COVID-19 Challenges
As COVID-19 continues to impact the industry, the Collision Industry Electronic Commerce Association (CIECA) hosted a webinar that focused on some of the challenges associated with the continued spread of the virus. “This broadcast is aimed at addressing the many … Continue reading
More Industry Companies Share Thoughts on COVID-19 Relief Programs
glassBYTEs previously released an article detailing government COVID-19 relief program options for auto glass business owners. Since then, additional companies have come forward and have shared what programs they view as most valuable. “The stimulus package won’t do it all, … Continue reading
Educational Webinar Opportunity
Auto Glass Safety Council™ (AGSC) members are now able to join free webinars, pertaining to Federal Government Aid Programs for Small Businesses (500 employees or less). The first was held today at noon and repeated at 3 p.m. EST. The next informational … Continue reading
Auto Glass Business Temporarily Shuts Down
Tiny and Sons Auto Glass Co. (Tiny and Sons), of Pembroke, Mass., will be closed until April 27, 2020, according to company president Peter Brown. “We have been witnessing unprecedented sacrifices made from first responders, doctors, nurses and those who … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines
Tagged COVID-19, Peter Brown, temporary closure, Tiny and Sons
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GM to Share Face Mask Production Plans with Two Associations
General Motors (GM) recently announced it is increasing production capacity for face masks at its Michigan facility. The automotive company has also shared its manufacturing plans with its suppliers, the Original Equipment Suppliers Association (OESA) and the Michigan Manufacturers Association … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines
Tagged COVID-19, COVID-19 impact, face mask production, General Motors, GM
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Acceptance Insurance Provides for Employees and Customers During COVID-19
Acceptance Insurance has taken extra steps to support both its team members and customers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through continued pay, home goods donations and safe working conditions, Acceptance Insurance is focused on providing a stable environment. The company is … Continue reading
Safelite Announces Layoffs and Other Measures in Response to COVID-19
Safelite president and CEO Tom Feeney announced major company changes today, due to the effects of COVID-19 on the auto glass industry. According to Feeney, the company has experienced unprecedented change brought on by unimaginable circumstances. “COVID-19 is a major … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story
Tagged Belron, changes, COVID-19, New Mexico Governor, Safelite, Tom Feeney
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Experts Weigh in on Self-Care, Mental and Emotional Wellness During Pandemic
Practicing self-care isn’t anything new, in fact it might be seen as more valuable now that the country has been under additional stress since the COVID-19 outbreak. The virus seems to have everyone on the move as many are working … Continue reading
Boyd Group Services Inc. Gives Updates on COVID-19 Pandemic
Boyd Group Services Inc. (the Boyd Group) announced its business has been identified by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency in the United States as an essential critical infrastructure, as well as in Ontario’s list of Essential Workplaces. According to … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines
Tagged COVID-19, essential, social distancing, The Boyd Group, Tim O'Day
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Senate Passes Stimulus Package with Relief for Businesses, Individuals
Following days of negotiations and failed attempts, the U.S. Senate finally agreed to a $2 trillion stimulus package Wednesday aimed at propping up U.S. households and businesses amid the COVID-19 outbreak. White House and Senate leaders announced an agreement in … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story
Tagged Congress, COVID-19, senate, stimulus package, White House
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Ford Works With 3M, GE, UAW to Speed Respirator and Ventilator Production
Ford Motor Company (Ford) joined forces with 3M and GE Healthcare and the United Auto Workers (UAW), to increase the manufacturing and engineering to quickly expand production of medical equipment and supplies for healthcare workers, first responders and patients fighting … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines
Tagged 3M, COVID-19, face shields, Ford Motor Company, GE Healthcare, Kieran Murphy, respirators, UAW, Ventilators
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Safelite Solutions Implements Fast Track
Safelite Solutions (Safelite) issued a notice to its members about its new Fast Track invoice option. According to the company, its Fast Track option is a billing tool that incorporates artificial intelligence (AI) and must be used for businesses submitting … Continue reading
Auto Insurance Agencies See Reduced Claims Since Virus Outbreak
As more states implement shutdowns in an effort to limit COVID-19’s reach, auto insurance providers run the risk of declines in insurance claims. J. Robert Hunter, Consumer Federation insurance director and Birny Birnbaum, Center for Economic Justice director, wrote a … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story
Tagged auto insurance, COVID-19, insurance claims
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Ford Motor Company Suspends Production Due To Virus
Ford Motor Company (Ford) announced it is temporarily suspending vehicle and engine production at its International Markets Group (IMG) manufacturing sites in response to the growing impact of the coronavirus. The IMG production suspensions began Saturday, March 21, and will … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines
Tagged COVID-19, Ford, Ford Motor Company, production
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Judge Grants and Denies Parts of Mediation Extension Request in Ongoing Lawsuit
A Florida Middle Court Judge ruled to grant and dismiss portions of Allstate Insurance Company, Allstate Fire and Casualty Insurance Company, Allstate Indemnity Company and Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Company (collectively Allstate)’s request for additional time prior to its … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story
Tagged AGA, Allstate, Allstate Fire and Casualty Insurance Company, Allstate Indemnity Company, Allstate Insurance Company, Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Company, Auto Glass America LLC (AGA), Charles Isaly, COVID-19, mediation extension request
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FCA Suspends Production in North America in Response to COVID-19 Emergency
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) announced it has ceased production at its North America plants effective yesterday through the end of March 2020. The company released a statement after working with the United Auto Workers (UAW), according to FCA. “While production … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines
Tagged COVID-19, FCA, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, Mike Manley, new policy, united auto workers
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Nationwide Addresses Coronavirus to Its Insured
Nationwide chief customer officer, Amy Shore, sent a notice to the company’s insureds informing them about Nationwide’s COVID-19 safety plans. The company has been preparing to take action on the impacts of the virus for weeks, according to the notice. … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines
Tagged Amy Shore, coronavirus, COVID-19, DOI, Nationwide, safety plans
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Auto Glass Industry Responds To Those in Need
COVID-19 continues to impact the United States, but some in the auto glass industry worked together to help those in need. Paul Bycok, of Glass One Auto Glass, used social media to challenge those in the industry to give back. … Continue reading
How OSHA Says Companies Should Deal With COVID-19 in the Workplace
As U.S. companies face down the threat of COVID-19, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) released input for how to prepare for and minimize impacts. Guidance was developed with the help of the U.S. Department … Continue reading
Massachusetts Auto Glass Business Practices Social Distancing Amidst Virus Outbreak
Tiny and Sons’ president, Peter Brown announced his auto glass company has remained open and is practicing social distancing to ensure his customers and staff remain safe. According to Brown, practicing social distancing has been a challenge for the industry, … Continue reading
COVID-19 Outbreak Prompts Auto Glass Shops to Take Action
As COVID-19 continues to spread some auto glass businesses have implemented additional safety practices to ensure their employees and customers remain protected. glassBYTEs reached out to some industry professionals to learn what if any changes they’ve made. Carlex issued the … Continue reading
Auto Glass University Cancels April Class
Auto Glass University (AGU) announced it has cancelled its April class, originally scheduled for April 13-17, 2020 in order to keep its students safe from COVID-19. The university stated it is following the Center for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines. The … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines
Tagged AGU, Auto Glass University, cancelled classes, COVID-19
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All AASP-MN Meetings and Events Canceled Until Further Notice
The Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of Minnesota (AASP-MN) announced that all currently scheduled meetings and events will be canceled until further notice. Currently AASP-MN staff are set up to work virtually, so association business will continue and will not … Continue reading
Could the COVID-19 Outbreak Lead to Additional Mediation Time?
The COVID-19, also known as the coronavirus, outbreak sparked Allstate Insurance Company, Allstate Fire and Casualty Insurance Company, Allstate Indemnity Company and Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Company (collectively Allstate) to request additional time prior to its scheduled mediation with … Continue reading
Ford Motor Company Released Statement Surrounding COVID-19 Virus
Ford Motor Company (Ford) recently released a statement amidst the rising concern for the COVID-19 virus, also known as the coronavirus. According to the company’s statement, the effect of the virus has been very limited for its employees. “In recent … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines
Tagged coronavirus, COVID-19, Ford, Ford Motor Company
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Industry Members Share Stance Following Virus Outbreak
The coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, sparked national attention following several confirmed cases in the United States. The virus, which originated in China, has already killed more than 4,000 people worldwide, according to CNN, –Several in the auto glass industry … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story
Tagged Bob Beranek, CDC, coronavirus, COVID-19, Korey Gobin, OSHA, virus
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