As the automotive repair landscape rapidly evolves, staying ahead of industry trends and technology advancements is crucial for multi-shop operators (MSOs) executives. The 2024 MSO Symposium, now in its 13th year, promises to deliver a robust agenda packed with invaluable content tailored to industry leaders' needs. Scheduled for Nov. 4 in Las Vegas in advance of the SEMA/AAPEX show, this exclusive annual event is set to provide attendees with a unique opportunity to network, learn and strategize for future growth.
Navigating the Collision Industry's Future: An Insider's Perspective
For Autobody News readers, we're offering an exclusive preview of the MSO Symposium's comprehensive agenda, highlighting sessions designed to empower collision repair professionals to navigate the industry's ever-changing landscape.
David Black.
Autobody News spoke with David Black, corporate collision director at Body by Cochran and MSO Symposium advisory board member, to delve into the event's planning process and the thought-provoking topics on the docket.
Black, who has been attending the MSO Symposium since 2015 and joined the advisory board in 2018, shared his insights into the event's strategic focus.
"The board is diverse, representing various perspectives across the collision repair industry. We tackle the good, the bad and the indifferent, discussing what's affecting MSOs and identifying areas of opportunity," Black said. "Our goal is to make sure attendees leave the symposium better informed and ready to seize opportunities for business growth."
Key Topics: Calibrations, AI, and a New Customer Paradigm
This year's agenda includes several high-priority topics that will shape the future of the collision repair industry. Sessions will cover a range of critical issues, from the complexities of calibrations to the transformative potential of artificial intelligence.
"Calibration is a hot topic right now," Black said. "With the increasing sophistication of vehicle technology, ensuring accurate calibrations has become a business-critical function for MSOs. We'll explore the latest advancements and best practices to help shops optimize this process."
Artificial intelligence (AI) will also take center stage, with sessions dedicated to its current and future applications in the industry.
"AI is not just a buzzword -- it's a tool already making a significant impact," Black said. "From AI-driven estimating to enhancing customer service through AI-powered solutions, we'll cover the full spectrum of what s possible now and on the horizon."
The Customer Experience: A Shift in Expectations
The pandemic has reshaped how customers interact with businesses, and the collision repair industry is no exception. "We've seen a shift in the customer base," Black said. "Customers now use their phones for everything, including scheduling repair appointments. We need to meet them where they are and make the process as seamless as possible -- like Amazon."
The symposium will address this shift with sessions focused on integrating technology to enhance customer experience.
An Agenda Packed with Insights and Networking Opportunities
Here's a sneak peek at the 2024 MSO Symposium agenda:
9-10 a.m.: Welcome Breakfast & Networking Hour -- Sponsored by LKQ Corporation
10-10:15 a.m.: Welcome and Introductions
10:15-11 a.m.: Where is the Economy Headed: 2025 and Beyond -- Phil Mackintosh, Nasdaq's Chief Economist, will provide a macroeconomic outlook.
11-11:30 a.m.: Trends and Metrics Impacting the Repair Facility Market -- Kyle Krumlauf, CCC Intelligent Solutions, will provide a deep dive into the latest data trends.
11:30 a.m.-noon: Scale and its Rewards: Industry Landscape and Market Dynamics -- Dave Roberts will explore market consolidation trends and capital considerations.
Noon-12:30 p.m.: Solving Problems: Re-imagining Your Business
12:30-1:45 p.m.: Plated Luncheon -- Sponsored by PPG Industries
1:45-2:30 p.m.: Panel Discussion: Calibration -- Addressing challenges and opportunities in vehicle calibrations.
2:30-3:15 p.m.: The Power of AI Today, Tomorrow and Next Year -- Featuring Ryan Taylor from BodyShop Booster, discussing AI's diverse applications.
3:15-4 p.m.: Networking Break -- Sponsored by Axalta Coating Systems
4-4:45 p.m.: Technology Panel: Business & Data System Interruptions
4:45-5:15 p.m.: Futurist: Automotive & Beyond
5:15-7 p.m.: Industry Networking Reception -- Sponsored by Sherwin-Williams
Why You Should Attend: A Unique Perspective and Networking
The MSO Symposium is a chance to network with leaders from large, small, public and private operations. Black highlighted the event's inclusiveness: "I see myself like these other guys. I may operate on a larger scale, but we share more similarities than differences. The symposium is about tapping into those similarities and learning from each other."
Attendees will benefit from real-time updates on what's currently happening and gain insights into what will shape the future of the collision repair industry.
"We want every attendee to leave with a better understanding of the industry's future and how to grow their business," Black said.
If you want to attend this exclusive event, visit MSOSymposium.com to learn more and see if you qualify. The MSO Symposium is a must-attend for those seeking to stay ahead in an ever-evolving industry.
Leona Scott