New solution tackles supply shortage

A new solution has been released to help bodyshops deal with the shortage in parts by connecting them directly with vehicle manufacturers via a new technology platform.

As a result of Covid-19, Brexit and the microchip shortage, repair costs have risen by 27% in the last four years, and there is no evidence of that trend reversing.

Released by OEC, which has partnered with more than 20 genuine parts manufacturers, the VISION platform connects bodyshops to OEMs, dealers, and others in the collision eco-system to ensure the seamless and cohesive sale of genuine parts.

It enables bodyshops to receive a full parts quotation within 15 minutes of inspection, combining the bodyshop’s normal trade terms and potential discounts on specific parts.

Furthermore, streamlining the repair journey and helping repairers source low-stock parts and minimise repair costs, it also helps insurance companies reduce the number of vehicles being written-off because of uneconomical repairs.

Damon Milne, OEC’s trade and collision product director, said: “Finding the right part, at the right time and at the right price can be challenging for bodyshops at the best of times, but the current market conditions have made this an even more difficult task. However, with VISION, repairers can now streamline their repair journey, which will go some way towards keeping cost of repairs down.”