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Tag Archives: AGRR
Abby Bowman Named Editor of AGRR™ Magazine
Key Media & Research (KMR) is pleased to announce the promotion of Abby Bowman to editor of AGRR™ magazine and its glassBYTEs™ e-newsletter. Bowman had been serving as its associate editor. She is responsible for the content and distribution of … Continue reading
Driver Who Killed Pedestrian Drove with Dirty Windscreen ‘Out of Sheer Laziness,’ Court Told
Ciaran Lee Wootton (26) from Main Street, Newtownstewart in County Tyrone, Ireland, struck and killed Elaine McGarrity (54) in December 2021. Emergency service personnel at the scene remarked on the state of the windscreen driven by Wootton, who later insisted … Continue reading
AGRR Sister Publications Named Finalists for Prestigious Awards
Several AGRR magazine/glassBYTEs.com sister publications were named finalists in two major editorial competitions, including the 69th Jesse H. Neal awards, considered the “Pulitzer Prize of B2B journalism.” The Neals are presented by the Software & Information Industry Association. The December … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, DWM, Jesse H. Neal, USGlass, Women in the Industry 1 Comment
Nicole Rubio Receives Award for Extraordinary Service to Key Media & Research
Nicole Rubio, marketing coordinator for Key Media & Research (KMR), the parent company of AGRR magazine and the glassBYTEs newsletter, received the company’s 2022 Award for Extraordinary Service. The honor is presented annually and was named after vice president Holly … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Debra Levy, DWM, Holly X. Biller, Key Media & Research, Nicole Rubio, USGlass, Window Film Leave a comment
Ellen Rogers Named Editorial/Content Director for Key Media & Research
Award-winning journalist Ellen Rogers has been named editorial/content director for KMR. She handles the content direction and delivery for all KMR industry sectors, including Auto Glass Repair & Replacement (AGRR) magazine, USGlass magazine, Window Film magazine, and Door & Window … Continue reading
Extreme Heat Requires Extreme Planning for Auto Glass Industry
Triple-digit temperatures in the western United States have auto glass repair and replacement (AGRR) shops navigating the associated issue of adhesive application in high temperatures. With most adhesive manufacturers recommending that such work not be performed in temperatures more than … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged adhesive, AGRR, California, Don's Mobile Glass, National Weather Service Leave a comment
At the Top: Auto Glass Retailers in 2022
Today, glassBYTEs.com takes a look at top auto glass retailers this year compared to AGRR’s 2020 list. Who remains on top? Were there any major changes? In the number one spot this year and in 2022, Belron and Safelite remain … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged 2022, AGRR, auto glass, business, Calibration, Top Retailers, windshield repair, windshield replacement, windshields 1 Comment
AGRR Bill Deferred to 2023 in Virginia Legislature
The Virginia House Highway Safety and Policy Subcommittee held a hearing on January 26 to consider 12 bills, one of which is related to auto glass safety and supported by the Auto Glass Safety Council (AGSC). The subcommittee held the … Continue reading
Key Media & Research Earns 11 ASBPE Nominations
Key Media & Research (KMR), publisher of AGRR magazine and glassBYTEs.com, was named a finalist for 11 American Society of Business Publication Editors’ (ASBPE) awards yesterday, showcasing the staff’s outstanding work in print, video and design. The accolades include a … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, auto glass repair and replacement, Key Media & Research Leave a comment
Top Stories of the Decade
As we head into 2020, glassBYTEs.com took a look at the most popular stories of the 2010s. The top ten may not be what you expected but they were the most read based on page views. 1. Honda Requires OE … Continue reading
Global Study Shows How Major Cities are Crafting their Mobility Future
In a recent issue of Auto Glass Repair and Replacement (AGRR) magazine, we looked at how auto glass companies should start preparing today for the mobility changes of tomorrow. That topic of how transportation is changing in the world’s biggest … Continue reading
Industry Professionals Shed Light on If You Should Leave ADAS Features Off
What do you do if a customer brings their vehicle to your shop with its Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) features disabled? Do you turn them back on, leave them off, or refuse to operate on it? Also what if … Continue reading
Additional Sponsors Join Exhibition Floor at Auto Glass Week™
At Auto Glass Week™ you can experience three days of valued education, networking opportunities, exciting competitions and an exhibition floor full of top industry suppliers. Below are some of the recently added Cobalt sponsors attendees can visit at Auto Glass … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, AGW, Auto Glass Week, autoglassweek, DINOL US Inc., eDirectGlass Leave a comment
Auto Glass Week™ Announces Educational Program
The educational program, sponsored by XYG, has been announced for Auto Glass Week™ (AGW) 2019, the leading auto glass repair and replacement educational conference and trade show. Auto Glass Week will take place September 4-6 at the Indiana Convention Center … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, agrrmag, AGW, Auto Glass Week, autoglassweek, Education, glassBYTEs, Indiana Convention Center, Seminars, Speakers 1 Comment
Glass Mechanix Solutions Upgrades to Bronze Sponsor at Auto Glass Week™ 2019
Glass Mechanix Solutions has upgraded its sponsorship from a Cobalt to Bronze-level for Auto Glass Week™ (AGW) 2019. Glass Mechanix Solutions is a world-leading manufacturer of windshield repair tools and supplies in addition to providing VIN lookup and point of … Continue reading
Win a Truck at Auto Glass Week™ 2019!
That’s right! At Auto Glass Week™, taking place September 4-6 in Indianapolis, Ind., one lucky individual will drive away in a brand new truck! How It Works: All eligible* attendees will have up to six chances to receive a key. … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, AGW, Auto Glass Week, autoglassweek, Indiana Convention Center, win a truck 1 Comment
Three New Copper Sponsors Join Auto Glass Week™
Auto Glass Week™ (AGW) is pleased to welcome three more Copper-level sponsors to the 2019 exhibition floor. Auto Glass Week will take place at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, September 4-6, 2019. It is the only event that focuses … Continue reading
AGRR Auto Glass Week Video Wins Prestigious National ASBPE Award
Auto Glass Repair and Replacement (AGRR) magazine won the Bronze Award in the video news category from the American Society of Business Publication Editors. The award, presented last week in St. Petersburg, Fla., recognized the work of AGRR editorial director … Continue reading
Carlex Joins Trade Show Floor as Sponsor for Auto Glass Week™
Carlex is sponsoring Auto Glass Week™ once again at the Bronze-level. The company can be found in the exhibition hall at the Indiana Convention Center, to be held September 4-6 in Indianapolis, Ind. Carlex is a global original equipment manufacturer … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, AGW, auto glass, Auto Glass Week, Carlex, Indiana Convention Center Leave a comment
Four New Companies Join Auto Glass Week™ as Cobalt Sponsors
Auto Glass Week™ (AGW) is pleased to welcome four more sponsors to the 2019 exhibition floor. The event will take place at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, Ind., September 4-6, 2019. It is the only event that focuses on … Continue reading
Key Media & Research Wins Six Awards
Key Media & Research (KMR), parent company to Auto Glass Repair and Replacement (AGRR) magazine, took home six American Society of Business Publication Editors’ (ASBPE) awards on Wednesday—for the Mid-Atlantic region including a Silver for AGRR in the Video News category for … Continue reading
Plan to Attend Auto Glass Week™ 2019 – Registration Now Open!
Online registration for Auto Glass Week™ 2019 is now open! The international event will take place September 4-6 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, Ind. Auto Glass Week is designed for the original equipment (OE) and aftermarket auto glass … Continue reading
AGRR, USGlass Magazines Named Jesse H. Neal Award Finalists
Auto Glass Repair and Replacement (AGRR) and USGlass Metal and Glazing (USGlass) magazines have been named as finalists in the annual Jesse H. Neal Awards competition for editorial excellence. The winners will be announced on March 29 during the annual Neal … Continue reading
Send AGRR Your Best (and Worst)
In the upcoming July/August issue of AGRR magazine we want to feature you the technician. Send us your best stuff: your best install photos, your hardest installations (maybe it was technically challenging or maybe it was difficult due to a … Continue reading
Fuyao Reports on 2017 Successes and Challenges for Future
Fuyao Glass Industry Group released its 2017 annual report recently, which unveiled some interesting insights into the efficiencies of this global glass maker. In the report, the company identified its core competitiveness, successes and challenges for the future. When analyzing … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, AGRR magazine, Fuyao Glass Industry Group Leave a comment
Jack Morris of Tenn.-Based Jack Morris Auto Glass Passes Away
John “Jack” Morris III, the man behind Tenn.-based Jack Morris Auto Glass, passed away on Friday at the age of 87. Morris was known throughout his hometown as a civic leader and businessman, always putting the happiness of those around … Continue reading
Going with Direct Billing? Here are a Few Tips from Auto Glass Shop Owners
If you’re looking to go the direct billing route, here are a few more tips and recommendations that could work for you. For more information on the topic, look to the January/February issue of AGRR magazine. 1. There’s an App … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, auto glass, auto insurance, direct billing Leave a comment
Auto Glass Companies Look Forward to Family Time this Thanksgiving
While most auto glass repair and replacement companies will likely be closed Thanksgiving day, several have opted to let their employees choose whether or not to take off Black Friday. Jeremy Driscoll, owner of JRD Auto Glass in Austin, Texas, … Continue reading
Belron’s Sales Increase, U.S. Profit Falls Slightly
Belgium-based D’Ieteren, parent company to Belron, which owns Safelite AutoGlass, reported that its automotive repair and replacement business, before taxes, reached $109.6 million USD (92 million EUR), up 6.2 percent over the previous year, according to the company’s half-year report. … Continue reading
R.I. Bill to Protect Right to Choose Repair Facility
Rhode Island Senator Dominick Ruggerio introduced a bill that would prohibit domestic and foreign insurance companies from discriminating against individuals in a domestic partner relationship concerning policies issued or renewed in the state. Included in the bill was the domestic … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, auto glass repair, auto glass replacement Leave a comment
Two New Events to Experience at Auto Glass Week™ 2017
Auto Glass Week™ continues to expand each year to enhance attendees’ enrichment and experience. This year, two new events are available to tempt attendees’ appetites for knowledge—one new competition and an optional sightseeing tour of the gorgeous West Palm Beach, … Continue reading
Sunroof Express to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016
Sunroof Express will sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ 2016 Opens in Just One Week!
Auto Glass Week™ 2016 will kick off in just one week at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio, Texas. This is a not-to-miss event packed full of education, competitions and networking. Continue reading
NGB to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™
NGB will sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged 2016 Auto Glass Week, AGRR, AGW, National Glass Brokers, NGB Leave a comment
SIKA Corporation Returns as a Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™
SIKA Corporation will sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: The Importance of Your Involvement
“Auto Glass Week™ is October 5-7, and your visit to the international trade show and festivities is the best way to get involved with your industry and take a few days off. San Antonio, Texas, the location of this year’s show, has a lot to offer. Walk along Riverwalk, sip a margarita and enjoy the music seeping out of the many restaurants and bars along the way. Go to historic San Antonio and visit the Alamo. Walk your industry’s trade show floor and learn what is new and upcoming.”—Bob Beranek Continue reading
Onsite Registration is Still Available for Auto Glass Week™
We are only two weeks away from the opening of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio, Texas, Oct. 5-7. Continue reading
T.E.S.T. Kfz-Ersatzteile GmbH to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™
T.E.S.T. Kfz-Ersatzteile GmbH will sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week, T.E.S.T. Kfz-Ersatzteile GmbH Leave a comment
CallBlu to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™
CallBlu will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged 2016, AGRR, Auto Glass Week, CallBlu, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
NAGS: Average Weighted Price Change Down 4.62 % for All Parts
Mitchell’s National Auto Glass Specifications Inc. (NAGS) has released the weighted average pricing changes for all parts, as well as top 100 and top 500 parts in its Fall International Benchmark Calculator. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Fall 2016 Benchmark Calculator, glassBYTEs.com, Mitchell's NAGS, NAGS Leave a comment
SIKA Automotive to Open Brazilian Adhesive Factory
SIKA Automotive will open a new factory in South America for adhesives and acoustic products. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged Adhesives, AGRR, Brazil, glassBYTEs.com, Sika, Sika Automotive Leave a comment
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Easy When You Are with the Right People
“Charlie ‘Tremendous’ Jones once said, ‘You are the same today as you’ll be in five years except for two things: the books you read and the people you meet.’” —Mark Liston Continue reading
One DOT Number Awarded to American Company, Three to Asia
The Department of Transportation recently awarded DOT numbers to four automotive glass companies. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, DOT Numbers, glassBYTEs.com, NSG, Saint-Gobain Sekurit, Techni-Glass Inc. Leave a comment
Clean Plus Inc./CPI Divisions Returns as a Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™
Clean Plus Inc./CPI Divisions will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week, Clean Plus Inc/CPI Divisions, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
NAGS Releases New Calculator with Modest Decline
Mitchell’s National Auto Glass Specifications Inc. (NAGS) has released its Fall International Benchmark Calculator which shows very modest changes in pricing. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, NAGS Fall Calculator 2016 Leave a comment
TODAY’S BLOG: A Look at Full-Strip Procedures
“Last week we looked at tool options for trimming back the urethane bead to the level suggested by the adhesive manufactures (1/16th on an inch) when replacing a windshield. This week we’ll address the procedures that must be employed to make sure the glass is solidly bonded and the installation is leak-free.”—Bob Beranek Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Journal, Bob Beranek, glassBYTEs.com, Technically Speaking Leave a comment
Auto Windscreens Names New Managing Director
United Kingdom-based Auto Windscreens has named Rupert Armitage as its new manager director. Armitage has been acting managing director since January 2016 and will now lead the business moving forward. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Windscreens, glassBYTEs.com, Managing Director, Rupert Armitage Leave a comment
glass.com® Joins Auto Glass Week™ as a Sponsor
glass.com® will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week 2016, glass.com, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
Ford Door-Latch Recall Now Encompasses 2.4 Million Vehicles
Ford has expanded a recall over a door-latch issue to cover an additional 1.5 million vehicles at the request of the National Highway Safety Traffic Administration (NHTSA). The total number of vehicles affected is now 2.4 million. Continue reading
Safelite AutoGlass Opens New Location in Maine
Safelite AutoGlass is opening a new location in Portland, Maine, by October 2016 to serve Maine and New Hampshire. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Maine, Portland, Safelite Auto Glass Leave a comment
A Night Out at Auto Glass Week™
Register by Friday, September 16, for the Auto Glass Week™ Pub Crawl, which is Sponsored by Scorpion Window Film. After Friday, only a limited number of tickets will be available onsite at registration during Auto Glass Week, so hurry and sign up now to ensure your spot in this optional event! Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week, glassBYTEs.com, pub crawl, Scorpion Window Film Leave a comment
National Windscreens Opens Calibration Center
National Windscreens has opened an Advanced Driver Assistance System calibration center in Inverness, U.K. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Calibration, glassBYTEs.com, National Windscreens Leave a comment
Former Safelite Group CEO Files Complaint Against the Company
Dan Wilson, former president and CEO of Belron U.S. and Safelite Group, has filed a complaint against the company alleging that its nonqualified deferred compensation plan was mismanaged, causing him to lose millions of dollars in owed income taxes, penalty and interest. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Belron, Dan Wilson, glassBYTEs.com, Safelite Group 1 Comment
Seminars for the Industry: New Trends in Auto Glass
Join us at Auto Glass Week™ 2016, October 5-7, and learn from the best in the business. The three-day automotive glass industry event will be held at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center and San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter in San Antonio, Texas. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week 2016, Gerry Parij, glassBYTEs.com, Seminar Leave a comment
Registration Deadline Approaching for Auto Glass Week™ Golf Tournament at TPC San Antonio
The last day to register for the annual Auto Glass Week™ Golf Tournament is this Friday, September 16. The event will be held Tuesday, October 4 at TPC San Antonio, home of the PGA Tour’s Valero Texas Open. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week, glassBYTEs.com, Golf Tournament, TPC San Antonio Leave a comment
NWRA Solicits Industry Feedback on New Break Identification Standard
The National Windshield Repair Association™ (NWRA) is soliciting comments on its new draft Standard ANSI/NWRA/BIS 001-2016. The proposed Break Identification Standard (BIS) creates a system for identifying where damage has been repaired on vehicles and covers all types of glass in the car, excluding of sunroofs. Continue reading
Last Chance! Auto Glass Week™ Pre-Registration Deals End Friday!
Be sure to pre-register for Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this week to take advantage of discounts that end Friday, September 16. Attendees who pre-register by Friday could save up to $50 per person for a full registration. Continue reading
Shore.com Is a New Sponsor for Auto Glass Week™ 2016
Shore.com will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week, glassBYTEs.com, Shore.com, Sponsor Leave a comment
Banner Glass Files for Bankruptcy
Banner Glass has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in the U.S. Federal District Court of Maryland. Its assets will go up for auction via Tiger Capital Group’s Commercial & Industrial division. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Bankruptcy, Banner Glass, Chapter 11, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
Discount Room Rates for Auto Glass Week™ End Saturday
Auto Glass Week™ is reaching record numbers and has sold out at our host hotel. Room nights are still available at the Marriott Riverwalk. The Marriott Rivercenter is full. The hotels are next to each other. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week, glassBYTEs.com, Hotel Discount Leave a comment
Reach Auto Glass Week™ 2016 Via Your Smartphone
Need the latest information about Auto Glass Week™ 2016 while you’re on the go? Thanks to LYNX Services’ Sponsorship, Auto Glass Week’s mobile app on Guidebook is now live. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week, glassBYTEs.com, LYNX Services, Tap the App 1 Comment
Will Shops Accept the “Offer?”
The AGRR industry had a mixed reaction to news that State Farm is changing its “offer” on September 19. “We’re bracing ourselves,” says Dennis Farrar, president of Oesterle Auto Glass & Paint in Parkersburg, W.Va. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, AGRR Industry Reaction, glassBYTEs.com, Price Change, State Farm Leave a comment
TODAY’S BLOG: ADAS: OEM vs. Aftermarket Who Wins?
“What if you came to a corner and found a person hawking Rolex watches for $20? Would you buy one? Two? A dozen for investment purposes? Say you walk farther and another salesperson approaches you selling unlocked I phones for $75. You then find yourself at a street fair where there is a display selling suits with Armani labels for $50 and another with Oakley shades for $5. Is it your lucky day for value? Or would you stop to consider the fact that you just got ripped off by buying inferior knockoffs?” —Neil Duffy Continue reading
Seminars for the Industry: Positioning Your Company to Be a Dominant Player in Your Local Market
Join us at Auto Glass Week™ 2016, October 5-7, and learn from the best in the business. The three-day automotive glass industry event will be held at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center and San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter in San Antonio, Texas. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week, David Leach, glassBYTEs.com, Troy Mason Leave a comment
State Farm’s Offer and Acceptance Program to Change and the Offer Is Going Down
State Farm is changing the “offer” in its offer and acceptance program, effective September 19. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Dave Phillips, glassBYTEs.com, Offer and Acceptance, State Farm 4 Comments
Novus Glass Opens British Columbia Location, More Coming
Novus Glass has opened a corporate store in Port Coquitlam, British Columbia, Canada. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, British Columbia, glassBYTEs.com, Novus Glass Leave a comment
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Labor Day
“Labor Day. Parade, hot dogs and hamburgers, the unofficial end of summer and beginning of school. That is how I remember it.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Labor Day, Mark Liston, On the Mark: Leadership Lessons Leave a comment
AGSC to Offer Training in Virginia in December
The Auto Glass Safety Council™ (AGSC) will hold a regional training and accreditation program in Stafford, Va., in December. The training course and certification exam will be offered twice, once on Wednesday, December 14, and again on Thursday, December 15, at AGSC headquarters. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, AGSC, Auto Glass Safety Council, glassBYTEs.com, Virginia Training Leave a comment
Final Count: Traffic Fatalities Show Highest Increase in Almost 50 Years
Traffic fatalities totaled 35,092 in 2015, a 7.2 percent increase from 2014, according to the final numbers released by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This number ends a five-decade trend of declining fatalities, according to NHTSA. Continue reading
FeneTech, Inc. to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016
FeneTech, Inc. will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week 2016, FeneTech Inc., glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens Indiana Location
The Boyd Group Inc., parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, is opening a new collision repair center in La Porte, Ind. Continue reading
Equalizer Launches Auto Glass TV
Equalizer has introduced Auto Glass TV (AGTV™) at warehouses as a way for AGRR company owners and technicians to gain more information, including local weather, traffic reports, industry news, events, education, product demonstrations and more. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass TV, Equalizer, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
Keeping up with Robinson
What’s the path full-time ten-time all-star NBA legend, two-time Olympian, and full-time philanthropist David Robinson has taken from basketball to all-star to private equity investor? Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week 2016, Basket Ball, David Robinson, glassBYTEs.com, Keynote Leave a comment
TODAY’S BLOG: Precision Procedures for Exposed Glass
“The introduction of the exposed-glass mounting has led to a paramount concern for installers not to damage the exposed pinchweld wall. If the pinchweld is damaged during installation, and priming exceeds the underside moulding weather mark, there is a real possibility that our customers will not like the look. This has changed the way we remove the glass and even introduced a new type of tool, the wire-out tools.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Bob Beranek, Exposed Glass Edge, glassBYTEs.com, Technically Speaking Leave a comment
Auto Glass Week™ 2016 Welcomes GTS Services as Sponsor
GTS Services will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week 2016, glassBYTEs.com, GTS Services, Ritty, Sponsor Leave a comment
Judge Dismisses All But One Claim in Alleged Sunroof Defect Case
A judge has granted summary judgment to BMW in a sunroof defect lawsuit on all claims with the exception of one. The class action lawsuit was brought by two plaintiffs who allege their vehicles suffered water damage after the drainage tubes installed to pull water away from the sunroofs did not work properly. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Alleged Sunroof Defect, BMW, Eric Anderson, glassBYTEs.com, Monita Sharma Leave a comment
Seminars for the Industry: Leadership Skills for AGRR Companies
Join us at Auto Glass Week™ 2016, October 5-7, and learn from the best in the business. The three-day automotive glass industry event will be held at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center and San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter in San Antonio, Texas. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged 2016, AGRR, Auto Glass Week, Gina Jonas, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
AGSC™ Releases Latest E-Newsletter
The Auto Glass Safety Council™ (AGSC) has published its latest e-newsletter. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, AGSC, Auto Glass Safety Council, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
U.S. Bolsters Belron’s Same-Store Growth
Belron’s organic sales growth of 4.6 percent was mainly driven by the United States, the United Kingdom and Germany, according to D’Ieteren’s half-year update. Belgium-based D’Ieteren owns Belron, which in turn owns Safelite AutoGlass in the U.S. Belron’s sales were … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Belron, D’Ieteren, glassBYTEs.com, Half Year Results, Safelite AutoGlass Leave a comment
American Glass Distributors to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016
American Glass Distributors will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, American Glass Distributors, Auto Glass Week 2016, glassBYTEs.com, Sponsor 1 Comment
General Motors Recalls Select Models for Visibility Issue
Windshield wipers could break on 367,808 General Motors’ Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain 2013 models, according to a recall from the automaker. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Chevrolet Equinox, General Motors, glassBYTEs.com, GMC Terrain, NHTSA, Recall 1 Comment
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Who Cares?
“If you are a sports fan I’m sure you’ve already heard all the hubbub about 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick refusing to stand for the National Anthem last Friday night in a preseason game with the Packers. Apparently, this is all about the United States’ treatment of racial minorities.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Glass Doctor, glassBYTEs.com, Mark Liston, On the Mark: Leadership Lessons Leave a comment
Miles Driven Continues Upward Spike
Travel on all roads and streets continued its steady climb in June 2016, up 3.2 percent, or 8.6 billion vehicle miles, compared to June 2015. Month over month, miles driven were up 1.05 percent. This is according to the latest figures from the Federal Highway Administration, a division of the U.S. Department of Transportation. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, June 2016, Miles Driven Leave a comment
Marcy Adhesives to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016
Marcy Adhesives will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week 2016, glassBYTEs.com, Marcy Adhesives Leave a comment
Ford Recalls Escape to Reconfigure Power Window Software
Ford reports that the power windows on its 2017 Ford Escape vehicles may close with too much force so it is recalling the models to reconfigure the software. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged 2017 Ford Escape, AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Recall, Window Software 1 Comment
Extractor to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016
Extractor will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week 2016, Extractor, glassBYTEs.com, Sponsor Leave a comment
AAA Auto Insurance Captures Top Honors in Harris Poll
AAA Auto Insurance topped State Farm to be named Auto Insurance Brand of the Year by The Harris Poll 2016 EquiTrend Study. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Is Google Marketing Better than Facebook Marketing?
“So the neighbor’s kid knocks a baseball through our windshield.” —Chuck Bankoff Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Chuck Bankoff, glassBYTEs.com, Google versus Facebook marketing Leave a comment
Safelite Opens Two New Locations in Boston Market
Safelite AutoGlass is adding two new stores in the Boston area this summer. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Boston, glassBYTEs.com, Safelite AutoGlass Leave a comment
Seminars for the Industry: The Auto Glass-TPA Relationship–Can This Marriage be Saved?
Learn from the best at Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this October 5-7. The three-day automotive glass industry event will be held at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center and San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter in San Antonio, Texas. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week 2016, Code Blue, glassBYTEs.com, HSG, ICM, Insurance Claims Management, Wayne Sharrah Leave a comment
General Motors Wants Lawsuit Against Faulty Headlights Dismissed
General Motors (GM) is requesting a judge dismiss a recent lawsuit against the manufacturers that alleges the headlights on its 2014-2015 GMC Sierra 1500 and the 2015 GMC Sierra 2500 and 3500 are defective. The lawsuit comes from plaintiffs Armando … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines, glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, General Motors, glassBYTEs.com, GM, headlights Leave a comment
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—I Cannot Tell a Lie
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—I Cannot Tell a Lie
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Mark Liston, On the Mark: Leadership Lessons Leave a comment
Chrysler Asks Court for Summary Judgment in Alleged Sunroof Defect Lawsuit
Though numerous plaintiffs filed the original complaint against Chrysler over an alleged sunroof defect, only one remains, according to the automaker’s court document. Chrysler’s attorneys say the automaker did everything it was legally obligated to do under warranty and the lawsuit should be dismissed. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Chrysler Alleged Sunroof Defect, glassBYTEs.com 1 Comment
Novus Glass in British Columbia Raises Funds for Local Charity
The teams at the Novus Glass locations in British Columbia, Canada, donated their time and resources earlier this month to support the White Rock Princess Party Charity event sponsored by the White Rock Firefighters Charity Association. The event raised $34,000. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, British Columbia, glassBYTEs.com, Novus Glass, Princess Party Charity Leave a comment
TODAY’S BLOG: Visiting IIHS
“Last week I was invited to tour the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) complex in Ruckersville, Va. All I can say is wow. What an impressive place.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Journal, Bob Beranek, glassBYTEs.com, IIHS, Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Leave a comment
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens Louisiana Location
The Boyd Group Inc., parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, has opened a new collision repair center in Slidell, La. Slidell is about 34 miles northeast of New Orleans. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Boyd Group, Gerber Collision & Glass, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
Seminars for the Industry: The Next Generation in Automotive Glass
The hard-hitting educational line-up continues to meet the needs of the automotive glass industry. Experts have been hand-selected to speak on areas to help increase your knowledge and provide an unsurpassed experience for all in attendance. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week 2016, Corning, Ford, glassBYTEs.com, Thomas Cleary Leave a comment
AGRR Companies Assess Damage from Louisiana Floods
Eleven are dead and more than 40,000 homes have been affected by the heavy deluge of rain and floods in Baton Rouge, La., that began Friday. Some AGRR companies are just now getting back up and running while others were luckily enough to escape the water’s wrath. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Baton Rouge, Flooding, Floods, glassBYTEs.com, La., Louisiana Leave a comment
Elephant Auto Insurance Expands into Tennessee and Indiana
Elephant Auto Insurance has entered Indiana and Tennessee. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Elephant Auto Insurance, glassBYTEs.com, Indiana, Tennessee Leave a comment
Pre-Registration for Auto Glass Week™ 2016 Ends in One Month!
Auto Glass Week™ 2016 is right around the corner, October 5-7, and is the best opportunity for attendees to receive education and meet with suppliers that specialize in the automotive glass industry! Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week 2016, glassBYTEs.com, Seminars 1 Comment
Attendees to See Many New Companies Among the Familiar at Auto Glass Week™; Less Than Five Booths Remain
Participants at Auto Glass Week™ always look forward to visiting the sponsors exhibiting at the show. In fact, all previous exhibitors, with one exception, are back for 2016—along with many new companies. In addition to seeing these fine companies, the number of companies has expanded by more than 25 percent. A full quarter of the sponsors will be debuting and displaying their products and services before attendees for the first time. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week, Booths, glassBYTEs.com, Sponsors Leave a comment
Newscast: Tips for Installing in Hot Weather
As hot weather scorches parts of the country, many AGRR technicians can’t avoid the heat. In the July/August newscast we take a look at hot weather mobile installations. Will urethanes cure properly in hot temperatures? Can you handle the windshield when it’s 115˚ degrees or more? These are just some of the questions we answer in the AGRR™ magazine/glassBYTEs.com™ newscast. Continue reading
Posted in Video Tagged Adhesives, AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Hot Weather Installations, OSHA, Urethane 1 Comment
Coach Glass to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016
Coach Glass will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week 2016, Coach Glass, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
Maryland-Based Banner Glass Inc. Closes Its Doors
Employee-owned Banner Glass, which has eight locations covering Maryland and Northern Virginia, has shuttered its doors. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Banner Glass, glassBYTEs.com, Md., Silver Spring Leave a comment
UNITED KINGDOM—National Windscreens Renews Contract with Brightside Group
Brightside Group has signed a new three-year contract with United Kingdom-based National Windscreens. Through the contract, National Windscreens will serve as the preferred provider for glass claims for Brightside Group. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Brightside Group, glassBYTEs.com, National Windscreens Leave a comment
GNCS Lifts Second-Quarter Sales at Boyd Group
Canadian-based Boyd Group Income Fund, parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, reported that the recent addition of new customers at Gerber National Claim Services (GNCS) boosted same-store sales by 1.4 percent to overall growth of 5.1 percent in the second quarter. Continue reading
Auto Windscreens Installs New Cameras in Techs’ Vans
United Kingdom-based Auto Windscreens is installing VisionTrack’s VT2000 telematics cameras in its technicians’ vans for better incident management and to minimize risks, according to the company. Continue reading
Seminars for the Industry: ADAS and Solutions to Recalibration Issues
Keep the business where you want it. Learn how from the best at Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this October 5-7. Continue reading
AUSTRALIA—Novus Glass Adds New Franchisees in Queensland
Mark and Sam Watt are joining Novus Glass Australia as franchisees in Queensland. The new shop will be located in Hyde Park, a suburb of Queensland, Australia. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Mark Watt, Novus Glass Australia, Sam Watt Leave a comment
Rhode Island Updating Licensing Regulations for AGRR Companies
The Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation is revising its more than decade-old licensing regulation to reflect a new law (https://glassbytes.com/2015/06/rhode-island-department-of-business-regulation-to-license-agrr-companies/) that was passed by the state legislature last year. The department has scheduled an Automotive Glass Industry Working Group meeting on August 15 to discuss proposals for the revised regulation that will oversee AGRR company licensing. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Business Regulation, glassBYTEs.com, Licensing, Rhode Island Leave a comment
JN Phillips/Windshield Centers Buys Altieri Glass
Woburn, Mass.-based JN Phillips Auto Glass has acquired Rhode Island-based Altieri Glass. Altieri Glass is the sixth local brand added to JN Phillips/Windshield Centers. Continue reading
Last Call for Booth Space at Auto Glass Week™ 2016
If you’re considering exhibiting and becoming a Sponsor at this year’s Auto Glass Week™, don’t wait and miss your chance to reach current and potential customers. Only a few booths remain! Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week 2016, glassBYTEs.com, Sponsor Leave a comment
Glass Technology Inc. to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016
Glass Technology Inc. will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week 2016, Glass Technology, glassBYTEs.com, Sponsor Leave a comment
Burco, Inc., to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016
Burco, Inc., will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week, Bill Castleberry, Burco Inc., glassBYTEs.com, Sponsor Leave a comment
TODAY’s BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Olympic Disappointments
“My wife Mary Kay and I love watching the Olympic opening ceremony. It only happens every four years yet the memories and lessons linger forever.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Glass Doctor, glassBYTEs.com, Leadership, Mark Liston Leave a comment
Safelite to Close Enfield Plant and Exit Automotive Glass Manufacturing
Safelite AutoGlass, the nation’s largest automotive glass installation company, will close its plant in Enfield, N.C., and cease manufacturing automotive glass parts before the end of the year. Officials say the decision was based on the increased complexity—and cost—of manufacturing such parts as their complexity and number of different types are expected to increase rapidly in the future. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Closure, Enfield, Feeney, glassBYTEs.com, N.C., Safelite AutoGlass, Safelite Glass Corp., Tom Feeney Leave a comment
May’s Miles Driven Top Last Year’s Figure
Travel on all roads and streets continued its steady climb in May 2016, up 2 percent, or 5.5 billion vehicle miles, compared to May 2015. Month over month, miles driven were up 2.5 percent. This is according to the latest figures from the Federal Highway Administration, a division of the U.S. Department of Transportation. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, May 2016, Miles Driven Leave a comment
TODAY’S BLOG: Should We Replace Laminated Sidelites with Tempered Glass?
“In May of 2014, I posted an article addressing the dilemma of whether the use of laminated sidelites were a safety device or a performance device. Recently this same issue came up again. Evidently, some customers have asked an automotive glass shop to install a tempered door glass in place of the broken laminated part due to the lower cost. Should we be installing tempered in place of laminated? Is this a safety concern?” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Journal, Bob Beranek, glassBYTEs.com, Laminated, Tempered Leave a comment
Meritool LLC to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016
Meritools LLC will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week, glassBYTEs.com, Meritool LLC, Sponsor Leave a comment
Novus Glass Adds Australian Franchisee
Novus Glass Australia has added Justin Smith as a new franchisee in the Werribee and Footscray suburbs of Melbourne. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Justin Smith, Novus Glass Australia Leave a comment
Founder of Mass.-Based Tiny and Sons Passes Away
James “Tiny” Brown, 81, founder of Pembroke, Mass.-based based Tiny and Sons Auto Glass passed away on July 27, 2016. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, James "Tiny" Brown, Peter Brown, Tiny and Sons Leave a comment
Minnesota Department of Commerce Enters Settlement with Auto-Owners Insurance
Auto-Owners Insurance Company will pay a civil penalty of $10,000 and stop “using a non-preferred glass vendor’s failure to accept the price offered for automobile glass repair or replacement as the sole basis for performing a vehicle inspection,” as part of a settlement agreement with the Minnesota Department of Commerce. Continue reading
BELGIUM—Guardian Glass Moves European Auto Activities Under New Business Unit
Guardian Glass’ automotive activities in Europe have been integrated into a single business. Guardian Automotive combines the company’s European manufacturing facilities, as well as warehousing and distribution services, which were previously run as separate entities. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Guardian Automotive, Guardian Glass, Olivier Demeijer Leave a comment
DINOL to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016
DINOL will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. “DINOL has been a proud sponsor of Auto Glass … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week, DINOL, glassBYTEs.com, Sponsorship Leave a comment
NSG Pilkington’s Sales Down Due to Strong Yen, But Profit Up
NSG, parent company to Pilkington, reported that revenues for the fiscal first quarter for automotive glass were below the prior year due the strength of the Japanese Yen. However, at a constant exchange rate, revenues were ahead thanks to increased volumes in Europe and North America, according to the company. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Fiscal First Quarter, glassBYTEs.com, Kenichi Morooka, NSG Pilkington Leave a comment
Seminars for the Industry: How Davids Beat Goliaths
Join us at Auto Glass Week™ 2016, October 5-7, and learn from the best in business. The three-day automotive glass industry event will be held at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center and San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter in San Antonio, Texas. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week 2016, Auto Windscreens, glassBYTEs.com, Tony Green Leave a comment
Collision Works Acquires Auto Masters
Oklahoma-based Collision Works has acquired three locations previously owned by Auto Masters, a multi-shop repair organization in Kansas. The deal includes an automotive glass company and a towing service. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Masters, Collision Works, glassBYTEs.com, Jake Nossaman Leave a comment
Acura Requires Camera Calibration After a Windshield Replacement
Honda requires camera calibration and software-based aiming after a windshield replacement for its Acura models, according to a statement from the automaker. Continue reading
ACI to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016
ACI will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. “It’s a great opportunity to meet with the technicians … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged ACI, AGRR, Auto Glass Week 2016, Dave Perry, glassBYTEs.com, Sponsor Leave a comment
Safelite Responds to Minnesota Department of Commerce in Court
Whether Safelite Solutions customer service representatives (CSRs) use the word “may” be or “will” be balance billed by out-of-network glass companies does not make a difference, according to a Safelite Group and Safelite Solutions court filing late last week. Both words are truthful, the company said in its response to the Minnesota Department of Commerce in the court filing. Continue reading
Gerber Collision & Glass Acquires Collision Care Centers
The Boyd Group, parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, has purchased a multi-store operation in Ohio and Kentucky consisting of ten collision repair centers. The locations are based in the Cincinnati region. Continue reading
Novus Glass Names New Colorado Franchisees
Lynn and Lorenzo Washington will be joining Novus Glass as franchisees in the Denver, Colo. area. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Colorado, Denver, glassBYTEs.com, Lorenzo Washington, Lynn Washington, Novus Glass, Rick Christiaanse, TCGI Leave a comment
AGC Group’s Looks to Open African Plant through New Deal
AGC Automotive Europe has reached a basic agreement with Induver Holding, a glass manufacturer in Morocco, to set up a joint venture for manufacturing automotive glass destined both for Europe and for the North African markets. Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ 2016 Seminar Line-Up Announced
Auto Glass Week has released its final full schedule. The 2016 event will be held October 5-7 at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio, Texas, and is once again co-sponsored by the Auto Glass Safety Council™, Independent Glass Association, National Glass Association, National Windshield Repair Association™ and AGRR™ magazine. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Take a Closer Look at TechnaGlass’ Competitions
“Arriving on the Utah Motorsports Campus last week for the TechnaGlass automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, I immediately noticed the technicians would be working on racecars.” —Jenna Reed Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, AGRR Reflections, Competitions, glassBYTEs.com, TechnaGlass Leave a comment
The PipeKnife Company to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016
The PipeKnife Company will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week 2016, glassBYTEs.com, Sponsor, The PipeKnife Company Leave a comment
Share Your Expertise on Hot Weather Installations
Do you perform mobile installations in hot weather? If so, what advice do you offer to perform this work safely? Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Hot Weather Installation, Poll Leave a comment
PGW Reports Strong Second Quarter Revenue
Pittsburgh Glass Works (PGW) had a strong second quarter, bringing in $210 million in revenue, Nick Zarcone, LKQ Corp.’s chief financial officer, said during a conference call today. LKQ finalized its acquisition of PGW in April of this year. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, LKQ Corp., Nick Zarcone, PGW, Pittsburgh Glass Works, Robert Wagman Leave a comment
TechnaGlass Continues Growth with Acquisition of Utah-Based The Glass Shoppe
TechnaGlass, a regional leader in the automotive glass repair and replacement industry, today announced the acquisition of The Glass Shoppe in Roosevelt, Utah. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Craig Phillips, glassBYTEs.com, Roosevelt, TechnaGlass, The Glass Shoppe, Troy Mason, Utah Leave a comment
Novus Glass Revamps Structure, Processes
Novus Glass is adapting its structure and processes in order to grow the brand. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Doug Ascher, glassBYTEs.com, Jay Bickford, Levi Nellen, Marc Levin, Noah Stommel, Novus Glass, Rick Christiaanse, TCGI, Ted Andersen Leave a comment
Guangdong pustar adhesives & sealants co., ltd. to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016
Guangdong pustar adhesives & sealants co., ltd. will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Vitro Could Tap PPG’s Research Capabilities to Improve Automotive Glass
PPG has been out of the automotive glass business since divesting its automotive business in 2008 and selling its stake in Pittsburgh Glass Works to LKQ Corp. in late April of this year. However, Mexican-based Vitro is purchasing the assets of PPG’s flat glass business for $750 million. Vitro produces both OE and aftermarket automotive glass and plans to tap PPG’s research center to expand these offerings, said PPG vice president of flat glass Dick Beuke. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Dick Beuke, glassBYEs.com, low-E glass, Pittsburgh Glass Works, PPG, Vitro Leave a comment
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens New Florida Location
The Boyd Group Inc., parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, has opened a collision repair center in Titusville, Fla. The center previously operated as Freddy Curtis Body Shop and will now be branded under the Gerber Collision & Glass name. Continue reading
Geico Names Vice President of New York Operations
Geico has moved Rick Hoagland to the role of vice president of its New York regional operations. He succeeds John Pham, who was named vice president of Geico’s Virginia Beach region and the company’s military, motorcycle and recreational vehicles division. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Geico, glassBYTEs.com, New York, Rick Hoagland Leave a comment
Kelly McDonald to Serve as a Featured Speaker of Auto Glass Week™
We aren’t all fans of the same team, we don’t all have the same favorite color and we don’t all come from the same background. Our customers are often very different from us. Auto Glass Week™ favorite Kelly McDonald is back to teach you how to craft an experience for customers of all types that delights them and makes them the best sales tool you have during the event held October 5-7, in San Antonio, Texas. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week 2016, clients, glassBYTEs.com, Kelly McDonald Leave a comment
NWRA Publishes Latest E-Newsletter
The National Windshield Repair Association has published it July-August 2016 e-newsletter. Continue reading
NHTSA Recalls Select Motor Coach Industry Vehicles, Windows May Open Unexpectedly
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued a recall on certain model year 2015-2016 Motor Coach Industries (MCI) vehicles that were manufactured April 14, 2015, to February 22, 2016. NHTSA says the mounting hardware of the non-egress windows … Continue reading
Novus® Glass Welcomes New Washington Franchisee
Novus Glass is proud to welcome new franchisee, Aaron Muller. Aaron will be bringing Novus’ automotive glass service to the Seattle, Washington market. A successful entrepreneur since the age of 11, Muller has owned or co-owned more than 20 companies … Continue reading
Auto Windscreens’ Rapid Response Scooter Takes to the Road for Dash-cam Installations
A new Auto Windscreens Rapid Response scooter took to London’s roads this month and is being used to serve customers requiring in-vehicle camera installations – a secondary service offered by the UK windscreen repair and replacement company. The auto windscreens-branded … Continue reading
Most of Shattered Sunroof Lawsuit Against Hyundai Dropped
Billy Glenn, owner of a 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, has filed a lawsuit against Hyundai after the car’s panoramic sunroof allegedly shattered without cause, only to experience the same incident with its replacement. The plaintiff claims the panoramic sunroofs … Continue reading
Reports Surface about Rain Leading to Odd Color of Tesla Model X Windshield
It’s been a tough year for Tesla. Earlier this year, consumers reported visibility issues with the Model X windshield and now reports are coming out about the glass taking on a reddish color after rain. “Is this normal? This is … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, forum, glassbBYTEs, red, Tesla, windshield Leave a comment
NHTSA Recalls Select Commercial Bus Models Because of Glass Issue
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Micro Bird MBII, G5 and CT Series commercial buses over a potential glass issue. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs, Micro Bird, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, NHTSA, Recall 1 Comment
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens New N.C. Location
The Boyd Group Inc., parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, has acquired collision repair center in Statesville, N.C. The center previously operated as Black’s Collision Repair and served a six-brand dealership group. Continue reading
David Robinson to Serve as Keynote Speaker for Auto Glass Week™ 2016
Don’t miss this session! If you wish to pose a question to The Admiral, please send it to asktheadmiral@agrrmag.com for inclusion. David Robinson: Star Athlete, Star Humanitarian David Robinson was honored as Sports Illustrated’s Ambassador of Sports for their 50th … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week 2016, David Robinson, glassBYTEs.com 1 Comment
Minnesota Refutes Safelite’s Motion for Summary Judgment
What a difference a word makes. The Minnesota Department of Commerce says Safelite Group and Safelite Solutions went beyond telling policyholders in the state that they “may” be balance billed by out-of-network glass companies, and says the company told policyholders they “will” or “would” be charged for the difference between what the shop charges and what the insurer pays. So says the Department of Commerce’s court filing in response to Safelite’s motion for summary judgement. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AAA, AGRR, Balance Billed, glassBYTEs.com, Minnesota, Safelite 1 Comment
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Self Motivation
“As I mentioned last week, my wife and I were recently in San Diego for the Secret Knock. This was my third Secret Knock event and Mary Kay’s first.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Glass Doctor, glassBYTEs.com, Mark Liston, On the Mark: Leadership Lessons Leave a comment
Study: Headlights on Small SUVs Aren’t Up To Standards
According to a test performed by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), most small SUVs aren’t earning acceptable ratings when it comes to headlight evaluations. Out of 21 small SUVs tested, none earned a good a rating, and only four are offered with acceptable-rated headlights. There are 47 headlight combinations available for this group of vehicles, but more than two-thirds of them received a poor rating. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, AGRR magazine, headlights, Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, SUV Leave a comment
Former Employee Enters Private Mediation with Safelite
Former Safelite employee Mauro Castillo Vidal and Safelite Group are entering private mediation to discuss discrimination allegations brought by Vidal against the country’s largest installer. The parties have agreed on a private mediator and have asked to court to give them until September 30, 2016 to complete discussions. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Mauro Castillo Vidal, Safelite Group Leave a comment
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens New Oregon Location
The Boyd Group Inc., parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, has acquired a collision repair center in Portland, Ore. Continue reading
Encompass Insurance Companies Gains New President
The Allstate Corp. has named a new president of its Encompass insurance companies. Patrick Macellaro, vice president of Allstate’s investor relations, is taking on this role. He will report to Don Civgin, president of emerging businesses. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Allstate Corp., Encompass, glassBYTEs.com, Patrick Macellaro Leave a comment
Miles Driven Momentum Continues
Travel on all roads and streets continued to climb in April 2016, up 2.6 percent or 6.8 billion vehicle miles, compared with April 2015. Month over month, miles drive were down slightly by 0.2 percent. This is according to the latest figures from the Federal Highway Administration, a division of the U.S. Department of Transportation. Continue reading
Novus Names San Francisco-Based Franchisee
Frank Aguero has joined Novus Glass as a franchisee is the California Bay Area. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Frank Aguero, glassBYTEs.com, Keith Beveridge, Novus Franchisee, Novus Glass Leave a comment
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Purchases Four Sons’ Automotive Glass Division
ABRA Auto Body & Glass has acquired Four Sons Auto Glass, the AGRR division of Gap, Pa.-based Four Sons Glass & Mirror. The purchase will allow ABRA to expand its automotive glass operations in Philadelphia, Pa., according to a statement released by the company. Continue reading
AEGIS Tools International to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™
AEGIS Tools International will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week, AEGIS Tools International, glassBYTEs.com, Sponsor 1 Comment
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Rest: Mentally & Physically
“My wife, Mary Kay, and I are in San Diego for an event called “The Secret Knock” (secretknock.co). This means we are ‘officially’ taking a few days of vacation.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Glass Doctor, glassBYTEs.com, Mark Liston, On the Mark: Leadership Lessons, Rest, Vacation Leave a comment
Volkswagen Recalls Certain Audi Models Over Sunroof Issue
Volkswagen is recalling model-year 2007-2009 Audi A8 and S8 vehicles saying the sunroof glass may not be properly secured and may detach from the car while driving. If the glass detaches from the sunroof frame, it could become airborne while … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Audi A8, Audi S8, glassBYTEs.com, Sunroof Issue, Sunroof May Detach, Volkswagen recall, VW 1 Comment
Have You Made Your Hotel Reservations for Auto Glass Week™?
With Auto Glass Week™ 2016 steadily approaching, now’s the time to finalize your trip to San Antonio and make sure your hotel reservations are in place. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week, glassBYTEs.com, Hotel Reservations Leave a comment
GlasWeld Says Its Expert Witness Testimony Should Stand
In the latest development in the GlasWeld-Boyle lawsuit, officials from GlasWeld have filed a response to Mike and Christopher Boyle’s recent motion to exclude expert testimony. Plaintiff GlasWeld says the U.S. Federal District Court of Oregon should not “entertain” the defendants’ motion. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Alleged Patent Infringement Case, Boyles, glassBYTEs.com, GlasWeld Leave a comment
TODAY’S BLOG: Setting a True Goal
“There was a thread on the glassBYTEs.com™/AGRR™ magazine forum in which someone asked how to prepare the pinchweld for a windshield installation on the new aluminum Ford F-150. I found the written instructions from Ford for that vehicle and posted them.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ 2016 is Three Months Out! Are You Ready?
With Auto Glass Week™ 2016 now just three short months away, are your plans in place to take full advantage of all that is available to you at this year’s event? Continue reading
UNITED KINGDOM—Nationwide Windscreen Services Opens New Branch
United Kingdom-based Nationwide Windscreen Services has opened a new Leicester branch. Continue reading
Competition Registration Closes in One Month
Still on the fence about competing in one of Auto Glass Week’s™ annual competitions? Showcase your talent and vie for the title of “World’s Greatest” this year in San Antonio, Texas, during the event held October 5-7 at the San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter and Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center. Continue reading
2015 Road Fatalities Up 7.7 Percent Over Prior Year
Roadway deaths for 2015 are up 7.7 percent from 2014, according to preliminary data released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Fatalities among occupants of vehicles that rolled over increased by 5 percent over the previous year. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—The Price of Freedom
“I think it is somewhat fitting that we are reading about Brexit this time of year. The British are exiting from the 28-country European Union 240 years after the United States declared its freedom from the British.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Safelite AutoGlass to Hire 900 at New Mexico Center
Safelite Group will create 900 new insurance claims processing and support jobs in Rio Rancho, N.M., over the next four years as it opens a new center, according to Gov. Susana Martinez. Continue reading
Watch the Relationship Between Windshields and Airbags in Action
As many technicians know, windshields play a vital role in a vehicle’s safety system. When airbags deploy, they bounce off the glass and a properly installed windshield helps to ensure the driver and passenger’s safety in a crash. See this relationship in action thanks to crash test footage supplied by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Also, learn the names of this year’s featured speakers during Auto Glass Week™ 2016. We’ll also share more about the second annual golf tournament to be held just prior to Auto Glass Week in our June newscast. Continue reading
Posted in Video Tagged AGRR, Airbags, Auto Glass Week, glassBYTEs.com, NHTSA, Test Crash Footage Leave a comment
TODAY’S BLOG: New Nissan Directives on Windshield Replacement
“I received information recently from an AllData representative that caused me to do a double take. Did you know that Nissan is requiring that the inside rearview mirror be replaced when the windshield is replaced on four of their most popular models?” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Journal, Bob Beranek, glassBYTEs.com, Juke, Leaf, Nissan Position Statements, Non Reusable Mirrors, Quest, Sentra Leave a comment
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens Greenfield Location in Georgia
Boyd Group Inc., parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, has opened a brand new collision repair location in Dallas, Ga. The center is located on the Charles Hardy Parkway, about 20 miles west of Atlanta. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Boyd Group Inc., Gerber Collision & Glass, Glass America, glassBYTEs.com, Tim O'Day Leave a comment
Nissan Recommends OEM Glass, Says Some Mirrors Cannot Be Reused
Nissan says OEM glass should be used for windshield replacements and points to the relationship between glass and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) as a reason. Company officials also say some mirrors cannot be reused and address ADAS recalibration, among other topics, in a bevy of position statements released this month. Continue reading
Safelite Asks Court for Summary Judgment in Minnesota Case
Safelite Group and Safelite Solutions have filed a motion for summary judgment in their lawsuit against the Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Commerce. They ask that the U.S. District Court for Minnesota enjoin and declare invalid enforcement of a state statute which excludes the company “from doing business without the opportunity for a hearing.” Continue reading
TODAY’s BLOG: 5 Best SEO Practices for Your Automotive Glass Shop
“The process of showing up on Google when your customers are searching for windshield replacement, or automotive glass repair can be pretty complex when you get down to the technical nuts and bolts, but there are a bunch of things you can do yourself to stack the deck in your favor. By themselves these tips may not rocket you to number one, but as best practices they can sure help.” —Chuck Bankoff Continue reading
Updated: Brexit Impact on the AGRR Industry Remains to Be Seen
With Britain slated to leave the European Union (EU) following a national referendum popularly known as Brexit, much uncertainty remains. This is particularly true for London-based companies such as Belron, which has both a European and global presence. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Belron, Brexit, D’Ieteren, glassBYTEs.com, Safelite AutoGlass Leave a comment
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Giving Back
“I had the opportunity to go to the U.S. Open last weekend in Oakmont, Pa. Amazing event—especially for a ‘wannabe’ who has always had an appreciation for what it takes to get to this level. At least I thought I did.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
4 Recalls of Interest to You
From glass and lighting issues to faulty hood latches, here are four new National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) recalls to have on your radar. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Gillig, glassBYTEs.com, Hyundai, Kia, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, NHTSA, Recalls, Supreme Corp. 1 Comment
Yih-Tair Ind/Flexline® to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™
Yih-Tair Ind/Flexline® will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week, Edward Lin, glassBYTEs.com, Sponsor, Yih-Tair Ind/Flexline® Leave a comment
AZ Attorney General Alleges Second AGRR Shop Violated Do-Not Call Registry
Arizona Attorney General Mark Brnovich has filed a lawsuit against a Larmore Auto Glass LLC, operating under the names O’Reilly’s Auto Glass and Freedom Auto Glass, over alleged do-not call violations. The company denies the allegations. Continue reading
A.N. Designs, Inc. to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™
A.N. Designs, Inc. will Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged A.N. Designs, AGRR, Auto Glass Week, glassBYTEs.com, Inc., Sponsor, UltraWiz 1 Comment
PGW Asks Appellate Court to Overturn Verdict
Pittsburgh Glass Works (PGW) has filed a motion with the Third Circuit Court of Appeals to overturn the verdict in a case where the jury awarded former employee Rudolph Karlo $922,060 in an employment discrimination case. Continue reading
SIKA Global Automotive Adds New Personnel
New executives have joined SIKA Global Automotive’s North American team at the Madison Heights, Mich., and Grandview, Mo., facilities, according to the company. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Grandview, Madison Heights, Mich., Mo., SIKA Global Automotive 1 Comment
Precision Replacement Parts Returns as a Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™
Precision Replacement Parts will return as a Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. “Auto Glass Week … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week, Derek Churchyard, glassBYTEs.com, Precision Replacement Parts 1 Comment
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Planning for Retirement
“My best friend, Greg, retired last Friday. Sixty years old and he was able to retire. I hired him in my previous life in 2003. (The same year I met my wife Mary Kay—a very good year!) He retired from that company—13 years and several positions later.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Glass Doctor, glassBYTEs.com, Mark Liston, On the Mark: Leadership Lessons, Retirement Leave a comment
The Boyles Seek to Exclude Expert Witness Testimony
Mike Boyle, doing business as Surface Dynamix, and his son Christopher, have filed a motion in the U.S. Federal District Court of Oregon, asking the court to issue an order excluding the testimony of expert witnesses Justin Price and Randy Mackey for plaintiff GlasWeld in the alleged patent infringement lawsuit. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Christopher Boyle, glassBYTEs.com, GlasWeld, Surface Dynamix 1 Comment
Glass Mechanix Solutions Returns as a Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™
Glass Mechanix Solutions will return as a Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week, Corbin Archer, Glass Mechanix Solutions, glassBYTEs.com, Sponsor Leave a comment
TODAY’S BLOG: Mastering the Cold Knife
“You may be thinking cold knives? Why is Bob writing about cold knives when there are power tools and wire-out tools that are taking over the automotive glass removal process? The answer is because it hasn’t happened yet, as much as tool companies and safety advocates would like to make that case. The cold knife is still the most popular tool for glass removal.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Journal, Blades, Bob Beranek, Cold Knife, Cold Knives, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
eDirectGlass to Return as Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™
eDirectGlass will serve as a Bronze Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week, Bronze Sponsor, eDirectGlass, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens New Repair Location in Washington State
The Boyd Group Inc., parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, has acquired and opened a collision repair center in Airway Heights, Wash., about nine miles west of Spokane. The center previously operated as City West Auto Body. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Boyd Group, Gerber Collision & Glass, glassBYTEs.com, Tim O'Day Leave a comment
Arizona Attorney General Says Glass Shop Violated Do Not Call Registry
Arizona Attorney General Mark Brnovich has sued Prescott Valley, Ariz.-based A.J.’s Auto Glass over alleged do not call violations. He says the AGRR company allegedly made unwanted phone calls to consumers listed on the National Do Not Call Registry to advertise windshield repair and replacement services. Continue reading
Now That You’ve Registered, What’s Next?
You’ve taken the first step towards joining us at this year’s Auto Glass Week™ by registering but have you also made the following plans for your trip as well? Continue reading
Farmers Insurance Customers Can File Glass Claims Via New System
Farmers Insurance has introduced an Enterprise First Notice of Loss (EFNOL) system that gives customers one platform to report vehicle claims, including automotive glass claims, according to a company spokesperson. Continue reading
Glass.net Returns as a Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™
Glass.net will return as a Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week, Glass.net, glassBYTEs.com, Sponsors Leave a comment
PGW Says Age Discrimination Allegations Should Be Dismissed
Pittsburgh Glass Works (PGW) has responded to an appeal by former employees who allege age discrimination after they were terminated as a part of a reduction in workforce for the company in 2009. The company says the Third District Court of Appeals should uphold the lower court’s decision and the appeal should be dismissed. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Building a Team
“I love sports—playing, watching and coaching. Two examples from the past week come to mind about how different leaders built their teams.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Glass Doctor, glassBYTEs.com, Mark Liston, On the Mark: Leadership Lessons, Teamwork Leave a comment
NHTSA Seeking Public Comment on Crash Test Vehicle
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has teamed up with the European New Car Assessment Program, Thatcham and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) to develop a specialized 3D crash model to test vehicles that include Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). The agency has scheduled a public meeting to allow stakeholders to view the vehicle and offer comment. Continue reading
Safelite Group and Former Technician Continue Settlement Discussions
Safelite Group and Yadir Ontiveros, a former technician who says the company violated Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) by paying on a piece-rate basis, have not reached a settlement agreement. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Is Tesla’s Model X Windshield Too Big?
“‘Something we worked very hard on is that the windshield is panoramic,’ said Elon Musk, Tesla CEO, when introducing the vehicle last year. However, the automaker has now released a free sunshade that blocks the top part of the windshield for owners. Doesn’t this kind of defeat the purpose?” —Jenna Reed Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Sunshine Windshield Repair, Tesla Model X Leave a comment
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Launches Career Development Academy
ABRA Auto Body & Glass is now enrolling students into its Career Development Academy. The academy, located in Eagan, Minn., is set to open later this summer. Continue reading
Central Glass Credits Guardian Deal for Bolstering Full-Year Automotive Glass Sales
Central Glass Co., parent company to Carlex Glass America, reported that fiscal 2015 full-year sales for its automotive glass segment were strengthened by the 2014 purchase of two Guardian subsidiaries. Continue reading
After Winning Company Competition, Two U.K. Techs to Compete at Auto Glass Week™
United Kingdom-based Auto Windscreens’ technicians Lloyd Cullen and Steve Abrahams have secured a trip to compete at Auto Glass Week™ 2016 in San Antonio, Texas, by taking home first and second place in the company’s AGRR competition held this month. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, AGTO, Auto Glass Week, Auto Windscreens, glassBYTEs.com, Lloyd Cullen, Steve Abrahams, WRO 1 Comment
Early Bird Deepest Discounts End Friday for Auto Glass Week™ 2016
We know you’re busy, we know you keep meaning to, but the truth is … there is no time left to procrastinate. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week 2016, Early Bird Discounts, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
Chrysler Says There Are No Grounds for Class Action over Alleged Sunroof Defect
Chrysler vehicle owners who filed a nationwide class action lawsuit alleging that a defect in their vehicles’ sunroofs cause them to leak have no grounds for their case, according to Chrysler. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Alleged Sunroof Defect, Chrysler, glassBYTEs.com, Sunroof Class Action Leave a comment
Creative Extruded Products Inc. to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™
Creative Extruded Products Inc. will serve as a Cobalt Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Donates $81,000
ABRA Auto Body & Glass has donated $81,000 to the Collision Repair Education Foundation to help support education programs, schools and students. Continue reading
Woman Arrested After Driving into Gate of PGW Float Glass Plant
A 23-year-old Greenville, Pa., woman was arrested Saturday night after crashing her vehicle into the main gate of the Pittsburgh Glass Works (PGW) float glass plant in Meadville, Pa., according to state police. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Ashley Dillen, DUI, glassBYTEs.com, Pittsburgh Glass Works Leave a comment
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Remembering Where You Came From
“This past weekend I had a chance to go home, back to Rockford, Ill. where I grew up. My cousin’s son (is that my second cousin?) was getting married and my wife Mary Kay and I decided to go back and enjoy the family event.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Glass Doctor, glassBYTEs.com, hometown, Mark Liston, On the Mark: Leadership Lessons Leave a comment
NWRA Releases Latest E-Newsletter
The National Windshield Repair Association has published its latest e-newsletter. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, E-Newsletter, glassBYTEs.com, National Windshield Repair Association, NWRA Leave a comment
Rosekind Says Bus Operator Visibility Should be a Priority
Mark Rosekind, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) administrator, called on the industry to make changes in bus manufacturing that makes operator visibility a priority during a recent Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) Forum on Bus Operator Visibility in New York City. Continue reading
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens New Location in Tulsa, Okla.
The Boyd Group Inc., parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, has acquired a collision repair center in Tulsa, Okla. The center previously operated as Desert Rose Collision and now operates under the Gerber Collision & Glass name. Continue reading
Mainstreet Computers Returns as Sponsor for Auto Glass Week™
Mainstreet Computers Inc. will return as a Cobalt Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week 2016, glassBYTEs.com, Mainstreet Computers Inc. Leave a comment
Hail Loss Claims Under Auto Insurance Policies Slip Over 3-Year Period
Hail loss claims under personal auto insurance policies from January 1, 2013 to December 31, 2015 declined by 16.4 percent. This is according to a three-year analysis just released by the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB). Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Pulling Cowls: Let’s End the Debate
“In July 2012, I wrote a blog post about the debate between pulling cowls vs. tucking the glass when replacing windshields. The question came up again recently.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Journal, Bob Beranek, glassBYTEs.com, Pulling Cowls, tucking the glass Leave a comment
Early Bird Deepest Discounts End in One Week!
Early bird registration closes next week on June 10, so register now to start reaping the benefits and guarantee your spot at Auto Glass Week™ 2016! Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, AGTO, Auto Glass Week 2016, Early Bird Discount, glassBYTEs.com, WRO Leave a comment
TechnaGlass Accelerates Expansion in Colorado
TechnaGlass, a regional leader in the automotive glass repair and replacement industry, announced it has significantly expanded its footprint in the state of Colorado with five retail locations, providing full market coverage in Denver and Colorado Springs. Continue reading
Miles Driven Continue Upward Trajectory
Travel on all roads and streets continued to climb in March 2016, up 5 percent, or 13 billion vehicle miles, compared to March 2015. Month over month, miles driven spiked by 17.8 percent. This is according to the latest figures from the Federal Highway Administration, a division of the U.S. Department of Transportation. Continue reading
Daimler Vans and Volvo Recall Vehicles Over Glazing Issues
Daimler Vans is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner Sprinter 2500 and 3500 vehicles saying the windows could separate during a crash. Volvo is also issuing a recall for certain model year 2016 XC90 vehicles due to a potential sunroof issue. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged 2500, 3500, AGRR, automotive glass, Daimler Vans, Freightliner, glassBYTEs.com, Glazing, Mercedes-Benz, NHTSA, Recall, Sprinter, Volvo, XC90 1 Comment
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Ramifications of Your Decisions
“Waco, Texas, is in the news again. It isn’t about the Branch Davidians that has haunted Waco since 1993. It isn’t about motorcycle gang shootout from 2015. It isn’t about our Fixer Upper TV show that is taking the country by storm. It is about Baylor University and the firing of the football coach Art Briles and sanctions to the athletic director as well as changes with school president Ken Starr.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Baylor University, Glass Doctor, glassBYTEs.com, Mark Liston, On the Mark: Leadership Lessons Leave a comment
Frank Werner, a Novus Founder, Passes Away
Dr. Frank David Werner Sr., who patented a two-part epoxy windshield repair resin, died May 7 at age 94 in Jackson, Wy. In 1972, Werner partnered with Gerald Keinath and founded a business in the basement of Keinath’s home in suburban Minneapolis that became Novus. Continue reading
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens New Oklahoma Location
The Boyd Group Inc., parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, has acquired a collision repair center in Sapulpa, Okla., about 15 miles south of Tulsa. The center previously operated as Finishing Touches Auto Body Shop. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Boyd Group Inc., Gerber Collision & Glass, Glass America, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
Mygrant Glass Returns as a Sponsor for Auto Glass Week™
Mygrant Glass will return as a Silver Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. “We were very … Continue reading
Safelite AutoGlass Markets Through Online Content
Safelite AutoGlass appears to be investing in paid advertorials and native advertising to ramp up its market share. The company is utilizing paid search and “significantly” investing in digital advertising, said Gary Lubner, CEO of Belron, in D’Ieteren’s annual 2015 report. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged advertorial, AGRR, Belron, Gary Lubner, glassBYTEs.com, native advertising, Safelite AutoGlass Leave a comment
Carlex Returns as a Sponsor for Auto Glass Week™
Carlex will return as a Silver Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week 2016, Carlex, glassBYTEs.com, Sponsor, Tim Siterlet Leave a comment
Auto Glass Week™ Competition Spots are Limited, so Register to Compete Today!
Showcase your talent and vie for the title of “World’s Greatest” at this year’s Auto Glass Week™ 2016 in San Antonio, Texas. Continue reading
Audi Engineer Outlines Next Steps to Autonomous Vehicles
What is next on the path to fully automated vehicles? Kaushik Raghu, senior staff engineer at Audi, said the answer is traffic jam piloting. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Audi, Autonomous Vehicles, glassBYTEs.com, Kaushik Raghu, traffic jam piloting Leave a comment
TODAY’S BLOG: Keep Your Customers Coming Back
“Shopping at a big box retailer the other day, I was struck by the lessons that could be learned in customer service.” —Jenna Reed Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, AGRR Reflections, Big Box Retailer, Customer Retention, glassBYTEs.com, Shopping Leave a comment
Federal Judge Denies PGW’s Motion to Overturn Verdict
Late last week, a Federal Judge denied Pittsburgh Glass Works’ (PGW) motion to overturn the verdict in a case where the jury awarded former employee Rudolph Karlo $922,060 in an employment discrimination case. PGW had asked the court to alter or amend the judgement and filed a motion for a new trial. Continue reading
LKQ Corp. Joins S&P 500 Index
LKQ Corp., parent company to Pittsburgh Glass Works, announced the company is now listed on the S&P 500 Index. This became effective at the close of trading on May 20, 2016. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, LKQ Corp., Pittsburgh Glass Works, Robert Wagman, S&P 500 Index Leave a comment
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Lead Like You Are Going On Vacation
“We got a call from a close friend last year about doing a cruise on the Danube River in Europe this May. I knew this was something that my wife Mary Kay wanted to do for her 50th so of course I said yes! (I didn’t realize she wanted to do the one in France … not Germany, Austria or Hungary).” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Glass Doctor, glassBYTEs.com, Mark Liston, On the Mark: Leadership Lessons, Vacation Leave a comment
Hyundai: California is Not the Right Court for Alleged Sunroof Defect Lawsuit
Hyundai argues that U.S. District Court of California is not the right jurisdiction for a lawsuit brought by vehicles owners who say the automaker’s panoramic sunroofs “spontaneously shatter.” Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Alleged Sunroof Defect, Billy Glenn, glassBYTEs.com, Hyundai 1 Comment
NSG Pilkington to Take Ohio Float Line Offline for Repair
NSG Pilkington will invest an estimated $40 million this summer to repair one of its two float glass lines at its Rossford, Ohio, facility, according a statement released from the company. The Ohio facility produces float glass, some of which supplies Pilkington’s original equipment manufacturing and aftermarket fabrication of automotive glass. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, float glass lines, furnace, glassBYTEs.com, NSG Pilkington, Ohio, Rossford Leave a comment
Production Underway at PGW Joint Venture Plant in China
Pittsburgh Glass Works (PGW) has opened a new automotive glass manufacturing facility in Zibo, China. The plant was built as a part of a joint venture with Shandong Jinjing Science & Technology Stock Co. The joint venture is called Shandong … Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Part 2: Protect Yourself Against Injury
“Last week we talked about the protection every technician should do to prolong his or her career and reduce the chances of pain and injury. This week let’s talk about protecting the vehicle from possible damage.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: A-Don’t-Miss Event
“Do you have questions about how to recalibrate Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) after a windshield replacement? Auto Glass Week™ 2016 in San Antonio, Texas, is just the place to find answers.” —Jenna Reed Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, AGRR Reflections, Auto Glass Week 2016, Calibration, glassBYTEs.com, Seminars, Speakers, Sponsors, Vendors Leave a comment
NHTSA Extends Public Comment Period for Automated Guidance
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has extended its deadline for industry insight on the agency’s development of guidelines for the “Safe Deployment and Operation of Automated Vehicle Safety Technologies.” Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Automated Guidance, automated vehicles, Autonomous Vehicles, glassBYTEs.com, NHTSA 1 Comment
Be Part of Auto Glass Week™ 2016: Sponsorships/Space Selections Now Available!
Join the co-sponsoring organizations of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 as we create a world-class event specifically for our industry! Auto Glass Week 2016 will be held this October 5-7 in San Antonio, Texas, at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center and the San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week 2016, glassBYTEs.com, San Antonio, Sponsor Leave a comment
Mitchell International Publishes 3rd Edition Older Model NAGS Book
Due to high industry demand, Mitchell International is now publishing a National Auto Glass Specifications (NAGS) book that covers model years 2000 to 2010, according to the company. Continue reading
Boyd Autobody & Glass Acquires British Columbia Licensed Partner
Winnipeg, Canada-based the Boyd Group Inc., parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America in the U.S., has acquired a location operated by one of its long-time licensed partners. Boyd Autobody & Glass “Galaxie” has been a licensed partner since Sept 1997 and has operated in Burnaby, British Columbia, since 1977. Continue reading
Benson Autoglass Returns as a Sponsor for Auto Glass Week™
Benson Autoglass will return as a Cobalt Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week, Benson Autoglass, glassBYTEs.com, Sponsor 1 Comment
NSG Pilkington Reports Robust AGR Revenue
NSG, parent company to Pilkington, reported “robust volumes” in the automotive glass replacement market for the fiscal year, according the company’s report. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, automotive glass replacement, Five, glassBYTEs.com, Japan, NSG Pilkington, Revenues, Robust, volumes Leave a comment
Autoglass® Names New Executives
United Kingdom-based Autoglass® has appointed Nick Cleary and Sarah Ringrose to the newly created roles of customer and digital director, as well as head of customer experience, respectively. Autoglass® is owned by Belron. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Autoglass, Belron, glassBYTEs.com, Nick Cleary, Sarah Ringrose Leave a comment
TODAY’s BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Confidence
“I’m not sure if I made up the phrase ‘shooting yourself hot’ but it is something that I believed in as a kid trying to play basketball. Little did I know that it would be a cornerstone for business.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Confidence, Glass Doctor, glassBYTEs.com, Mark Liston, On the Mark: Leadership Lessons Leave a comment
Boyd Group Reports Double-Digit Growth in Sales
Boyd Group Income Fund, which owns Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, reported that first-quarter sales increased by 24.3 percent to $270.5 million USD ($350.4 million CAD), compared to $217.6 million USD ($281.8 million CAD) in the prior year. In addition to acquiring 20 collision repair facilities during the period, the company also purchased Ryan’s Auto Glass, which includes four locations serving the Cincinnati and Dayton, Ohio, area. Continue reading
Increased Automotive Glass Shipments Bolster AGC Group’s Bottom Line
Asahi Glass Co. (AGC Group), parent company to AGC Automotive Americas, reported first-quarter net sales for its glass division of $1.6 billion USD (170.9 billion Yen), up 1.1 percent from the same period in last year. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Protect Yourself Against Injury
“An important aspect of automotive glass installation that is overlooked at our peril is protection. Protection is a term that can be used in two different contexts. One, the protection against bodily injury and two, protecting the vehicle from possible damage during installation. Both are important steps for the well-being of the technician and the successful and profitable conclusion of the installation.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ 2016 Early Bird Deepest Discounts End in One Month
Early bird registration for Auto Glass Week™ 2016 closes on June 10, so now is the time to book your trip and secure your spot before the best discounts end! This year’s event will be held October 5-7 at the San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter and Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center. Early bird registration will save you time and money, up to $80 versus on-site registration. In addition to the early bird discounts, we are also offering a three for two special—if you purchase two full registrations, you get a third one FREE. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, AGTO, Auto Glass Week 2016, Early Bird Discount, glassBYTEs.com, WRO Leave a comment
Do Self-Driving Vehicles Need Rear-View Mirrors? NHTSA Weighs In
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) chief counsel recently interpreted a number of provisions in the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) as they would apply to Google’s self-driving vehicles (SDV). The tech giant asked NHTSA for its feedback on a variety of topics, including rear-view mirrors and the need for windshields wipers, among others. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Chris Urmson, Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, FMVSS, glassBYTEs.com, Google, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, NHTSA, Paul A. Hemmersbaugh, rear-view mirror, self-driving car project, self-driving system, self-driving vehicles, Windshield Wipers 1 Comment
11 Fuyao Glass America Workers File OSHA Complaint
Eleven Fuyao Glass America workers filed a written complaint today with the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) saying they are “extremely concerned about the safety of our workplace,” according to a copy of the complaint provided by the United Auto Workers (UAW). Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Complaint, Fuyao Glass America, glassBYTEs.com, OSHA Leave a comment
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Family
“Several years ago I joined a men’s group through church that met weekly to work on our faith. One of the study aids we used was Robert Lewis’s Authentic Manhood series. The three sessions were: The Quest for Authentic Manhood, Winning at Work and Home, and the Great Adventure.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, family, Glass Doctor, glassBYTEs.com, Mark Liston, On the Mark: Leadership Lessons Leave a comment
Volvo Given Go Ahead to Reopen Discovery in Sunroof Case
The U.S. District Court for New Jersey has reopened discovery for Volvo in the alleged sunroof defect case brought by vehicle owners. The suit was filed in 2010 in U.S. District Court by Joanne Neale of Needham, Mass., and seven other owners, who asked for class action status. Continue reading
Judge Denies the Boyles’ Motion to Dismiss
The judge overseeing the GlasWeld-Boyle case in the U.S. District Court of Oregon, Eugene division, has denied a motion by Mike Boyle and his son Christopher to dismiss the alleged patent infringement lawsuit for lack of subject matter jurisdiction. Continue reading
U.K.—National Windscreens Launches Country Wide Calibration Service
Following several months of a pilot program, National Windscreens has launched a United Kingdom-based calibration service for windshield-mounted cameras, which are an integral part of the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). Continue reading
C.R. Laurence Returns as a Sponsor for Auto Glass Week™
C.R. Laurence Co. Inc. will return as a Cobalt Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week 2016, C.R. Laurence Co. Inc., CRL, Fred Altamirano, glassBYTEs.com, Sponsor Leave a comment
Spring Hail Happens and Can Often Increase Business in Small Path
Spring usually brings severe thunderstorms for various parts of the country. The hail that can accompany these storms often increases AGRR business in a path that can be relatively small. Two companies can be located in the town and the weather may only be bad for one. Continue reading
Former Acting U.S. Surgeon General to Speak at Auto Glass Week™ 2016
World-renowned dermatologist and former acting Surgeon General of the United States Dr. Boris D. Lushniak will be a speaker at Auto Glass Week 2016. The event will be held at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio, Texas, and takes place October 5–7. Continue reading
What’s New with Auto Glass Week™ 2016?
There have been several new developments recently with our annual three-day international event, Auto Glass Week™ 2016. The upcoming show will be held October 5-7 at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center and the San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter in San Antonio, Texas, and will feature the attendee-favorite automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor full of top-notch industry suppliers. Continue reading
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens Rocky Mount, N.C., Location
The Boyd Group Inc. has acquired and reopened a collision repair center in Rocky Mount, N.C., under its Gerber Collision & Glass brand. The location previously operated as Faith Autobody. Continue reading
U.K.—National Windscreens Named AGRR Service Provider for Connected Solutions
United Kingdom-based National Windscreens has developed a strategic alliance with fleet and insurance solutions provider Industry Insights. The company is the sole provider of automotive glass repair and replacement services in the Connected Solutions program operated by Industry Insights. Continue reading
Report: Younger Consumers Show More Trust in Automated Technology
More than half of Generation Y and Z vehicle owners trust self-driving technology, according to a new report from J.D. Power. Older populations such as Generation X, Baby Boomers and Pre-Boomers aren’t quite so trusting. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, automated, glassBYTEs.com, J.D. Power, Kristin Kolodge 1 Comment
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Searches for New CEO
Duane Rouse, CEO of ABRA Auto Body & Glass, plans step down as chief executive to become vice chairman of the company’s board of directors. Rouse will continue to serve as CEO until a replacement is appointed, according to the company. ABRA has begun its search. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged ABRA Auto Body & Glass, AGRR, Duane Rouse, Erik Ragatz, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
Parties Ask Court to Reschedule Expert Disclosures in Campfield-Safelite Case
The parties in the Campfield-Safelite suit have asked the court to reschedule the initial expert disclosures since the court has not yet ruled on a motion to dismiss. Plaintiff Rich Campfield, founder of Ultra Bond in Grand Junction, Colo., filed a lawsuit in August 2015 alleging misleading advertising by Safelite in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio. Continue reading
GlasWeld: Injunction No Longer Possible
In a response to a motion to dismiss part of the alleged patent infringement case by Mike Boyle (doing business as Surface Dynamic) and his son Christopher, GlasWeld agrees that an injunction cannot be entered on an expired patent, but the company’s attorney says the expiration of the patent does not impact subject matter jurisdiction. Continue reading
LKQ Revamps 2016 Financial Guidance Based on PGW, Rhiag Acquisitions
Thanks to the acquisitions of Pittsburgh Glass Works (PGW) and Rhiag, a Pan-European business-to-business distributor of aftermarket spare vehicle parts, LKQ Corp. has pushed its 2016 guidance to higher figures for three out of four financial metrics. This is according to the company’s first-quarter financial report released today. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, First Quarter, glassBYTEs.com, LKQ, PGW, Pittsburgh Glass Works Leave a comment
Safelite AutoGlass Donates $340,000 to Afrika Tikkun Charity
A record-setting $340,000 raised from the 7th Annual Safelite Challenge will be donated to Afrika Tikkun, a charitable organization co-founded by Bertie Lubner who also was the co-founder of Safelite AutoGlass’ parent company, Belron. Continue reading
Minnesota Commerce Commissioner Responds to Safelite’s Interrogatory
The Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Commerce has objected to Safelite Group and Safelite Solutions interrogatory questions in the U.S. Federal District Court for Minnesota. Safelite Group and Safelite Solutions filed a lawsuit against the Commissioner in April 2015 … Continue reading
February Miles Driven Top Last Year’s Figure
Travel on all roads and streets continued to climb in February 2016, up 5.6 percent, or 12.4 billion vehicle miles, compared to February 2015. This is according to the latest figures from the Federal Highway Administration, a division of the U.S. Department of Transportation. Continue reading
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens Ohio Location
The Boyd Group Inc. has acquired a collision repair center in Hudson, Ohio, previously operated as Clarke Collision Center. The location will now operate under the Gerber Collision & Glass moniker. Hudson is in northeast Ohio, about 28 miles south … Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ 2016 Welcomes Back Dow Automotive Systems as Sponsor
Dow Automotive Systems will return as a Bronze Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week, Bronze Sponsor, Dow Automotive Systems, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
Lubner Discusses Belron Trends in D’Ieteren’s Annual Report
Belron faces declining market conditions in many countries, though, a second strong winter in the United States in 2015 helped to bolster business, says Gary Lubner, CEO of Belron, in D’Ieteren’s annual 2015 report. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Belron, Calibration, Carglass® France, D’Ieteren, Gary Lubner, glassBYTEs.com, Safelite AutoGlass Leave a comment
Crinamex By VITRO to Serve as Gold Sponsor for Auto Glass Week™ 2016
Crinamex By VITRO will serve as a Gold Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Difficult People
“My wife Mary Kay conducted a Lunch and Learn this week for Dwyer Group’s employees on Dealing with Difficult People. I can hear several you already thinking ‘she must be an expert because of the person she has to deal with at home!’” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Difficult People, Glass Doctor, glassBYTEs.com, Mark Liston, On the Mark: Leadership Lessons Leave a comment
OSHA Issues Citation to Fuyao Glass America
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued one citation, alleging two “serious” violations at Moraine, Ohio-based Fuyao Glass America. The monetary penalty associated with the citation is $14,000. “In a project as large and complex as this is, it’s not surprising there are going to be areas that we can improve in safety,” says John Gauthier, president of Fuyao Glass America. Continue reading
Belron Says Safelite AutoGlass Served a Record Number of Customers
“2015 was a much better year for Belron,” according to D’Ieteren’s 2015 financial report. Belron’s sales were up 13.2 percent, including a 4.7 percent organic increase and an 8.1 percent positive currency translation impact. Belgium-based D’Ieteren owns Belron, which in turn owns Safelite AutoGlass in the United States. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Annual 2015 Financials, Annual 2015 Report, Belron, D’Ieteren, glassBYTEs.com, Safelite AutoGlass, Sales 1 Comment
LKQ Corp. Finalizes Acquisition of PGW
LKQ Corp. has completed its acquisition of Pittsburgh Glass Works (PGW) from private equity firm Kohlberg & Co. LLC and PPG Industries Inc. for an enterprise value of $635 million. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Jim Wiggins, LKQ Corp., PGW, Pittsburgh Glass Works, Robert L. Wagman 3 Comments
“The Cog” in the Automotive Wheel
“I would like to share a Honda commercial sent to me by my friend Mark Daniels, a technical advisor for GGG-Gold Glass Group, AEGIS Tools International Inc. and other companies in the automotive glass industry. This video, which ran in Europe several years ago, is called ‘The Cog’ and it intrigued me because it contains several references to automotive glass. The video is the type of ‘Rube Goldberg’ invention which takes a simple task and creates a series of complicated steps to accomplish the action.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AEGIS Tools, AGRR, Auto Glass Journal, Bob Beranek, GGG - Gold Glass Group, glassBYTEs.com, Mark Daniels, The Cog Leave a comment
Hyundai Seeks Dismissal of Class Action Over Allegedly “Spontaneously Shattering” Sunroofs
Hyundai has asked the U.S. District Court of California to dismiss a class action lawsuit brought by vehicles owners who say the automaker’s panoramic sunroofs “spontaneously shatter.” Continue reading
Former PGW Employees Appeal Age Discrimination Allegations to Third District Court
Former Pittsburgh Glass Works (PGW) employees have appealed a lower court’s decision to the Third District Court of Appeals. The former employees allege age discrimination after they were terminated as a part of a reduction in workforce for the company in 2009. Continue reading
GUEST BLOG: OH NO! THE CREATURES ARE COMING!
“’How to Attract Millennials.’ ‘Millennials in the Workforce.’ ‘Working with Millennials.’ You see some variation of this almost on a daily basis, whether it’s the theme of an article, a webinar or some other related discussion. It’s as if everyone is preparing for the second coming of the Gremlins or something. (Or maybe the third coming … I think there was a sequel. Not sure how well it did, though.) —Nick St. Denis Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Millennials, Nick St. Denis, USGlass Leave a comment
Diatech Returns as Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™
Diatech will return as a Cobalt Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week, Cheri Corder, Diatech, glassBYTEs.com, San Antonio Leave a comment
Bertie Lubner Passes Away
Bertie Lubner, the second generation behind PG Group (formerly Plate Glass), and one of the founders of the company that eventually became Belron International, has passed away. Lubner died yesterday at age 85 in Johannesburg, South Africa, just one day shy of his 61st wedding anniversary. Continue reading
Tesla Receives Small Number of Visibility Questions about Model X Windshield
Some Tesla Model X owners are experiencing visibility issues with their panoramic windshields. “We have received only a small number of questions from Model X customers about the windshield and have taken action to address these unique cases,” according to a Tesla spokesperson. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, ghosting, glassBYTEs.com, Tesla Model X, Windshield Issue 1 Comment
AGSC to Hold Training Program in Seattle in June; Includes Free Certification Testing
The Auto Glass Safety Council™ (AGSC) will hold a training and accreditation program in suburban Seattle this June. The course will be held on Thursday, June 2, at the Hyatt Regency Bellevue in Bellevue, Wash. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Taking it to the Next Level
“Leadership means taking things to the next level. Sometimes it is in industry. Other times in business. Still other times in sports. This week I’ve had a chance to experience this at all three levels. In each situation leadership had to be involved to ‘take it up.’” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Glass Doctor, glassBYTEs.com, Mark Liston, On the Mark: Leadership Lessons Leave a comment
Safelite Denies Allegations it Violated the Americans with Disabilities Act
Safelite Group has denied allegations it violated the Americans with Disabilities Act in the U.S. District Court, in the Northern District of California. The allegation was made by Christina Castillo, an individual with a disability, according to court documents, who was employed in an inventory control position by Safelite from April 2007 to December 2007. Continue reading
SIKA Restricts SWH’s Voting Rights at Annual General Meeting
Saint-Gobain’s battle for control of SIKA continues on. The latest development came this week when the board of directors for Swiss specialty chemical company SIKA again restricted the voting rights of Schenker-Winkler Holding (SWH) to 5 percent of all registered shares during the annual general shareholders meeting. French conglomerate Saint-Gobain plans to acquire SWH, thus gaining majority voting rights in SIKA. Saint-Gobain has challenged the restricted voting rights’ strategy by SIKA’s board in the Swiss Zug Court. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Training Myths
“A comment recently made on the glassBYTEs.com™/AGRR™ magazine Forum has raised a question we should all consider. In full disclosure, the comment was made regarding Auto Glass University (AGU), a training program I own, although this post is not meant as a commercial. I am giving you my opinion on the art of automotive glass training. I hope it can be used by everyone in the industry to be more effective in their training of new technicians, no matter where or by whom the training is conducted.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Journal, Automotive Glass Consultants, Bob Beranek, glassBYTEs.com, Training Leave a comment
From the PGA Tour to Auto Glass Week™
Want to play on the same turf as the pros? Let’s make it happen. Tune into the PGA Tour’s Valero Texas Open this weekend and watch the best of the best make their way around TPC San Antonio. Then log into http://www.autoglassweek.com/events and register for the second annual industry golf tournament, which will be played on that same course. Continue reading
Tennessee OSHA Completes Carlex Plant Inspection After Workplace Accident
The death of Catherine White, 51, of Lebanon, Tenn., in a workplace accident at the Nashville, Tenn., Carlex Glass America windshield plant triggered an inspection by the Tennessee Occupational Safety and Health Administration (TOSHA). The inspection resulted in the allegation of one citation, which includes two “serious” violations, and a monetary penalty of $9,000, according to the TOSHA report. Carlex contested one of the violations. The incident occurred on January 22, 2016. Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ Schedule at a Glance Now Online
To get a better understanding of what to expect at this year’s Auto Glass Week™, the schedule at a glance has now been posted on the official event website. This should help give you a glimpse into all that is available to gain by attending the 2016 event! Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week 2016, glassBYTEs.com, Registration, Schedule at a Glance Leave a comment
AAA Mid-Atlantic Auto Glass to Be Rebranded Safelite AutoGlass
AAA Mid-Atlantic Auto Glass (AMAG) branding will quickly transition to Safelite AutoGlass as a part of the acquisition, says Melina Metzger, public relations manager for Safelite Group. Safelite Group, Safelite AutoGlass’ parent company, is acquiring substantially all the automotive glass repair and replacement assets from AMAG. Continue reading
Boyles Say Patent Has Expired
Mike Boyle (doing business as Surface Dynamic) and his son Christopher have filed a motion to dismiss a portion of the lawsuit filed by GlasWeld over alleged patent infringement. The Boyles say one of the patents at the center of the case expired on April 5, 2016. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Alleged Patent Infringement Case, Christopher, glassBYTEs.com, GlasWeld, Mike Boyle 2 Comments
Anytime Auto Glass Named Finalist for the Arizona BBB Torch Award
Anytime Auto Glass, a Mesa, Ariz.-based AGRR company, is one of three finalists for the Arizona Better Business Bureau Torch Award for companies 11-20 people in size. At five years old, the company was the youngest to be named a finalist this year in its class. Continue reading
Delta Kits Returns as Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™
Delta Kits will return as a Cobalt Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week 2016, Bruce McDonald, Delta Kits, glassBYTEs.com, Sponsor Leave a comment
Safelite Acquires AAA Mid-Atlantic Auto Glass
COLUMBUS, Ohio – Safelite® Group, Safelite AutoGlass® parent company, has reached an agreement to acquire substantially all vehicle glass repair and replacement assets from AAA Mid-Atlantic Auto Glass LLC (AMAG). AMAG was a joint venture owned by wholly owned subsidiaries of AAA Club Alliance and Club Assist. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AAA Mid-Atlantic Auto Glass, AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Safelite AutoGlass, Safelite Group 2 Comments
NHTSA Gets an Earful about Developing Guidelines for Automated Vehicles
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) held its first public meeting Friday about autonomous vehicles. It is seeking industry insight to develop guidelines for the “Safe Deployment and Operation of Automated Vehicle Safety Technologies.” While NHTSA supports this technology’s rapid introduction, those that took the microphone by and large asked the safety administration to slow down its timetable to set guidance, saying there are still more questions than answers. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Timeless!
“Last Tuesday evening my wife Mary Kay wanted to go up to Dallas and see a group of senior citizens. They play music together and are really good—especially for a bunch of senior citizens.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
AAA: Consumers May Not Be Ready for Autonomous But They Want ADAS
As automakers and technology companies move full steam ahead to produce fully autonomous vehicles in the near future, a big question is whether or not consumers are ready for self-driving vehicles? New study results from AAA indicate consumers may not be ready. Three-quarters of Americans are “afraid” to ride in a self-driving vehicle, according to the research. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AAA, ADAS, advanced driver assistance systems, AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, John Nielsen Leave a comment
TechnaGlass Teams Up with Satmetrix to Improve Customer Service
Salt Lake City, Utah-based TechnaGlass has partnered with Satmetrix, the co-creator of the Net Promoter methodology. The regional AGRR company will deploy Satmetrix’s methodology and software to further improve its customer service. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Customer Service, glassBYTEs.com, Satmetrix, TechnaGlass, Troy Mason Leave a comment
TODAY’S BLOG: Fuel Economy and Automotive Glass
“Last weekend I read about the Obama administration’s negotiated agreements with auto companies on new fuel economy standards as dictated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). In my classes I mention the fact that many of the new technological advances in automotive design and features are directly related to that agreement negotiated with the carmakers.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged ADAS, AGRR, Auto Glass Journal, Bob Beranek, EPA, Fuel Economy, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
GGG – Gold Glass Group Returns as Copper Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™
GGG – Gold Glass Group will return as a Copper Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, AGW 2016, Auto Glass Week, GGG - Gold Glass Group, glassBYTEs.com, Joseph Gold, Sponsor Leave a comment
U.K.-Based Autoglass® Launches ADAS Calibration Protocol Nationwide
United Kingdom-based Autoglass® is rolling out its new solution to calibrate Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) throughout the country. The company is also working on an industry code of practice for calibration, which is due for publication later this year. Continue reading
Vitro to Expand its Automotive Glass Production Capacity
Mexico-based Vitro is building a production plant for the automotive glass replacement market as well as a new OE automated line for the bending process. The company is investing $35 million USD to expand operations and plans to have both additions in operation in 2017. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGR, AGRR, automotive glass replacement, Baldomero Gardea de la Fuente, glassBYTEs.com, Vitro 1 Comment
Auto Glass Week™ Competitions Return for 2016
AGRR™ magazine’s competitions return for their 11th year. The Pilkington Clear Advantage Auto Glass Technician Competition (AGTO) and the GlasWeld Windshield Repair Competition in Honor of Walt Gorman (WRO) are back for Auto Glass Week™ 2016. The exhibition is set … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, AGW, Auto Glass Week Competitions 2016, glassBYTEs.com, Hotel, Prizes, Register to Compete, San Antonio Leave a comment
Judge Issues New Ruling in GlasWeld-Boyle Case
The judge overseeing the GlasWeld-Boyle case in the U.S. District Court of Oregon, Eugene division, has denied Mike Boyle and his son Christopher’s request for an extension of time to file Daubert motions. The judge granted the defendants an extension to respond to GlasWeld’s supplemental memorandum in support of partial summary judgement. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Celebrate!
“By Monday night the fans in either Chapel Hill, N.C., or Philadelphia will celebrate their team as the NCAA champs. These unpaid winning athletes will be able to say, for the rest of their lives, they were on that team.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Champions, Glass Doctor, glassBYTEs.com, Mark Liston, On the Mark: Leadership Lessons Leave a comment
Tesla’s Model 3 Features Continuous Backlite that Turns into Roof Glass
Elon Musk, Tesla CEO, unveiled the Model 3 Thursday night to a packed house. Similar to the Model X, glass plays a huge role in the vehicle’s design. The rear backlite stretches up and over the back roof of the vehicle. “The rear roof area is actually one continuous pane of glass,” said Musk. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Elon Musk, Glass Roof, glassBYTEs.com, Model 3, Tesla CEO, Vehicle Launch Leave a comment
Gerber Collision & Glass Adds Indiana Location
The Boyd Group, parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, has acquired a multi-store operation in Indiana consisting of six collision repair centers located in the Indianapolis region. The centers previously operated as Collision Cure Body Werks, … Continue reading
IIHS Tests 31 Midsize Cars, Only 1 Headlight System Receives “Good” Rating
If one of your customers complain of visibility issues at nighttime, it is most likely not the windshield, it could be the headlights. This is according to new research from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Continue reading
GlasWeld Returns as a Platinum Repair Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™
GlasWeld will return as a Platinum Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event featuring automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor, is proud to once again welcome GlasWeld as a named sponsor of the GlasWeld Windshield Repair Competition. Continue reading
Newscast: Learn the Latest on ADAS
How will Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) impact your business? Gain insight into this technology and join us as we go behind the scenes at the Novus Super Session in our newscast. And learn some of the topics on the agenda for Auto Glass Week™ 2016. Continue reading
Posted in Video Tagged ADAS, Advanced Driver Assistance System, AGRR, Auto Glass Week, glassBYTEs.com, GM, Hyundai, NOVUS Leave a comment
Registered and prospective Auto Glass Week™ competitors can now view the official competition rules and regulations as well as annotated score sheets online. Currently in their 11th year, the GlasWeld Windshield Repair Competition in Honor of Walt Gorman (WRO) and the Pilkington Clear Advantage Auto Glass Technician Competition (AGTO) are back for Auto Glass Week 2016. The exhibition floor is set to be held October 5-7 at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center. This year’s event will encompass everything from educational seminars and exhibits to networking opportunities, as well as the attendee-favorite competitions and the all new Closing Awards Concert and Party. Continue reading
Binswanger Recapitalizes Through New Minority Equity Owner
Yukon Partners, a provider of mezzanine capital for middle market private equity transactions, has partnered with Grey Mountain Partners to recapitalize Binswanger Enterprises. The company has acquired a minority equity interest in the Memphis, Tenn.-based full service glass provider. Continue reading
Rich Harrison Joins TechnaGlass as Minority Equity Owner
Former Belron and Safelite AutoGlass executive Rich Harrison has become a minority equity owner in Utah-based TechnaGlass, a chain of 36 stores with locations in Utah, Wyoming, Nevada, Oregon, Colorado, New Mexico, Mississippi, Kentucky and Ohio. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Minority Equity Owner, Rich Harrison, TechnaGlass, Troy Mason 1 Comment
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—A Real Fixer Upper!
“Were you raised in a home like mine where it was drilled in your head that your “word is your bond” and that your actions in life would determine your reputation? When I first heard this as a child I didn’t even know what a ‘bond’ was! Over the years, however, I quickly learned how important a reputation needs to be.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Fixer Upper, Glass Doctor, glassBYTEs.com, On the Mark: Leadership Lessons, Texas, Waco Leave a comment
TODAY’S BLOG: The Intersection of Collision Body Shops and Glass
“When airbags deploy in a crash, chances are good the glass is damaged. The collision repair and AGRR industries’ relationship goes back for decades. However, in recent years, it appears these ties have become stronger.” —Jenna Reed Continue reading
South African Competition Commission Raids Glass Companies
The South African Competition Commission (SACC) conducted dawn raids on Shatterprufe, PG Glass, Glasfit and Digicall on Wednesday after it received two allegations of “price fixing.” Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Automatic Braking and the Glass Industry
“I read with interest the article recently printed in Automotive News and linked on glassBYTEs.com™ “Automatic Braking Standard: ‘New Model’ or ‘Safety Sellout’?” The article outlines the debate between having regulatory mandated braking systems in new vehicles versus a voluntary buy-in by carmakers. Either way, this change is coming and the automotive glass industry needs to be prepared.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged ADAS, AGRR, Auto Glass Journal, automatic braking, Bob Beranek, Calibration, calibration investment, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
CEO Looks to Double Boyd Group’s Footprint in Five Years; Acquires J&M Body Shops
Canadian-based Boyd Group Income Fund, parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America in the United States, among others, reported today that 2015 sales grew by 39.1 percent to $757. 4 million USD ($1.2 billion CAD) year-over-year. The company will likely double in size over the next five years, Boyd Group’s CEO said during the conference call. Continue reading
Belgium Terrorist Attacks Occur in D’Ieteren’s Backyard
More than 30 people have died and dozens more injured in terrorists attacks carried out at an airport and metro station in Brussels, Belgium, today. This news hits home for the AGRR industry because the city is headquarters to D’Ieteren, parent company to Belron, which in turn owns Safelite AutoGlass in the United States. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Belgium, Belron, Brussels, D’Ieteren, glassBYTEs.com, Safelite, Terror Attack, Terrorist Leave a comment
Auto Glass Week™ 2016 Welcomes Pittsburgh Glass Works Back as Sponsor
Pittsburgh Glass Works (PGW) will return as a Gold Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week 2016, glassBYTEs.com, PGW, Pittsburgh Glass Works, San Antonio, Sponsor 1 Comment
Glass America Acquires Ryan’s Auto Glass
Glass America, a subsidiary of the Boyd Group, has purchased Ryan’s Auto Glass, which includes four locations serving the Cincinnati and Dayton, Ohio, area. Ryan’s Auto Glass is a business unit of All Service Glass, which is based in Lima, Ohio. The corporate location in Lima is not a part of the deal. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, All Service Glass, Boyd Group, Eddie Cheskis, Eric Wiechart, Glass America, glassBYTEs.com, Ohio, Ryan’s Auto Glass 3 Comments
Binswanger Hires Director of Automotive Glass
Binswanger Glass has hired Rick Mathis as director of national automotive glass. Mathis will oversee the development of Binswanger’s automotive glass market presence both nationally and at the branch level. Continue reading
Autoglass® Gains Head of Central Operations
Graham Palin has been appointed the head of central operations for United Kingdom-based Autoglass®. He will be responsible for all centrally-managed operational teams, including three service delivery centers and the network of district support teams. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Coaching
“It is March Madness. If you are like me your March Madness brackets were destroyed by day two. In Waco, Texas, our beloved Baylor team was beaten by Yale in the first round. Yes, Yale. The team who had never won an NCAA game and hadn’t been to the tournament for 54 years. ” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Glass Doctor, glassBYTEs.com, March Madness, Mark Liston, On the Mark: Leadership Lessons Leave a comment
Arizona Senate Committee Votes No to Glass Bill
The Arizona Senate’s Military Affairs and Public Safety Committee voted no against Bill 2500, “Unlawful Practices: Auto Glass Repair” on Thursday. The bill would have meant criminal penalties for violations of the legislation. It was approved by the state House of Representatives. The bill will not move forward from the Senate and effectively dies. Continue reading
Auto Windscreens Opens Training Academy
United Kingdom-based Auto Windscreens has opened a new Training & Innovation Academy for automotive glass repair and replacement technicians. The education center is accredited by the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI). Continue reading
NHTSA: Glazing FMVSS Could Pose Obstacle for Autonomous Vehicles
When it comes to the development of autonomous vehicles, the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) could be an obstacle. This is according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which released an initial report that identifies which areas of the FMVSS could prove to be an issue and glazing is one of those spotlighted. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Distribution Dilemmas
“A couple of years ago I explained the history behind the (often repeated) statement that 70 percent of the automotive glass installed in the country was done wrong. Recently, I gave a training course in Baton Rouge, La., that gave me some more insight on this problem.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Journal, Bob Beranek, Distribution, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
LKQ President: ‘We Will Consolidate Some Locations into Our Warehouses’
“Pittsburgh Glass Works (PGW) has 119 locations. A lot of those will be consolidated into LKQ warehouses or vice versa. We’ll combine our distribution,” said Rob Wagman, LKQ Corp. president and CEO during an investor day in New York City on Tuesday. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, LKQ Corp., PGW, Pittsburgh Glass Works, Rob Wagman 1 Comment
GlasWeld Names Shiloh Spoo President
GlasWeld has announced the retirement of Thomas Spoo after many years as president. Shiloh Spoo will become president. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, GlasWeld, Shiloh Spoo, Thomas Spoo Leave a comment
Have You Ever Been to the San Antonio Riverwalk?
Well, now’s your chance! Join us for Auto Glass Week™ 2016 and see why the event has selected San Antonio for its history, social scene, culture and memorable scenery all within walking distance. It’s no wonder the Riverwalk is one of Texas’ top tourist attractions, because it alone provides dueling piano bars, the best of every type of food imaginable, night life and incredible handcrafted artistry all along one gorgeous esplanade. Continue reading
Saint-Gobain Extends Deal to Acquire Controlling Interest in SIKA
French conglomerate Saint-Gobain has extended its deal with the Burkard family, giving the company more time to acquire a controlling interest in Swiss specialty chemical company SIKA AG. The Burkard family owns SIKA’s majority voting rights via Schenker-Winkler Holding. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Burkard, glassBYTEs.com, Saint-Gobain, Schenker-Winkler Holding, Sika, SWH 1 Comment
Xinyi Auto Glass (North America) Returns as Gold Sponsor for Auto Glass Week™
Xinyi Auto Glass (North America) Corporation will return as a Gold Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Presidential Candidate John Kasich Visits Fuyao Glass America
Ohio Gov. John Kasich (R) drove his tour bus right inside Fuyao Glass America (FGA) Friday. Approximately 1,100 people were in attendance to hear the presidential candidate speak at the town hall meeting hosted by FGA. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Expect the Best
“Last week I wrote about Bill Prior—founder of Kinetico. His ‘Celebration of Life’ service was amazing. Three of his children told stories about him, as did his brother and a few others.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Bill Prior, Glass Doctor, glassBYTEs.com, Mark Liston, On the Mark: Leadership Lessons Leave a comment
Novus Franchisees Descend on Georgia
The Novus Super Session was held last week in Jekyll Island, Ga., with an action-packed agenda for franchisees. Topics covers phone etiquette, insurance jobs, certification and plenty of networking opportunities. Approximately 500 attended the bi-annual meeting. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Keith Beveridge, Novus Super Session 1 Comment
AGC to Build a Second Float Glass Production Plant in Brazil
AGC Asahi Glass (AGC) announced it will invest approximately $158.3 million USD (18 billion Japanese yen) in its consolidated subsidiary, AGC Glass Brazil, to build a second float glass production plant in the southeast region of Brazil. The new facility will serve the automotive glass market, among other business units. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGC Asahi Glass, AGC Glass Brazil, AGRR, Float Glass Plant, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
NHTSA Recalls Mercedes-Benz Models Over Sunroof Issue
Mercedes-Benz is recalling certain model year 2016 C300, C300 4Matic and C450 AMG 4Matic vehicles for an improperly bonded panoramic sunroof. A mix-up in glass labels at the supplier led to a primer not being used, according to the carmaker. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Educating the Consumer
“Last week’s blog was based on feedback about my post ‘Setting the Standard for Safe Automotive Glass Installations.’ I discussed the ease of entering the AGRR industry and the ramifications.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Former N.J. Safelite Manager Alleges FMLA Violations
Former Safelite AutoGlass manager Shelby Klein filed a lawsuit in the Superior Court of New Jersey against the company alleging her termination was a violation of the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA). Safelite was successful in moving the case to … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Family Medical Leave Act, FMLA, glassBYTEs.com, New Jersey, Safelite AutoGlass, Shelby Klein Leave a comment
Just Added for Auto Glass Week™ 2016: All New Closing Awards Party and Concert
What better way to close another successful Auto Glass Week™ than to throw a concert in celebration of a great show and the new 2016 competition winners! Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week 2016, Entertainment, glassBYTEs.com, Jack Ward, Technician Competitions 1 Comment
Arizona Glass Bill Moves Forward through Stakeholders Meeting
A stakeholders’ meeting was held Monday for Arizona House of Representatives Bill 2500, “Unlawful Practices: Auto Glass Repair.” The bill passed the state House and the discussion now revolves around its approval in the Arizona Senate. A glass shop owner … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Arizona, Criminal Penalty, Dennis Hall, Forward, Frank Thomas, glassBYTEs.com, HB 2500, language, legislation, Rex Altree, Safelite, vote 3 Comments
Auto Glass Week™ 2016 Welcomes Fuyao Glass America Back as a Gold Sponsor
Fuyao Glass America (FGA) will return as a Gold Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. “Auto … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week, FGA, Fuyao Glass America, glassBYTEs.com, John Gauthier Leave a comment
Safelite Adds Three New Executives
Safelite Group, the parent company of Safelite AutoGlass, Safelite Solutions and Service AutoGlass, has named three new hires. Christina Hays has joined as vice president of marketing; Cheri Sagona is now associate vice president of culture and communications; and Abby Zimmerman is director of recruitment. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged Abby Zimmerman, AGRR, Cheri Sagona, Christina Hays, glassBYTEs.com, Safelite Group Leave a comment
Vista Equity Partners Completes Acquisition of Solera Holdings
Vista Equity Partners has officially closed its acquisition of Solera Holdings, parent company to LYNX Services, GTS and Glaxis. Other key investors include an affiliate of Koch Equity Development LLC, the investment and acquisition subsidiary of Koch Industries Inc., and an affiliate of Goldman, Sachs & Co. Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ 2016 Welcomes Equalizer® Back as Sponsor
Equalizer® will return as a Gold Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event will feature automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week, Equalizer, glassBYTEs.com, Gold Sponsor, Jason Horne, Shauna Davis Leave a comment
Saint-Gobain Remains Determined to Acquire Controlling Interest in SIKA
In 2015, the antitrust authorities gave their “unconditional approval” for French conglomerate Saint-Gobain to gain a controlling interest in Swiss specialty chemicals company SIKA AG, Saint-Gobain management wrote in their 2015 financial report. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Saint-Gobain, Schenker-Winkler Holding, Sika AG, SWH Leave a comment
TODAY’S BLOG: Riding the (Automotive Glass) Range
“A few weeks back I wrote a post called Setting the Standard for Safe Automotive Glass Installations. I talked about Auto Glass Safety Council™ Registered Member Companies that were frustrated with the quality of automotive glass work in their market. One took it to his state government for licensing possibilities, and the other owner was frustrated when their competitor passed their AGSC audit but reverted back to bad installation habits immediately after the auditors left. This blog post had several comments and they centered on beliefs that I thought should be discussed.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens New Florida Location
The Boyd Group Inc., parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, among others, has opened a new repair center in Punta Gorda, Fla. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Boyd Group Inc., Gerber Collision & Glass, glassBYTEs.com, Tim O'Day Leave a comment
Judge Pens New Decision in GlasWeld-Boyle Case, Defendants Respond
The judge overseeing the GlasWeld-Boyle case in the U.S. District Court of Oregon, Eugene division, has denied Mike and Christopher Boyles’ request to strike GlasWeld’s motion for partial summary judgment. In response, the Boyles filed a motion for an extension of time to respond to GlasWeld’s supplemental memorandum for partial summary judgement. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, GlasWeld-Boyle, Judge Ann Aiken, Mike and Christopher Boyles 1 Comment
TechnaGlass Acquires Precision Auto Glass
Sandy, Utah-based TechnaGlass has acquired Precision Auto Glass in Clackamas, Ore. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, John Carey, Precision Auto Glass, TechnaGlass, Troy Mason Leave a comment
Belron Credits U.S. for Bolstering Sales
Repair and replacement jobs for Belron increased by 3.2 percent to 10.9 million in 2015, primarily due to a harsh winter in the United States which saw more replacements versus repairs, D’Ieteren management said in their annual report. D’Ieteren is parent company of Belron, which in turn owns Safelite AutoGlass (SAG) in the United States. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged 2015, AGRR, Belron, D’Ieteren, glassBYTEs.com, Repair and replacement jobs 1 Comment
LKQ Corp. CEO Discusses PGW Acquisition
Pittsburgh Glass Works (PGW) is No. 1 in OEM glass manufacturing with 20 global customers and No. 2 in aftermarket glass, serving more than 7,000 customers, says Rob Wagman, president and CEO of LKQ Corp., when discussing his company’s planned acquisition of PGW today. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, LKQ Acquires PGW, LKQ Corp., Pittsburgh Glass Works, Rob Wagman 2 Comments
AGSC™ Publishes Latest E-Newsletter
The Auto Glass Safety Council has published its latest e-newsletter. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, AGSC, Auto Glass Safety Council, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
LKQ Corp. to Acquire Pittsburgh Glass Works
LKQ Corp. has signed an agreement to acquire Pittsburgh Glass Works (PGW) from private equity firm Kohlberg & Co. LLC and PPG Industries Inc. for an enterprise value of $635 million. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, LKQ Buyers PGW, LKQ Corp., PGW, Pittsburgh Glass Works 3 Comments
Arizona House Passes Automotive Glass Bill
In a quick action that took some by surprise, the Arizona House of Representatives passed Bill 2500, “Unlawful Practices: Auto Glass Repair” on Thursday by a vote of 53 to 7. Continue reading
Miles Driven Continues to Gain Momentum
Travel on all roads and streets continued to trend higher for December 2015, up 4.2 percent or 10.6 billion vehicle miles, compared to December 2014. This is according to the latest figures from The Federal Highway Administration, a division of the U.S. Department of Transportation. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Callbacks Part Two: Benefit of Tracking Callbacks
“In my last blog, I suggested that tracking callbacks leads to better management and quality control. Today I want to reinforce that argument with examples and explain how you can use the tracking data collected.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Journal, Bob Beranek, Callbacks Part Two, glassBYTEs.com, Training Leave a comment
Arizona Automotive Glass Bill May Soon to Go to House for Vote
It appears Arizona House Bill 2500, “Unlawful Practices: Auto Glass Repair” could be heading to the House of Representatives for a vote as early as next month. The bill is designed to amend the insurance statute to regulate the marketing of automobile glass. Continue reading
Mitchell’s GlassMate Is Fixed
Mitchell’s GlassMate experienced technical difficulties yesterday, however the situation has been “fixed,” according to a customer service representative. The system should now be back up and running. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Mitchell’s GlassMate Leave a comment
SIKA Says It’s Steadfast Against Saint-Gobain Takeover
Swiss specialty chemical company SIKA AG management continues its opposition to a takeover bid by French conglomerate Saint-Gobain. There is a “necessity of safeguarding Sika’s successful business model in the interest of all stakeholders,” the company’s management said when reporting fourth-quarter sales. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Burkard family, glassBYTEs.com, Saint-Gobain, Schenker-Winkler Holding, Sika AG, Steadfast 1 Comment
Judge Orders Google, GoDaddy.com to Preserve Records for Antitrust Case
Google and GoDaddy.com have been pulled into an antitrust litigation in Florida which could have implications on the AGRR industry. The U.S. Federal District judge overseeing the case has ordered the companies to preserve records that may come into evidence. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Tracking Callbacks
“In some areas of the country when a customer calls you back to re-do your work it is called ‘warranty’ work or ‘re-work’ but here in Wisconsin we call them callbacks. Obviously, none of us want to have callbacks occur. They cost us money and customer ill-will. It takes up time that could be better spent on putting in parts that we get paid for. However, callbacks can be a benefit to your company if handled correctly.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Journal, Bob Beranek, Callbacks, glassBYTEs.com, Re-work, Warranty Leave a comment
Safelite AutoGlass to Sponsor Rico Abreu of ThorSport Racing
Safelite AutoGlass will serve as the primary sponsor for rookie driver Rico Abreu’s No. 98 Toyota Tundra for ThorSport Racing. The driver competes in the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series. Continue reading
Chrysler Recalls Vehicles Due to Windshield Primer Issue
Chrysler is recalling certain model year 2015-2016 Chrysler Town and Country and 2014-2015 Dodge Grand Caravan vehicles due to a possible faulty windshield installation in the factory. The windshields on the affected vehicles may have been installed using expired urethane primer, which could allow them to become displaced in the event of the crash, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Continue reading
Gutierrez Promoted to Global Education Director
Equalizer has promoted Gilbert Gutierrez to global education director where he will be responsible for the company’s expanding training endeavors. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Equalizer, Eric Asbery, Gilbert Gutierrez, glassBYTEs.com 2 Comments
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens New Georgia Location
The Boyd Group, parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, among others, has opened a collision repair center in Conyers, Ga., about 24 miles east of Atlanta. “This new location increases our large market presence in the … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Boyd Group, Gerber Collision & Glass, Glass America, glassBYTEs.com, Tim O'Day Leave a comment
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—From a Marine
“My wife, Mary Kay, and I moved to Waco, Texas, from Florida primarily because of the efforts of one person—Mary Kennedy Thompson. At the time we moved she was president of one of Glass Doctor’s sister companies in the Dwyer Group—Mr. Rooter. We met her at an International Franchise Association convention and stayed in touch over the years.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Renewed Class Action Motion Filed in Volvo Sunroof Case
Volvo vehicle owners have served a renewed motion for class certification on the automaker. The owners allege Volvo’s sunroofs harbor a defect, allowing water to flood the vehicles. The five-year class action suit was recently given new life after the U.S. District Court of New Jersey judge opened the door for the renewed motion. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Joanne Neale, Sunroof Case, Sunroof Class Action, Volvo 6 Comments
General Motors Issues Service Bulletin Over Possible Sunroof Breakage
General Motors management says the sunroofs on their Chevrolet Cruze 2015-14 and Buick Regal 2015 may break, according Cars.com. Several owners complained that their sunroofs shattered to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The report says, “the glass sunroof panel can break. Dealers will inspect the sunroof glass panel and replace it if necessary.” Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Setting the Standard for Safe Automotive Glass Installations
“I have been in contact with two different glass shop owners recently who both asked me the same two-part question. Why are there so many bad automotive glass shops and technicians in our industry and how can we stop their dangerous and callous actions?”—Bob Beranek Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, AGSC, Auto Glass Safety Council, Bob Beranek, glassBYTEs.com, Technically Speaking Leave a comment
C.R. Laurence to Host Auto Glass University
C.R. Laurence has partnered with Auto Glass University to provide a week-long educational class on automotive glass installation. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass University, C.R. Laurence, Fred Altamirano, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
NHTSA: 2015 Roadway Deaths Climb 9 Percent
Roadway deaths for the first nine months of 2015 have climbed 9.3 percent over 2014, according to an early estimate from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Are You a Top Automotive Glass Retailer?
“You’ve established your company, grown it and found success—but is your performance worthy of making AGRR™ magazine’s Top Automotive Glass Retailers list?” —Jenna Reed Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ 2016 Welcomes Pilkington North America as Returning Platinum Level Sponsor
Pilkington North America will return as a Platinum Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2016 this fall in San Antonio, Texas. The three-day international event featuring automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor, is proud to once again welcome Pilkington N.A. as a named sponsor of the Pilkington Clear Advantage Auto Glass Technician Competition. Continue reading
Porsche Denies ‘Windshield Glare’ Allegations
Porsche management has denied allegations by two vehicle owners that they knew about a “windshield glare” issue that causes visibility problems. Continue reading
SIKA Names New AGR Executives
SIKA Corp. Target Market Industry has named a new senior product engineer and territory manager, both for the aftermarket glass replacement area. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Louie Gonzalez, Mike Rea, Sika Corp., Target Market Industry Leave a comment
Burco Appoints New Sales Director
Burco has named Bill Castleberry as sales director. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Bill Castleberry, Burco, Elisabeth Mervenne, glassBYTEs.com 2 Comments
Court: Safelite-Minnesota Case Must Be Ready for Summer Trial
The U.S. Federal District Court for Minnesota has issued a scheduling order in the Safelite-Minnesota case saying all parties must be ready for a bench trial by August 29, 2016. Safelite Group and Safelite Solutions filed the lawsuit in U.S. Federal District Court in April 2015 to enjoin and declare invalid enforcement of a Minnesota statute which excludes the company “from doing business in Minnesota without the opportunity for a hearing.” Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AAA, AGRR, Auto Club Group, glassBYTEs.com, Minnesota, Safelite, Scheduling Order 1 Comment
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—The Special Moments
“On Saturday night there was a prelude to the Super Bowl commercials. I’m sure we all have our favorite spots over the years.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Glass Doctor, glassBYTEs.com, Mark Liston, On the Mark: Leadership Lessons, Super Bowl Leave a comment
Judge Denies Several Motions in GlasWeld-Boyle Case
The judge overseeing the GlasWeld-Boyle case in the U.S. District Court of Oregon, Eugene division, has denied Mike and Christopher Boyles’ motions to set a trial date, disqualify GlasWeld’s attorney and exclude plaintiff’s evidence on damages. The Boyles have also filed a new motion asking the judge to strike GlasWeld’s motion for summary judgment. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Alleged Patent Infringement Case, Boyles, glassBYTEs.com, GlasWeld, Judge, Oregon Leave a comment
Glass Doctor Reports 2015 Growth
Waco, Texas-based Glass Doctor opened nine new locations and signed 21 franchise agreements in 2015. This is up 15 percent from 2014. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged 2015 Growth, AGRR, Glass Doctor, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
Arizona Automotive Glass Bill Passes Insurance Committee
The Arizona House of Representative Insurance Committee passed a sweeping automotive glass bill on Wednesday. The bill is designed to amend the insurance statute to regulate the marketing of automobile glass. See background on bill here. The bill, “Unlawful Practices: … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Arizona House Bill 2500, Frank Thomas, glassBYTEs.com, Kerry Soat, marketing, Rex Altree 2 Comments
TODAY’S BLOG: AGSC™ Retreat
“Next week I will be heading for the winter committee meetings of the Auto Glass Safety Council™ (AGSC). This year it will be held in Orlando, Fla., where the warm and sunny weather will be greatly appreciated. Although I rarely have time to get out and enjoy the climate, it is still nice to be away from frigid Wisconsin for a short while.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, AGSC, Auto Glass Journal, Auto Glass Safety Council, Bob Beranek, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
New International Standard Published to Assess Glazing Resistance to Intruders
A Technical Committee for the International Organization of Standardization (ISO) has published a new standard on test procedures to assess levels of forced-entry resistance in vehicle security glazing. Continue reading
Safelite to Hire 300 for Call Centers to Support $1.5 Billion in Sales
Safelite Group plans to hire 300 new phone representatives for its two Columbus, Ohio-area call centers, to support the company’s “all-time high of $1.5 billion” in sales for 2015. Continue reading
Safelite Files Motion in Support of Dismissal of Campfield’s Complaint
Safelite Group, Safelite Solutions and Safelite Fulfillment (Safelite) have filed a reply to Rich Campfield’s opposition to their motion to dismiss in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio, Eastern division. Campfield, founder of Ultra Bond in Grand Junction, Colo., filed a complaint against Safelite in mid-August 2015, alleging that the company engages in misleading advertising that favors replacement of windshields rather than repairs of long cracks, which he alleges has “wiped out a large portion (if not most) of the market for Ultra Bond’s products and services.” Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Lanham Act, Rich Campfield, Safelite Leave a comment
AGC Automotive: HQ Move to Have No Immediate Impact on AGR
AGC Automotive Americas is relocating its North American headquarters from Hebron, Ky., to Farmington Hills, Mich. The move will have “no immediate impacts on AGC-automotive glass replacement (AGR),” according to a company statement. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGC Automotive Americas, AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Headquarters Move Leave a comment
Solera Reports Revenue Decline from Glass and Collision Customers
Solera Holdings’ revenues from collision and glass facility customers were $68.7 million for the second fiscal-year quarter, down 4.9 percent from the same period last year. The company did not break out its glass-only results. “On a constant-currency basis, revenues … Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—The Little Stuff
One of the books that my wife, Mary Kay, has in her library is “Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff … and It’s All Small Stuff.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Glass Doctor, glassBYTEs.com, Mark Liston, On the Mark: Leadership Lessons Leave a comment
Miles Driven in November Improves Over Last Year
Travel on all roads and streets continued its climb upward in November 2015, up 4.3 percent, or 10.4 billion vehicle miles, compared to November 2014. This is according to the latest numbers from The Federal Highway Administration, a division of the U.S. Department of Transportation. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Auto News from the Capitol
“Just prior to #Blizzard2016 descending, I hit the road for the Washington, D.C., Auto Show. My day was filled with speeches from Mark Rosekind, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration administrator; and Dr. Ernest Moniz, the U.S. Department of Energy Secretary; among others. I also had the opportunity to view the new Chrysler Pacifica, which has some new glass.” —Jenna Reed Continue reading
Federal Jury Awards Former PGW Employee $922,000
A U.S. District Court jury has found that Pittsburgh Glass Works (PGW) “willfully and unlawfully retaliated against a former employee in violation of the Age Discrimination Employee Act (ADEA).” The jury awarded Rudolph Karlo $922,060. He can also seek attorneys’ fees. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, PGW, Pittsburgh Glass Works, Rudolph Karlo 5 Comments
TODAY’S BLOG: Trailblazing
“In my training courses, I typically explain that my instruction is not vehicle specific. With all the old and new vehicles in the marketplace, it would take months instead of days to teach automotive glass installation one vehicle at a time. Instead, I teach technicians how to trail blaze. Considering this is what he does every day, it makes all the sense in the world.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Journal, Bob Beranek, Bus Windshield Installation, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
Blizzard Bolsters AGRR Businesses
The blizzard walloped the Mid-Atlantic over the weekend bringing more than 20 inches of snow to Baltimore and Washington, D.C. The Federal Government was shut down, just reopening today, and even the Washington Auto Show was put on hold as … Continue reading
What’s New with Auto Glass Week™ 2016?
There have been several new developments this month with our annual three-day international event, Auto Glass Week™ 2016. The upcoming show will be held October 5-7 at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center and the San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter in San Antonio, Texas, and will feature the attendee-favorite automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor full of top-notch industry suppliers. Continue reading
Carlex Factory Worker Dies After Plant Accident
Catherine White, 51, of Lebanon, Tenn., died after sustaining injuries from a piece of equipment at Carlex’s Nashville, Tenn., windshield plant Friday afternoon, according to city police. According to a statement released by Metro Nashville Police: “A supervisor told responding … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Carlex, Catherine White, glassBYTEs.com, Jennifer Farrar, Radish-Respess, Work Place Accident 2 Comments
National Windscreens Invests $1.08 Million in ADAS Calibration
United Kingdom-based National Windscreens is investing $1.08 million USD (€1 million in Euros) to meet the growing demand for camera and sensor calibration for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). Continue reading
All Star Glass Adds New Location
San Diego, Calif.-based All Star Glass is opening a new location in Sparks, Nev. Continue reading
NWRA Publishes E-Newsletter
The National Windshield Repair Association (NWRA) has published its latest e-newsletter. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, National Windshield Repair Association, NWRA Leave a comment
Boyd Autobody & Glass Opens Two Locations in British Columbia
The Boyd Group has opened two collision repair centers on Vancouver Island in British Columbia. They previously operated as Hi-Tech Collision in the town of Sidney and Keating Collision in the community of Keating. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Hi-Tech Collision, Keating Collision, The Boyd Group Leave a comment
Rosekind: Vehicles with ADAS Must Be Repaired Correctly
“We want to focus initially on rolling out automatic-emergency braking. Let’s hope all the cameras and sensors work after the car is repaired,” said Mark Rosekind, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) administrator, during the Washington, D.C., Auto Show on Thursday. “When vehicles are repaired, including windshield replacement, let’s hope this technology works correctly. Continue reading
Married Couple Files Separate Discrimination Lawsuits
Former Safelite employees, Mauro and Christina Castillo, have filed two separate complaints alleging discrimination against the company in the U.S. District Court, in the Northern District of California. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Castillo, Christina, glassBYTEs.com, Mauro, Safelite 2 Comments
Mainstreet Honors Programmer for 30th Anniversary
Mainstreet recognizes Dave Daniels, IT product development programmer, for 30 years of service. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Dave Daniels, David Carnahan, glassBYTEs.com, Mainstreet Leave a comment
Auto Glass Week™ 2016 Hotel Reservation Block Now Available
Registration for Auto Glass Week™, taking place October 5-7, 2016, in San Antonio, has opened. The event will encompass everything from educational seminars and exhibits to networking opportunities, in addition to the crowd-favorite repair and replacement competitions. Continue reading
Arizona House Bill 2500 Could Impact Automotive Glass Companies
Arizona House Representative David Livingston (R) has proposed House Bill 2500, “Unlawful Practices: Auto Glass Repair.” The bill is designed to amend the insurance statute to regulate the marketing of automobile glass, according to Dennis Hall, attorney for the Arizona Automotive Glass Association. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, approval, Arizona House Bill 2500, David Livingston, Dennis Hall, glassBYTEs.com, Kerry Soat, vote 12 Comments
Stenzel Named Key Account Manager for Transportation Aftermarket Automotive Glass Replacement
Sika Corp. has appointed Robert Stenzel as key account manager for transportation aftermarket automotive glass replacement, effective January 1, 2016. Continue reading
Autoglass® Announces New Business Development Manager
Oliver Sanger has been named business development manager at United Kingdom-based Autoglass®. He will be responsible for prospecting new business and developing customer relationships. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Autoglass, business development manager, glassBYTEs.com, Oliver Sanger Leave a comment
National Windscreens Names Technical Manager
United Kingdom-based National has named Tim Camm as technical manager. With 33 years of experience within the auto glazing sector, including 20 years in technical training and support, Camm will play a critical role in ensuring National Windscreens maintains technology … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, National Windscreens, Tim Camm Leave a comment
Foxx Announces Proposed Budget for Autonomous Testing, Safety Agreement with Automakers
Two big announcements came from U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Anthony Foxx during the North American International Auto Show in Detroit this week. The first was made yesterday evening when Foxx said the administration has proposed a 10-year, $4 billion investment plan to “accelerate the development and adoption of safe vehicle automation through real-world pilot projects.” In the second, which came today, Foxx announced 18 automakers have signed a DOT safety agreement. Continue reading
Class Action Filed Against Hyundai for “Spontaneously Shattering” Sunroofs
Alabama resident Billy Glenn has filed a national class action lawsuit against Hyundai in the U.S. District Court of California saying the automaker’s panoramic sunroofs “spontaneously shatter.” Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Billy Glenn, glassBYTEs.com, Hyundai, panoramic sunroof, Spontaneously Shatter 6 Comments
Register by Friday and Save Big!
If you’re interested in attending this year’s Auto Glass Week™, now’s your chance to save big on attendee registration fees! Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week 2016, Early, Early Bird Registration, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
Four New Models Feature Enhanced Glass, Technology
The North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) is a nexus point for new model launches. The show began earlier this week and runs through January 24. Here are four new vehicles on display in Detroit that feature panoramic sunroofs and enhanced advanced-driver-assistance systems. Continue reading
Calling All Auto Glass Week™ Competitors!
Think you have what it takes to be crowned the “World’s Best Auto Glass Technician” or “World’s Best Windshield Repair Technician”? Continue reading
Newscast: The Future of Automotive Glass
Our editors go onsite to the top technology show—CES in Las Vegas—to bring you some of the latest developments dealing with automotive glass. Learn what Corning, BMW and others have in store for the industry. Continue reading
Safelite Group Senior VP Recognized
Renee Cacchillo, Safelite Group senior vice president of customer, brand and technology has been named a “2015 Customer Champion” by 1to1 Media. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged 1to1 Media, AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Renee Cacchillo, Safelite Group 1 Comment
The Boyles File Motion to Disqualify GlasWeld’s Attorney
Mike Boyle (doing business as Surface Dynamix) and his son, Christopher, have filed a motion to disqualify GlasWeld’s attorney and law firm from the alleged patent infringement lawsuit. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Mentors
“Last week was our annual Leadership Retreat. The Dwyer Group is now a $1.3 billion company with 11 franchise brands, along with Portland Glass, our 34-company-owned stores in Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont. In our meeting were our entire leadership team, who came to share their successes for 2015, along with plans for 2016.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Mark Liston, On the Mark: Leadership Lessons Leave a comment
GUEST BLOG: There’s No Place Like CES
“It’s a trade show unlike any in the world. Every year, nearly 200,000 people descend on Las Vegas to attend CES (formerly known as the Consumer Electronics Show). It fills multiple convention centers and, if you’re lucky, your hotel, food and Uber ride will only cost 4.1 times what it usually does.” —Casey Flores Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, BMW, Casey Flores, CES, glassBYTEs.com, Kia Leave a comment
Volvo Trucks Receive Exemption for Windshield Sensor Placement
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has issued a temporary exemption that allows Volvo Trucks to place a sensor on its windshields at a height lower than what is currently allowed by the regulation. Continue reading
Belron Partners with Advisia in Brazil
Belron has teamed up with Advisia Investimentos to form a joint venture in Brazil. Under the agreement, the automotive glass repair and replacement unit of D’Ieteren sold 60 percent of its investment in Carglass Brazil to Advisia for $1.08 million USD (€1 million in Euros). Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged Advisia Investimentos, AGRR, Belron, Brazil, D’Ieteren, glassBYTEs Leave a comment
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens Two Indiana Locations
Boyd Group, parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, has acquired two collision repair centers in Lafayette, Indiana. They previously operated as Twin City Collision Repair and have served the community for more than 24 years. Continue reading
Mr. Go-Glass Sold to Joy Companies
Well-known full-service glass company Mr. Go-Glass has been sold to The Joy Companies, the holding company for BF Joy LLC, a veteran-owned small business based in Hyattsville, Md. BF Joy specializes in the installation, maintenance and rehabilitation of underground infrastructure. “This is not a strategic acquisition but a financial acquisition,” explains Doug Linderer, second generation outgoing owner of Mr. Go-Glass. “This solves my succession question.” Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, BF Joy, Doug Linderer, glassBYTEs.com, Joy Companies, Ken Joy, Mr. Go-Glass 2 Comments
TODAY’S BLOG: New Year’s Resolutions for Automotive Glass Shops
“Are you beginning the New Year with an annual declaration of resolutions you plan to achieve? Many people do, and every year we usually fall short in achieving our goals. From my personal experience, I know that vows to lose weight, quit smoking, eat better or exercise more many times fall short. The problem with resolutions is that we set the bar way too high for our will power to overcome.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Journal, Bob Beranek, glassBYTEs, New Year's Resolutions Leave a comment
United Kingdom – National Windscreens to Service Government Vehicles
National Windscreens has been named the sole supplier for the United Kingdom’s Home Office vehicles. The deal primarily covers police forces, but is available for other emergency services, as well. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Graham Furneaux-Porter, National Windscreens Leave a comment
Safelite Group Buys Central Missouri AGRR Company
Safelite Group is acquiring substantially all of the automotive glass assets of central Missouri-based Accurate Glass. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged Accurate Glass, AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Safelite Group, Scotty Rains, Tom Feeney Leave a comment
Registration is Now Open for Auto Glass Week™ 2016
Online registration for Auto Glass Week™ 2016 is now open. The annual event is scheduled for October 5-7 at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center and the San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter in San Antonio, Texas. The exhibition floor, which will host the always-exciting repair and replacement competitions, will bring sponsors and attendees together to maintain industry standards, continue safety education and showcase new innovative products and services available to automotive glass technicians. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, AGW, Auto Glass Week 2016, glassBYTEs.com, Registration Open, San Antonio Leave a comment
Will NHTSA Give Crash-Avoidance Technology Safety Stars?
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) proposes to add a crash-avoidance ratings based on whether a vehicle features multiple technologies, including forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning and blind-spot detection, among others. Continue reading
Equalizer Promotes Davis
Shauna Davis will now serve as global sales director for Equalizer. She will be responsible for the company’s worldwide sales strategy and will lead Equalizer’s authorized distributor program, as well as United States and international sales teams. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Equalizer, Eric Asbery, glassBYTEs.com, Shauna Davis Leave a comment
Boyles Ask Court to Set Trial Date, GlasWeld Opposes
In the latest development in the GlasWeld-Boyle lawsuit, defendants Mike and Christopher Boyle have asked the court to set a trial date for the ongoing alleged patent infringement lawsuit. Plaintiff GlasWeld opposes this motion. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Choices
“The Peanuts cartoon by Charles Schulz has always been one of my favorites. The strip on December 31st … combined with an event that happened at the Alamo Bowl in San Antonio, Texas … started me thinking about this week’s leadership lesson.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Glass Doctor, glassBYTEs.com, Mark Liston, On the Mark: Leadership Lessons Leave a comment
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Expands in Minnesota
ABRA Auto Body & Glass has opened a new center in Worthington, Minn. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged Aaron Marthaler, ABRA Auto Body & Glass, AGRR, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
Thomas Auto Glass Raises Almost $18,000 for Charity Thanks to Customers
For each windshield replaced by Thomas Auto Glass in Phoenix, Ariz., customers could select a charity, school, church or non-profit organization and the company would donate $50 in their name. For 2015, these donations totaled almost $18,000. Continue reading
6 Recalls That Could Impact You
From windshield wiper issues to potentially loose backlites and more, here are six National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recalls to have on your radar. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Chrysler Group, Forest River Inc., General Motors, glassBYTEs.com, Recalls, Toyota, windshield wiper issue 1 Comment
TODAY’S BLOG: Recalibration Bowl
“It is that time of year again when the college football bowl season begins and the NFL starts their road to the Super Bowl. During the season, our teams raise our hopes through inspired plays and then deflate some of those hopes with bad performances (with the possible except of the Carolina Panthers). We have cheered when our teams played well and cried when they fumbled the ball. We understand that wins and losses are part of the game.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Journal, Belron, Bob Beranek, Calibration, glassBYTEs.com, recalibration, Technically Speaking Leave a comment
SIKA Announces Personnel Moves
SIKA has announced several promotions and personnel changes, including a new territory sales manager that previously worked at Mygrant Glass. Continue reading
Safelite AutoGlass Foundation Awards $500,000 to Non-Profit Groups
Safelite AutoGlass Foundation has awarded $500,000 in impact grants to 20 separate Columbus, Ohio-based area non-profit groups, each receiving $25,000. Continue reading
From Concept to Reality: Gorilla Glass Windshield Goes into Production
When the Ford GT goes on sale next year, it will feature a Corning Gorilla Glass hybrid windshield. And Pittsburgh Glass Works (PGW) will serve as the automaker’s Tier 1 supplier for this glass. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Hitting the Road to Fuyao Glass America
“On my trip to Fuyao Glass America, I learned two important things. The “controlled chaos” that occurs when opening an automotive glass fabrication plant is a sight to behold. I had snagged a much desired invitation to go inside the new fabrication plant in Moraine, Ohio, and I was ready. And second, a short, nine-hour road trip isn’t so short on the way back.” —Jenna Reed Continue reading
Lubner: The U.S. Is Belron’s Success Story
“Will glass breakage stop and go to zero? Absolutely not. But we have seen breakage decline and we’ve seen it over a number of years. We’re not seeing it change,” said Gary Lubner, CEO of Belron during an investor day conference for D’Ieteren held last week in London. As demand for AGRR services declined worldwide, what has helped drive the company’s growth from 5.3 million AGRR jobs in 2005 to 11 million in 2014? The answer: United States-based Safelite, according to the CEO. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Belron, Gary Lubner, glassBYTEs.com, Investor Conference, Safelite 1 Comment
TODAY’S BLOG: All I Want for Christmas
“Does anyone out there still remember the Sears’ Christmas Catalogue? For those out there who are not past a certain age, this was literally the best connection a child had to Santa. Devilishly mailed to homes somewhere at the end of October, it gave a child of the 1950s far too many ideas early enough to create and lobby Santa’s elves (aka, the parents) for the ideal presents that could be acquired in the great delivery drop on the night of December 24th.” —Neil Duffy Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGR, AGRR, Easy Entry, Ethics Transfusion, glassBYTEs.com, In the Trenches, Leadership, Neil Duffy Leave a comment
Lubner: We Are Equipped Worldwide to Deliver ADAS Calibration
“All cars now are going to have these Advanced Driver Assistance Systems [ADAS] and if you don’t get the calibration right, it has pretty serious consequences and so we are obviously speaking to insurance companies around the world. We are now equipped worldwide to be able to deliver ADAS calibration,” said Gary Lubner, CEO of Belron during an investor day conference for D’Ieteren held last week in London. D’Ieteren is parent company to Belron and United States-based Safelite. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged ADAS, advanced driver assistance systems, AGRR, Autoglass, Calibration, Carglass, D’Ieteren, Gary Lubner, glassBYTEs.com, Safelite 2 Comments
Dow Chemical and DuPont to Merge
The Dow Chemical Co., which owns Dow Automotive Systems, and DuPont announced today they will combine “in an all-stock merger of equals,” according to a statement from both companies. The combined company will be named DowDuPont. Management intends to split the new entity into three independent, publically traded companies approximately 18-24 months following the close of the merger. What does this mean for Dow Automotive? Continue reading
Could PPF Be Good for You?
Would adding on paint protection film (PPF) bolster your business? There are some important facts and figures to consider. Join us as we explore just what is involved. Also, take a peek at some of top vehicles on display at the SEMA Show this year. We hope you enjoy our annual video bloopers.
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Posted in Video Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, newscast, Paint Protection Film, PPF, SEMA Show, video bloopers Leave a comment
TODAY’S BLOG: Answering the Why of Things
“I pride myself on always looking for the answers to the question ‘why?’ Whether an issue comes up during one of my training sessions, via a customer interaction or through a colleague’s inquiry, I’m always searching for the reasoning behind a directive. Due to my time in the industry, I know many answers but I am not a ‘know-it-all.’ I am frequently researching and seeking the truth. Lately, I have been thinking about the installation procedures I have witnessed or heard about that have stumped me. Maybe you can fill me in.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Consultants, Bob Beranek, glassBYTEs.com, Why Leave a comment
SIKA AG Chairman: Saint-Gobain Takeover Would Destroy Company’s Value
In a letter to Saint-Gobain shareholders, Swiss specialty company SIKA AG chairman Paul Hälg denounced the “value of the [Saint-Gobain] takeover attempt,” writing it could take years for the issues to be worked out in the court system. In response, Saint-Gobain management released a statement saying that “all antitrust authorities have given pre-closing clearance” and the company is “determined to pursue this value-creating transaction for both groups.” Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Burkard family, glassBYTEs.com, Paul Hälg, Saint-Gobain, Schenker-Winkler Holding, Sika AG, SWH 1 Comment
This Marketing Idea Saves You Money and Spreads Holiday Cheer
What do you do with your windshield pallets? Jack’s Glass in Northampton, Pa., has come up with a holiday marketing strategy for those wooden crates that saves the company money while giving something back to customers, says Donna Braden, president. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, crates, Donna Braden, glassBYTEs.com, pallets, Pinterest, Windshield Pallet Tree 2 Comments
Alan Resnick Opens New Hampshire AGRR Company
Alan Resnick, who spent more than 14 years with Glass America, has opened his own AGRR company in Hooksett, N.H., called Car Glass of New England. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Alan Resnick, Car Glass of New England, Glass America, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
Judge Throws Out Class Action Complaint Against Ford for Tailgate Windows
A judge for the U.S. District Court, Northern District of California, has dismissed the class action complaint filed against Ford, saying the automaker had no duty to disclose that there is a potential risk of cracking in the tailgate. More than 30 Ford owners claimed in their complaint that the potential cracking in the tailgate presents a safety issue that “could cause the window in the tailgate to drop out and hit/injure the operator or bystanders,” reads the court documents. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Ford Class Action, Ford Explorer, glassBYTEs.com, Lincoln Aviator, Mercury Mountaineer, tailgate 1 Comment
Dale Malcolm to Leave Dow to Pursue Entrepreneurial Opportunities
Dale Malcolm, long-time technical manager for Dow Automotive Systems Aftermarket, is leaving the company the first of the year to pursue entrepreneurial business opportunities within the automotive glass replacement industry. Continue reading
Judge Gives New Life to Class Action Against Volvo
A five-year class action suit concerning Volvo sunroofs has been given new life by a judge in the U.S. District Court of New Jersey. The judge greenlighted a renewed class certification motion by the plaintiffs. The vehicle owners say Volvo’s sunroofs harbor a defect, allowing water to flood the vehicles. Continue reading
NWRA Elects New VP and Treasurer
The National Windshield Repair Association (NWRA) recently elected a new vice president and treasurer when it met in Reno, Nev. Troy Mason of TechnaGlass in Sandy, Utah, was named vice president, and Keith Beveridge of Novus in St. Paul, Minn., was named treasurer. Continue reading
Settlement Deadline Nears in Campfield-Safelite Case
A U.S. District Court in Ohio has ordered Rich Campfield, founder of Ultra Bond in Grand Junction, Colo., to make a settlement demand by the end of this month in the case against Safelite Group, Safelite Solutions and Safelite Fulfillment (Safelite). Safelite is to respond no later than December 20, 2015, according to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Ohio, Eastern Division. The case revolves around allegations of misleading advertising that favors replacement of windshields rather than repairs of long cracks. Continue reading
Year-Over-Year Miles Driven Momentum Continues
Travel on all roads and street continuing to show growth year-over-year, up 4.3 percent, or 10.8 billion vehicle miles, for September 2015 compared to September 2014. This is according to the latest numbers from The Federal Highway Administration, a division of the U.S. Department of Transportation. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Will You Be on Call During the Holidays?
“With the official holiday season kicking off this week, it leads me to wonder what your business plans are? Will you be open over Thanksgiving, Hanukkah (which starts December 6), Christmas and New Year’s Eve? Though retailers would have us believe the holiday season begins in early November with their barrage of music and festive displays, to me, the official start is this week when millions of Americans take to the roads.” —Jenna Reed Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, AGRR Reflections, Christmas, glassBYTEs.com, Hanukkah, Holidays, New Year's Eve, Thanksgiving Leave a comment
Safelite Settles with Illinois Couple for $8 Million
After two and a half weeks of trial in the Cook County Circuit Court, Safelite Group settled with Ronald and Margaret Furst who were in an accident allegedly caused by a Safelite technician in a work van, their attorneys say. Continue reading
ABRA Completes CollisionMax Purchase
ABRA Auto Body & Glass has completed its purchase 11 CollisionMax Auto Body and Glass repair centers throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons (or Lack Thereof)—Jared Fogle
“Amazon lists more than 179,000 books on leadership. I love to read them—especially if they are written by someone well known. It is much easier to relate when you see how their leadership lessons inspired themselves.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Glass Doctor, glassBYTEs.com, Jared Fogle, Mark Liston, On the Mark: Leadership Lessons Leave a comment
Geico Names New Senior Vice President
Nancy Pierce has been named senior vice president of Geico. She will continue to have general management responsibilities for the mid-Atlantic regional operations in Fredericksburg and Virginia Beach, Va. Pierce will also oversee the company’s commercial and motorcycle operations. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Bill Roberts, Geico, glassBYTEs.com, Nancy Pierce Leave a comment
Police: Terminated Safelite Tech Shoots Out Dozens of Vehicle Windows
Former Safelite AutoGlass technician, Anthony “Tony” Jackson of Enid, Okla., has been charged with cruelty to an animal as well as reckless conduct with a firearm for allegedly shooting out windows on 42 vehicles, says Captain Jack Morris of the local police department. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Anthony “Tony” Jackson, Captain Jack Morris, Enid, glassBYTEs.com, Okla., Safelite AutoGlass 2 Comments
NHTSA Grants Exemption for Mitsubishi Quarter Panel Sidelite
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has granted an exemption to Mitsubishi Motors North America for a quarter panel sidelite that does not comply with the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard covering glazing materials. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Prepping a Windshield with a Rain Sensor
“I had an inquiry recently from one of our Auto Glass University graduates. His question reminded me that there are some common problems that technicians should address when prepping a windshield with a rain sensor.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Journal, Bob Beranek, glassBYTEs.com, Rain Sensor, Technically Speaking Leave a comment
Former Safelite AutoGlass Tech Files Amended Complaint over Pay Plan
Former technician Yadir Ontiveros has filed an amended state class action lawsuit against Safelite Fulfillment, Safelite Group and Safelite Glass Corp. in the U.S. District Court, Central District of California, saying the company violated Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). “At all times while employed as a technician, plaintiff has been paid on a piece-rate basis,” his attorney says. Safelite denies the allegations. Continue reading
Oh Deer, Bigger Bucks as Glass Damage on Rise
With deer mating season upon us, many AGRR company owners in the north are seeing an increase in automotive glass damage as these frisky animals run haphazardly into the road. “I saw collisions with deer picking up two or three weeks ago. The does are on the move and the bucks are chasing them,” says Ted Corwin, owner of Cherryland Auto Glass in Traverse City, Mich. Continue reading
Levesque Joins Glass Technology as Technical Advisor
Glass Technology Inc. has appointed Frank Levesque as the technical advisor for North America. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Frank Levesque, Glass Technology Inc., glassBYTEs.com, Rory Most 1 Comment
Safelite Group Acquires Turner’s Custom Auto Glass in South Carolina
Safelite Group, parent company to Safelite AutoGlass, is acquiring substantially all of the automotive glass assets of Turner’s Custom Auto Glass based in Florence, S.C. The company will operate under a co-branding strategy “until further plans are made,” according to Safelite. Continue reading
Ford Owners Say Defective Tailgate Can Cause Backlite Damage
More than 30 Ford owners have filed a class action complaint against the automaker saying that potential cracking in the tailgate presents a safety issue that “could cause the window in the tailgate to drop out and hit/injure the operator or bystanders,” reads the court documents. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, class action complaint, Ford, glassBYTEs.com, Shattered Backlite, tailgate issue 3 Comments
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Haiti Examples
“I mentioned last week that I was headed to Haiti for a mission trip with Mission Waco. I didn’t know much about Mission Waco until last Thursday when we got to Ferrier, Haiti. I hate to admit it but I never even went to their website. In retrospect, I wish I would have. I got e-mail from someone named Janet—but that was all I knew.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Glass Doctor, glassBYTEs.com, Haiti, Mark Liston, On the Mark: Leadership Lessons Leave a comment
SIKA Shows Growth in All Regions, Saint-Gobain Uncertainty Remains
Swiss-based specialty chemical company SIKA AG reported a 5.5 percent sales increase at constant exchange rates for the first nine months of 2015. Though results were strong, the report indicated that one uncertainty remains—Saint-Gobain. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged 2015, AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Saint-Gobain, Sika AG Leave a comment
Is This the Beginning of the End of the Giant Glass Brand?
Three years after purchasing North Andover, Mass.-based Giant Glass Co., Safelite AutoGlass is moving to co-brand its name with the company. Prior to this, Giant Glass’ five locations continued to operate under the existing name, and Safelite rebranded its Falmouth, Mass., store into the Boston brand. Down the road could Safelite phase out the Giant Glass name and market the stores solely under the Safelite AutoGlass moniker? It wouldn’t be the first time, according to those in the industry. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Tesla Autopilot Gets an Overnight Upgrade
“This weekend I read about a new technology from Tesla called Autopilot. This technology is not a fully autonomous vehicle; it is more like an advanced cruise control. It is designed to assist in the act of driving, much like a pilot is assisted when he engages the autopilot once the plane is airborne and at cruising altitude. With this software upgrade, once your Tesla is on a well-marked roadway and cruising at the speed of the traffic, the Autopilot can be set and the driver monitors the trip just like a pilot does during a flight.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Boyd Group: Strong Glass Sales Continued into Q3
“While glass sales are traditionally strongest in the second quarter of the year, we continued to see strong glass same-store sales growth in the third quarter,” said Brock Bulbuck, president and CEO of Boyd Group Income Fund, in a letter to shareholders. Continue reading
Court Nixes Porsche’s Motion to Dismiss Class Action
A U.S. District Court judge has denied Porsche’s motion dismiss a class action complaint brought by two owners who allege a “windshield glare” visibility issue. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Alyce Rubinfeld, glassBYTEs, Porsche, Roy Jones, visibility issue, windshield glare Leave a comment
Solera Holdings Reports Net Loss in Part Due to Pending Deal to Go Private
Tony Aquila, Solera Holdings founder, chairperson and CEO, did not answer any questions or talk about the company’s future outlook during the conference call late last week, which discussed fiscal-year first-quarter sales. Because the company is set to go private, the company sees no need, said Aquila. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—While I’m in Haiti
“This week I am in Haiti with my daughter working on Dwyer Group’s Light Haiti project. About 25 other people from North America, many employees or franchisees, are joining us.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Glass Doctor, glassBYTEs.com, Light Haiti, Mark Liston, On the Mark: Leadership Lessons Leave a comment
A Spotlight on Auto Glass Week™ Products & Sponsors
Everywhere attendees turned during Auto Glass Week™ 2015, there was a new product, service or tool to view on the exhibition floor. Check out this slideshow for a recap. [gss ids=”10968,10969,10970,10971,10972,10977,10978,10979,10981,10982,10983,10984,10985,10987,10988,10989,10990,10991,10992,10993,10994,10995,10996,10997,10998,10999,11000,11001,11002,11003,11004,11006,11007,11009,11010,11011,11034,11035,11030″]
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week™ 2015, Booth Photos, glassBYTEs.com, Reno, Sponsors Leave a comment
Miles Driven Growth Streak Continues
Travel on all roads and streets was up 2.3 percent, or 6.3 billion vehicle miles, for August 2015 compared to August 2014. This is according to the latest numbers from The Federal Highway Administration, a division of the U.S. Department of Transportation. Continue reading
GlasWeld-Boyle Case Depositions Set for December
A discovery hearing to conduct depositions will be held December 7 to 11, 2015 at the Wayne Lyman Morse U.S. Courthouse in Eugene, Ore., in the GlasWeld-Boyle case, according to court records. Continue reading
IHS Automotive: Older Vehicle Population Good News for Aftermarket Industry
As vehicles stay on the roads on the longer, aftermarket opportunities will continue to flourish, said Mark Seng, global aftermarket practice leader for IHS Automotive, during a presentation at the Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo in Las Vegas this week. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Be Cautious of Advice Handed Out on Websites
“My friend, Steven Rossetti at American Auto Glass Administrators in Rhode Island, recently emailed me a link to a website that professes that automotive glass replacement is so easy anyone can do it. The site advises that, ‘You may also prefer to replace the windshield yourself rather than spend the time and money to take it in to an approved auto technician.’” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Gerber Collision & Glass Gains New Florida Location
The Boyd Group Inc., parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass, Glass America and others, has opened a collision repair location in Estero, Fla. The center is about 20 miles south of Fort Myers, Fla. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Boyd Group Inc., Gerber Collision & Glass, Glass America, glassBYTEs.com, Tim O'Day Leave a comment
Nationwide Windscreen Services Signs New Deal with Biffa Waste
United Kingdom-based Nationwide Windscreen Services (NWS) has renewed its deal with Biffa Waste Services, signing a new three-year contract. The deal covers automotive glass and repair services for all waste service vehicles operated by the Biffa group. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Biffa Waste Services, glassBYTEs, Nationwide Windscreen Services, NWS, William Potter Leave a comment
Pilkington Reports Better Q2 Results than Last Year
NSG, parent company to Pilkington, reported second-quarter fiscal-year 2016 revenue for automotive glass was “slightly better than the previous year, due partly to the impact of a weaker Japanese Yen.” In North America, the company report automotive glass replacement revenues … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, NSG, Pilkington, Q2 Results Leave a comment
Import Glass Corp. Opens New Warehouse
Import Glass Corp. (IGC) has opened its 16th distribution center. The new location is in Phoenix, Ariz. Continue reading
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Helps Raise $29,000 for Riley Children’s Foundation
ABRA Auto Body & Glass has helped to raise more than $29,000 for the Riley Children’s Foundation in Indianapolis. Continue reading
State Farm Reports No Change to Pricing or Offer for Automotive Glass Companies
Noting there has been no change, Dave Phillips, a State Farm spokesperson, says, “We manage our offer to the glass industry to meet our customer’s needs.” Continue reading
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens New Washington Location
The Boyd Group Inc., parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, has acquired a collision repair location in Bremerton, Wash. The center previously operated as Clifford’s Auto Body and is located on a busy thoroughfare near the Bremerton Ferry Terminal, which is used daily by commuters to nearby Seattle. Continue reading
NAGS Releases New Calculator with Modest Price Changes
Mitchell’s National Auto Glass Specifications Inc. (NAGS) has released its Fall International Benchmark Calculator which shows very modest changes in pricing. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Founder’s Day
“Last Friday was The Dwyer Group’s 21st Annual Founder’s Day. This celebrates the life and entrepreneurship of our founder, Don Dwyer, who started our company 34 years ago.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Mark Liston, On the Mark: Leadership Lessons Leave a comment
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Announces Expansion in 3 States
ABRA Auto Body & Glass is adding 12 new repair centers across Pennsylvania, Delaware and New Jersey. This will be the company’s initial entry into New Jersey. Continue reading
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens First Oregon Location
The Boyd Group Inc., parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, opened a collision repair location in Gresham, Ore. The center previously operated as Custom Touch Collision Care for 24 years. Gresham is located about 15 miles east of Portland. Continue reading
Saint-Gobain Awaits Swiss Supreme Court Decision to Pursue SIKA Deal
French conglomerate Saint-Gobain plans to pursue its acquisition of a controlling interest of Swiss specialty chemical company SIKA AG pending a decision by the Swiss Zug Supreme Court. The court decision is expected in first half of 2016, according to the company’s latest 2015 third-quarter financial report. The company is waiting to see if the court will lift the restriction in voting rights the SIKA board has applied to Schenker-Winkler Holding (SWH), which is owned by the Burkard family. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Let’s Define Pinchwelds
“For as long as I can remember, the term pinchweld has been used to describe the part of the vehicle on which we bond the glass. During my many years of training, defining a pinchweld was one of the most important preliminary steps to explaining automotive glass installation.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Journal, Automotive Glass Consultants, Bob Beranek, glassBYTEs.com, Pinchwelds Leave a comment
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens New Location in Washington
The Boyd Group Inc., parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, has opened a new collision repair location in Lakewood, Wash. Lakewood is about 17 miles southwest of Tacoma, Wash. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Gerber Collision & Glass, glassBYTEs.com, The Boyd Group Inc., Tim O'Day Leave a comment
Safelite Asks Judge to Dismiss Case Alleging Misleading Advertising
Safelite Group, Safelite Solutions and Safelite Fulfillment have asked the judge to dismiss a lawsuit filed by Rich Campfield, founder of Ultra Bond in Grand Junction, Colo., which alleges misleading advertising that favors replacement of windshields rather than repairs of long cracks, which have “wiped out a large portion (if not most) of the market for Ultra Bond’s products and services.” Continue reading
Fox News Contributor Backs Off Auto Glass Week™ Comment
“Did anyone get jealous when Suzy [Welch] said she and Jack [Welch] went to that auto glass installer conference? I’m sorry but apparently I’m missing all of these really cool events,” Gary Smith said with apparent sarcasm on a recent Fox News show featuring Suzy Welch. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, David Rohlfing, Fox News, Gary Smith, glassBYTEs.com, Jack Welch, Suzy Welch Leave a comment
Rosekind: Automated Systems Are No Longer Science Fiction
“In many ways, the car hasn’t changed as much in the entire last century as it’s about to change in the next few years. And that change, that safety revolution driven by technology can be accompanied—must be accompanied—by a parallel transformation in culture,” said Mark Rosekind, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) administrator, during a recent speech in Washington, D.C. Continue reading
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Expands in Colorado
ABRA Auto Body & Glass, a leading national damaged vehicle repair company, expanded in Colorado with the acquisition of Pro Auto Collision. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged ABRA Auto Body & Glass, AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Pro Auto Collision Leave a comment
Two Porsche Owners Bring Class Action Against OEM for Alleged Visibility Issue
Two California-based Porsche owners have filed a state class action lawsuit alleging their vehicles have a “windshield glare” visibility issue. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Class Action Lawsuit, glassBYTEs.com, Porsche, windshield glare Leave a comment
Toyota Recalls 2 Million Models Over Window Issue
Toyota is recalling 2 million vehicles related to the driver’s side power window master switch, which may have been manufactured with “insufficient lubricant grease,” leading to a potential fire. Continue reading
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens New Ohio Location
The Boyd Group Inc., parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass, Glass America and others, has opened a collision repair center in Mayfield Heights, Ohio. The location previously operated as Deacon’s Collision Center. Continue reading
Safelite AutoGlass Reaches Milestone in Windshield Recycling Program
Safelite AutoGlass has recycled 4 million windshields in partnership with Shark Glass Recycling North America since 2012. Continue reading
SPONSORED LINK: Check Out Dinol’s New Dinitrol 9100 Urethane
Learn about Dinol’s new 30-minute safe-drive-away urethane—Dinitrol 9100. Continue reading
Miles Driven Continues to Gain Ground
Miles driven continued to climb in July. The figure was up 4.2 percent, or 11.4 billion vehicle miles, for July 2015 over the same month in the prior year. In June, miles driven grew by 3.9 percent year-over-year. This is according to the latest numbers from The Federal Highway Administration, a division of the U.S. Department of Transportation. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Miles Drive July 2015 Leave a comment
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Donates More Than $12,000 to Help Children
ABRA Auto Body & Glass has donated more than $12,000 to Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt. The hospital is located in Nashville, Tenn. Continue reading
Belron Analyzes Technology’s Impact on Windshields in New Report
Could AGRR technicians of the future need tools such as Google Glass to “ensure that they have the expertise to create a perfect fit for any windshield in any car no matter what technology it contains?” Belron’s management thinks this could be the case in a new report called “Window to the Future.” Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Autoglass, Belron, Gary Lubner, glassBYTEs.com, Google Glass, Window to the Future 1 Comment
TODAY’S BLOG: Calibration Calculations
“Since I returned from the Auto Glass Week™, I keep thinking about the seminars given on Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS). Although I have addressed this subject in the past, it is becoming obvious that the questions are not going away. ADAS will continue to be a problem until we know what to do for ourselves and our customers. This technology is so new that many dealerships don’t know what to do.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Journal, Bob Beranek, Calibration, glassBYTEs.com, Technically Speaking Leave a comment
AGC Automotive Europe Closes NordGlass Acquisition
Management from AGC Automotive Europe and NordGlass’ parent company recently met to close the acquisition of the Polish automotive glass company. The deal was signed in the presence of the King of Belgium during his state visit to Poland. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGC Automotive Europe, AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Jacek Woźniak, Jean-Marc Meunier, Nordglass Leave a comment
Auto Glass Week™ 2016 to be Held in San Antonio
Hot off the success of Auto Glass Week™ 2015 in Reno, show organizers have announced the dates and location of the 2016 event. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week 2016, glassBYTEs.com, San Antonio Leave a comment
Safelite Denies Former Technician’s Class Action Allegations Over Pay-Per-Piece Compensation
Safelite Fulfillment, Safelite Group and Safelite Glass Corp. have denied a former technician’s allegations that the company violated the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) through its pay-per-piece program. The complaint “fails to state sufficient facts,” according to Safelite’s attorney. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: A Pox on Both Houses
“Recently, I had to seek authorization for a 2015 Toyota Highlander windshield. I received the okay for the glass and upper moulding immediately. However, as I have not done that model before, the Toyota parts person recommended getting the two side mouldings and ten clips saying I could always return them if not needed. So I added the twelve parts into my request.” —Neil Duffy Continue reading
Severe South Carolina Flooding Disrupts AGRR Businesses
AGRR company owners are finally getting their businesses back on their feet after torrential rain and flooding severely disrupted work last week near Columbia, S.C. However, it will likely be months or even a year until all of the roads are passable again and the true cost of damage is tallied. Continue reading
Solera Holdings Says FTC Terminated Waiting Period under Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Act
Solera Holdings, parent company to LYNX Services, GTS and Glaxis, announced that the waiting period under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976 was terminated by the United States Federal Trade Commission (FTC) on October 9, 2015. This waiting period … Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ Photos Now Available for Purchase
A special website has been set up to allow the review and purchase of pictures from Auto Glass Week™ and its competitions. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week 2015 Photos, Competitor Photos, Gala, glassBYTEs.com, Medalists Leave a comment
Safelite AutoGlass Foundation Raises $1 Million
The Safelite AutoGlass Foundation hosted its fifth annual Charity Golf Classic on September 29, 2015, raising $1 million for charity. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Charity Golf Classic, glassBYTEs.com, Safelite AutoGlass Foundation, Tom Feeney 1 Comment
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Giving Back
“Before heading to Reno for Auto Glass Week™ I was in Washington, D.C., for the International Franchise Association’s Franchise Action Network’s Annual Meeting. More than 400 franchisors and franchisees met to go to a Capitol Hill meeting with Congressmen and Senators fighting for small business.”—Mark Liston Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Glass Doctor, glassBYTEs.com, Mark Liston, On the Mark: Leadership Lessons Leave a comment
Key Communications Will Be Closed for Columbus Day
Key Communications, parent company to glassBYTEs.com™, will be closed on Monday, October 12 for the holiday. glassBYTEs.com™ will resume publishing Tuesday, October 13. We wish our United States readers a happy Columbus Day. And we wish our Canadian readers a Happy Thanksgiving. Continue reading
Judge Issues New Decisions in GlasWeld-Boyle Case
The judge overseeing the GlasWeld-Boyle case in the U.S. District Court of Oregon, Eugene division, has denied Mike and Christopher Boyles’ motion for reconsideration on the motion for the order to show cause for sanctions and motion to dismiss. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Christopher Boyle, glassBYTEs.com, GlasWeld, Mike Boyle, Surface Dynamix Leave a comment
Volvo to Accept Full Liability for Autonomous Vehicles
“Volvo will accept full liability whenever one of its cars is in autonomous mode,” Håkan Samuelsson, president and chief executive of Volvo Cars, plans to say during a speech tonight at the Swedish Embassy in Washington, D.C. The prepared remarks come from a Volvo communications document. If more automakers go this route, it will kick off a blame game between insurers, automakers and those involved in a crash, says Brian VanWyk, operations manager for AAA Mid-Atlantic Auto Glass. Continue reading
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens Two Repair Locations in Ohio
The Boyd Group, parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass, Glass America and others, has acquired two collision repair centers in Dayton, Ohio. Both locations previously operated as Wayside Collision Centers. Continue reading
Arizona Company Owner Arrested for Allegedly Submitting False Glass Claims
The Arizona Department of Insurance Fraud Unit has arrested Precision 1 Auto Glass owner Donald Parra, 41, of Mesa, Ariz. He is charged with “several felony charges including identity theft and insurance fraud after making fictitious automobile glass claims to insurance companies,” including Farmer’s Insurance, according to the fraud unit. Continue reading
Hill Offers Financial Tips Essential to Running a Successful AGRR Business
Calling upon his more than 40 years of industry experience, Lyle Hill, managing director of Keytech North America, offered a fast-paced overview on Friday during Auto Glass Week™ highlighting the financial principals essential for any manager or owner attempting to run a successful business. Continue reading
Meet This Year’s Gold Medalists
Join us as we talk with this year’s gold medalists of the Pilkington Clear Advantage Auto Glass Competition and the GlasWeld Windshield Repair Competition in Honor of Walt Gorman. Also, learn what attendees thought of this year’s keynote speaker—Jack Welch. Continue reading
Legendary GE CEO Jack Welch Answered Your Questions at Auto Glass Week™
The legendary Jack Welch, former GE CEO, spent 90 minutes on Friday answering Auto Glass Week™ 2015 answering attendees’ questions. The keynote session covered the gamut from discussing his employee rating system to current politics and more. Continue reading
Welch Panel Discussion Covers Personnel, Competition
What comes out of an industry leadership panel moderated by seasoned business veteran Suzy Welch? Wisdom on everything from personnel management to standing out among competitors. Continue reading
Belron’s U.K. Company Autoglass® Launches ADAS Calibration Protocol
United Kingdom-based Autoglass® has launched a solution to replace and recalibrate windshields equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). The program is in the piloting process and will be soon rolled-out throughout the country. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Lessons from Jack
“When I found out that Jack Welch was going to be the keynote at Auto Glass Week™ I wasn’t that excited about the news. Sure, I knew he was a leader in business. I had read one of his books over 10 years ago and stopped reading about half-way through it. Duh. Shows how wrong I can be at times! ” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Auto Glass Technician Competition Finalists Are Announced
The names of the Pilkington Clear Advantage Auto Glass Technician Replacement Competition finalists have been announced. Continue reading
GlasWeld Windshield Repair Competition Finalists Announced
The finalists for the GlasWeld Windshield Repair Competition in Honor of Walt Gorman have been announced. Continue reading
Green Grip? A Biodegradable Glove for AGRR
For anyone looking for a “green” solution to gloves, at least one company has you covered. Just don’t keep them on for two years straight. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Biodegradable Glove, glassBYTEs.com, gloves Leave a comment
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens Two Colorado Locations
The Boyd Group Inc., parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, has acquired two collision repair centers in Glenwood Springs and Grand Junction, Colo. Continue reading
D’Ieteren Auto Launches Website Addressing VW Emissions Questions
D’Ieteren, which owns Belron (parent of Safelite AutoGlass), has launched a website devoted to Volkswagen emissions questions for its auto distribution division in Belgium. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Belron, D’Ieteren, D’Ieteren Auto, glassBYTEs.com, Safelite AutoGlass, Volkswagen emissions Leave a comment
Sika Industry and Automotive Names New Marketing Executive
A new marketing executive has been brought on board for Sika Industry and Automotive divisions. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Cathleen Spayde, glassBYTEs.com, Russell Livermore, Sika Automotive, Sika Industry Leave a comment
VW Emissions Scandal Could Impact D’Ieteren’s Business
D’Ieteren’s management is keeping a close eye on the development of Volkswagen’s emissions scandal. D’Ieteren, which owns Belron (parent of Safelite AutoGlass), also owns an auto division which distributes Volkswagen, Audi, Seat and Skoda vehicles throughout Belgium. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Belron, D’Ieteren, D’Ieteren Auto, glassBYTEs.com, Safelite AutoGlass, Volkswagen, VW Emissions 1 Comment
TODAY’S BLOG: Let’s Talk about OEM Glass and Calibration
“Since the introduction of Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS), the need for aftermarket glass replacement companies to use OEM glass has increased substantially. Of course, auto dealers have claimed for years that OEM glass was necessary for the proper operation of the many electronic systems that utilize the glass for mounting or delivery. Is this true?” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Consultants, Auto Glass Journal, Bob Beranek, Cadillac, Calibration, glassBYTEs.com, OEM Glass Leave a comment
Sprint Racer Gets Custom Windshield for Transport Truck
Jared Benson, program manager for Guardian’s Custom Glass Solutions (CGS), recently came up with a new idea involving embedding logos into windshields for auto racing. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, CGS, glassBYTEs.com, Greg Wilson, Guardian’s Custom Glass Solutions, Jared Benson, Sprint Car Leave a comment
Pope Francis Shuns Security Glazing
As Pope Francis travels around Washington, D.C., and New York City today and tomorrow, one thing is conspicuously missing—the armored popemobile. Since his election in 2013, the Pontiff has insisted on riding in open-air vehicles, shunning the traditional-style popemobile that features security glazing in favor of getting closer to his followers. Continue reading
Lil Buddy to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2015
The three-day international event featuring automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor is proud to welcome Lil Buddy, which specializes in creating innovative tools for the automotive glass repair industry. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week, glassBYTEs.com, Lil Buddy Leave a comment
Report: Solera Holdings Has New Suitor
Another company is considering an offer for Solera Holdings that tops Vista Equity Partners deal which is valued at $6.5 billion, including Solera’s existing debt, according to a report. Solera, parent company to LYNX Services, GTS and Glaxis, could terminate “the merger agreement [with Visa Equity] in compliance with its terms in order to accept a superior proposal,” according a U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) document filed last week. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, GLAXIS, GTS, IHS Inc., LYNX Services, Solera Holdings, Vista Equity Partners Leave a comment
Sunroof Express, Inc., to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2015
The three-day international event featuring automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor is proud to welcome Sunroof Express, Inc., a leader in sunroof and T-top replacements. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week™ 2015, glassBYTEs.com, Sunroof Express Leave a comment
Gerber Collision & Glass Gains New Location in Colorado
The Boyd Group Inc., parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, has acquired a collision repair center in Highlands Ranch, Colo. The center was previously operated as Don Massey Collision Center and is located near Denver, Colo. Continue reading
Binswanger South Carolina Names New Executive
Polly Foster has been named an automotive glass account executive for Binswanger in South Carolina. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Binswanger, glassBYTEs.com, Polly Foster Leave a comment
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Expands Glass Operations
ABRA Auto Body & Glass has entered into the Chicago market by acquiring Express Auto Glass. Details of the transaction were not disclosed. Continue reading
Arizona Collision Repair Companies File Amended Complaint in Antitrust Case
In the latest move in the national case consolidated in the U.S. District Court in Florida, attorneys representing several Arizona collision repair shops allege in an amended complaint that State Farm and dozens of other insurers force the companies to use aftermarket or salvaged parts when repairing vehicles. “Aftermarket windshield glass poses a serious safety risk to vehicle occupants,” the attorneys allege. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—More than Words
“Last Thursday morning it was 1:55 a.m. I have a 5:05 a.m. flight to St. Louis from the Austin airport. It is only 105 miles from home and almost all interstate. My wife Mary Kay is in Calgary and I decide to go to bed very early and get up at 1:30 a.m. instead of getting a hotel room in Austin. I’ve always been an early morning person and figure I’ll have almost 90 minutes to spare.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Glass Doctor, glassBYTEs.com, Mark Liston, On the Mark: Leadership Lessons Leave a comment
Quest Software, Inc., to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2015
The three-day international event featuring automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor is proud to welcome Quest Software, Inc., an experienced claims solutions leader and customized software developer. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week™ 2015, glassBYTEs.com, Quest Software Inc. Leave a comment
Mygrant Glass to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2015
The three-day international event featuring automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor is proud to welcome Mygrant Glass, a family-owned automotive glass wholesaler focused on providing superior service and the most extensive inventory to its customers. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week™ 2015, glassBYTEs.com, Mygrant Glass Leave a comment
Motions Continue in GlasWeld-Boyle Case
GlasWeld’s attorneys have asked the U.S. District Court of Oregon, Eugene division, to deny the Boyles emergency motion to compel depositions, saying they are not available in September or October. The company’s attorneys have also asked the court to compel the Boyles to pay “court-awarded attorneys’ fees” before the depositions take place. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: The Case of the FW791
“I have another mystery that I am hoping you can help, especially my friends and colleagues in Europe.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
The Swiss Competition Commission Green Lights Saint-Gobain’s Acquisition
The Swiss Competition Commission has “unconditionally authorized Saint-Gobain’s acquisition of control over SIKA” according to French conglomerate Saint-Gobain. Continue reading
WIZZIQ® to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2015
The three-day international event featuring automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor is proud to welcome WIZZIQ®, a leader in the automotive glass repair market in Europe, Asia and Africa. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week™ 2015, automotive glass repair, glassBYTEs.com, Patrick Collignon, Sponsor, WIZZIQ® 1 Comment
Door Prizes Not to Be Missed!
Could you use a new BOSE SoundLink Bluetooth speaker? What about a $100 Visa Gift Card? Continue reading
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Helps Raise More Than $120,000 for Charity
The Courage Kenny Golf Challenge raised more than $123,000, according to ABRA Auto Body & Glass. Proceeds from the event will be used to fund sports and recreation programs at Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute. Continue reading
Learn from the Experts: How Vehicle Technology is Changing Your Business–Part 2
Join us at Auto Glass Week™ 2015, September 30-October 2, and learn from the best in business. The three-day automotive glass industry event will be held at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center and Atlantis Casino Resort Spa in Reno, Nev. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week™ 2015, Bob Beranek, David Rohlfing, Gerry Parij, glassBYTEs.com, Mitch Becker Leave a comment
Burco Inc. to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2015
The three-day international event featuring automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor is proud to welcome Burco Inc., which manufactures and supplies side-view mirror glass replacements, windshield racks and glass cleaner. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week, Auto Glass Week™ 2015, Burco Inc., glassBYTEs.com, Wes Baughman Leave a comment
UPDATED: Vista Equity Partners to Acquire Solera Holdings
Vista Equity Partners will acquire Solera Holdings in a transaction valued at $6.5 billion, which includes Solera’s existing debt. Other investors include an affiliate of Koch Equity Development LLC, which is the investment and acquisition subsidiary of Koch Industries Inc., and an affiliate of Goldman, Sachs & Co. Continue reading
10 OEMs to Offer Automatic Emergency Braking on New Models
Ten automakers have committed to making automatic emergency braking (AEB) a standard feature on all new vehicles built, according to a joint statement from the U.S. Department of Transportation, its National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Many of the cameras integral to AEB require calibration once a windshield has been replaced. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Audi, automatic emergency braking, BMW, Ford, General Motors, glassBYTEs.com, IIHS, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, NHTSA, Tesla, Toyota, Volkwagen, Volvo 1 Comment
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Control What You Can Control
“Two quick leadership stories come to my mind that are prime examples of ‘controlling what one can control.’” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Glass Doctor, glassBYTEs.com, Mark Liston, On the Mark: Leadership Lessons Leave a comment
Marcy Adhesives to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2015
The three-day international event featuring automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor is proud to welcome Marcy Adhesives, which produces “The World’s Best Universal” mouldings, both underglass, channel and more. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week, glassBYTEs.com, Marcy Adhesives, Sponsorship Leave a comment
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens New Location in North Carolina
The Boyd Group Inc., parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, has acquired a new location in Jacksonville, N.C. The center, previously operated as Moore Collision Center, is located on a major thoroughfare in Jacksonville and is co-located with the Moore Buick GMC dealership. Continue reading
5 NHTSA Recalls that Should Be on Your Radar
From automotive glass issues to windshield wiper malfunctions and flickering headlights, here are five new National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) recalls you should know. Continue reading
Aftermarket Parts Distributor Pleads Guilty to Selling Pirated OEM Diagnostic Software
An aftermarket auto parts distributor in Harahan, La., pleaded guilty this week to manufacturing and selling more than 800 copyright-infringing copies of Mercedes-Benz diagnostic software valued at more $17 million. OEM diagnostic tools are used to calibrate cameras after windshield replacements. Continue reading
The PipeKnife Company to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2015
The three-day international event featuring automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor is proud to welcome The PipeKnife Company, which offers has more than 250 items specifically made for the AGR business. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week™ 2015, Dell Skluzak, glassBYTEs.com, REID, Ryobi, Sponsor, The PipeKnife Company Leave a comment
Former Safelite AutoGlass Tech Files Class Action Over Pay-Per-Piece Compensation
Former technician Yadir Ontiveros has filed a state class action lawsuit against Safelite Fulfillment, Safelite Group and Safelite Glass Corp. in the U.S. District Court, Central District of California, alleging Fair Labor Standards (FLSA) violations stemming from Safelite’s pay-per-piece program. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, California, Class Action, Fair Labor Standards Act, FLSA, glassBYTEs.com, Safelite, Yadir Ontiveros 4 Comments
CRL Employees Get Valuable “Thank You” Upon Acquisition
C.R. Laurence’s Donald Friese became a whole lot richer last week when he finalized the $1.3-billion sale of his company to Oldcastle BuildingEnvelope®, and he’s already starting to give it away. Recognizing the company couldn’t have gotten where it is without its employees, he made sure they were rewarded, too. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, C.R. Laurence, CRL, Donald Friese, glassBYTEs.com, Oldcastle BuildingEnvelope® 1 Comment
TODAY’S BLOG: Part 7: ANSI/AGSC/AGRSS™ Standard 003-2015 Changes
“The last of the changes to the ANSI/AGSC/AGRSS™ Standard 003-2015 is, in my opinion, the most important. Without education and training a technician doesn’t know how to do the job right and will be unable to follow a standard that doesn’t make sense to him.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
CPI Divisions/Clean Plus, Inc., to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2015
The three-day international event featuring automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor is proud to welcome CPI Divisions/Clean Plus, Inc., which is an independent, privately-held company established, in part, to serve the professional glass installer and body shop technician. Continue reading
Auto Glass Association of Australia Launches Online Learning
The Auto Glass Association (AGA) of Australia has launched an online training portal for AGRR specialists in Australia. The courses are designed to update technicians on technological advances, OE requirements, compliance issues and technical standards. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Australia, Auto Glass Association, glassBYTEs.com, global news, Murray McGrath Leave a comment
Safelite Requests Extension in Campfield Case
Safelite needs a little more time to respond to legal complaints brought against them by Rich Campfield, founder of Ultra Bond. The suit alleges that Safelite has misleading advertising that favors replacement of windshields rather than repairs of long cracks, which … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Rich Campfield, Safelite, Ultra Bond 1 Comment
How Vulnerable are Vehicles to Hackers?
For years, vehicles have been rolling with computers, and to access them, a repair expert needed to plug into a specialized car port. But with the growing popularity of smartphones, Bluetooth and other Wi-Fi options, there are many more ways for hackers to access a vehicle, explains Dan Chilcott, a research associate with Virginia Tech’s Center for Automated Vehicle Systems. So just how vulnerable are vehicles to being hacked? And will vehicle-to-vehicle communication (V2V) technology open the door to possible attacks? Continue reading
Deal Between OBE and CRL Closes
In what is believed to be the largest acquisition deal ever between two U.S. glass/metal industry companies, Oldcastle BuildingEnvelope® (OBE) completed the acquisition of the C.R. Laurence (CRL). Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, C.R. Laurence, CRL, Donald Friese, glassBYTEs.com, OBE, Oldcastle BuildingEnvelope® Leave a comment
Hurry! Auto Glass Week™ Pre-Registration Deals End on Tuesday!
Time has almost run out for those who wish to take advantage of the pre-registration discounts being offered for this year’s Auto Glass Week™. Attendees that pre-register by Tuesday, September 8, could save up to $40 per person for a full registration. Continue reading
Swiss Administrative Court: Saint-Gobain Is Not Obligated to Extend Offer to All Shareholders
The Swiss Federal Administrative Court (FAC) had upheld Swiss specialty chemical company SIKA AG’s opt-out clause, rejecting a complaint filed over the clause by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Trust and Cascade Investment. The court drama began after French conglomerate Saint-Gobain’s plan to gain a controlling interest in SIKA by acquiring Schenker-Winkler Holding (SWH) was revealed late last year. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Part 6: ANSI/AGSC/AGRSS™ Standard 003-2015 Changes
“Part six in our series of the ANSI/AGSC/AGRSS™ Standard 003-2015 changes for 2015 fall under the ‘additional requirements’ heading.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
AccuTec Blades Acquires Industrial Blades Division from Edgewell Personal Care Co.
AccuTec Blades has purchased Edgewell Personal Care Co.’s (EPC) industrial blades division. EPC announced in May 2015 its intent to discontinue its industrial blade operations in Verona, Va. and Obregon, Mexico. The sale of the division is now complete. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AccuTec Blades, AGRR, Bob Senesac, Edgewell Personal Care Co., EPC, glassBYTEs.com, Personna, Rick Gagliano, Sheila Henry Leave a comment
Blue Fusion Digital to Serve as Sponsor for Auto Glass Week™ 2015
The three-day international event featuring automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor, is proud to welcome Blue Fusion Digital, a digital marketing agency that understands the world of automotive glass shops. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week™ 2015, Blue Fusion Digital, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
ANSI Committees Slated to Meet at Auto Glass Week™: Including Windshield Quality, Other
A number of ANSI committee meetings will be held just prior to Auto Glass Week™ 2015 on September 28 to 29, 2015. One of these meetings will address the development of a new American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standard that relates to the identification in quality differences of windshields. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged ADAS, advanced driver assistance systems, AGRR, AGRSS Standards Committee, AGSC, American National Standards Institute, ANSI, ANSI BSR/NWRA BIS 001-2015, ANSI NWRA BIS Break Identification Standard Meeting, ANSI/AGSC/AGRSS™ Standard 003-2015, Auto Glass Safety Council, glassBYTEs.com, Jeff Reddell, National Windshield Repair Association, NWRA, quality differences of windshields, Repair of Laminated Auto Glass Standard, ROLAGS, Windshield Repair Break Identification Standard 1 Comment
Safelite Helps to Bolster Belron’s Half-Year Sales
D’Ieteren, parent company to Belron and Safelite, reported six-month consolidated results before taxes for its automotive repair and replacement business reached $90.3 million USD (80.4 million EUR), up 60.2 percent over the prior year, mostly due to increased sales in the United States, tight cost control and the impact of restructuring in Europe, according to the company’s report. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Belron, D’Ieteren, glassBYTEs.com, Safelite Leave a comment
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Think before Speaking or Writing
The world has changed. I remember hearing the story about President Franklin Roosevelt and how the press would never show him in a wheelchair because it could be viewed that America was weak.
Today popular people say or write (Tweet/Facebook) whatever is on their mind. Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Glass Doctor, glassBYTEs.com, Mark Liston, On the Mark: Leadership Lessons Leave a comment
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Expands in Minnesota
ABRA Auto Body & Glass has expanded in Minnesota with the acquisition of all six Lehman’s Garage locations. All locations are within the Twin Cities metropolitan area. Details of the transaction were not disclosed. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged ABRA Auto Body & Glass, AGRR, Duane Rouse, glassBYTEs.com, Karen Cossette, Lehman’s Garage Leave a comment
Automotive Glass Repair Competition Grows
With Auto Glass Week™ right around the corner, news surrounding the annual competitions is really starting to heat up! We look forward to seeing past competitors at this year’s event, as well as several new faces. Continue reading
GlasWeld Asks Judge to Uphold Sanctions Against Boyles
GlasWeld’s attorney has filed a motion asking the judge to deny Mike Boyle, doing business as Surface Dynamix, and his son’s Christopher, motion to reconsider sanctions. The judge of the U.S. District Court of Oregon, Eugene division, had ordered sanctions against the Boyles in the form of attorney’s fees. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Christopher Boyle, glassBYTEs.com, GlasWeld, Mike Boyle Leave a comment
Top Ten Reasons Why You’ll Win Big at Auto Glass Week™ 2015
Still trying to decide whether or not to join us at this year’s Auto Glass Week™? Here are the top ten reasons why you’ll win big by being in Reno: Continue reading
Solera Holdings Cuts Fiscal 4Q Sales Call Short
Tony Aquila, Solera Holdings founder, chairperson and CEO, did not answer any questions or discuss the company’s future outlook during this week’s conference call on fiscal-year fourth-quarter sales. Why? Because the company is exploring a possible sale. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, GLAXIS, GTS, LYNX Services, Solera Holdings, Tony Aquila Leave a comment
TODAY’S BLOG: Part 5: ANSI/AGSC/AGRSS™ Standard 003-2015 Changes
“The gasket (weatherstrip) installation is quickly becoming a thing of the past. However, there are a few gasket sets still out there. The vehicles they are mounted in are being used every day to transport families and friends. The ANSI/AGSC/AGRSS™ Standard 003-2015 is written to cover all vehicles with safety glass mounting, no matter what kind.”—Bob Beranek Continue reading
Fuyao Glass America, Inc. Joins Auto Glass Week™ 2015 as Gold Sponsor
Fuyao Glass America, Inc., (FGA) is serving as a Gold Sponsor for Auto Glass Week™ 2015. The three-day international event featuring automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor, is proud to welcome FGA, a subsidiary … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week™ 2015, FGA, Fuyao Glass America, glassBYTEs.com, Gold Sponsor, Inc., John Gauthier 1 Comment
Oldcastle BuildingEnvelope® Acquires C.R. Laurence
Oldcastle BuildingEnvelope® (OBE), a CRH Group company, has acquired C.R. Laurence Co. Inc. (CRL), a distributor of custom hardware and glazing products to the glass and glazing industry. CRL is an ISO 9001:2008 certified premier manufacturer that has built truck and van windows, sliders, sunroofs and accessories for the automotive industry for more than 40 years. Continue reading
AGRR Technician Dies in Car Crash While on the Job
LaMark “Mark” Matthew Stallings, an Auto Glass Safety Council™ certified technician, was on the job last week in Salisbury, N.C., when his van was involved in an accident and he passed away from his injuries. Continue reading
Boyles Ask Judge to Compel Expert Depositions
Mike Boyle, doing business as Surface Dynamix, and his son, Christopher, have filed a motion for the judge in the U.S. District Court of Oregon, Eugene division, to compel GlasWeld to schedule depositions. The Boyles allege, “despite the courts order, the plaintiff has repeatedly [avoided] the courts order.” Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, alleged patent infringment, Christopher, glassBYTEs.com, GlasWeld, Mike Boyle, Surface Dynamix 1 Comment
Auto Glass Replacement Competition More than Doubles Competitor Numbers for 2015
Interested in watching one of Auto Glass Week™’s fierce competitions? This year’s bona fide replacement technicians will showcase their talent at the 2015 event in Reno, Nev. Continue reading
Auto Glass Safety Council Publishes Latest E-Newsletter
The latest Auto Glass Safety Council (AGSC™) e-newsletter is now available. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, AGSC, Auto Glass Safety Council, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
GM Expands Recall of ATS Sedans Over Potential Sunroof Issue
General Motors is recalling certain 2013 to 2016 Cadillac ATS models for a potential sunroof issue saying the prior fix provided “Insufficient structural support.” As such, vehicles previously repaired under the recall will need to be brought back in. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged 2013 to 2016, AGRR, Cadillac ATS, General Motors, glassBYTEs.com, Sunroof Issue Leave a comment
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens New Florida Location
The Boyd Group Inc., parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass, Glass American and more, has acquired a collision repair center in the Lake City, Fla. The center previously operated as Duval Automotive and is located on East Duval Street, a key thoroughfare in Lake City and close to the I-10 and I-75 interstate highways. Continue reading
Vermont State Inspection Mechanic Charged with Manslaughter
Steven Jalbert, a Vermont inspection mechanic, has been charged with one count of manslaughter and one count of reckless endangerment for a “negligent vehicle inspection.” Jalbert is accused of missing a vital flaw with a vehicle’s brake system during inspection. The system later failed causing a death. Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ 2015 Exhibition Floor Almost Sold Out
By now you know that Sponsor after Sponsor have been signing up and securing their booth spaces for Auto Glass Week™ 2015. The exhibition floor is nearly sold out for the upcoming event, which will be held September 30 – October 2 at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center and Atlantis Casino Resort Spa in Reno, Nev. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Almost Sold Out, Auto Glass Week, glassBYTEs.com, Sponsors Leave a comment
U.S. District Court Judge Dismisses Antitrust Cases
A U.S. District Court judge in the Middle District of Florida, Orlando division, has upheld the report of a magistrate judge who recommended many of the antitrust complaints by collision repair companies throughout the country against dozens of insurers be dismissed. However, he gave leave for attorneys to file amended complaints. Collision repair shops from 12 Federal District Courts had alleged “steering and price fixing” by dozens of insurers. The cases are consolidated before a Florida U.S. District Court judge. 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 Leave a comment
Learn from the Experts: Strategies to Retain Business—Anti-Steering and Arbitration Workshop
Keep the business where you want it. Learn how from the best at Auto Glass Week™ 2015 this September 30 – October 2. Continue reading
Updated: Rich Campfield Sues Safelite
A lawsuit against Safelite Group, Safelite Solutions and Safelite Fulfillment LLC alleging misleading advertising has been filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio by Rich Campfield, founder of Ultra Bond in Grand Junction, Colo. He claims Safelite’s misleading advertising favors replacement of windshields rather than repairs of long cracks, which have “wiped out a large portion (if not most) of the market for Ultra Bond’s products and services.” Campfield’s company has offered long-crack repair products and services since 1989. Continue reading
Make a Hole-in-One at Auto Glass Week™ and Win $50,000, Courtesy of eDirectGlass
Our inaugural industry golf tournament, to be held Tuesday, September 29, at LakeRidge Golf Course in Reno, will now feature a hole-in-one contest, sponsored by eDirectGlass. The first player who makes an ace on the 220-yard, par-3 15th hole will win a cash prize of $50,000. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week, eDirectGlass, glassBYTEs.com, Golf Tournament, LakeRidge, Robert Trent Jones Leave a comment
National Windscreens Renews Contract with Rental Fleet Company
United Kingdom-based National Windscreens has signed a new three-year contract with SHB Hire Ltd, a rental fleet company. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, National Windscreens, SHB Hire Ltd Leave a comment
Rich Campfield Sues Safelite
A lawsuit against Safelite Group, Safelite Solutions and Safelite Fulfillment LLC alleging misleading advertising has been filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio by Rich Campfield, founder of Ultra Bond in Grand Junction, Colo. According to court documents “The heart of this case is Safelite’s long-running and egregiously misleading advertising and promotional scheme in which it falsely tells consumers that cracks longer than six inches cannot be repaired.” Continue reading
NHTSA Closes Investigation into Chrysler Crossfire Backlite Issue
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) Office of Defect Investigation (ODI) has closed an investigation into reports that “the backlite window of the convertible top separates from its adhesive bond attachment” in the 2005 Chrysler Crossfire. Continue reading
How to Improve Your Marketing Results in Just 25 Minutes a Day
The hard-hitting educational line-up continues to meet the needs of the automotive glass industry. Experts have been hand-selected to speak on areas to help increase your knowledge and provide an unsurpassed experience for all in attendance. Continue reading
Bulbuck: Strong Glass Sales Bolster Bottom Line
Strong glass sales and earnings contributed to a 37.4 percent increase in sales for Boyd Group Income Fund’s second quarter. Canadian-based Boyd Group is parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass, Glass America and others in the United States. Continue reading
C.R. Laurence to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2015
The three-day international event featuring automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor, is proud to welcome C.R. Laurence Co., Inc., an ISO 9001:2008 certified premier manufacturer that has built innovative truck and van windows, sliders, sunroofs, and accessories for more than 40 years. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week, C.R. Laurence, Fred Altamirano, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
Gates Brothers Glass Loses Fabrication Facility to Fire
Gates Brothers Glass suffered a loss to its business on Saturday. The company’s Bellefontaine, Ohio, facility, which housed machinery for edging and polishing glass, making insulating units and aluminum fabrication, went up in flames on August 8, 2015. The facility sits just next door to the company’s Bellefontaine AGRR shop. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Bruce Gates, Fabrication Facility, Fire damage, Gates Brothers Glass, glassBYTEs.com, Tom Gates 2 Comments
TODAY’S BLOG: Part 4: ANSI/AGSC/AGRSS™ Standard 003-2015 Changes
Part four in our series of ANSI/AGSC/AGRSS™ Standard 003-2015 changes is related to adhesives and their importance to the safety of the installation. Continue reading
Extractor to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2015
The three-day international event featuring automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor, is proud to once again welcome Extractor, which offers a complete line of pneumatic, electric and cordless removal tools. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week, Don Rietze, Extractor, glassBYTEs.com, Sponsorship Leave a comment
National Windscreens Renews Partnership with Insurer
United Kingdom-based National Windscreens has renewed its partnership with Amlin Insurance, a specialty insurer and reinsurer. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Amlin Insurance, glassBYTEs.com, Matt Woraker, National Windscreens Leave a comment
Auto Glass Week™ Host Hotel Rates Soon to Rise—Reserve Your Room Today!
The deadline for you to reserve your room for Auto Glass Week™ 2015 at the discounted rate is steadily approaching! Our host hotel, the Atlantis Casino Resort Spa, is offering discounted room rates for participants of Auto Glass Week at $94 USD per night, plus tax (September 28 – October 1) and $159 USD per night, plus tax (October 2 – October 3). This discounted room rate is available on a first-come, first-served basis and ends September 8. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Atlantis Casino Resort Spa, Auto Glass Week, glassBYTEs.com, Hotel Rates Leave a comment
Boyles Ask Judge to Reconsider Sanctions and Motion to Dismiss
Mike Boyle, doing business as Surface Dynamix, and his son, Christopher, have filed an emergency motion asking a judge for the U.S. District Court in Oregon to reconsider her recent order which imposed sanctions on them in the form of attorneys’ fees in the alleged patent infringement lawsuit. The Boyles also requested the judge reconsider their motion to dismiss the case writing, “the disputed order contains incorrect factual findings as well as errors of law that will result in manifest injustice to the defendants unless corrected.” Continue reading
Creative Extruded Products to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2015
The three-day international event featuring automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor, is proud to once again welcome Creative Extruded Products, which manufacturers OEM and aftermarket mouldings for the automotive glass industry. Continue reading
Minnesota Case Takes One Step Closer to Trial
The case between Safelite Group, Safelite Solutions and the Minnesota Commerce Commissioner is moving closer to trial. Safelite Group had sued the commissioner and asked the U.S. District Court of Minnesota for a preliminary injunction to enjoin and declare invalid enforcement of a Minnesota statute which excludes “Safelite from doing business in Minnesota without the opportunity for a hearing.” Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Decisiveness not Divisiveness
I’m a Midwest boy from Northern Illinois. One of the biggest shames of my state is the following: Continue reading
Learn from the Experts: Calibration—Do You Fit in the Future Installation Marketplace?
Learn from the best at Auto Glass Week™ 2015 this September 30 – October 2. The three-day automotive glass industry event will be held at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center and Atlantis Casino Resort Spa in Reno, Nev. Join us to … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGR, AGRR, Auto Glass Week, Calibration, glassBYTEs.com, Jon Sheets, Pilkington North America, Re-Calibration Leave a comment
Spain and China Glazing Companies Take Home DOT Numbers
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has recently awarded two new DOT numbers for to international automotive glazing companies. DOT No. 1046 went to Polycasa Spain S.A.U., which is based in Barcelona Spain. The company has more than 30 years … Continue reading
Belron Expands into Five Additional Countries
Belron, parent company to United States-based Safelite AutoGlass, has expanded into Latvia, the Balkans, Bosnia, Montenegro, Kosovo and Macedonia through franchise arrangements. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Balkans, Belron, Bosnia, glassBYTEs.com, Kosovo, Latvia, Macedonia, Montenegro, Safelite AutoGlass Leave a comment
Learn from the Experts: Current Legal and Regulatory Issues in the Automotive Glass Business
Join us at Auto Glass Week™ 2015, September 30-October 2, and learn from the best in business. The three-day automotive glass industry event will be held at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center and Atlantis Casino Resort Spa in Reno, Nev. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week, Chuck Lloyd, glassBYTEs.com, Legal and Regulatory Issues Leave a comment
Auto Windscreens Leader Says Company to Grow by 40 Percent
Through its acquisition of AA AutoWindshields, United Kingdom-based Auto Windscreens will grow by an estimated 40 percent, increasing its market share to 20 percent, says Chris Thornton, managing director of the company. What makes this deal unique is that the AGRR market in the U.K. has been “depressed” for several years, he adds. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Part 3: ANSI/AGSC/AGRSS™ Standard 003-2015 Changes
“The next series of changes for the new ANSI/AGSC/AGRSS™ Standard 003-2015 standard is under the 5.0 heading ‘Selection of Glass and Retention Systems’ which falls under the Product Performance part of our scope.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
GUEST BLOG: East Coasters Will Love Reno
“The East Coast of the United States is home to some of the greatest cities in the world. The nation’s largest city, the nation’s Capital and the nation’s birthplace all reside in the East, each pulling in millions of tourists annually. With so much to do on the East Coast, why is Auto Glass Week™ 2015 heading West? Because cities out there—particularly Reno, Nev.—offer experiences you won’t find anywhere else.” —Casey Flores Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week, Casey Flores, glassBYTEs.com, Window Film Leave a comment
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens New Repair Location in Arizona
The Boyd Group Inc., parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass, Glass America and others, has acquired a collision repair center Mesa, Arizona. The center previously operated as Red Mountain Collision. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Boyd Group, Gerber Collision & Glass, Glass America, glassBYTEs.com, Tim O'Day Leave a comment
NWRA Publishes Latest E-Newsletter
The National Windshield Repair Association has published its latest e-newsletter. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, National Windshield Repair Association, NWRA Leave a comment
U.K.’s Auto Windscreens Acquires AA AutoWindshields
Auto Windscreens has acquired the United Kingdom’s Automobile Association’s AGRR business, known as AA AutoWindshields. AA AutoWindshields Preston, U.K., offices and staff of 200 will be integrated into Auto Windscreens team. Under a ten-year partnership agreement, the AA will continue … Continue reading
Gerber National Glass Services Coins New Name
The Boyd Group, parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass, Glass America and others, has changed the name of its third-party claims administrator from Gerber National Glass Services to Gerber National Claim Services. Continue reading
Don’t Wait! Only One Month Left to Pre-Register for Auto Glass Week™ 2015
Pre-registration closes in just one month for the unprecedented 2015 Auto Glass Week™, so now’s the time to book your trip and secure your spot before discounts end on September 8! Continue reading
Learn from the Experts: Essentials for Financial Health in the Automotive Glass Business
Join us at Auto Glass Week™ 2015, September 30-October 2, and learn from the best in business. The three-day automotive glass industry event will be held at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center and Atlantis Casino Resort Spa in Reno, Nev. Continue reading
Tesla Motors Selects Solera to Provide Collision and Customer Communication Services
Tesla Motors has tapped Solera Holdings’ collision estimating and customer communication platforms for its global certified collision repair centers. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, AudaExplore, Audatex, glassBYTEs.com, Solera Holdings, Tesla Motors, Tony Aquila Leave a comment
Judge Orders Sanctions Against Boyles in Alleged Patent Infringement Case
A judge for the U.S. District Court in Oregon has denied GlasWeld’s motion for default judgment in the alleged patent infringement lawsuit against Mike Boyle, doing business as Surface Dynamix, and his son, Christopher. The judge, however, ordered sanctions against the Boyles in the form of attorney’s fees. The court also denied the Boyles’ motion to dismiss. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Pop Culture & a Lot of Bread
“Another week of travel and another week of incredible memories about what I learned from three brothers. I work with one of the brothers. I would love to work with the other two!” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Glass Doctor, glassBYTEs.com, Mark Liston, On the Mark: Leadership Lessons Leave a comment
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Adds Delaware Location
ABRA Auto Body & Glass has acquired Henry Brothers Auto Body in Wilmington, Del. Details of the transaction were not disclosed. ABRA first entered the Northeast region 90 days ago with the purchase of all Keenan Auto Body repair centers. … Continue reading
Saint-Gobain Says Acquisition of SIKA Moving Forward
“Antitrust filings are proceeding as planned.” This is how French conglomerate Saint-Gobain’s management refers to the company’s bid to acquire Swiss specialty chemical company SIKA AG in its 2015 report on half-year results. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, First-half sales, glassBYTEs.com, Saint-Gobain, Schenker-Winkler Holding, Sika, SWH Leave a comment
GUEST BLOG: The Thing at Auto Glass Week You May Not Want to Miss
If someone were to ask you the thing you’re most looking forward to at Auto Glass Week™ 2015, your answer should be, ‘The thing happening right at the beginning.’ At least that would be my answer—but then again, I’m slightly biased. Continue reading
Glass.net to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2015
The three-day international event featuring automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor, is proud to once again welcome Glass.net, which brings customers and automotive glass shops together through online marketing. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week™ 2015, Glass.net, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
TODAY’S BLOG: Part 2: The New ANSI/AGSC/AGRSS™ Standard 003-2015
“One part of the newly published ANSI/AGSC/AGRSS™ Standard 003-2015 remains the same as the prior version. It is so important that I call it the ‘Golden Rule’ of the Standard.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
LYNX Services, a Solera Company, to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ Wednesday Afternoon Break
Rub … elbows that is, with many of the world’s top automotive glass companies, insurance providers and suppliers at Auto Glass Week™ 2015. There is no better way to meet new colleagues and renew old relationships than during the Wednesday afternoon refreshment break sponsored by LYNX Services, a Solera Company. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged a Solera Company, AGRR, Auto Glass Week™ 2015, glassBYTEs.com, LYNX Services, Networking Leave a comment
Auto Glass Safety Council Publishes E-Newsletter
The Auto Glass Safety Council™ (AGSC) has released its July e-newsletter. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, AGSC July E-Newsletter, Auto Glass Safety Council, glassBYTEs.com 1 Comment
Auto Glass Week™ 2015 Has Gone Mobile!
Auto Glass Week™ has gone mobile on Guidebook! Now you can have the latest updates regarding Sponsors, the schedule, maps, social media and all things Auto Glass Week at the touch of your fingers completely free; just tap the app! Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week, glassBYTEs.com, Guidebook, Tap the App Leave a comment
Safelite AutoGlass Drafted into NFL with Marketing Deal
Safelite AutoGlass has entered the National Football League with a new sponsorship deal with the Buffalo Bills. Continue reading
eDirectGlass Returns as a Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2015
eDirectGlass (eDG) will serve as a Bronze Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2015 this fall in Reno, Nev. The three-day international event featuring automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor, is proud to once again … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week, eDG, eDirectGlass, Gary Hart, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
Nationwide Windscreen Services Opens Its First ADAS Calibration Center
United Kingdom-based Nationwide Windscreen Services (NWS) has opened an AGRR branch and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) calibration center in Leicester, U.K. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Nationwide Windscreen Services, NWS, Stuart Sole, United Kingdom 2 Comments
Appeals Court Overturns Class Action Status of Sunroof Case
The Third Circuit Court of Appeals is vacating a previous class certification and wants more details in a 2010 case by Volvo owners who allege their sunroofs harbor a defect, allowing water to flood the vehicles. “[W]e will vacate and remand the District Court’s class certification decision to allow the District Court to define the class membership, claims, and defenses, and so that it may rigorously analyze predominance in the first instance,” according to court documents. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Motivation & Support
“Picture this. We are in Portland, Ore., over the weekend for the wedding of my wife’s niece. More than 30 family members are in town for the event. Among them are three of Mary Kay’s nephews—one is a police officer from Las Vegas, one is a career Navy man who is also one of only 90 master divers in the U.S. Navy. The third of my wife’s nephews is 15 years old. Also in the group are 12-year-old twins—sons of the diver.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Glass Doctor, glassBYTEs.com, Mark Liston, On the Mark: Leadership Lessons Leave a comment
Elephant Auto Insurance Offers New Avenue to Reward Good Drivers
Elephant Auto Insurance is launching a diminishing deductible. Customers who select this coverage could see their collision deductible reduced by $100 each year. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, diminishing deductible, Elephant Auto Insurance, glassBYTEs.com, Kevin Chidwick 2 Comments
Learn from Expert Richard Wallace: How Vehicle Technology is Changing Your Business
Auto Glass Week™ 2015 has announced Richard Wallace, M.S., director of the Transportation Systems Analysis group within the Center for Automotive Research (CAR), will give the presentation on How Vehicle Technology is Changing Your Business | Part 1: How Technology Will Change Vehicles on September 30, 2015 from 10:45 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged accident avoidance systems, AGRR, Auto Glass Week™ 2015, automated driver-assist systems, Center for Automotive Research, Connected Cars, data collection, driver impairment recognition technology, glassBYTEs.com, How Vehicle Technology is Changing Your Business, reporting, Richard Wallace, Transportation Systems Analysis, V2V technology Leave a comment
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Adds New Georgia Location
ABRA Auto Body & Glass has acquired a new collision repair center in Georgia. Continue reading
How Many Miles Did Americans Drive in May?
Miles driven continues to climb month over month and year over year. Miles driven for May 2015 is up 2.7 percent, or up 7.3 billion vehicle miles, compared to May 2014. The Federal Highway Administration a division of the U.S. Department of Transportation released the latest numbers this week. Continue reading
Case into Alleged Theft of PPG Trade Secrets Continues Despite Suicide of Key Player
Though Thomas Rukavina, a former PPG Industries chemist accused in federal court in Pittsburgh with theft of trade secrets has committed suicide, the case into the matter continues, according to U.S. Attorney David Hickton. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, J.T.M.G. Co., PPG Industries, Thomas Rukavina, Trade Secrets Leave a comment
Sika Corporation Returns as Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2015
Sika Corporation is returning as a Silver Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2015. The three-day international event is proud to once again welcome Sika Corporation, a leading supplier of adhesives and sealants serving the automotive, automotive aftermarket, automotive OES, industrial, marine and transportation markets. Continue reading
Boyd Group Shows No Signs of Slowing Growth
Boyd Group Income Fund, parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass, Glass America and others, has increased its existing revolving credit facility to fund future growth. How much credit does the company now have access to? Continue reading
EU Commission Approves Saint-Gobain’s Bid to Acquire SIKA
The European Commission has approved the proposed acquisition of Swiss specialty chemical company SIKA AG by French conglomerate Saint-Gobain. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, EU Commission, European Commission, glassBYTEs.com, Saint-Gobain, Sika 1 Comment
TODAY’S BLOG: The New ANSI/AGSC/AGRSS™ Standard 003-2015
“As many of you already know, the ANSI/AGSC/AGRSS™ Standard 003-2015 has been revised and edited to meet the new issues that affect our industry. The official new name is ANSI/AGSC/AGRSS™ Standard 003-2015. The 003 is the third version accepted by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and 2015 is the year it was accepted and published.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Autoglass® Names Blake as New Ops and Supply Chain Director
Simon Blake is the new operations and supply chain director at United Kingdom-based Autoglass®. Blake comes from parent company Belron International, where he was head of global supply chain management. Continue reading
Nationwide Windscreen Services Becomes a Preferred Provider for Amlin
Amlin Insurance has added United Kingdom-based Nationwide Windscreen Services as a preferred supplier for AGRR services. Continue reading
Report Identifies Top Challenges for Auto Parts Exports
The auto parts industry, which includes windshields, has nearly doubled over the last five years and “growth in the sector is expected to accelerate globally,” according to a Top Markets Report released by the International Trade Administration. But certain challenges exist that could impede this growth. The report analyzes export trends for both original equipment and aftermarket parts, identifying which countries show the most growth potential. Continue reading
Who Has What it Takes to be the “World’s Best?”
Come find out on Friday, October 2, at the Gala Awards Dinner and Ceremony where the champions will be crowned! Continue reading
Auto Windscreens Raises Funds for Prostate Cancer
Staff from United Kingdom-based Auto Windscreens will be donning their cycling shorts on July 24, 2015 to raise money and awareness for prostate cancer. Continue reading
Glass Mechanix Returns as a Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2015
The three-day international event featuring automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor, is proud to once again welcome Glass Mechanix, a leading provider of windshield repair technology, headlight restoration and insurance processing software. Continue reading
Gerber Collision & Glass Expands into Utah
The Boyd Group has acquired four collision repair centers in Utah. The centers previously operated as Shine Collision Repair and are located in Salt Lake City, Murray, Ogden and Sandy, Utah. Continue reading
Sunroof Express Taps Cutwater Solutions to Help Manage Inventory
Sunroof Express, a provider of sunroof and T-top replacements, has implemented Cutwater Solutions advanced inventory management software (AIM) to have a more accurate interpretation of its inventory. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Cutwater Solutions, glassBYTEs.com, Sunroof Express, Wayne Steede Leave a comment
SEMA Market Report Reveals Hot Diversification Trends
Over the last 25 years, the specialty equipment market has grown from $7.2 billion to $36.2 billion, according to the 2015 SEMA Market Report. AGRR companies may want to consider carving out a larger piece of this diversification pie as consumers increasingly looking to personalize their rides. Continue reading
Learn from the Experts: Marketing to Millennials
Join us at Auto Glass Week™ 2015, September 30-October 2, and learn from the best in business. The three-day automotive glass industry event will be held at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center and Atlantis Casino Resort Spa in Reno, Nev. Continue reading
Be on the Lookout for an Older Model White Mitsubishi Eclipse in Connecticut
Police are searching for a hit-and-run driver in a New Haven, Conn., crash that left a teenage pedestrian with life-threatening injuries late Saturday night.
Police are looking for an older model of a white Mitsubishi Eclipse with dark tinted windows that they believe was involved in the crash. The front windshield is likely cracked. Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Connecticut, glassBYTEs.com, White Mitsubishi Eclipse Leave a comment
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—Learn, Earn & Live Well—Be One of the 3.5 Percent
“This has been a very interesting week for me for a couple of reasons. First, Dina Dwyer-Owens, Dwyer Group’s CEO for many years, invited a friend of hers to speak to our corporate group. John Assaraf visited from California and gave us a 45 minute inspirational presentation. I encourage you to go to YouTube and/or Amazon and watch/read more about John. Amazing stuff.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Glass Doctor, glassBYTEs.com, Mark Liston, On the Mark: Leadership Lessons Leave a comment
Gerber Collision & Glass Acquires New Repair Michigan Location
The Boyd Group has acquired a collision repair center in Plainwell, Mich. The center has approximately 12,500 square feet of production space and previously operated under the name McDonald’s Auto Body. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Boyd Group, Gerber Collision & Glass, glassBYTEs.com, McDonald's Auto Body, Tim O'Day Leave a comment
Safelite AutoGlass Recognizes a VP with Two Awards
Rich Glover, Safelite AutoGlass’ vice president of manufacturing and distribution, has received two company awards: a Wall of Fame award and the 5th annual “People Powered Leadership” award. Continue reading
Binswanger Glass Employee Witnesses Tennessee Shooting
Chattanoogan Marilyn Hutcheson, a Binswanger Glass customer service representative, was on a break from work yesterday when she heard gunfire. Binswanger Glass sits just across from the Naval Reserve Center where Mohammad Youssuf Abdulazeez allegedly shot and killed four Marines in the early afternoon. Continue reading
Solera Closes Identifix Acquisition
Solera Holdings has closed its acquisition of 100 percent of Identifix, a software company that services the vehicle service, maintenance and repair market. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Identifix, Solera Holdings Leave a comment
Connecticut Supreme Court Reverses $35 Million Judgment Against Insurer
The Connecticut Supreme Court has overturned a lower court’s judgment against Hartford for $35 million. Approximately 1,000 state auto collision repair companies had alleged the insurer violated Connecticut’s Unfair Trade Practices Act (CUTPA) by working to establish “price fixing” or artificially low labor rates. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leave 1-2 Millimeters of Existing Bead
“Did you ever wonder why we are instructed to “leave 1-2 mm of existing bead” when replacing a windshield? I did, so over the years, whenever I talked to an adhesive manufacturer’s representative, I asked the purpose for that recommendation. Most said it was to prevent damage to the body of the vehicle. However, there are a few other benefits to leaving a little existing urethane attached.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
DFI Restructures as Global Growth Accelerates
DFI announced it has restructured its organization. The main shift, according to a release from the company, creates dedicated teams for both account management and business development, “allowing a more strategic focus on the specific needs of each.” Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged Adam Zax, AGRR, DFI, glassBYTEs.com, Guillermo Seta, Russ Slaybaugh, Todd Gentry Leave a comment
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
Don’t Miss a Memorable Night with the Classics
While attending Auto Glass Week™ 2015, spend A Night with the Classics at the National Automobile Museum (The Harrah Collection) on Thursday, October 1. Take a stroll down streets lined with classic cars from the turn-of-the-20th century and beyond. Be sure to check out the 1928 Ford Model A Sport Coupe with safety glass (1928 was the first year Ford offered safety glass), formerly owned by Mary Pickford. Continue reading
State Farm: Automotive Glass Replacement Claims Climb
Automotive glass replacement claims throughout the country are growing, says Dave Phillips, a spokesperson for State Farm. He points to claims’ statistics in Virginia and Pennsylvania as indicators of this increase. Continue reading
SRP Returns as a Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2015
SRP Adhesives will serve as a Copper Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2015 this fall in Reno, Nev. The three-day international event featuring automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor, is proud to once again welcome SRP Adhesives, a leading provider of automotive glass adhesives. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week™ 2015, David Osland, glassBYTEs, SRP, SRP Adhesives, SRP Totalseal 2 Comments
GUEST BLOG: Throwback Thursday: Not So Throwback
Every Thursday leading up to USGlass magazine’s 50th Anniversary celebration in August, USGNN.com™, sister website to glassBYTEs.com™, is taking a look back at past issues and highlighting advertisements, stories and images that ran throughout the publication’s half-century life. This week, we’re getting back in the car. Continue reading
Chrysler Says Warranty Protects It from Paying Class Action Damages
Chrysler has asked the judge to strike plaintiffs’ claims for damages and injunctive relief due to a Basic Limited Warranty former owners received when they purchased their vehicles. The class action lawsuit revolves around allegations that certain Chrysler models have a sunroof defect that causes them to leak. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Alleged Sunroof Defect, Chrysler, Class Action, glassBYTEs.com, lawsuit Leave a comment
Leadership Lessons—More Lessons from Lincoln
“After visiting our Capitol I can’t stop thinking about Abraham Lincoln. Watching the fireworks over the Mall in D.C. while standing in front of the Lincoln Memorial was a very touching event for me.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Glass Doctor, glassBYTEs.com, Lincoln, Mark Liston, On the Mark: Leadership Lessons Leave a comment
Make Your Donation for the Auto Glass Week™ Silent Charity Auction—A Worthwhile FUNdraiser
The Auto Glass Safety Council™ (AGSC) Silent Charity Auction will once again be held on the exhibition floor at this year’s Auto Glass Week™. The auction will take place Thursday, October 1, from 3 to 5 p.m. and helps raise proceeds for the AGSC, a not-for-profit organization that is dedicated to the proper installation of windshields and offers a registration program for shops that includes random third-party validations. Continue reading
ABRA Finalizes Kadel Acquisition
ABRA Auto Body & Glass has finalized its agreement to acquire 23 Kadel’s Auto Body locations in Idaho, Oregon and Washington. Terms of the acquisition were not disclosed. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged ABRA Auto Body & Glass, AGRR, Duane Rouse, glassBYTEs.com, Kadel’s Auto Body Leave a comment
Solera Acquires Identifix
Solera Holdings is acquiring 100 percent ownership of Identifix, an industry leading data-driven software-as-a-service company within the $8 billion vehicle service, maintenance and repair (SMR) market. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Identifix, Solera Holdings, Tony Aquila Leave a comment
Allstate Celebrates 20 Years as Independent Company
Twenty years ago, The Allstate Corp. became fully independent, spinning off from Sears, Roebuck and Co. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Allstate, glassBYTEs.com, Roebuck and Co., Sears, Steven Shebik, Thomas Wilson Leave a comment
Collision Repair Shops Object to Recommendation to Dismiss Antitrust Cases
Collision repair shops from throughout the country have objected to a Florida judge’s recommendation that many of the cases alleging antitrust violations by insurers be dismissed without prejudice. Collision repair shops from 12 Federal District Courts had alleged “steering and price fixing” by dozens of insurers. The cases are consolidated before a Florida U.S. District Court judge. Continue reading
AGC Automotive Americas Returns as a Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2015
AGC Automotive Americas will serve as a Cobalt Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2015 this fall in Reno, Nev. The three-day international event featuring automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor, is proud to once again welcome AGC Automotive Americas, a global leader in the production of automotive glass, architectural glass and display glass. Continue reading
Land Rover Recalls SUVs for Incorrect Sunroof Primer
After owners reported the panoramic sunroof assemblies in their 2012-2013 Land Rover LR4s were either noisy, loose, leaking water, or in one case, “detached from the vehicle while the SUV was in motion,” Land Rover has issued a recall. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AG, AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, incorrect primer, Land Rover LR4, NHTSA, panoramic sunroof, Recall 1 Comment
TODAY’S BLOG: The Automotive Glass Technician Competition Is Coming
“It is time again to register for the Automotive Glass Technician competition (AGTO). This nationally recognized competition for quality automotive glass installation is being held at Auto Glass Week™ 2015 in Reno, Nev., on October 1-2, 2015. Technicians from around the world come to earn the title of “The Best Auto Glass Technician.” I have been honored to be a judge for this competition since its inception and I am privileged to do it again this year.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Glass Technology Inc. to Sponsor Auto Glass Week™ 2015
Glass Technology Inc. will serve as a Cobalt Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2015 this fall in Reno, Nev. The three-day international event featuring automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor, is proud to once again welcome Glass Technology Inc., which specializes in manufacturing premium windshield repair/replacement tools as well as glass restoration products. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week, Glass Technology Inc., glassBYTEs.com, Rory Most Leave a comment
South Dakota Finds No Auto Hail Damage Claims Errors in Insurance Examination
Though the South Dakota Division of Insurance did not find any auto hail damage claims errors or exceptions with Farmers Insurance Group or Foremost Insurance Group in in its full examination report, it did find other claims errors. The two companies reached a settlement with the insurance division in late May. The deal included a $750,000 penalty. Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Leadership Lessons—From our Nation’s Capitol
“I’ve written about Washington, D.C., before in the past couple years. When my wife Mary Kay and I asked our 15-year old grandson what he wanted to do this summer to make memories with us, on top of his list was a trip to D.C. for the 4th of July.” —Mark Liston Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Glass Doctor, glassBYTEs.com, Mark Liston, On the Mark: Leadership Lessons, Washington D.C. Leave a comment
Melvin Rolling Takes on Responsibility for Fleet at Autoglass®
Melvin Rolling has been appointed to the newly created role of head of U.K. Facilities for Belron®. The new role brings together a number of functions—fleet, property and health and safety, which will serve both Autoglass® and sister business, AutoRestore®. Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ Announces the 2015 Seminar Line-Up
Auto Glass Week™, the three-day automotive glass industry event, has announced its full 2015 educational seminar line-up. The event will be held September 30 – October 2 at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center in Reno, Nev. Continue reading
Solera to Invest $5 Million to Build Research Facility for China’s Growing Insurance and Repair Industry
Solera Holdings will invest $5 million (USD) to support the rapidly growing Chinese automobile insurance market with the creation of a Solera Technology Center (STC) research facility. Continue reading
Safelite Group and Former Tech Reach Settlement
Safelite Group and Mathew Howcroft, a former technician trainee with Safelite AutoGlass in Charlotte, N.C., have reached a settlement in a case in which the former employee alleged wrongful termination under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Howcroft had filed a … Continue reading
TODAY’S BLOG: Gravity Stops
“Many modern day vehicles have eliminated or reinvented the gravity stop. What is a gravity stop? In my day we used to call them setting blocks, but the more accurate term is gravity stops. The gravity stop is a device that stops the glass from slipping off the freshly applied adhesive bead. It is needed immediately after setting the glass into the opening when the adhesive is still in its liquid state. Once the adhesive is cured to the point of holding the weight of the glass, the stop is no longer needed.” —Bob Beranek Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Journal, Automotive Glass Consultants, Bob Beranek, glassBYTEs.com, Gravity Stops Leave a comment
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
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, automotive glass, Beaufort Hilton Head, Businesses for Sale, classified, glassBYTEs.com, SC Leave a comment
SIKA’s Board Says No to Proposed Agenda Changes at Extraordinary Meeting
Swiss specialty chemical company SIKA AG’s board has denied Schenker-Winkler Holdings (SWH) request to revise the agenda for the July 24, 2015 extraordinary general meeting. Continue reading
Registration Now Available for Auto Glass Week™ Golf Tournament
Online registration is now open for our inaugural industry golf tournament Tuesday, September 29, as we kick-off Auto Glass Week™ 2015. Join us at Lake Ridge Golf Course, a Robert Trent Jones, Sr.-designed par-72, which is voted “Best of Reno” year after year. Continue reading
Auto Glass Safety Council Publishes July E-Newsletter
The Auto Glass Safety Council has published its July 2015 e-newsletter. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Safety Council, glassBYTEs.com, July 2015 Leave a comment
Watchdog BBC Says It’s Seen a 10-Fold Increase in Autoglass® Complaints
A reporter for BBC Watchdog, a United Kingdom TV show, says the show has received a 10-fold increase in people contacting them to complain about Autoglass®®’ services. Autoglass® is a U.K.-based AGRR company owned by Belron. Autoglass® spokespeople say they take the issues raised by the show “extremely seriously.” Continue reading
Mainstreet Computers Inc. Returns as a Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2015
Mainstreet Computers Inc. will serve as a Cobalt Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2015 this fall in Reno, Nev. The three-day international event featuring automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor, is proud to once again welcome Mainstreet Computers Inc., a technology leader for more than 30 years. It provides software solutions to the glass industry. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week™ 2015, glassBYTEs.com, Mainstreet Computers Inc. 1 Comment
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Adds Wisconsin Location
ABRA Auto Body & Glass has acquired Reflections Auto Body in Milwaukee, Wis. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged ABRA Auto Body & Glass, AGRR, Duane Rouse, glassBYTEs, Reflections Auto Body Leave a comment
Will Friday’s Ruling on Same-Sex Marriage Affect Your Business?
In a much publicized decision, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled 5-4 on Friday that same-sex Americans may marry. While 37 states and Washington, D.C., already have such laws on the books, 13 states do not. How will this decision impact your business? Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Chris Smith, Doug Linderer, Gay Marriage, glassBYTEs.com, Same-Sex Marriage, SCOTUS, U.S. Supreme Court 1 Comment
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Acquiring 23 New Centers
ABRA Auto Body & Glass and its principal owner Hellman & Friedman LLC are acquiring 23 Kadel’s Auto Body locations in Idaho, Oregon and Washington. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Continue reading
Don’t Miss the Live 2015 Ford F-150 Demonstrations on the Auto Glass Week™ Exhibition Floor!
Auto Glass Week™ 2015 is a must-see event, offering its attendees front-row seats to the automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, an inspiring keynote speaker, Jack Welch, educational sessions, and an exhibition floor featuring top suppliers as well as live demonstrations. Continue reading
Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation to License AGRR Companies
As of January 1, 2017, automotive glass repair and replacement companies in Rhode Island will need to be licensed. The state’s General Assembly approved legislation this week (2015-H 5607A and 2015-S 0334A) called “The Motor Vehicle Glass Consumer Protection Act.” The bill is on its way to the governor’s desk for her signature. Continue reading
Miles Driven Shows Steady Growth
Miles driven is up 3.9 percent in April 2015, or 10.25 billion vehicle miles, compared to April 2014. The Federal Highway Administration a division of the U.S. Department of Transportation released the latest numbers this week. Continue reading
Service AutoGlass Offers Online Resource Center for Customers
Service AutoGlass has launched an online Resource Center for its wholesale customers. The site is designed to offer customers information on marketing, bookkeeping and other best practices for managing business. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Safelite, Service AutoGlass Leave a comment
SIKA Reportedly Gains New Shareholder that Opposes Saint-Gobain Deal
Swiss specialty chemical company SIKA AG has reportedly gained a new 3 percent shareholder that opposes the deal by Burkard family-owned Schenker-Winkler Holding (SWH). This deal would give majority voting rights in the company and subsequently ownership of SIKA to French conglomerate Saint-Gobain. Continue reading
AGTO and WRO Competition Rules and Regulations and Annotated Score Sheets are Now Online
Registered and prospective Auto Glass Week™ competitors can now view the official competition rules and regulations as well as annotated score sheet online. Currently in their tenth year, GlasWeld Windshield Repair Competition in Honor of Walt Gorman (WRO), and the Pilkington Clear Advantage Auto Glass Technician Competition (AGTO), the “Olympics” of the automotive glass industry, are back for Auto Glass Week 2015. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, AGTO, Annotated Score Sheets, Auto Glass Week™ 2015, automotive glass competitions, glassBYTEs.com, GlasWeld Windshield Repair Competition in Honor of Walt Gorman, Pilkington Clear Advantage Auto Glass Technician Competition, Rules and Regulations, WRO Leave a comment
Class Action Plaintiffs Attempt to Refute Chrysler’s Motion to Dismiss
“Chrysler has known about its leaky sunroofs for years … Chrysler failed to address the issue,” write attorneys for six Chrysler owners in response to the automaker’s motion to dismiss a nationwide class action lawsuit. The owners have sued the automaker in the U.S. District Court of New Jersey over alleged sunroof issues. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Alleged Sunroof Issue, Chrysler, Class Action Lawsuit, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
Auto Glass Week™ 2015 Welcomes Back Dow Automotive Systems as Sponsor
Dow Automotive Systems Aftermarket will serve as a Bronze Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2015 this fall in Reno, Nev. The three-day international event featuring automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor, is proud to once again welcome Dow Automotive Systems Aftermarket, which offers industry-leading technology and services for replacement glass bonding for all types of vehicles, from passenger cars and trucks to buses, recreational vehicles and off-road vehicles. Continue reading
Where Are Safelite AutoGlass’ New Jobs?
A recent call by Safelite for more automotive glass technicians gives a clue as to where the company feels their growth will be located in the next year or so. Continue reading
After Half a Century Career Span, Frank Levesque to Retire
The biggest challenge in today’s AGRR market is the same as it was 51 years ago—consumers are focused on price over quality, says Frank Levesque, director of product development and technical services at Glass Doctor University. After more than five decades, Levesque will retire on June 26, 2015. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Frank Levesque, Glass Doctor, Glass Doctor University, glassBYTEs.com 9 Comments
Gerber Collision and Glass Acquires New Center
The Boyd Group Inc., parent company to Gerber Collision and Glass, Glass America and more, has acquired a collision repair center in Battle Creek, Mich. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Boyd Group, Gerber Collision and Glass, glassBYTEs.com, Phil Smead's Auto Body, Tim O'Day 1 Comment
Yih-Tair Ind., Inc./Flexline Returns as Sponsor for Auto Glass Week™ 2015
Yih-Tair Ind., Inc./Flexline will serve as a Cobalt Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2015 this fall in Reno, Nev. The three-day international event featuring automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor, is proud to once again welcome Yih-Tair Ind., Inc./Flexline, which manufactures and distributes automotive glass mouldings. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week™ 2015, glassBYTEs.com, Inc./Flexline, Yih-Tair Ind. Leave a comment
Windshield Repair Tech Chips Porsche 964 Windshield on Purpose
Windshield repair recently took center stage on a YouTube channel TV show. DriveClean host Larry Kosilla invited Josh McCooey, chief operating officer of Glass Mechanix Solutions, on his show to discuss the history, science and techniques behind a quality windshield repair. McCooey returned the favor by chipping the windshield of Kosilla’s Porsche 964 on purpose to show how a repair works. Continue reading
Attention Auto Glass Week™ Attendees and Sponsors: Beware of Hotel Solicitors
Show management recently received word that hotel solicitors have been trying to contact Auto Glass Week™ attendees and sponsors to book rooms with such lines as “there are only 2 rooms left!” Continue reading
Which AGRR-Related Companies Make the Fortune 500 Cut?
Several AGRR-related companies, including insurers and automakers, are named to this year’s Fortune 500 list. Looking more closely at the insurance sector, editors point out, “As miles driven continues to plateau, there will be less demand for car insurance.” Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged 2015 Fortune 500 List, 3M, AGRR, American Family Insurance Group, Auto-Owners Insurance, Dow Automotive, Dow Chemical, Erie Insurance Group, Ford, Fortune 500, Geico, General Motors, glassBYTEs.com, GM, Liberty Mutual Insurance Group, PPG Industries, Progressive, State Farm Insurance Cos, The Hartford Financial Services Group, Travelers Cos., USAA Leave a comment
Only Three Months Until Auto Glass Week™—the Countdown is On!
With just a little more than three months until Auto Glass Week™ 2015, now’s the time to book your trip and secure your spot before pre-registration discounts end September 8! Continue reading
Swiss Superior Court Denies SWH Appeal to Overturn Voting Restriction
The Swiss Superior Court of Zug (Obergericht Zug) has denied Schenker-Winkler Holding AG’s (SWH) appeal over its restriction of voting rights in specialty Swiss chemical company SIKA AG. SIKA, its current management and some investors are attempting to stave off a bid by French conglomerate Saint-Gobain to gain a controlling interest in SIKA by acquiring SWH. Continue reading
Safelite Group Undergoes Organizational Changes with Executives
Safelite Group, which owns Safelite AutoGlass and Safelite Solutions, has promoted Renee Cacchillo, formerly vice president of customer and brand strategy, to the senior leadership team as senior vice president of customer, brand and technology. She will add the strategic … Continue reading
Auto Glass Week 2015™ Welcomes Back Meritool LLC as Sponsor
Meritool LLC will serve as a Cobalt Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2015 this fall in Reno, Nev. The three-day international event featuring automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor, is proud to once again welcome Meritool LLC, the largest manufacturer of battery-powered dispensers for the automotive glass replacement industry. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week™ 2015, glassBYTEs.com, Meritool LLC Leave a comment
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Expands in Colorado
ABRA Auto Body & Glass has acquired MGM Collision South Inc. in Fountain, Colo. Continue reading
AGRR Company Owner Says TPA Withholding Claim Numbers Necessary to Process Claims
A more aggressive steering tactic may be appearing in the glass industry, according to one AGRR company owner. He says he has lost three customers when a third-party automotive glass claims administrator (TPA) would not provide the claim or dispatch numbers necessary to process the insurance claims. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Amica, Don Cotton, glassBYTEs.com, LYNX Services, Plymouth Rock, Village Glass Smith 1 Comment
Auto Glass Week™ 2015 Welcomes PGW Back as Gold 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 Pittsburgh Glass Works (PGW), a company that manufacturers laminated windshields, has become a Gold Sponsor of the event. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week™ 2015, glassBYTEs.com, PGW, Pittsburgh Glass Works, Tim Glover Leave a comment
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Gains Farmers Insurance Award
ABRA Auto Body & Glass has been named the 2014 Farmers Insurance National MSO Group of the year for the third consecutive year. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged ABRA Auto Body & Glass, AGRR, Duane Rouse, Farmers Insurance, glassBYTEs.com 1 Comment
What Will the Autonomous Future Bring?
The future relationship between glass and autonomous vehicles may appear murky. “Windows won’t be necessary when there’s no human inside who needs to see to pick a path,” writes Peter Wayner for The Atlantic. Doron Levin of Fortune asks, “What about the snow?” With new articles coming out each day on driverless vehicles, it may be hard to know what to expect. So what do AGRR industry veterans think? Continue reading
MBJ Associates, Inc. Returns as Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2015
MBJ Associates, Inc. will serve as a Cobalt Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2015 this fall in Reno, Nev. The three-day international event featuring automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor, is proud to once again welcome MBJ Associates, Inc., a technical advisor, training and marketing consulting firm for the AGRR industry. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week™ 2015, glassBYTEs.com, Inc., Mark Daniels, MBJ Associates Leave a comment
AGRRmag.com Website Adds New Features
The AGRRmag.com website now offers some new features as well as user navigation points for frequently accessed content by web visitors. Be sure to visit the newly revealed website at agrrmag.com. The larger video location on the home page provides … Continue reading
AGRR Companies Help Denver Dig Out from Freakish Hail Storm
In some neighborhoods the hail was so bad in Denver last week that snow plows had to help clear the streets. “My house got hit and two of my cars were damaged as well as my camper,” says Mike Brown, a Novus Glass franchisee in Longmont, Colo. “And we were just on the fringe of it.” Continue reading
South Dakota Insurance Division Reaches Settlement with Insurance Companies
The South Dakota Division of Insurance has settled with Farmers Insurance Group and Foremost Insurance Group over allegations of industry “violations.” The deal includes a $750,000 penalty. While the specifics of the allegations are under wraps until the full report is released July, 6, 2015, this could impact the AGRR industry. Ron Evans, owner of Ron’s Auto Glass in Yankton, S.D., is particularly interested in learning more. Continue reading
Belron Acquires Autotaalglas in the Netherlands
Belron, parent company to United States-based Safelite AutoGlass, has acquired the Autotaalglas franchise business in the Netherlands. Autotaalglas was founded in 1986 by Pieter van Spaendonck and has since grown into a nationwide franchise organization. Its corporate office is in … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Autotaalglas, Belron, Gary Lubner, glassBYTEs.com, Pieter van Spaendonck, Safelite AutoGlass Leave a comment
Auto Glass Week™ Welcomes Back DINOL as a 2015 Sponsor
DINOL will return as a Cobalt Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2015 this fall in Reno, Nev. The three-day international event featuring automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor, is proud to once again welcome DINOL, a worldwide supplier and manufacturer of bonding, coating, sealing, corrosion prevention and body repair materials to the OEM, Specialty Vehicle, Industrial and Aftermarket industries. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week™ 2015, DINITROL, DINOL, glassBYTEs.com 1 Comment
Newscast Names Top Seven Mobile Apps to Collect Payment
Have you considered collecting payment in the field with a mobile app? glassBYTEs™/AGRR™ magazine explores seven apps that could work for your AGRR business. Continue reading
Posted in Video Tagged AGRR, AGRR Newscast, glassBYTEs.com, Mobile Apps for Payments Leave a comment
Auto Glass Week™ 2015 Welcomes Back Delta Kits as 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 Delta Kits, (www.deltakits.com) a company that offers tools, resins and equipment for windshield repair and headlight restoration, has become a Sponsor of the event. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week™ 2015, Delta Kits, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
SIKA Saga Continues
The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Trust and Cascade Investment, investors in Swiss specialty chemical company SIKA, have appealed to the Swiss Federal Administrative Court after they found the decision of The Swiss Financial Markets Authority (FINMA) concerning SIKA unfavorable. SIKA, its current management and some investors are attempting to stave off a bid by French conglomerate Saint-Gobain to gain a controlling interest in SIKA by acquiring Schenker-Winkler Holding (SWH). Continue reading
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Expands Operations in Minnesota
ABRA Auto Body & Glass has opened its newest franchise repair center in Mankato, Minn. Continue reading
D’Ieteren: Belron’s AGRR Jobs Down in First Quarter, New CFO on Board
D’Ieteren today reported the company’s first quarter 2015 results. The publicly traded Belguim-based owner of Belron, (the parent of Safelite AutoGlass in the United States) reported that the number of automotive glass repair or replacement jobs it completed worldwide were down 4 percent to 2.6 million. Organic growth for the first quarter this year was flat with only a .9 percent increase over the same period in 2014. Total first quarter 2015 sales for Belron are 10.2 percent higher than the prior year, mostly due to currency exchange rates. The 10.2 percent growth included the 0.9 percent of organic growth, 0.2 percent from acquisitions and 10.1 percent from positive currency translation effect. This was partially offset by a 1.0 percent decline due to one less trading day in the first quarter of 2015 than in 2014. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Belron, D’Ieteren, First Quarter 2015, glassBYTEs.com, Safelite AutoGlass 1 Comment
Early Bird Registration Discounts End Monday
We know you’re busy, we know you’ve been meaning to, but the truth is … there is no time left to procrastinate. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week™ 2015, Early Bird Registration, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
Could WeGoLook Lead to More Business for AGRR Companies?
Could a new crowdfunded economy company change the way you do business? While the potential could be there, some AGRR company owners are scratching their heads. John McAuley, a SuperGlass Windshield Repair franchisee in St. Petersburg, Fla., is not sold. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs, John McAuley, Mike Delaney, WeGoLook Leave a comment
Diatech 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 Diatech, a manufacturer of carbide drilling/cutting instruments, has become a Sponsor of the event. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week™ 2015, Diatech, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
Miles Driven: More Drivers Take to Road in March
Miles driven is up 3.9 percent in March, or 9.8 billion vehicle miles, compared with March 2014. The Federal Highway Administration a division of the U.S. Department of Transportation released the latest numbers this week. Continue reading
New Motions Filed by GlasWeld and Boyle in Alleged Patent Infringement Case
GlasWeld has filed a motion in the U.S. District Court of Oregon, Eugene division, for an order to show cause why default judgment should not be entered against Mike Boyle (doing business as Surface Dynamix) and his son Christopher, in the alleged patent infringement case. The Boyles have responded with a motion saying default judgment should not be entered against them. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Christopher Boyle, glassBYTEs.com, GlasWeld, Mike Boyle, Surface Dynamix Leave a comment
National Windscreens Names New Regional Director
United Kingdom-based National Windscreens has appointed Nicky Coetsee as regional director. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, George Douglas, glassBYTEs.com, National Windscreens, Nicky Coetsee Leave a comment
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 Leave a comment
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
Reno AGRR Market on the Rebound
Reno AGRR Market on the Rebound Reno, Nev., home of Auto Glass Week 2015, is one of the hottest cities in the U.S. right now—and not just because it’s surrounded by a desert. Two of the world’s most noteworthy companies—Apple … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Apple, auto glass, gigafactory, Reno, Tesla Leave a comment
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 Leave a comment
Florida Collision Repair Shops Argue Against Sanctions
Attorneys representing a group of Florida collision repair shops say an insurer’s motion for sanctions “is effectively a regurgitation of arguments it has previously made in its previous motions to dismiss.” The Florida collision repair shops allege that dozens of insurers use their direct repair programs to illegally control and depress rates. The complaint alleges that if the shops don’t comply, customers are steered away. Continue reading
LYNX Helps to Push Solera Holdings Revenues Up 15 Percent for the Americas
Solera Holdings, owner of LYNX Services, reported third-quarter 2015 revenues for the Americas of $149.7 million, up 15.4 percent over the same period last year. After excluding the revenues of the Insurance and Services division of Pittsburgh Glass Work, revenues grew by 3.8 percent over the prior year. Continue reading
Support the Industry You Serve and Become an Auto Glass Week™ Sponsor
If you’re considering exhibiting and sponsoring this year’s Auto Glass Week™, don’t wait any longer! Sponsorship opportunities are open for the 2015 event, which will be held September 30 – October 2 at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center in Reno, Nev. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week™ 2015, glassBYTEs.com, Sponsorship Opportunities 1 Comment
Gerber Collision & Glass Acquires Spokane Valley Center
The Boyd Group, parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, has acquired a collision repair center in Spokane Valley, Wash., which will be operated under the Gerber name. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Boyd Group, Fitz Auto Body, Gerber Collision & Glass, glassBYTEs.com, Tim O'Day 1 Comment
Swiss Financial Authority Confirms Validity of Sika’s Opt-Out Clause
The Swiss Financial Markets Authority (FINMA) has denied an appeal by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Trust as well as Cascade Investment, which are both shareholders in Swiss specialty chemical company Sika AG. The shareholders were attempting to appeal a decision by the Swiss Takeover Board to uphold Sika’s opt-out clause, which would allow French conglomerate Saint-Gobain to gain the majority of voting rights in the Swiss company without tendering an offer for all shares by purchasing Schenker-Winkler Holding. Continue reading
Safelite Group Acquires Western Pennsylvania-Based Pro Auto Glass
Safelite Group is acquiring substantially all of the automotive glass assets of Hermitage, Pa.-based Pro Auto Glass & Mirror. For the immediate future, the company will operate under a Safelite and Pro Auto Glass co-branding strategy. Continue reading
Safelite Calls Minnesota Commerce Commissioner’s Response a “Red Herring”
Safelite Group and Safelite Solutions attorneys says the Minnesota Commerce Commissioner is attempting “to distract attention from the unconstitutional speech restrictions by asserting that Safelite is ‘engaged in the unlicensed adjusting of insurance claims.’” The attorneys call this a “red herring” and say the crux of the case is about the company’s right to free speech, not licensed claims adjustment. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AAA, AGRR, Auto Club Group, glassBYTEs.com, Minnesota Commerce Commissioner, Safelite 5 Comments
GGG Returns as Copper Sponsor for Auto Glass Week™ 2015
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 GGG – Gold Glass Group Corp., which specializes in parts and universal mouldings for the automotive glass replacement market, is once again sponsoring the event at the Copper level. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week™ 2015, GGG, GGG - Gold Glass Group, glassBYTEs.com, Joseph Gold Leave a comment
February 2015 Miles Driven Up 2.8 Percent
The Federal Highway Administration, a division of the U.S. Department of Transportation, has released the newest numbers for miles driven in February 2015. They show an increase of 2.8 percent (up 6.1 billion vehicle miles) compared to February 2015. Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ 2015 Early Bird Deepest Discounts End in One Month
Early bird registration for Auto Glass Week™ 2015 closes on June 1, so now is the time to book your trip and secure your spot before the best discounts end! This year’s event will be held September 30-October 2 at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center. Early bird registration will save you time and money, up to $90 versus on-site registration. In addition to the early bird discounts, we are also offering a three for two special—if you purchase two full registrations, you get a third one free. Continue reading
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
VW Recalls Audi Q3 Vehicles Over Sunroof Issue
Volkswagen is recalling certain 2015 Audi Q3 vehicles over a potential sunroof safety issue. If the vehicle is turned off while the sunroof is closing, the sunroof could continue to close instead of stopping, according to VW. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged 2015 Audi Q3 Recall, AGRR, Audi, Audi Sunroof Issue, glassBYTEs.com, Volkswagen, VW 1 Comment
AGSC Releases Latest E-Newsletter
The Auto Glass Safety Council has published its latest e-newsletter. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, AGSC, Auto Glass Safety Council, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
AGC Automotive Europe Acquires NordGlass
AGC Automotive Europe is acquiring Poland-based NordGlass to “consolidate its automotive replacement glass (ARG) in Europe.” Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGC Automotive Europe, AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Grzegorz Lajca, Nordglass Leave a comment
Shenzhen Benson Automobile Glass Returns as Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2015
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 Shenzhen Benson Automobile Glass Co. Ltd., an automotive glass manufacturer of various types of windshields and tempered sidelites/backlites, is once again sponsoring the event at the Cobalt level. Continue reading
PGW Opens Two New Distribution Centers
Pittsburgh Glass Works (PGW) has opened two new distributions centers in California. The new centers are at 317 West Victoria Street, Gardena, Calif. (Los Angeles area); and 2447 Industrial Parkway West, Hayward, Calif., (Bay area). “As the leader in the … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, PGW, Two New California Distribution Centers Leave a comment
Boyd Group Nominates Sally Savoia to Board of Trustees
Boyd Group Income Fund, parent company to Glass America, Gerber Collision and Glass and more, has announced the nomination of Sally A. Savoia for election to its board of trustees. Savoia was most recently corporate vice president and chief human resources officer, USA for Praxair Inc., an international industrial gases supplier with 2014 revenues of $12.3 billion USD. Continue reading
Minnesota Department of Commerce Commissioner Calls Safelite Complaint “Misleading”
Safelite Group and Safelite Solutions complaint in U.S. District Court, District of Minnesota, over a Minnesota statute is “misleading,” according to attorneys representing the Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Commerce. Safelite Group has sued the commissioner and asked the court for a preliminary injunction and to enjoin and declare invalid enforcement of a Minnesota statute which excludes “Safelite from doing business in Minnesota without the opportunity for a hearing.” Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ 2015 Attendee Registration Now Open and Hotel Discounted Room Block Available
Attendee registration is now open for this year’s Auto Glass Week™. The event will be held September 30 – October 2, 2015 at the four-diamond, award-winning Atlantis Casino Resort Spa and Reno-Sparks Convention Center in Reno, Nev. 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
NHTSA Opens Review of Chrysler Crossfire Over Possible Backlite Issue
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is reviewing a potential issue with 2005 Chrysler Crossfire Convertibles backlites after a consumer petitioned the agency for an investigation. Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ 2015 Welcomes Pilkington North America as Returning Platinum Level Sponsor
Pilkington North America will return as a Platinum Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2015 this fall in Reno, Nev. The three-day international event featuring automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor, is proud to once again welcome Pilkington N.A. as a supporter of the event and named sponsor of the Pilkington Clear Advantage Auto Glass Technician Competition — the “Olympics” of the automotive glass industry. Continue reading
Atlanta’s Hail So Thick It Looks Like Snow
Hail from penny to golf-ball sized fell in the Atlanta area Monday accompanied by a tornado warning. In some areas the hail on the ground was so thick it looked like snow. What impact has this storm had on Atlanta … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Atlanta, Fas-Break, glassBYTEs.com, Hail Looks Like Snow, Linda Hardeman Leave a comment
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
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Expands in Chicago
ABRA Auto Body & Glass has added another location in the Chicago market. The company acquired Quality Werks Collision Center located in Algonquin, Ill. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged ABRA Auto Body & Glass, AGRR, Duane Rouse, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
Safelite’s Complaint Against Minnesota Attorney General Is Voluntarily Dismissed
Safelite Group and Safelite Solutions have voluntarily dismissed the complaint against Lori Swanson, in her official capacity as Attorney General of Minnesota, without prejudice in the U.S. District Court of Minnesota. The complaint remains against the second defendant—the Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Commerce. Safelite filed the complaint to enjoin and declare invalid enforcement of a Minnesota statute which excludes “Safelite from doing business in Minnesota without the opportunity for a hearing.” Continue reading
GlasWeld Returns as a Platinum Repair Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2015
GlasWeld, an industry leader in windshield repair, glass scratch removal and other glass restoration solutions, is once again returning to Auto Glass Week™ 2015 as the Platinum Repair Sponsor. The three-day international event, which features automotive glass repair and replacement competitions, educational seminars and an exhibition floor, is proud to once again welcome the company as the Platinum Sponsor of the Windshield Repair Competition, the repair “Olympics” of the automotive glass industry. Continue reading
State Farm Names Top 10 States for Hail Damage
Hail damage to homes and vehicles cost State Farm policyholders more than $2.4 billion in 2014. Which states took the hardest hit? 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 Leave a comment
Gridiron Capital Acquires Dent Wizard
Harris Williams & Co., a middle market investment bank focused on the advisory needs of clients worldwide, has announced the sale of Dent Wizard International, a portfolio company of H.I.G. Capital, to Gridiron Capital LLC. Harris Williams & Co. acted as financial advisor to Dent Wizard. Continue reading
Sika’s Annual General Meeting Turns into 7-Hour Long Debate
Swiss specialty chemical company Sika AG’s seven-hour long annual general meeting of shareholders is one for the record books. The Swiss company’s management and several board members are in a standoff with Burkard family-owned Schenker-Winkler Holding (SWH) over the potential sale of SWH to Saint-Gobain, which would give the French conglomerate majority voting rights in Sika. Several key topics regarding this deal were voted on during the meeting. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Burkard family, glassBYTEs.com, opt-out clause, Paul Hälg, Saint-Gobain, Schenker-Winkler Holding, Sika, SWH 7 Comments
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
Equalizer Industries, Inc. Returns as Gold Sponsor of Auto Glass Week™ 2015
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 Equalizer Industries, Inc., an industry leader in automotive glass tools and products, is once again sponsoring the event at the Gold Level. Continue reading
Carlex Is in “Growth Mode”
Carlex is adding new personnel to its Tennessee plants as part of a facility expansion, according to Don Michelotti, executive vice president. The company now serves almost all automakers who manufacture vehicles in the U.S. It also continues to expand its aftermarket offerings as well, he adds. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Carlex, Carlex Is in Growth Mode, Central Glass, Don Michelotti, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Expands Operations in Chicago
ABRA Auto Body & Glass has expanded in Chicago with two separate acquisitions that add four collision repair centers to the company’s footprint. Continue reading
Safelite Files U.S. District Court Complaint Over Minnesota’s Settlement with Auto Club Group
Safelite Group is asking the U.S. District Court, District of Minnesota, to enjoin and declare invalid enforcement of a Minnesota statute which excludes “Safelite from doing business in Minnesota without the opportunity for a hearing.” Continue reading
Hail Leads to Flood of Calls for AGRR Companies in Franklin County, N.C.
Hail from the size of golf balls to billiards caused automotive glass damage in Franklin County, N.C., yesterday evening. Local AGRR companies are being inundated with calls as locals assess the damage to their vehicles. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Franklin County, glassBYTEs, Hail, N.C. Leave a comment
Auto Glass Week™ Competitions Return for 2015
Auto Glass Week’s™ competitions are now in their 10th year. The Auto Glass Technician Competition (AGTO) and the Windshield Repair Competition in Honor of Walt Gorman (WRO) are back for Auto Glass Week™ 2015. The exhibition floor is set to be held September 30-October 2, 2015, at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center. This year’s event will include educational seminars, exciting demonstrations, an exhibition hall, as well as the attendee-favorite competitions. Continue reading
Saint-Gobain, Burkard Family Extend Time Period for Deal
Saint-Gobain’s agreement with the Burkard family over the sale of Schenker-Winkler Holding (SWH) has been extended until June 30, 2016. The deal would position Saint-Gobain to gain majority voting rights in Swiss specialty chemical company Sika AG without having to make an offer for the remaining shares. 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
Would an AGRR Company Sue an Individual Over an Alleged Short Pay?
Caleb Brickey hit an individual’s vehicle in early June 2014. That is not in debate. What is in debate is who will cover the full cost to repair the vehicle? Columbus, Ohio-based Three-C Body Shop, which worked on the vehicle, says Brickey should cover the cost if his insurance company won’t. Continue reading
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Opens New Repair Center in West Nashville
ABRA Auto Body & Glass has added a new location in West Nashville, Tenn. It is the eighth repair center for ABRA in the Nashville metro area. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged ABRA Auto Body & Glass, AGRR, Duane Rouse, glassBYTEs.com, West Nashville 1 Comment
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens New Florida Center
The Boyd Group, parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass, Glass America and more, has opened a new collision repair center in Jacksonville, Fla. It is a new Gerber Collision & Glass location that has about 7,300 square feet of production space. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Boyd Group, Gerber Collision & Glass, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
Police Department Seeks AGRR Industry’s Help Solving Fatal Hit and Run
The Seekonk Police Department in Massachusetts is asking AGRR company owners if they have replaced a windshield on a 1997-2003 Chevrolet Malibu or 2004-05 Malibu Classic, 1997-99 Oldsmobile Cutlass, 1997 or 1998 Oldsmobile Achieva. The car may have been involved in a hit and run. Continue reading
Swiss Takeover Board Upholds Sika’s Opt-Out Clause
The Swiss Takeover Board has upheld Sika AG’s “opt-out clause,” which allows French conglomerate Saint-Gobain to buy Schenker-Winkler Holding (SWH) and majority voting rights in Sika without having to make an offer for the remaining shares. SWH is owned by the Burkard family, which controls 16.1 percent of Sika’s capital with 52.4 percent in voting rights. SWH plans to sell its stake in Sika to Saint-Gobain. The Sika board and management have voiced their opposition to the deal. Continue reading
Baseball-Sized Hail Causes Glass Havoc in Arkansas
Parts of Arkansas, including Bentonville and Russellville, were pummeled with baseball-sized hail on Tuesday evening. As residents in the hard-hit areas pick up the pieces, local AGRR companies are being bombarded with calls. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Arkansas Hail, Glass Doctor, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
Florida Collision Repair Shops Ask Judge to Deny Motions to Dismiss
A group of Florida collision repair shops have filed a response in the U.S. District Court of Florida to dozens of insurers’ motions to dismiss their complaint, alleging, “[T]he only way such specific identifiable instances of wrongful and successful ‘steering’ are brought to the direct attention of the respective plaintiffs is if, by chance, the successfully ‘steered’ customer happens to come back to their shop for whatever reason and then happens to relay information of the wrongful conduct to them (the shop) for whatever reason.” Continue reading
NWRA Releases Latest E-Newsletter
The National Windshield Repair Association has published its March e-newsletter. Continue reading
National Windscreen Services Set to Expand
United-Kingdom based Nationwide Windscreen Services is increasing its number of physical locations and mobile units over the next year after seeing jobs grow by double digits over last year. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Nationwide Windscreen Services, Phil Homer Leave a comment
Florida House Bill One Committee Away from House Vote
Florida House Bill 699, which could void the ability for companies, such as automotive glass retailers, to seek the assignment of benefits from their customers, has gained approval from two house committees and has only one more to go before it reaches the full state house for a vote. Continue reading
AGSC Publishes Latest E-Newsletter
The Auto Glass Safety Council™ has published its March e-newsletter. Continue reading
Binswanger Glass to Donate Partial Proceeds of Windshield Replacements to Charity
Binswanger Glass has partnered with Nikki’s Foundation-People Against Distracted Driving (PADD) to help raise awareness for drivers of all ages on the dangers of distracted driving, not only with the commonly associated text messaging behind the wheel, but with all the various kinds of distracted driving. Continue reading
Boyd CEO “Glass Acquisitions Represent Opportunity for Future”
More glass company acquisitions could be in Boyd Group’s future, said Brock Bulbuck, CEO. However, right now, Canadian-based Boyd Group Income Fund, parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass, Glass America and Hansen Collision and Glass, is focused on integrating the glass businesses it has acquired over the last year, Bulbuck said. Continue reading
Autoglass Survey: U.K. Drivers Do Not Realize Importance of Windshields
Windshields can account for up to 30 percent of the structural integrity of a car, yet drivers are “largely unaware of the safety risked posed by compromised windshields,” according to a statement from United Kingdom-based Autoglass, which is a part of Belron. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Autoglass, Belron, glassBYTEs.com, Importance of Windshield, Jeremy Rochfort Leave a comment
Safelite CEO Honored as Red Cross Humanitarian of the Year
Tom Feeney, president and CEO of Safelite Group, which owns Safelite AutoGlass and Safelite Solutions, is the recipient of the 2015 American Red Cross Humanitarian of the Year award—an honor bestowed upon those who have improved lives in central Ohio and beyond, according to the company. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Humanitarian of the Year, Red Cross, Safelite Group, Tom Feeney Leave a comment
National Windscreens Receives Safecontractor Accreditation
National Windscreens has been awarded accreditation from Safecontractor for its commitment to achieving excellence in health and safety. Safecontractor is an independent accreditation organization which recognizes high standards in health and safety management among U.K. contractors, according to company officials. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, National Windscreens, Pete Marsden, Safecontractor Leave a comment
New DOT Number Awarded to Minnesota Company
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) recently awarded DOT number 1041 to Koronis Parts Inc. in Paynesville, Minn. Continue reading
Judge Dismisses One Claim Against BMW, Upholds Two Over Alleged Sunroof Defect
A judge for the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California has upheld two claims and dismissed one claim against BMW in a complaint brought against the company by two vehicles owners alleging a sunroof defect. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Alleged Sunroof Defect, BMW, Eric Anderson, glassBYTEs.com, Monita Sharma 1 Comment
January 2015 Miles Driven Up 4.9 Percent
The Federal Highway Administration, a division of the U.S. Department of Transportation, has released the newest numbers for miles driven in January 2015. They show an increase of 4.9 percent, or 11.1 billion vehicle miles, compared to January 2014. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, January 2015 Miles Driven, Miles Driven Leave a comment
Competitor Registration Now Open for Auto Glass Week™
Competitor registration and sponsorship opportunities have opened for Auto Glass Week™ 2015. The event is set to be held September 30 to October 2, 2015, at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center and Atlantis Casino Resort Spa in Reno, Nev., and will include educational seminars, an exhibition hall and AGRR™ magazine’s Auto Glass Technician Competition (AGTO) and Windshield Repair Competition (WRO) in Honor of Walt Gorman. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, AGTO, Auto Glass Technician Competition, Auto Glass Week™ 2015, glassBYTEs.com, WRO Leave a comment
Mike Paley Passed Away
Mike Paley, 55, former owner of Freedom Glass in Midlothian, Va., passed away last year after a motorcycle crash in Myrtle Beach, S.C. He founded Freedom Glass in 2004 and sold it a few years ago to move to Myrtle Beach. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Freedom Glass in Midlothian, glassBYTEs.com, Mike Paley, Va. 1 Comment
Equalizer Announces the Approval of Four AGSC™ Continuing Education Courses
Automotive glass professionals who are interested in completing continuing education to maintain their Auto Glass Safety Council™ technician certification now have access to four brand-new AGSC™-approved CE courses from Equalizer available in both English and Spanish. Continue reading
Swiss Court Denies Burkard Family’s Request to Uphold Its Voting Rights in Sika AG
The Swiss Cantonal Court of Zug has denied Schenker-Winkler Holding’s (SWH) request to uphold the company’s voting rights in Sika AG. SWH is owned by the Burkard family, which controls 16.1 percent of Sika’s capital with 52.4 percent in voting rights. SWH plans to sell its stake in Sika to French-conglomerate Saint-Gobain. The Sika board and management seeks to restrict the Burkard family’s voting rights to 5 percent given its desire to sell its Sika shares to Saint-Gobain. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Cantonal Court of Zug, glassBYTEs.com, Saint-Gobain, Schenker-Winkler Holding, Sika AG, SWH 1 Comment
Florida House Bill 669 Could Impact Automotive Glass Companies
Florida House Representative John Tobia (R) has introduced bill 669, which could void the ability for companies, such as automotive glass retailers, to seek the assignment of benefits from their customers. This could have ramifications for Florida automotive glass companies, which use these assignment of benefits from their customers to sue insurance companies over alleged short pays, according to Linda Rollinson of Superior Auto Glass of Tampa Bay. Continue reading
JN Phillips Acquires Connecticut Automotive Glass Company
JN Phillips has acquired the assets of Connecticut-based Auto Glass of New England, according to Maureen Confalone, JN Phillips’ chief financial officer. The company is now known as Auto Glass of New England, a part of JN Phillips company. Continue reading
Safelite Asks Minnesota Supreme Court to Review Cease and Desist Order from Insurance Division
Safelite Group and Safelite Solutions have petitioned the Minnesota Supreme Court to review a decision by the appellate court that upholds the settlement agreement between the Minnesota Department of Commerce, Insurance Division, and Auto Club Group. The settlement requires Auto Club Group to “cease and desist from using Safelite Solutions, or any other subsidiary of Safelite Group Inc., as its administrator of automotive glass claims in Minnesota,” according to the settlement agreement. Continue reading
December 2014 Miles Driven Up 5 Percent
The Federal Highway Administration, a division of the U.S. Department of Transportation, has released the newest numbers for miles driven in December 2014. They show an increase of 5 percent, or 11.9 billion vehicle miles, compared to December 2013. Continue reading
Associations, Committees Meet in California
The boards and committees of the both the Auto Glass Safety Council and the National Windshield Repair Association are meeting today at the Hotel Irvine Jamboree Center in California. Continue reading
Burkard Family’s Bid to Sell Sika Will Be Addressed at Regular Shareholders Meeting
The Swiss Cantonal Court of Zug has denied Schenker-Winkler Holding’s (SWH) request to hold an extraordinary shareholders meeting for Swiss specialty chemical company Sika AG. The Burkard family-owned company, SWH, controls 16.1 percent of Sika’s capital with 52.4 percent in voting rights. SWH plans to sell its stake in Sika to French-conglomerate Saint-Gobain. Via the special meeting, SWH sought to oust certain Sika board members who voiced opposition to the deal. Now that topic will be addressed during the regular annual shareholders meeting in April. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Burkard family, glassBYTEs.com, Saint-Gobain, Schenker-Winkler Holding, Sika AG, Zug 1 Comment
AGRR™/glassBYTEs.com™ Newscast Goes to Italy
How is the Italian AGRR market different than the U.S.? We look at this and more in our March/April AGRR™/glassBYTEs.com™ newscast. Continue reading
Posted in Video Tagged AGRR, Andrea Bruno, glassBYTEs.com, Italian AGRR market, Italy, Luigi Corsano, Motorglass Leave a comment
Florida Judge Gives Collision Repair Shops Deadline
A group of Florida collision repair shops have told the U.S District Court judge that they plan to amend their complaint against dozens of insurers, which alleges the insurers use their direct repair programs to illegally control and depress rates. The complaint alleges that if the shops don’t comply, customers are steered away. The judge has ordered the plaintiffs to file their motion by March 27, 2015, writing that “the motion, if granted, would moot several motions [by insurers] to dismiss that will soon be ripe for consideration.” Continue reading
Learn How Kentucky AGRR Shops Handle Winter Blast
More than 20 inches of snow fell in Elizabethtown, Ky., late last week, turning highways into parking lots. “There has been so much snow. We are just sitting here as they try to clear our roads,” says Angela Smith, a customer service representative for Rite-Way Auto Glass in Elizabethtown, Ky. Learn how Kentucky shops are digging out and coping with, what some may hope, is the last winter storm. As the cold weather continues, also learn tips for installing in low temperatures. Continue reading
London Stock Exchange Names National Windscreens to Its Top 1,000 Companies List
National Windscreens is one of the London Stock Exchange’s “1,000 Companies to Inspire Britain.” To be included in the list, companies need “to show consistent revenue growth over a minimum of three years, significantly outperforming their industry peers,” according to company officials. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, London Stock Exchange, National Windscreens, Pete Marsden, Xavier Rolet 1 Comment
Swiss Takeover Board Decides in Favor of Burkard Family
The Swiss Takeover Board has decided the Burkard family, which owns Schenker Winkler Holding AG, can move forward with selling its interest in Swiss chemical company Sika AG to French conglomerate Saint-Gobain. Continue reading
Insurers Ask Court to Dismiss Amended Complaint by Collision Repair Shops
Dozens of insurers have asked the court to dismiss an amended complaint by a group of Florida collision repair shops that allege the insurers use their direct repair programs to illegally control and depress rates. The complaint alleges that if the shops don’t comply, customers are steered away. The collision repair shops also allege the insurers require the use of aftermarket parts, such as aftermarket replacement windshields. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Dozens of insurers, Florida collision repair shops, glassBYTEs 1 Comment
Former Technician Sues for Overtime Pay
Jose Aleman, a former AGRR technician for Glass America in Miami-Dade County, Fla., has sued the company alleging he was not paid for overtime work. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Fair Labor Standards Act, FLSA, Glass America, glassBYTEs.com, Jose Aleman Leave a comment
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Acquires Illinois Collision Center
ABRA Auto Body & Glass has acquired Crash1 Off Alpine Collision Center in Rockford, Ill. Continue reading
Novus Glass Franchisee Hosts Event to Support Feed Spokane
Novus franchisee Matt Anderson of Spokane Valley, Wash., helped to raise $1,000 for Feed Spokane by hosting a Golf Glass Break Fundraiser. Feed Spokane is a local non-profit food rescue agency that works to eliminate waste and hunger. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs, Golf Glass Break Fundraiser, Matt Anderson, NOVUS 1 Comment
Three Tax Time Tips
Is all your paperwork in order for tax time? There may be a few tips you did not think about when preparing. Be sure to check our list for advice from AGRR company owners before you file on April 15, 2015. Continue reading
Saint-Gobain Says Commitment to Acquire Sika “Irrevocable”
In a Power Point presentation covering 2014 full-year financials, French conglomerate Saint-Gobain’s management says its “commitment is irrevocable” to acquire a controlling interest in Swiss specialty chemical company Sika AG. “Consequently, we hope that those members of Sika’s management team who currently oppose the transaction will rethink their position and the radical steps they have taken which are detrimental to the group’s 17,000 employees,” management writes in the report. Continue reading
Sika Reports Record 2014 Sales
Though an uncertainty remains around the bid by French conglomerate Saint-Gobain to take over a majority interest in Sika AG, the Swiss specialty chemical company reports it has achieved “the best result in the company’s history” for full-year 2014, according to its financial report. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Jan Jenisch, Sika AG Leave a comment
D’Ieteren Releases Financial Results
D’Ieteren released its financial reports for full-year 2014 today. The company’s full-year sales for the automotive glass repair and replacement division are up 1.3 percent. D’Ieteren is the parent company of Belron, which owns Safelite. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Belron, D’Ieteren, glassBYTEs.com, Safelite 1 Comment
Thrifty Extends Partnership with National Windscreens
United Kingdom-based National Windscreens’ deal with Thrifty Car and Van Rental has been extended for two years following a competitive tender process. Continue reading
GM Recalls Cadillac ATS Sedans Over Potential Sunroof Issue
General Motors is recalling 2013-2015 Cadillac ATS sedans in the United States over sensitive power sunroof switches that do not meet the requirements of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS). Additionally, Novus Bus, which is owned by Volvo, is recalling 2008 LFS buses for failure to meet the FMVSS “Bus Emergency Exits and Window Retention and Release” standard. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Cadillac ATS, Cadillac ATS Recall, General Motors, glassBYTEs.com, Novus Bus, sunroof switch 1 Comment
Report: Caliber Collision Mechanic Seeks Class Action Against Company
A California class action lawsuit has been filed against Caliber Collision by mechanics who allege they were not paid for all the hours they worked, according to report from BigClassAction.com. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, BigClassAction.com, Caliber Collision, glassBYTEs.com, Samuel Castillo 3 Comments
Boston Winter Weather Means More Glass Damage
Daredevils jumping out of windows, snow piles galore and bone-chilling temperatures set the scene in Boston, Mass. The area has been hit with more than 90 inches of snow over the last month. While all that snow might be good for business, it makes traveling to the customer more difficult. “By having 42 locations, our techs don’t have to travel as far, which is one thing that has helped us a lot,” says Maureen Confalone, chief financial officer of Woburn, Mass.-based JN Phillips. Continue reading
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Purchases Triangle Auto Body in N.C.
ABRA Auto Body & Glass has acquired Triangle Auto Body in the Research Triangle Park neighborhood of Durham, N.C. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged ABRA Auto Body & Glass, AGRR, Duane Rouse, glassBYTEs.com, Triangle Auto Body Leave a comment
J.D. Power: February New-Vehicle Sales Will Break 1 Million
New-vehicle retail sales in February 2015 are projected to reach 1,033,100 units, which is a 9-percent increase compared with February 2014, according to J.D. Power and Associates. Continue reading
Minnesota Department of Commerce Commissioner Settles with the Auto Club Group
The Minnesota Department of Commerce, Insurance Division, has entered a settlement agreement with the Auto Club Group that provides for the Auto Club Group to pay a civil penalty of $150,000 and “cease and desist from using Safelite Solutions, or any other subsidiary of Safelite Group Inc. as its administrator of automobile glass claims in Minnesota,” according to the settlement agreement. Continue reading
Lex Autolease Renews National Windscreens Contract
United Kingdom-based National Windscreens has been named the primary automotive glass supplier by Lex Autolease for a further three-year term. Lex Autolease is a U.K.-based fleet management and fleet-funding specialist. “Over the past four years, and throughout the exhaustive tender … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Lex Autolease, National Windscreens Leave a comment
ABRA Auto Body & Glass and the National Auto Body Council Donate Vehicle
ABRA Auto Body & Glass has donated a refurbished 2012 Mazda 3 to a recipient from Family Promise. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged ABRA Auto Body & Glass, AGRR, Family Promise, glassBYTEs.com 1 Comment
Chris Umble to Retire from LYNX Services
Chris Umble, vice president of sales initiatives for LYNX Services will retire June 30, 2015. Umble has been a part of LYNX (which is owned by Solera Holdings) since its beginning in 1994 when PPG Industries created the division. 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 Leave a comment
Nexus Vehicle Management Taps Nationwide Windscreen Services for Partnership
United Kingdom-based Nationwide Windscreen Services has entered a three-year partnership agreement to supply Nexus Vehicle Management with AGRR services for customers using its Nexfleet product. Continue reading
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 Leave a comment
Lawsuit Against Safelite by Former Technician Dismissed
A former Safelite AutoGlass technician who sued the company alleging he had been denied overtime wages has asked both the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals and the U.S. District Court of Central California to dismiss his case. He was seeking class action status; however, no other named plaintiffs appeared. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Joseph Perez, Safelite AutoGlass Leave a comment
SPONSORED LINK: Mainstreet Introduces: Front Line 24/7 – Call Center Management
Belleville, MI, February 16, 2015—Mainstreet announces the launch of its new Front Line 24/7 Call Center Management, a service designed to help increase the productivity and profitability of any glass business, no matter the size. Glass companies can boost long-term success by providing dynamic customer care experience through the largest independent software provider in the glass industry. Continue reading
Posted in Linked Story Tagged AGRR, Bradley Rhoades, Front Line 24/7 Call Center Management, glassBYTEs.com, Mainstreet Leave a comment
Three New DOT Numbers Awarded: One to Fuyao, Two to Overseas Companies
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) recently awarded two new DOT numbers. One went to Fuyao Glass America in Moraine, Ohio, while the second and third went to overseas countries. Continue reading
Swiss Court Dismisses Request to Overturn Sika Board Decision
The Cantonal Court of Zug in Switzerland has dismissed Schenker Winkler Holding AG (SWH) request to review a decision by Sika’s Board of Directors to reduce the company’s voting rights to 5 percent. The Burkard family-owned company controls 16.1 percent of Sika’s capital and had 52.4 percent in voting rights. But now that SWH is limited to 5 percent voting rights, it can’t call an official meeting, making it more difficult for French building materials company Saint-Gobain to proceed with its deal to purchase SWH for $2.84 billion USD (CHF 2.75 billion). The deal was designed to give controlling interest in Sika to Saint-Gobain. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Cantonal Court of Zug, glassBYTEs.com, Saint-Gobain, Schenker-Winkler Holding, Sika, SWH Leave a comment
Owner of Washington AGRR Company Pleads Guilty to Tax Fraud
The owner of an automotive glass repair and replacement shop in Snohomish County, Wash., has pled guilty to filing false business tax returns and stealing thousands of dollars in sales tax, according to a statement by the Washington Attorney General. Continue reading
“Aftermarket Windshield Glass Poses Safety Risk,” Florida Collision Repair Shops Allege in Amended Complaint
A group of Florida collision repair shops have filed a third-amended complaint against State Farm and dozens of other insurers, alleging the insurers use their direct repair programs to illegally control and depress rates and they say if the shops don’t comply, customers are steered away. “With occasional exceptions, defendant insurers write estimates requiring use of aftermarket [such as aftermarket replacement windshields] or salvage parts. Aftermarket and salvage parts are, ostensibly, less expensive than OEM parts and, at least according to defendant insurers, of equal quality to OEM parts. This is simply not true,” attorneys for the collision repair shops allege in the complaint. Continue reading
Sika Announces Several Personnel Changes in Two Divisions
Sika Corp. has named a new director of technical services and systems engineering, senior chemist, chemist, process engineer and office coordinator for its Target Market Industry and North American Automotive divisions. Continue reading
Farmers Insurance, Service King Team Up to Help Single Mother
Farmers Insurance recently partnered with Service King Repair Centers to donate a newly refurbished 2007 Chevrolet Malibu to a local Phoenix family through the Helping Hands for Single Moms organization. Continue reading
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
National Windscreens Appoints Managing Director
National Windscreens has named Pete Marsden as managing director. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, National Windscreens, Pete Marsden Leave a comment
Tri Glass Celebrates 32nd Anniversary
Tri Glass, Inc., a windshield repair product distributor based in Florida, is celebrating its 32nd anniversary. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Tri Glass, Tri Glass Celebrates 32nd Anniversary Leave a comment
Safelite AutoGlass Recycled More Than 1.3 Million Windshields in 2014
Safelite AutoGlass reports it has recycled more than 1.3 million windshields in 2014. In 2012, Safelite AutoGlass partnered with Shark Glass Recycling North America to launch the recycling program. 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
Dow Automotive First to Offer AGSC Recertification CE Credits
The Dow Automotive Fixed Glass Training Program is now available for AGRR technicians seeking Auto Glass Safety Council (AGSC™) Technician Re-Accreditation. Continue reading
Administration Releases 2016 U.S. DOT Budget Proposal
The Obama administration has proposed a 2016 U.S. Department of Transportation Budget that increases highway funds by 29 percent to $317 billion. These funds would go toward repairs and road improvements, with particular attention paid to investments in “rural and tribal areas.” The plan also calls for $908 million, up from $830 million, to support the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Continue reading
CRL Automotive Assigns NAGS Numbers for Ram Van Aftermarket Sidelites and Backlites
C.R. Laurence Automotive has collaborated with National Auto Glass Specifications (NAGS) to assign NAGS identification numbers for the aftermarket sidelites and backlites of the 2014 Ram ProMaster Van. Continue reading
More than 100 Sika Managers Sign Letter Opposing Saint-Gobain Deal
More than 100 senior managers at Swiss specialty chemical company Sika AG have signed a letter stating their opposition to the French conglomerate Saint-Gobain’s bid to acquire controlling interest in the company, according to a report. The letter was sent … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Saint-Gobain, Sika AG Leave a comment
Solera Holdings Purchases Service Dynamics through Equity Interest
Solera Holdings, owner of LYNX Services, has acquired 100 percent of the equity interests of Service Dynamics. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, LYNX Services, Service Dynamics, Solera Holdings, Tony Aquila Leave a comment
Progressive Names Top Types of 2014 Auto Claims
Progressive Insurance has released a report summarizing top auto claims trends for 2014. Coming in high on the list of top claims by type is “object coming from the road,” which could lead to glass damage. Continue reading
NWRA E-Newsletter Now Available
The National Windshield Repair Association has released its latest e-newsletter. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, National Windshield Repair Association, NWRA Leave a comment
AGRR™/glassBYTEs.com™ Newscast Goes Onsite to Detroit
For the latest on aluminum-bodied vehicles and what these cars could mean for your business, join our editors as we go onsite to the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Continue reading
Posted in Video Tagged AGRR, Aluminum, Audi, Detroit Auto Show, Ford, glassBYTEs.com, NAIAS, North American International Auto Show Leave a comment
November 2014 Miles Driven Up 1.1 Percent
The Federal Highway Administration, a division of the U.S. Department of Transportation, has released the newest numbers for miles driven in November 2014. They show an increase of 1.1 percent, or 2.5 billion vehicle miles, compared to November 2013. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Miles Driven, miles driven November 2014 Leave a comment
AGSC Releases Latest E-Newsletter
The Automotive Glass Safety Council has released its most recent e-newsletter. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, AGSC, Auto Glass Safety Council, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
Allstate Launches Fast Mobile e-Payment for Automotive Claims
Allstate is now offering its automotive glass claims’ customers a new option for payment—Fast Mobile e-Payment. Once a claim payment is approved for release by Allstate, this system can allow same-day payment. It is available for most insurance claims, including automotive glass, according to Justin Herndon a spokesperson for the company. Continue reading
ERS Looks to National Windscreens for AGRR Services
National Windscreens has been tapped to serve as the AGRR supplier for ERS. The company provides insurance for a wide range of vehicles including private cars, classic cars, vans, motorcycles, taxis, minibuses, fleets, haulage and agricultural vehicles. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, ERS, glassBYTEs.com, National Windscreens, Pete Marsden, Rob Harper Leave a comment
Website Publishes Report Questioning Safelite AutoGlass’ Practices
A website that bills itself as “topclassactions.com” has published a report that hints of a potential legal action against Safelite AutoGlass. The website appears to be connected with the legal industry, although glassBYTEs.com™ editors were unable to confirm its actual ownership. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Safelite AutoGlass, topclassactions.com 3 Comments
Florida Judge Wants More Evidence to Support Allegations Against Insurers
A U.S. District judge in Florida has dismissed much of the antitrust lawsuit filed by group of Florida collision repair shops against State Farm and dozens of other insurers without prejudice, meaning attorneys for the repair shops can file an amended complaint. The shops allege 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. The judge says more “evidence” is needed to support the allegations. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, antitrust lawsuit, Collision repair shops, Florida, glassBYTEs.com, State Farm, steering Leave a comment
NHTSA to Recommend Two Automatic Emergency Braking Systems
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) plans to add two automatic emergency braking systems to the recommended advanced safety features included under its New Car Assessment Program (NCAP), a five-star safety ratings system, according U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx. Continue reading
Sika AG Throws Up New Roadblock for Saint-Gobain
French conglomerate Saint-Gobain’s deal to acquire a controlling interest in Swiss specialty chemical company Sika AG appears to have had the brakes thrown on it. The Sika Board of Directors has decided the Burkard’s family voting rights in the company should be reduced to 5 percent. The Saint-Gobain deal hinged the Burkard’s family’s agreement to sell Schenker Winkler Holding AG to Saint-Gobain. The family-owned company controls 16.1 percent of Sika’s capital and 52.4 percent of its voting rights, which would have paved the way for Saint-Gobain to gain controlling interest of Sika. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Burkard, glassBYTEs.com, Saint-Gobain, Schenker-Winkler Holding, Sika AG 1 Comment
Two New DOT Numbers Awarded
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) recently awarded two new DOT numbers. One went to company in Wisconsin, while the other went to a company in Romania. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, DOT, glassBYTEs.com, Omni Glass & Paint, Pietta Glass Working Leave a comment
Special Newscast: Auto Glass Week™ 2015 Dates and Location Announced
In this special glassBYTEs.com™/AGRR™ magazine report, the dates and location for Auto Glass Week™ 2015 are revealed. Continue reading
Posted in Video Tagged AGRR, AGW Reno, Auto Glass Week '15, Auto Glass Week Reno, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
Rosekind Seeks More Authority for NHTSA
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration needs “increased authority” to carry out its mission, said Mark Rosekind, NHTSA’s new administer, a surprise keynote speaker added to the SAE 2015 Government-Industry Meeting Wednesday in Washington, D.C. Continue reading
Low Gas Helps Glass
Gas prices have plummeted to an average of $2.05 throughout the nation, according to AAA. In Arizona, Michigan and Minnesota, AGRR company owners report a gallon of gas is below $2. “There is a lot more traffic in the Phoenix area, which has helped business,” says Frank Thomas of Thomas Auto Glass. Continue reading
UNITED KINGDOM – Nationwide Windscreen Services Says Assistance Calls Up 30 Percent
The United Kingdom-based company reports that calls for AGRR assistance are up 30 percent this year, which is the “busiest start to a year in the company’s history.” Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Nationwide Windscreen Services, Stuart Sole Leave a comment
Signatures Double on Industry Petition Against “Steering”
The number of automotive glass company owners, technicians and vendors who have signed a petition called “Auto Glass Industry National Right to Fair Trade Petition” has doubled since early this month. “After almost 20 years in the business I thought [the petition] was long overdue,” says Dave Heidbreder of Liquid Resins, who created the petition online. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Dave Heidbreder, glassBYTEs.com, Petition Against Steering 3 Comments
Boyd Group to Pay Monthly Cash Distribution
Boyd Group Income Fund, parent company to Glass America, Gerber Collision & Glass and others, announced a cash distribution for January 2015 of $0.041 per trust unit. The distribution will be payable on February 25, 2015 to unitholders of record at the close of business on January 31, 2015. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Boyd Group, Gerber Collision & Glass, Glass America, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
The Pushback Over Saint-Gobain’s Move to Acquire a Controlling Interest in Sika AG Accelerates
The management of Swiss specialty chemical company Sika AG continues to push back against French conglomerate Saint-Gobain’s move to seek controlling interest in the company. Several investors are supporting management’s position, including the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Trust, Cascade Investment LLC, Fidelity Worldwide Investment, Threadneedle Investments and the Ethos Foundation. Meanwhile, representatives of Saint-Gobain asked Sika officials to meet in Zurich today in an attempt to clear the way for the deal to go forward. Continue reading
eDirectGlass Partners with Automobile Technologies
eDirectGlass (eDG) has announced a long-term partnership with AutoMobile Technologies Inc. (AMT) to help the AGRR and reconditioning industries with service mobility. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Automobile Technologies, eDirectGlass, Gary Hart, glassBYTEs.com, Paul Maximov Leave a comment
Hartford Appeals $35 Million Verdict over Alleged “Price Fixing” to Connecticut Supreme Court
Hartford is asking the Connecticut Supreme Court to overturn a lower court verdict of $35 million in favor of more than 1,000 state auto collision repair companies who sued the company alleging the insurer violated Connecticut’s Unfair Trade Practices Act (CUTPA) by working to establish “price fixing” or artificially low labor rates. The Connecticut Supreme Court hearing is set for Tuesday, January 13, 2015. Continue reading
Sharrah Named CEO of Insurance Claims Management, Gross Takes Advisory Role
Insurance Claims Management, the privately held parent company for HSG and CodeBlue, has named Wayne Sharrah as CEO. “A year ago I recruited Wayne Sharrah to serve on our board of directors. I was developing a succession plan,” says Paul Gross, who is stepping down from the CEO position to take on the role of company advisor. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, CodeBlue, glassBYTEs.com, HSG, ICM, Paul Gross, Wayne Sharrah Leave a comment
Johnson, Safelite and Archer Western Contractors Agree to Settlement Conference
Jerri Joann Johnson, who filed a complaint against Safelite alleging one of its technicians caused damage to her vehicle which the company “refuses to fix,” has agreed to a settlement conference with Safelite Group and Archer Western Contractors. Continue reading
Nissan, NASA Partner to Develop Driverless Vehicles
Nissan and NASA have formed a five-year research and development partnership to advance autonomous vehicle systems and prepare for commercial application of the technology, according to a statement from Nissan officials. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, autonomous vehicle, Carlos Ghosn, Driverless Cars, glassBYTEs.com, NASA, Nissan Leave a comment
NAGS Rebalancing: A Decade Later
Looking back, it appeared as though a seismic shift rippled through the industry ten years ago. National Auto Glass Specifications (NAGS, which is a part of Mitchell International) announced a rebalancing of its benchmark pricing that took effect February 2005. PPG Auto Glass (now owned by Pittsburgh Glass Works), Pilkington (now a part of Nippon Sheet Glass), Mygrant Glass, Kryger Glass, Saf-ti Auto Glass Distributors and many other distributors responded to the pending changes with a resounding no: “We will not change our pricing.” Insurance companies, on the other hand, were another story. Continue reading
Rosekind’s First Move: NHTSA Fines Honda $70 Million
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has conducted an investigation into Honda and fined the company $70 million, or two $35 million civil penalties, for “failing to report deaths, injuries and certain warranty claims to the federal government in violation of the TREAD Act.” The news comes shortly on the heels of Mark Rosekind being confirmed by Congress as the new NHSTA administrator. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Mark Rosekind, NHTSA Fines Honda 1 Comment
Nationwide Windscreen Services Extends Contract with Autolease Fleet
United Kingdom-based Nationwide Windscreen Services has signed a three-year contract to supply Lex Autolease Fleet with AGRR services. Continue reading
CES: Driverless Cars Are Coming; Ready or Not?
Automotive technology appears to be evolving at warp speed and the impact these advances will have on glass will be big. The vital relationship between technology and glass has never been more apparent than at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas this week where automakers and companies are launching driverless cars, a stream of gadgets to control your vehicle, haptic feedback dashboards and more. Here’s a look at some of the top news. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Audi, CES, Consumer Electronics Show, Driverless Car, glassBYTEs.com, Mercedes-Benz, Self-piloting car, Volkwagen 3 Comments
Glass Industry Launches Petition Against “Steering”
Nearly 100 automotive glass company owners, technicians and vendors have signed a petition called “Auto Glass Industry National Right to Fair Trade Petition” at ThePetitionSite.com. The goal of the Care2 Petition is to “restore free and fair trade to the auto glass industry so that that consumers will have the freedom of choice when it comes to what repair shop works on their vehicles and so that the business agreements between consumers and their chosen repair shops are not interfered with improperly and unduly,” according to the website. Continue reading
Tim Tock Passes Away
Tim Tock of Livonia, Mich., passed away December 30, 2014. Over his career, he founded GlassLinks.com and spent time with Henderson Glass, SAF-TI Glass Distributors, Diversified Glass Services and Great Lakes Glass Distributors. Continue reading
Saint-Gobain Celebrates 350th Anniversary
France-based Saint-Gobain, a building materials company which has its North American headquarters in Valley Forge, Pa., is celebrating its 350th anniversary this year. In October 2014, the company announced it would be opening a flat glass manufacturing plant in Asia that will allow it to double its output for automotive glass products from the current figure of one million to two million by 2020. Saint-Gobain is also making headlines for its bid to acquire Swiss specialty chemical company Sika AG. Continue reading
Judge Issues New Decisions in Alleged Patent Infringement Case; Boyles File Discovery Report
The judge overseeing the alleged patent infringement dispute in Oregon’s U.S. District Court, Eugene division, has denied Mike Boyle’s (doing business a Surface Dynamix) motions to compel his prior attorney and for an emergency inspection of the alleged infringing products which are in GlasWeld’s possession. The judge ordered the plaintiff to make the devices “available for inspection at the time of depositions.” Defendants Mike Boyle and his son, Christopher Boyle, have also filed their discovery report with the court. The dispute between the parties about who might be deposed continues. Continue reading
Boyd Group Names New CFO, Expands in Florida
Canada-based Boyd Group Income Fund, which owns Gerber Collision & Glass, Glass America and more, has named Narendra “Pat” Pathipati as executive vice president and chief financial officer. Pathipati succeeds Dan Dott, who will remain with Boyd as senior vice president of finance for a one-year transition period. Following the transition, Dott will retire on December 31, 2015. Continue reading
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Adds Location
In a final year-end move, ABRA Auto Body & Glass opened a franchise location in Wausau, Wis., about 90 minutes Northwest of Green Bay. The latest ABRA franchise is independently owned and operated by Keith Kocourek of Kocourek Auto Group. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged ABRA Auto Body & Glass, AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Keith Kocourek, Kocourek Auto Group Leave a comment
New DOT Number Awarded to New York Company
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) recently awarded a new DOT number to Niskayuna Glass, a regional architectural glass fabricator, distributor and glazing contractor based in Schenectady, N.Y. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, DOT Number, DOT number 1035, glassBYTEs.com, Niskayuna Glass Leave a comment
European General Court Upholds Pilkington’s Fine for Antitrust Violations
The General Court of the European Union has rejected NSG Pilkington’s appeal to reduce a $445 million USD (€357 million Euros) fine over the company’s alleged antitrust violations in the sharing and exchange of commercially sensitive information regarding deliveries of automotive glass in the European Economic Area (EEA). Continue reading
December Newscast Covers Diversification Ideas and Bloopers
For our last newscast of the year, we look at diversification ideas that might work for you. Also, stay tuned for our annual blooper reel from the anchors. Continue reading
Posted in Video Tagged AGRR, AGRR Newscast, Bloopers, glassBYTEs.com, Johnson Window Film, Paint Protection Film, Solar Gard, Window Film Leave a comment
Sika AG to Meet with Investors Over Saint-Gobain Deal
Swiss specialty chemical company Sika AG has announced it will hold an investor meeting to discuss Saint-Gobain’s (SGO) move to seek a controlling interest in the company. Continue reading
Boyd Group Income Fund Announces Cash Distribution
Boyd Group Income Fund, parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, has announced a cash distribution for the month of December 2014 of $0.041 per trust unit. The distribution will be payable on January 28, 2015 to unit holders of record at the close of business on December 31, 2014. Continue reading
Houston Requires Licensing for AGRR Companies
Automotive repair facilities, including automotive glass repair and replacement companies, are required to be licensed in the city of Houston. Even if a company if based outside Houston, if its representatives enter the city to do work, they must be licensed, according to Lieutenant Dana Hitzman of the Houston Police Department. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Deborah Hernandez, glassBYTEs.com, Houston, Licensing, Lieutenant Dana Hitzman 2 Comments
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Expands in Three States
ABRA Auto Body & Glass has expanded in three separate states with three separate transactions. ABRA has acquired Consolidated Collision Center in Park Forest, Ill.; three CARS Inc. locations in Knoxville, Tenn.; and the Murdock Collision Center in Woods Cross, Utah. Consolidated Collision Center offers AGRR services, according to the company’s website. Continue reading
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens New Location in Georgia
The Boyd Group Inc. has opened a new Gerber Collision & Glass center 30 miles north of Atlanta in Woodstock, Ga. The location previously operated under the name Towne Lake Collision and has approximately 10,100 square feet of production space. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Gerber Collision & Glass, glassBYTEs.com, The Boyd Group Inc., Tim O'Day Leave a comment
Ellen Rogers Wins Award for Extraordinary Service to Key Communications Inc.
Ellen G. Rogers, editor of USGlass magazine, sister publication to AGRR™ magazine/glassBYTEs.com™, has been recognized by the magazine’s parent company, Key Communications Inc., through its presentation of its Award for Extraordinary Service. The award is presented annually and was named after vice president for media services Holly X. Biller who has been with Key Communications for 19 years, and epitomizes the definition of extraordinary. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Ellen G. Rogers, glassBYTEs.com, Tara Taffera, USGlass Leave a comment
Solera Holdings Acquires IBS Automotive in the Czech Republic and Slovakia
Solera Holdings has acquired 100 percent of the equity interests of IBS Automotive s.r.o. IBS is a provider of vehicle valuation data in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Czech Republic, glassBYTEs.com, IBS Automotive s.r.o., Slovakia, Solera Holdings, Tony Aquila Leave a comment
Belron Reports Non-Cash Impairment Charge of $121.9 Million USD
After an annual review of goodwill and intangible assets by D’Ieteren, it is reporting a non-cash impairment charge for Belron of $121.9 million USD (€98 Euros), which “will be necessary in relation to the activities of Belron in the United Kingdom and in China.” Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Autoglass U.K., Belron, Carglass, D’Ieteren, glassBYTEs.com, goodwill, impairment charge 3 Comments
Safelite AutoGlass Foundation Awards $400,000 in Impact Grants
Safelite AutoGlass Foundation has awarded $400,000 in impact grants to 14 separate Columbus, Ohio-area non-profit groups, each receiving $25,000 or more. This is the fourth year the foundation has awarded the grants and donations have grown $100,000 over last year. Continue reading
VW Recalls Certain Beetle Models Over Potential Panoramic Sunroof Issue
Volkswagen is recalling certain model year 2013-2015 Beetle vehicles manufactured June 13, 2013, to July 3, 2014, reporting that “the glass sunroofs in the affected vehicles may break when the vehicles are operated over a hard road surface or strike a pothole.” Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Beetle Recall, glassBYTEs.com, sunroof, Volkswagen, VW Beetle Sunroof, VW recall 2 Comments
Judge Grants Permanent Injunction Against Connecticut Anti-Steering Law
The lawsuit filed by Safelite Group and Safelite Solutions against Connecticut Attorney General George Jepsen and Thomas Leonardi, state insurance commissioner, over the state’s anti-steering law has reached a resolution. A Connecticut U.S. District Court judge has granted the parties’ joint motion for entry of final judgment, permanent injunction and stipulation of voluntary dismissal. Continue reading
Schenker Winkler Holding Looks to Remove Three Sika Board Members
Schenker Winkler Holding AG, which is owned by the family that controls Sika AG, has requested the Swiss specialty chemical company hold an extraordinary general meeting and proposes to remove Dr. Paul Hälg, Monika Ribar and Daniel Sauter as current members of the board. Schenker Winkler, which holds the majority voting rights in Sika, is slated to be sold to Saint-Gobain—giving the French conglomerate a controlling interest in the Swiss specialty chemical company. Sika’s board and management have voiced their opposition to the deal. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Saint-Gobain, Schenker Winkler Holding AG, Sika AG Leave a comment
Saint-Gobain Seeks Controlling Interest in Sika
Saint-Gobain plans to acquire a controlling interest in chemical company Sika AG, which specializes in the development and production of systems and products for bonding, sealing, damping, reinforcing and protecting in the building sector and automotive industry. The Sika board and management team say they are not in favor of the move and will “resign following closing of the transaction,” according to a company statement. Continue reading
Novus Glass Adds First British Columbia, Canada, Franchise
Aldergrove A1 Glass Ltd. has become the inaugural British Columbian franchise for Novus Glass. The company serves the Lower Mainland region of British Columbia, Canada. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Aldergrove A1 Glass Ltd., glassBYTEs.com, Novus Glass Leave a comment
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 1 Comment
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Opens Wisconsin Location
ABRA Auto Body & Glass has opened a new franchise location in Hudson, Wis., about 20 minutes east of St. Paul, Minn. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged ABRA Auto Body & Glass, AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Mark Wahlin 1 Comment
Report: Autoglass U.K. to Close 100 Locations
United Kingdom-based Autoglass, which is owned by Belron, is closing 100 locations and going to a mobile service platform, according to a local report. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Autoglass U.K., Belron, glassBYTEs.com, Mobile Only Leave a comment
NHTSA Launches Free VIN Look Up for Recalls
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched a free online VIN search tool to look up recalls. Continue reading
AGRR Company Owner Helps to Raise More than a Million to Help Others
Frank Thomas, owner of Thomas Auto Glass in Phoenix, began his mission of giving after his first-born son died of cancer at the age of three in 1975. During the fight to save the boy, Thomas says he received “overwhelming assistance from many people and organizations,” which he wanted to pass on. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Frank Thomas, glassBYTEs.com, Phoenix, Thomas Auto Glass Leave a comment
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Donates $10,000 to Families in Need
ABRA Auto Body & Glass recently helped to raise $10,000 during the Pine Island Country Club Golf Tournament to benefit The Sandbox. The Sandbox serves families whose children have cancer or a life-altering illness. Continue reading
glassBYTEs.com™ Readers: PGW to Increase Prices by 5 Percent
Pittsburgh Glass Works is raising all glass and sundry products’ prices by 5 percent on January 1, 2015, according to reports by glassBYTEs.com™ readers. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, PGW, Pittsburgh Glass Works, Price Increase 1 Comment
Miles Driven Up Slightly for September 2014
The Federal Highway Administration, a division of the U.S. Department of Transportation, has released the newest numbers for miles driven in September 2014, showing an increase of 2.3 percent, or 5.6 billion vehicle miles, compared with September 2013. Continue reading
GlasWeld, Boyles File Alternative Dispute Resolution Reports with Court
GlasWeld, Mike Boyle (doing business as Surface Dynamix) and Christopher Boyle have agreed that binding Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) proceedings would be a good idea, according to their separate ADR reports. But none of the parties involved in the alleged patent infringement case can agree on terms for the proceedings. Continue reading
President Obama Nominates Rosekind to Head NHTSA
President Obama has nominated Mark Rosekind for administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Department of Transportation. Rosekind has been a member of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) since 2010. “I do think NHTSA should take larger role when it comes to glass and proper installations,” says Melissa Martin, owner of Wisefly Auto Glass, which is has a branch in Georgia and one in California. Continue reading
Solera Holdings Gives Aquila a Special Cash Award for Diversifying the Business Model
The Compensation Committee of Solera Holdings granted a one-time, special cash award of $2.6 million to Tony Aquila, CEO. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Solera Holdings, special cash award, Tony Aquila Leave a comment
Solera Acquires U.S.-Based CAP Automotive
Solera Holdings Inc. has acquired 100 percent of the equity interests in CAP Automotive. CAP provides real-time valuations and specifications for new and used vehicles in the United Kingdom. On an annual basis, CAP currently processes over 18 million valuations, according to officials. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, CAP Automotive, glassBYTEs.com, Solera Holdings, Tony Aquila Leave a comment
Most AGRR Companies in Buffalo, N.Y., Closed Today
With up to six feet of snow hitting the area and a travel ban in effect for South Buffalo, N.Y., most AGRR companies are closed today. “I told my techs to stay home,” says Gary Louth of Buffalo Auto Glass. Continue reading
Caliber Collision Centers Acquires FCC Collision Centers
Caliber Collision Centers has acquired FCC Collision Centers in California. The company offers AGRR services, according to its website. Continue reading
NADA: 2015 New-Car Sales to Reach 16.94 Million
The National Automobile Dealers Association forecasts 16.94 million new cars and light trucks will be purchased or leased in the United States in 2015. The association had predicted sales of 16.4 million new-cars and light-trucks for 2014. Continue reading
AGRR Companies: Business as Usual Despite Unrest
The nation’s spotlight is centered on Ferguson, Mo., and the surrounding communities as many wait word from the grand jury on whether a police officer will be indicted for his actions on the day Michael Brown died. The Missouri governor has declared a state of emergency for the area and the Federal Bureau of Investigation has said civil unrest could be possible once the decision is handed down. But for local AGRR companies, business continues as usual and managers expect no interruptions in the near future. Continue reading
Solera Holdings Closes Private Offering of Senior Notes
Solera Holdings announced that its indirect wholly-owned subsidiary, Audatex North America Inc., has closed a private offering of an additional $175.0 million aggregate principal amount of its 6.000 percent senior notes due 2021 and an additional $225.0 million aggregate principal amount of its 6.125 percent senior notes due 2023. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Audatex North America Inc, glassBYTEs.com, senior notes, Solera Holdings Leave a comment
NSG Pilkington: North American Automotive Markets Continue to Improve
NSG, parent company to Pilkington, reported that automotive revenue for the second quarter of fiscal year 2015 came in at $1.34 billion USD (155.7 billion Yen), compared to $1.31 billion USD (152.1 billion Yen) in the same period of the prior year. Profits for the segment were $33.5 million (3.9 billion Yen, compared to $39.5 million USD (4.6 billion Yen) in the same period of 2014. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, NSG, NSG Pilkington, second quarter 2015 1 Comment
Guardian to Close Floreffe, Pa., Plant
Guardian Industries Corp. plans to close its Floreffe, Pa., float glass plant in 2015. The plant currently produces dark tinted privacy float glass (PrivaGuard and MidnightGray II) for automotive and commercial applications, and Guardian intends to shift that production to its Carleton, Mich., float glass plant. The Floreffe plant has about 140 employees. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Floreffe, glassBYTEs, Guardian Industries Corp., Kevin Baird 1 Comment
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Expands in Idaho and Illinois
ABRA Auto Body & Glass has opened a franchise in Post Falls, Idaho, and has acquired three Central Auto Body locations in Grayslake, Waukegan and Zion, Ill. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged ABRA Auto Body & Glass, AGRR, Duane Rouse, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
Former Gerber Collision & Glass Employee, Company Reach Settlement Over Sexual Discrimination Allegations
Former Gerber Collision & Glass employee Janine Coluzzi of Naperville, Ill., has reached a settlement with the company over allegations that she was sexually harassed by a co-worker and general manager. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Gerber Collision & Glass, glassBYTEs.com, Janine Coluzzi Leave a comment
Sika Automotive Names Moran Head of Global Automotive Marketing
Gregory Moran is now serving as vice president, head of global automotive marketing for Sika Automotive. Most recently, he was vice president of marketing industry and automotive for the company. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Gregory Moran, Head of Global Automotive Marketing, Sika Leave a comment
Judge Issues New Decisions in Alleged Patent Infringement Case
The judge has denied GlasWeld’s motion for default judgment, ordered Mike Boyle (doing business as Surface Dynamix) and his son Christopher Boyle to provide discovery information and decided on the construction of claims involved in the alleged patent infringement case. She also ordered GlasWeld and the Boyles to discuss a possible settlement and report their progress back to the court. Continue reading
Gerber Collision & Glass Gains Seattle Location
The Boyd Group Inc. has opened a new Gerber Collision & Glass location in Seattle, Wash. It has approximately 7,900 square feet of production space and previously operated under the name Malo’s Auto Body. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Boyd Group Inc., Gerber Collision & Glass, glassBYTEs.com, Tim O'Day Leave a comment
Boyd Group CEO Calls Same-Store Glass Sales “Meaningful”
Third-quarter same-store sales for Boyd Group Income Fund, parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass and Glass America, increased $9.74 million USD ($11.0 million CAD) or 8.8 percent in the U.S. “U.S. glass sales were meaningful, but slightly lower than the 8.8-percent same-store growth,” said Brock Bulbuck, president and CEO during a conference call. Continue reading
Solera Holdings Launches $350 Million Senior Note Private Offering to Fund Potential Acquisition
Solera Holdings announced that subsidiary Audatex North America plans to issue additional 6.000 percent senior notes due 2021 and additional 6.125 percent senior notes due 2023 in an aggregate principal amount of $350 million in a private offering. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Audatex North America, glassBYTEs.com, senior notes, Solera Holdings Leave a comment
Custom Glass Solutions Donates Custom Windshields to Restore Fire Truck
A pair of custom windshields were donated by Guardian’s Custom Glass Solutions to help a retired Nashville firefighter refurbish a Patriot Guard Stuphen fire engine. The fire truck will roll down the streets of Nashville tomorrow at the annual Nashville Veteran’s Parade to honor “the memories of the fallen firefighters and rescue workers from the events of September 11, 2001.” Continue reading
How Will Insurance Claims Evolve as Vehicles Become Connected?
“[W]ith all of these sensors in vehicles these days and a vehicle’s ever-increasing ability to communicate with external parties, how would a future look where the car made the claim?” asks Sean Carey, president of SCG Management Consultants in Mitchell International’s fourth quarter Industry 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 Leave a comment
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 Leave a comment
AGRR Companies Anticipate Upswing as Families Hit the Road for Thanksgiving
While most AGRR companies will likely be closed Thanksgiving day, many will be open on Black Friday. “As gas prices come down, we are seeing more people traveling to see relatives and friends this Thanksgiving, which means more business,” says Carrie Cox of Novus Auto Glass in Chehalis, Wash. Continue reading
Safelite AutoGlass Foundation Raises $693,000 during Fourth Annual Charity Golf Classic
Safelite AutoGlass Foundation recently hosted its fourth annual Charity Golf Classic, welcoming approximately 170 representatives from its suppliers and business partners from throughout the country, with fundraising efforts totaling more than $693,000. Continue reading
N.J. Replacement Technician Indicted on Theft Charges
James Aughey has been indicted by a grand jury on theft charges for “performing windshield installations as an employee of Vision Quest Auto Glass, collecting cash payments from customers and keeping the money for his own benefit,” according to the Hunterdon County, N.J., Prosecutor’s office. Continue reading
Safelite Acquires AGRR Services’ Side of Santa Fe Glass
Safelite Group, parent company to Safelite AutoGlass, is acquiring substantially all of the automotive glass assets of Kansas City’s Santa Fe Glass, not including its glazing-related business. The AGRR business “will operate under a Safelite and Santa Fe co-branding strategy until further plans are made,” according to a Safelite statement. Continue reading
Gerber Collision & Glass Opens First Repair Location in Idaho
The Boyd Group Inc., parent company to Gerber Collision & Glass, has opened a collision repair location in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. The location has approximately 13,500 square feet of production space and previously operated under the name Lake City Auto Body. Continue reading
IGA and Society of Collision Repair Specialists Partner
The Independent Glass Association (IGA) has joined the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) as a company member. The association’s membership goal is to address education and industry best practices in relation to automotive glass repair and replacement services at collision repair companies. Continue reading
Volvo Argues in Favor of Appeal to Halt Sunroof Class Action Lawsuit
In their appeal to overturn a lower court’s approval of a six-state class action over an alleged sunroof defect, Volvo’s attorneys claim, “[T]he certified classes include former owners of class vehicles, many of which now reside in a junkyard. And former owners have no need to repair a vehicle they no longer own and that functioned without incident for as long as they owned it.” Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, Alleged Sunroof Defect, glassBYTEs.com, Joanne Neale, sunroof, Volvo 1 Comment
Sika Sees Sales Climb 11.7 Percent
Sika reported sales growth of 11.7 percent in the third quarter. For the first nine months of the business year, sales increased by 15.8 percent. All regions contributed to the sales growth, according to officials. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, glassBYTEs.com, Jan Jenisch, Sika, Sika Third Quarter 2014 Leave a comment
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Helps Raise $18,000 for St. Louis Children’s Hospital Foundation
ABRA Auto Body & Glass helped to raise $18,000 during the second annual Forest Park Charity Golf Tournament to benefit St. Louis Children’s Foundation. Continue reading
Another Bad Winter Could Be Good News for AGRR Businesses
In terms of temperatures and snowfall, last winter was one for the record books for many parts of the country. This winter has the potential to be just as cold and snowy. “I certainly hope it’s another bad winter,” says David Coyne of Anytime Auto Glass in Boston. Continue reading
AGRR Companies Could See an Increase This Halloween
Some AGRR company owners are predicting an upswing in business this weekend as Halloween mischief abounds. “It might get a little crazy,” says Blake Elliott, owner of Hartford, Wis.-based Hartford Auto Glass. Continue reading
Is There a Ghost in the Machine?
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is reviewing Chrysler models which include Totally Integrated Power Modules (TIPM) after the Center for Auto Safety (CAS) petitioned the government to open a defect investigation into the matter. NHTSA and CAS have received complaints from Chrysler owners alleging incidents of engine stall or non-start, random windshield wiper activity and power window movement and more. Continue reading
J.D. Power Issues Auto Claims Satisfaction Study; Amica Takes First
J.D. Power and Associates has issued its 2014 U.S. Auto Claims Satisfaction Study. Coming in first on its list for satisfaction is Amica Mutual. Continue reading
Roanoke Jury Awards $20 Million to Accident Victim; Mazda May Appeal
A Roanoke, Va., jury has awarded $20 million to a woman who sued Mazda alleging a latch system that was designed to hold the windshield to her 1995 Miata convertible top failed when her vehicle flipped during an accident on a country road. Continue reading
Five New DOT Numbers Awarded to U.S. Companies
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) recently awarded five new DOT numbers to companies based in the United States. Continue reading
Sika Names Two New Associates
Sika Region NA Automotive has named Michael Felsburg as key account manager for Ford, reporting to Brett Loomis, sales director, domestic OEMs. In his new role with Sika, Felsburg will be responsible for growing and managing SikaDamp, SikaBaffle, and SikaReinforcer business. Continue reading
Hanover Waives Glass Deductible for Platinum Customers Who Go In-Network for Work
Hanover Insurance waives the glass deductible for its platinum insurance customers who use the company’s preferred glass provider or network-affiliated automotive glass shops, according to Emily Trevallion, a Hanover spokesperson. Continue reading
D’Ieteren Announces Repurchase of Shares
D’Ieteren, parent company to Safelite and Belron, has purchased 17,313 treasury shares at an average price of €28.14 in Euros per share on Euronext Brussels from October 14-22, 2014. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Belron, D’Ieteren, glassBYTEs.com, Safelite Leave a comment
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Supports Charity for Children’s Hospital
ABRA Auto Body & Glass helped to raise more than $10,000 during the third annual Gaylord Springs Charity Golf Tournament to benefit Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt. Continue reading
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
Auto Glass Week™ Photos Now Available for Purchase
A special website has been set up to allow the review and purchase of pictures from Auto Glass Week™ and its competitions. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week 2014, Auto Glass Week photos, glassBYTEs.com, Smugmug Leave a comment
Auto Glass Week™ Sales Representative Contest Winners Announced!
Auto Glass Week™ 2014 held a nationwide contest to see which sales representative could attract the greatest number of customers to attend the Auto Glass Week Exhibition/Extravaganza. After tallying the results from both pre-registration and on-site submissions the following were announced as the top three winners. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Auto Glass Week 2014, Free Passes, glassBYTEs.com 2 Comments