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Tag Archives: Belron
D’Ieteren ‘Very Happy’ with Belron Share, Executives Deny Plans to Sell
Despite recent media reports, D’Ieteren Group is not planning to divest its stake in Belron. Executives of the Belgium-based group announced the news to investors during a recent financial call. “We’re very happy to be the majority shareholder of Belron,” … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged 2025 financial report, Belron, D'Ieteren Group, financial report Leave a comment
D’Ieteren May Soon Offer Belron IPO
Bloomberg reports that the D’Ieteren Group has appointed an independent financial services group to “explore strategic options” for its majority share of Belron, including a possible initial public offering (IPO). The publication cites “people familiar with the matter” as saying … Continue reading
Belron Reprices Its Outstanding Term Loans
The D’Ieteren Group announced Jan. 16 that Belron has successfully repriced its United States currency and Euro-denominated Term Loans B (TLB), both maturing in October 2031. According to D’Ieteren Group officials, this repricing reflects supportive capital market conditions and Belron’s … Continue reading
Will Belron Soon List Multi-Billion IPO?
Belron may soon debut an approximately $27.8 billion stock market listing, according to reports from Reuters and the Financial Times. “People familiar with the situation” tell the Financial Times that Belron executives began early-stage talks with bankers this week. The sources say a listing is … Continue reading
Is Belron’s New Mobile Recalibration System Ready for the Real World?
Belron has quietly begun rolling out its new “mobile” Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) recalibration system. According to reports in industry social media groups, some of the company’s technicians have given the equipment mixed reviews. The switch to this new … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged Belron, Mobile, mobile recalibration, recalibration, Safelite, safelite technician 3 Comments
D’Ieteren Group Finances Take Hit from Belron Debt, Officials Say
Belron’s changes in refinancing have lowered the D’Ieteren Group’s financial results, according to the group’s financial report for the first half of 2025. Belgium-based D’Ieteren Group is the majority shareholder of Belron, a United Kingdom-based company that operates multiple automotive … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged Belron, D'Ieteren Group, debt, financial results, half year financials, refinancing, Safelite 3 Comments
Belron Sees Mobile Recalibration and Increase in Cash Jobs Ahead
Safelite will continue to be Belron’s “biggest business” according to a presentation made at the D’Ieteren Group’s recent Investor Day. Carlos Brito, Belron’s chief executive officer (CEO), and Humphrey Singer, chief financial officer (CFO), lead the Belron presentation, focusing on … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged Belron, investor day, mobile recalibration, Safelite Leave a comment
Balkan Glass Franchisee Welcomes AI
One of Belron’s European franchises is working with a deep tech company to introduce artificial-intelligence-based windshield inspections. Estonia-based DriveX creates AI-driven vehicle inspection software. UAB Euroglass, a regional Carglass franchisee in Lithuania and Latvia, will offer this software to insurers … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AI, artificial intelligence (AI), Belron, Carglass, DriveX, the Balkans, UAB Euroglass Leave a comment
Belron Charts Three-Year Global Growth Strategy
United Kingdom-based Belron’s three-year growth strategy includes an emphasis on windshield-mounted camera recalibration, strengthening insurance partnerships and expanding mobile services. Belron’s majority shareholder, the D’Ieteren Group, held its yearly investor day on May 14. The group’s management teams presented non-financial … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged Belron, D'Ieteren Group, investor day, investors, Safelite, Safelite Solutions Leave a comment
Claims Avoidance and Weather Hampered Belron’s 2024 Sales, Executives Report
The D’Ieteren Group, which is the majority shareholder of United Kingdom-based Belron, announced its 2024 financial results on Monday, March 10. Executives reported that Belron earned solid growth for the company, though its North American results remained relatively flat. Columbus, … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged 2024 financial results, Belron, D'Ieteren Group, financial results, Safelite 3 Comments
German Court Rules in Belron’s Favor over Right to Repair
A European court ruled in favor of a German auto glass company in a “right to repair” lawsuit. Carglass Germany, which is operated by United Kingdom-based Belron, sued automaker Stellantis over alleged barriers to accessing car data. German auto repair … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged Belron, Carglass Germany, Europe, german court, lawsuit, right to repair Leave a comment
D’Ieteren Group Shares Stay in Family
The D’Ieteren Group announced that a corporate entity has gained voting privileges within the company following a transfer of 3,750,000 profit shares. According to group officials, Nicholas D’Ieteren, chair of the group’s board of directors, contributed those shares to Nayarit … Continue reading
Belron Prices Notes Issued to Fund Debt Repayment
Belron has priced the senior secured notes it’s offering to fund debt repayment, according to D’Ieteren Group officials. United Kingdom-based Belron operates multiple automotive services brands in Europe and the United States, including Columbus, Ohio-based Safelite. Belgium-based D’Ieteren Group is … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged Belron, D'Ieteren Group, debt, financial, senior secured notes, term loan Leave a comment
Belron Announces Debt-Repayment Plan Funded by Other Debt
Belron announced today that it is offering billions of dollars worth of senior secured notes to refinance existing debt and fund a payment to its shareholders. The United Kingdom-based Belron operates Columbus, Ohio-based Safelite. According to company officials, Belron is … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged Belron, D'Ieteren Group, debt, investors, senior secured notes 1 Comment
Belron Announces Syndication of Term Loans
According to company officials, “Belron is launching, subject to market conditions, the syndication of new [$6.9 billion] (equivalent) term loans in a combination of euro and U.S. dollars. The loans issuance is expected to have a 7-year maturity.” Read more … Continue reading
D’Ieteren Group Releases Half-Year Financials
According to the D’Ieteren Group’s half-year financial results for 2024, Belron continues to make a substantial contribution to its profits. The D’Ieteren Group reports an adjusted profit before tax of around $645.5 million, with Belron producing an adjusted profit before … Continue reading
Industry Mourns Popular “Maverick” and Mentor
The auto glass industry lost a beloved figure this week. Wes Topping, the former president of Elite Auto Glass in Denver and the founder of the Chicago Group, passed away in his Arizona home after an illness. Topping was known … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged Belron, Bob Rosenfield, Chicago Group, David Leach, Elite Auto Glass, obituary, Rich Harrison, Wes Topping 1 Comment
Belron Achieves Mixed Sales Success in First Quarter
Belgium-based D’Ieteren Group, which operates Safelite’s parent company, Belron, reported first-quarter 2024 sales of around $3.3 billion, an increase of 5.4% year over year. UK-based Belron’s total sales increased by 5.8% to about $1.6 billion. According to D’Ieteren’s report, “favorable … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged Belron, D'Ieteren Group, Safelite, sales growth, sales results Leave a comment
D’Ieteren Group Publishes 2023 Report, Cites Belron as Main Money Maker
The Belgian company D’Ieteren Group, which owns Belron, published its 2023 annual report on April 29. Belron is the parent company of United States-based Safelite. D’Ieteren Group reports strong financial performance in 2023, with almost $12.5 billion in sales and … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged annual report, Belron, D'Ieteren Group, Safelite Leave a comment
D’Ieteren Group, Owner of Belron, Boasts 2023 Financial Success
On March 5, 2024, D’Ieteren Group held a conference call presenting the results of its 2023 financial year, displaying solid growth. D’Ieteren Group is a Belgium-based company that maintains a portfolio of businesses including Belron, D’Ieteren Automotive, D’Ieteren Immo, Moleskine, … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged 2023 financial report, auto glass, Belron, Belron Annual Results, D'Ieteren Group, Safelite 2 Comments
European Court Rules on Right to Repair
The European Court of Justice ruled that automakers must give companies that work on or with their vehicles access to the data those vehicles generate and allow access to those data systems. In the U.S., consumer advocates launched a pressure … Continue reading
Auto Glass Week™ Sessions Deep Dive into Calibration Growth, Trends and Challenges
Calibration was a big discussion topic during Auto Glass Week (AGW) 2023. The event took place Sept. 19-21 at the Virginia Beach Convention Center in Virginia Beach, Va., bringing together installers, technicians, suppliers and many others. Educational sessions covered a … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines, glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AAA, Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS), AGSC Advanced ADAS Committee, AirPro Diagnostics, Auto Glass Safety Council, Auto Glass Week 2023, Belron, Calibration, calibration trends, Chris Chesney, Chris Sobieski, Don's Mobile Glass, educational sessions, Highway Loss Institute, installers, Jacques Navant, Josh McFarlin, Key Media & Research, market update, Nick St. Denis, Peter Brown, Repairify/asTech, Snap-on Equipment, suppliers, technicians, Tiny and Sons, Virginia Beach Convention Center Leave a comment
Belron Sales Increase 11.5% in First Half of 2023
Belron, the parent of Safelite AutoGlass, reported higher sales for the first six months of 2023 as the company booked more jobs and boosted its recalibration revenues. Belron’s sales totaled $3.07 billion for the first half of the year, an … Continue reading
Gary Lubner Becomes Major Donor for UK’s Labour Party
Former Belron CEO Gary Lubner is poised to become one of the largest donors to the United Kingdom’s Labour Party, with The Week UK reporting that the auto glass magnate may donate approximately $5.3 million USD ahead of the next … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged Belron, Gary Lubner, Labour Party, United Kingdom Leave a comment
Tony Cioffi Takes on New Role at Auto Glass Firm
Tony Cioffi, former president of Lowe’s Canada until March of this year—shortly after Sycamore Partners, a New York City-based private equity firm took over—has been appointed VP of finance at Belron Inc. in Montreal. Click here to read more.
Belron Reports Sales Increase for Q1 2023
D’Ieteren Group recently presented results for the first fiscal quarter of 2023, which include financial data from Belron, owner of Safelite AutoGlass. Belron’s total sales increased by 12% in the first quarter of the year to more than $1.5 billion. … Continue reading
D’Ieteren Group Continues Purchase, Disposal of Own Shares
D’Ieteren Group continues to buy back its own shares as part of a repurchase program launched in 2019, with the company now holding approximately 2.5% of its total ordinary shares outstanding as self-owned treasury stock. Michael Collins of EquiNova Capital … Continue reading
European Commission Approves D’Ieteren’s Acquisition of PHE
The European Commission has approved D’Ieteren’s acquisition of PHE following an investigation into what the development would mean for competition in France’s auto glass repair and replacement industry. While the commission expressed competition concerns, D’Ieteren received approval after agreeing to … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged Belron, D’leteren, European Commission, France, Safelite Leave a comment
Former Safelite President and CEO Tom Feeney Retires
On June 30, Tom Feeney will retire from Safelite after a 35-year career with the auto glass company. Feeny previously served as president and CEO for 14 years, and was credited for the company’s significant growth during that time. Feeney … Continue reading
D’Ieteren Group Resumes Buy Back of Shares, Sets Future Plans
D’Ieteren Group, which owns 50.01% of Belron, the owner of Safelite AutoGlass and Safelite Solutions in the United States, continued its plan this week to buy back shares for nine to 12 months. The Group’s board of directors decided in … Continue reading
Belron and AGC Comment on Russian Invasion of Ukraine
The war between Russia and Ukraine has put lives — and businesses — on hold. Belron, which owns and operates Safelite AutoGlass and Safelite Solutions in the U.S., operates glass services under Carglass® in one location in Ukraine. In November … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGC, auto glass, Belron, Economy, Russia, Sanctions, Ukraine, windscreens 1 Comment
Belron: New Shareholders, CD&R Changes Name in Partnership
Belron, which operates Safelite® AutoGlass and Autoglass®, welcomed new shareholders on December 17. As previously reported, Hellman & Friedman, BlackRock Private Equity Partners and GIC joined the company’s list of shareholders with the completion of the acquisition of a combined … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged 2022, Belron, D'Ieteren Group, shareholders Leave a comment
D’Ieteren Group Outlook is Continued Growth
D’Ieteren Group, which owns 50.01% of Belron, showed a strong recovery in the first half of 2021 compared to 2020. Belron operates Safelite AutoGlass and Safelite Solutions. According to a statement, all businesses owned by the Group contributed to its … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged Belron, COVID19, D'Ieteren Group, financials, Safelite Leave a comment
Lucky 13? D’Ieteren Group Sells 13% to New Shareholders
D’Ieteren Group announced Sunday July 11 that Hellman & Friedman, BlackRock-Managed Funds and GIC are joining the company’s list of shareholders and will acquire up to a total of 13 percent of Belron. This ownership change will give Belron at … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged Autoglass, Belron, Carglass, D’Ieteren, Safelite Leave a comment
Mutares Completes the Acquisition of the Majority Stake in Carglass® Maison Group from Belron
Mutares Completes the Acquisition of the Majority Stake in Carglass® Maison Group from Belron
Belron Allocates New Term Loans
Global auto glass company Belron, parent company of Safelite AutoGlass in the U.S., has launched a syndication in the institutional loan market for new term loans on a best effort basis. According to the company, the new loans of $2.6 … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged Belron, D'Ieteren Group, Safelite AutoGlass Leave a comment
Belron Profits Rise Despite Pandemic and Decreased Sales
D’Ieteren Group presented its full-year 2020 results, including those of Belron (which owns Safelite Autoglass in the United States). Belron’s organic sales declined by 7.5%, though the Group’s profit before tax improved significantly by 44.6% due in part to what … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged Belron, COVID, D'Ieteren Group, Safelite AutoGlass Leave a comment
Autoglass Extends LeasePlan UK Contract
Autoglass, whose parent company is Belron and is headquartered in the UK, announced a two-year extension to its partnership with LeasePlan UK. The renewal of the contract will see Autoglass continue offering its auto glass repair, replacement and recalibration services … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged Autoglass, Belron, Greg Stansfield, LeasePlan UK Leave a comment
Cary Group gets a New Head of Sales
John Bernfell took to social media to announce that he is the new group head of sales for Cary Group, a Swedish-owned company that provides auto care solutions including windshields. Bernfell, who previously worked for Carglass Sweden, whose parent company … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged Belron, Carglass Sweden, Cary Group, John Bernfell Leave a comment
Autoglass Raised Over €1.7M for Charity
Autoglass, alongside sister companies from around the world, announced it has raised over €1.7 ($2,002,532 USD) million for global charity partner Afrika Tikkun at the 2020 Spirit of Belron challenge. This year the event took place virtually for the first … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged Afrika Tikkun, Autoglass, Belron, Spirit of Belron, Taxiarchis Konstantopoulos Leave a comment
Companies on Alert for Potential Scam Emails
An email sent out this morning on behalf of Belron International, Safelite’s parent company, from Humphrey Singer may contain malware. The email contained two attachments, however, it listed “belrone.com” as the sending address, which is not a valid domain, according … Continue reading
Safelite Announces Layoffs and Other Measures in Response to COVID-19
Safelite president and CEO Tom Feeney announced major company changes today, due to the effects of COVID-19 on the auto glass industry. According to Feeney, the company has experienced unprecedented change brought on by unimaginable circumstances. “COVID-19 is a major … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged Belron, changes, COVID-19, New Mexico Governor, Safelite, Tom Feeney 8 Comments
Belron Appoints New CFO
Belron, parent company of Safelite Auto Glass, has recently announced Humphrey Singer will be its new chief finance officer. According to Belron, Singer will succeed Dave Meller, who decided to leave Belron after 17 years and will be working closely … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged Belron, Dave Meller, Gary Lubner, Humphrey Singer, new CFO Leave a comment
Wilson vs. Safelite Lawsuit Comes to an End Through Court of Appeals
The United States’ Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals three judge panel ruled to dismiss Dan Wilson’s lawsuit which highlighted employee benefit plan issues at Safelite Group, Inc. (Safelite) last week. “This dispute centers on what constitutes an employee pension benefit … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged Belron, Dan Wilson, ERISA, retirement lawsuit, Safelite, Safelite Plan, TIP Leave a comment
Belron and AGC Sign Auto Glass Repair and Replacement Franchise Agreement
The Belron group and AGC Automotive Europe (AGC) signed a franchise agreement covering the AGC vehicle glass repair and replacement (VGRR) operations in Poland and Czech Republic. AGC currently operates 37 VGRR locations in Poland under the NordGlass brand and … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGC, AGC Automotive Europe, Belron, Michel Spina, Nigel Doggett, Poland, VGRR Leave a comment
Belron Group Celebrates Its Largest Distribution Center’s Grand Opening
Belron officially opened its new European distribution center in Bilzen, Belgium. According to the company, it’s the largest distribution warehouse of its kind in the world, holding 300,000 windscreens and six million parts and accessories. The new center manages deliveries … Continue reading
Axel Miller Leaves D’Ieteren
Due to a disagreement on visions D’Ieteren’s future, its board of directors announced today that Axel Miller will leave his position as CEO, managing director and other positions he held within the company and its subsidiaries. Belron owns Safelite Autoglass … Continue reading
Belron Annual Report Shows Another Upswing
Belron reported another successful year of growth in its annual report. The company credits its Fit for Growth program and selling its operations in Russia and Turkey as contributing to the increases in its fourth quarter. Belron owns Safelite Autoglass … Continue reading
D’Ietern Annual Results Show Overall Growth
D’Ietern’s full yearly results showed growth in areas including its automotive division. The international company owns a majority share in Belron, the parent company of Safelite Autoglass. There were several points of interest the company highlighted within its report regarding … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged 2018 full year report, Belron, D'Ietern, D’Ieteren Auto, financial repot, KPI, Sales Leave a comment
Ronald Lubner, Belron Founder Passes Away
Ronald (Ronnie) Lubner passed away December 27th in South Africa after a brief illness at age 84. He was the second generation behind the PG Group (formerly Plate Glass) which he joined as a teenager and was the driving force … Continue reading
Ronald Lubner, Belron Founder Passes Away
Ronald (Ronnie) Lubner passed away December 27th in South Africa after a brief illness at age 84. To view the official release, click here. More information will be provided as it becomes available.
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged Belron, Belron International, Ronnie Lubner Leave a comment
Belron’s $455 Million Term Loan Takes Shape
Belron’s latest multi-million dollar transaction is set to close early next week. According to the company, it successfully allocated a term loan of $455 million. Some of the loan requirements include its total amount being $400 euros, in addition to … Continue reading
Belron Launches New $455 Million Loan
Belron is launching a 7-year “Term Loan B” of approximately $455 million U.S. dollars (400 million Euro). The term loan is intended to be denominated in USD and would be issued by Belron Finance US LLC. The proceeds of the term … Continue reading
Belron Half Year Results Provide Interesting Nuggets
D’Ietern’s half yearly results, released on August 30, included all the usual financial reports and ratios you would expect from a large international company. D’Iteren owns Belron, the parent company of Safelite Autoglass. There were some interesting nuggets of information … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged Belron, Belron first half 2018, D'Ietern, Safelite AutoGlass Leave a comment
Belron Seeing an Upswing For Half of 2018
Belron has grown for the first half of 2018, according to the company’s first half financial reports released last week. Its combined sales reached $2,274.95 million, up by 8.3 percent. The company’s consolidated result before taxes jumped nearly 6 percent, … Continue reading
Half-Year Results Show Increase for D’Ieteren
D’Ieteren has seen consistent growth for the first half of 2018, according to the company’s second half financial reports released today. It’s adjusted result before tax group’s share increased by 17.8 percent. The company’s adjusted result before tax, group’s share … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged 2018 half year results, auto sales, Belron, D’Ieteren Leave a comment
Feeney: Reports on My Demise are False
Tom Feeney thinks he and Mark Twain have something in common. The Safelite CEO echoes one of the Midwest’s most prolific writers, saying that reports of his demise have been greatly exaggerated. In a wide-ranging interview with glassBYTEs.com/AGRR magazine on … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged Belron, Feeney Demise, Nigel Doggett, Ralph Hosker, Safelite, Tom Feeney Leave a comment
Belron’s Ten Week Startup Program
Three startups were featured in Belron’s Drive With Belron program in hopes of gaining future investments. Belron teamed up with L Marks for this project and have a combined total of $227,341 to invest in the startups. At the end … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged Belron, Bonobo, Drive with Belron, RightInDem, Soft Edge, startup Leave a comment
Belron Reports Increased Sales in First Quarter Trading Update
Belron’s sales rose 4.1 percent in 2018’s first-quarter trading update, the company reported this week. That figure represents a 9.6 percent organic increase. The company said its consumer base also grew to 4.2 million served. That’s an increase of 7.2 … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged auto glass, Belron, Belron First Quarter 2018, car glass, Safelite 1 Comment
Belron Says 2017 Was Extraordinary in Annual Report
Belron released its 2017 annual report and Gary Lubner, CEO, reported several achievements. Among them was the fact that the company extended its services into home repair, added a new shareholder and expanded the company’s Safelite Solutions program. The report … Continue reading
Belron Announces 2018 Drive Cohort
Belron has selected four startup companies to work with in its annual “Drive with Belron Programme.” “They will be helping us to think differently and trial innovative solutions to Belron’s market challenges,” writes the company. The four startup companies chosen … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged Belron, Bonobo, RightInDem, SoftEdge, WorkTango Leave a comment
Belron Makes Deal with Smart-Location Application Company
Belron has signed a global deal with Locpin, a smart-location application company that makes a solution designed to help technicians find the vehicle requiring repair. The partnership follows a trial between the companies working together in the United States. In … Continue reading
Belron Net Debt Up, 2018 Outlook
In D’Ieteren’s annual report issued February 28, Belron, parent company to Safelite AutoGlass, reported that its net financial debt increased in 2017 to $1 billion (EUR 1,271.9 million), a 54-percent increase on a year-over-year basis. Belron’s refinancing was complete in … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged Belron, D'Ieteren Group, Safelite, Safelite AutoGlass Leave a comment
Belron Experienced Strong Sales Growth, Despite a Slow Start for Safelite
Belron’s revenue increased by 5.5 percent in comparison to 2016, despite a mild winter in the United States, which negatively impacted Safelite’s sales in the first quarter, according to D’Ieteren’s 2017 financial report. D’Ieteren, a Belgium-based company, owns Belron, which … Continue reading
Autoglass Launches Artificial Intelligence Technology
Autoglass, a vehicle glass repair and replacement company based in the UK and owned by Belron, says it has successfully trialed the latest Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology to assess the severity of vehicle glass damage. The company says this can … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged artificial intelligence, Autoglass, Belron, windshield, windshield replacement Leave a comment
Belron Enters an Agreement to Acquire the Assets and Operations of Laser Group in Australia and New Zealand
In alignment with its service extension strategy, Belron, parent company to Safelite AutoGlass, has entered into an agreement to acquire Laser Plumbing and Electrical Group ANZ (Laser Group). The company is a provider of plumbing and electrical services to both … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines, glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged Belron, Laser Group, Safelite Leave a comment
Belron Continues Start-up Accelerator Program
Belron, parent company of Safelite, in partnership with L Marks, announced recently that it plans to run its “Drive with Belron” startup accelerator program for a third year. The program, which accepts applicants from six continents including North America, is … Continue reading
Clayton, Dubilier & Rice Sign Definitive Agreement with D’Ieteren
D’Ieteren announced it has signed a definitive agreement with Clayton, Dubilier & Rice (CD&R) regarding a partnership investment in Belron, parent company of Safelite AutoGlass. Under the agreement, CD&R will acquire 40-percent ownership interest in the Belron group, and D’Ieteren … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged Belron, Clayton Dubilier & Rice, D’Ieteren, Hertz, Safelite AutoGlass Leave a comment
D’Ieteren and Clayton, Dubilier & Rice Enter Exclusive Discussions Regarding Partnership Investment in Belron
D’Ieteren and Clayton, Dubilier & Rice (CD&R), a global private investment firm, announced that they have entered into exclusive discussions under which CD&R-managed funds would acquire a 40-percent ownership interest in the Belron group. Under the proposed agreement, D’Ieteren and … Continue reading
Belron Enters the Home Repair Market in Europe
Belron has announced the acquisition of 80 percent of the shares of Maisoning Group, a French company providing home repair services (repair, renovation and emergency repairs) to both B2C and B2B customers. This acquisition is fully aligned to Belron’s service … 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
Safelite Responds to Campfield’s Complaint
Safelite Group, Safelite Solutions and Safelite Fulfillment LLC have responded to complaints made by Rich Campfield, founder of Ultra Bond, in his 2015 lawsuit against the company alleging it utilizes misleading advertising, damaging his business and depriving consumers of the … Continue reading
Lubner Discusses State of Belron in D’Ieteren Annual Report
Belron continues to face a declining market in a number of developed economies, says Belron CEO Gary Lubner in D’Ieteren’s 2016 annual report. This, he says, is due to a reduced number of auto glass repairs and replacement due to … Continue reading
Belron: Cashflow Snapshot
Belron released its 2016 financial results earlier this week and today glassBYTES offers a look at its cash flow for the company’s vehicle segment. Statement of Cash Flows for Belron (Vehicle Glass Operating Segment) in millions of US Dollars Cash … Continue reading
D’Ieteren Full Financial Report and Break Down of 2016
The 2016 financial statement released by the Belgian company s.a. D’Ieteren n.v., (D’Ieteren) on Monday provides a fascinating look at its diverse holdings, including its vehicle glass division, known as Belron. Belron also owns Safelite AutoGlass in the United States. According to the report, Belron serves 33 countries worldwide through its 2400 branches and 10,000 mobile vans. It trades under more than 10 major brand names including Carglass® and Autoglass®, as well as Safelite AutoGlass. Continue reading
D’Ieteren Reports Successful Market Growth in 2016
D’Ieteren has reported a strong financial year in both sales and growth. Belgium-based D’Ieteren owns Belron, which in turn owns Safelite AutoGlass in the U.S. The company credits its progress to market trends, to a Belron gain in market share … Continue reading
D’Ieteren Trading Update Reports Belron Impairments
The owner of the world’s largest auto glass company released its trading update, which included an announcement of a $139 million USD (134 million Euro) impairment charge against that auto glass provider, Belron. Continue reading
Autoglass® Helps Raise More Than 1 Million Euros for Charity
The Autoglass® two-day Spirit of Belron® Challenge, held September 23-24 in the United Kingdom, raised more than €1 million ($1.1 million USD) for the charity Afrika Tikkun. Continue reading
D’Ieteren to Acquire 41 Percent Stake in Moleskine, Plans Public Takeover Offer
Belgium-based D’Ieteren is acquiring a 41 percent stake in Milan-based Moleskine—a developer and seller of specialized notebooks, as well as writing, travel and reading accessories—and plans to launch a public takeover offer for the remaining shares. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged Autoglass, Belron, D’Ieteren, Moleskine, Safelite 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
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
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
Belron Attributes Same-Store Growth Largely to U.S.
Belron’s organic sales from continuing operations grew 6 percent in the first quarter thanks in large part to continued market gains in the United States, according to D’Ieteren’s first quarter update. Belgium-based D’Ieteren owns Belron, which in turn owns Safelite … 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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
What Were the Top Stories of 2015?
From driverless vehicles to criminal charges, acquisitions and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) calibration, 2015 was a big year for the AGRR industry. News from the big technology show in Las Vegas—CES—Safelite, C.R. Laurence, Belron, Pittsburgh Glass Works (PGW) and … Continue reading
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Belron’s Six-Month Sales Down 0.5 Percent
D’Ieteren, parent company to Belron and Safelite, reports that six-month sales for the automotive glass repair and replacement division are down 0.5 percent. The “extreme winter weather in the U.S. and market share gains in a majority of countries,” bolstered results. However, an “exceptionally mild winter weather in Northern Europe” had a negative impact. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, AGRR magazine, Belron, Belron Six-Month Sales, D’Ieteren, glassBYTEs.com, Safelite 1 Comment
Belron’s First-Quarter Sales Up 1 Percent
D’Ieteren, parent company to Belron and Safelite, reported that first quarter automotive glass repair and replacement sales were one percent higher over the same period of 2013 largely due to a 3.1 percent organic increase and 2.2 percent growth from acquisitions. Sales were negatively impacted by “unexpected unfavorable weather conditions in Northern Europe, which resulted in temporary overcapacity in those geographies,” officials wrote in the company’s report. Continue reading
D’Ieteren Outlines Belron’s Business in General Presentation
In a presentation earlier this year available on the web, D’Ieteren’s management delved into how Belron contributes to the parent company. The company has two main divisions—Belron and D’Ieteren Auto. Belron, its vehicle glass repair and replacement business, which includes Safelite, contributes 52 percent of sales to the parent company, while its operating result represents 79 percent of business. Ninety-four percent of the company’s staff falls into the Belron category—25,645 individuals. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, AGRR magazine, automotive glass, Belron, D’Ieteren, glassBYTEs.com Leave a comment
Belron Selects Coprocess’ for Netting Software
Belron recently chose multilateral netting software hosted by Coprocess. The system will encompass Belron Group’s treasury operations, including Autoglass and Carglass. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, AGRR magazine, automotive glass, Belron, Coprocess, glassBYTEs.com, netting software Leave a comment
Belron Says Full-Year AGRR Jobs Grew
D’Ieteren, parent company to Belron and Safelite, reported today that full-year 2013 automotive glass repair and replacement jobs are up by 4.6 percent to 10.8 million. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged AGRR, AGRR magazine, Belron, Belron Annual Results, D-Ieteren, glassBYTEs.com, Safelite 1 Comment
Glass Medic to Serve Belron and Safelite Exclusively
Belron is closing Glass Medic’s Columbus, Ohio, distribution center. The company will now serve Belron’s business units exclusively, including Safelite, according to Melina Metzger, public relations manager for Safelite.
Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Original Story Tagged Belron, Belron Technical, Glass Medic, Melina Metzger, Safelite 7 Comments
Beckers Appointed Independent Director to D’Ieteren Board
The D’Ieteren Board of Directors has appointed Pierre-Olivier Beckers by co-optation as an independent director. The ratification of this appointment is subject to the approval of the shareholders at the ordinary general meeting on June 5, 2014. D’Ieteren is the parent company for Belron and Safelite. Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged AGRR, Belron, Cobepa, Delhaize Group, D’Ieteren, glassBYTEs.com, Pierre-Olivier Beckers, Roland D’Ieteren, Safelite Leave a comment
Safelite Group Announces Gerry Tann’s Retirement
Safelite® Group announces the retirement of Gerry Tann, vice president of field sales, as of September 26, 2013. Tann joined Safelite 23 years ago and has served in many roles, including assistant vice president of Service AutoGlass® and commercial and … Continue reading
Posted in glassBYTEs Headlines Tagged Belron, Cindy Rowe, Elite Auto Glass, Gerry Tann, Giant Glass, Klein-Dickert, Royal Glass, Safelite, Windshield World Leave a comment