Alternate Paths To Profitability Under Discussion At Fall Seminar

"Busy but Broke" is the theme of a half-day seminar for the collision repair sector offered at Automechanika Canada. The seminar will focus on success alternatives to the traditional business model of the collision repair industry.

Speakers Will Include:

. An Ontario shop manager which will discuss how his facility is able to maintain a positive working relationship with insurers without the benefit of DRP's and is able to achieve $2 to $3 million in annual sales with a door rate of $76.00 per hour.
. A U.S. shop owner with a 28,000 square foot shop will discuss how he has increased his profits by continuing his relationship with two $1 million insurance companies after discontinuing their DRP program.
. Various shop owners, including a banner franchise operator with significant DRP work, eager to discuss alternative methods for shop profitability.

The seminar will also discuss several business cases in which shops have decreased their DRP work but increased rates or profitability.
The National Collision Repair Workshop on alternative profitability will be held on Thursday, September 27, once in the morning and again in the afternoon. The workshop takes place at Automechanika Canada, in the International Centre, Toronto.

The cost for the morning or afternoon session is $99.00 plus GST per person. This includes one VIP pass for Automechanika Canada as well as an invitation to the Beer and BBQ event on Thursday evening.

If you wish to participate contact 1-866-309-4272, register online at www.ciia.com or e-mail info@ciia.com .

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STAN GRIFFIN RETIRES FROM IBC

Toronto - After serving the Canadian P&C insurance industry for 32 years, Stanley I. Griffin, President and CEO, Insurance Bureau of Canada, has announced he will be retiring at the end of the year. Mr. Griffin first joined IBC in 1975, ultimately reaching the position of President and CEO in 2002.

"Stan has made an immeasurable contribution to our industry over the years through his various roles at IBC and Facility Association," said IBC Chair Mike Donoghue, President and CEO of Allstate Insurance Company of Canada. "In particular, he has been a terrific leader for IBC for the past five years, which has been a landmark period for our industry.

"IBC achievements under Stan's guidance include unprecedented auto insurance reform in six provinces and a very significant improvement in consumer confidence in the industry following a very difficult hard market. These accomplishments were due in large part to Stan's thoughtful and measured leadership."

Stan was instrumental in guiding IBC through its mandate renewal process, resulting in a strengthened and reinvigorated trade association. Also under Stan's leadership, the industry developed, and is currently implementing, groundbreaking Standards of Sound Marketplace Practice. The Standards provide a road map to a more risk-based regulatory environment and a consumer-focused future for the industry.

During his nearly 30 years at IBC, Mr. Griffin has held a number of senior roles, including Executive Vice-President of Regional Operations, overseeing the operations of regional offices in Halifax, Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto, Edmonton and Vancouver. Mr. Griffin was also the first Vice-President of the Ontario region, where he spearheaded many negotiations with successive governments in the province, resulting in substantial changes to Ontario's auto insurance laws. From August 1999 to June 2001, Mr. Griffin was President and CEO of Facility Association.

Mr. Griffin's successor as President and CEO will be Mark Yakabuski, who is currently Vice-President, Ontario and Federal Affairs, IBC.

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International Trade Commission Denies Keystone Automotive's Motion to Reconsider; Ruling Enters Mandatory 60-Day Presidential Review Period

General Exclusion Order For Certain Ford Parts Imposed

POMONA, Calif., June 8, 2007 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- Keystone Automotive Industries, Inc. (Nasdaq:KEYS) today announced that it has received notification from the International Trade Commission denying the respondent's petition for reconsideration, terminating its investigation, and issuing a general exclusion order. The general exclusion order prohibits the importation by any importer of aftermarket collision parts that violate any of Ford's seven design patents that were previously determined to be valid.

Keystone and the other respondents filed the petition for reconsideration with the Commission one day after the United States Supreme Court's April 30, 2007 decision in KSR International Co. v. Teleflex Inc.

"As we have continuously stated, the industry and consumers greatly benefit from the utilization of quality replacement parts and a competitive marketplace. There are clearly broader issues related to the validity of design patents in the collision industry, and they need to be addressed. The International Trade Commission's determination was not surprising and we intend to vigorously defend our position on behalf of our shareholders and consumers. We look forward to a successful resolution of this matter," said Rick Keister, chief executive officer of Keystone.

Keister indicated that parts currently offered by Keystone related to this ruling represented less than 0.1 percent of the company's total sales in fiscal 2007.

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Ross Gilmour passed away suddenly at home on Wednesday, July 18, 2007 at the age of 51. Surviving by his wife Brenda, daughters Amanda Lee and Melissa Louise, his sister Mary Ellen Wegener (Fred) and brother-in-law Jim Patterson (Bridgette). Ross was an appraiser for the Co-Operators Insurance for 20 years. As expressions of sympathy, donations can be made to the Lincoln County Humane Society or the Arthritis Society would be appreciated by the family. On-line condolences available at www.butlerniagara.ca or telephone (905)646- 6322.

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CARSTAR Charity Car Wash Event Raises $65,000

The Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CCFF) and other local fundraising groups 'cleaned up' at the fourth annual CARSTAR 'Soaps it Up' for Cystic Fibrosis (CF) National Car Wash Day. More than 70 CARSTAR collision repair centres across Canada participated in the car wash event, which raised more than $65,000 for charity.

"This year's 'Soaps it Up' fundraising campaign has been the best yet," said Sam Mercanti, president and CEO, CARSTAR Automotive Canada. "Our franchisees and partners as well as the CCFF Chapter volunteers and the volunteers from local fundraising groups across the country continue to wow us with the effort they put in to making this event such a great success. We are very thankful to everyone for all of their hard work and support."

Volunteers washed about 5,000 vehicles during the event, which took place on Father's Day weekend. A major focus of this year's campaign was recognizing dads and especially the dedicated dads who care for children with CF. "Every year we are inspired by the families we meet who are fighting their own battle against CF. Being able to celebrate dads in particular was very special for us," said Mercanti.

This year, the campaign welcomed two new sponsors, Quiznos Sub and Shell. All of the money raised at the event will go to support the CCFF as well as local sports teams and community groups.

"The whole CF community is deeply grateful to CARSTAR and its employees for their strong support of the Foundation's programs of CF research and care. These programs are vital, and are helping young Canadians with cystic fibrosis to live longer and healthier lives," said Cathleen Morrison, CEO of the Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

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SPONSORS ENSURE SUCCESSFUL GOLF TOURNAMENT
38th Annual Golden Horseshoe Tournament
set for Tuesday, June 26 .

For thirty-eight years, professionals in the collision repair industry have met for a friendly game of golf, conversation and competition. The 38th Annual HARA Golden Horseshoe Golf Tournament is being held this year on Tuesday, June 26 at the Flamborough Hills Golf Course in Copetown, Ontario.

With over 125 golfers playing a "best-ball" type event, game day will be fun and valuable for all.

This Year's Sponsors Ensuring A
Successful Day Are:

• Akzo Nobel Coatings
  
• Audatex
  
• BASF Canada
  
• Canada Brokerlink (Ontario)
  
• Carcone's Auto Recycling
  
• Dominion Auto Wreckers
  
• DuPont Canada
  
• Fix Auto
  
• Maaco Systems Canada
  
• Miller's Auto Recycling
  
• MPX Data Systems
  
• Ontario Service Safety Alliance
  
• Pipeline Automotive Warehouse
  
• PPG Canada
  
• Standard Auto Wreckers
  
• Sherwin Williams Automotive Refinishing
  
• Treschak Enterprises

"Without the kind support of the sponsors for the tournament, this event would not be possible. The association thanks them for their assistance." says Golf Tournament organizer Michelle Bolan of the HARA office.

With special offerings like a choice of vehicles to be won with a hole-in-one, give-aways on the course and with a major draw prize after the steak dinner, all players should have an enjoyable time.

For more information contact Michelle at 1 866 309 4272 or info@ciia.com

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THE NATIONAL COLLISION REPAIR WORKSHOPS
at Automechanika Canada present

BUSY BUT BROKE

Successful alternative profitability models in collision
repair in Canada

In the very tough and volatile Canadian marketplace, body shop owners are tense and concerned about their future.  There are alternatives to the traditional business model that has body shops scrambling to achieve 3 to 5 percent profitability.

Speakers will include:
•  An Ontario collision repair shop manager will discuss how his facility is able to maintain a positive working relationship with insurers without the benefit of DRPs and is able to achieve two to three million dollars in annual sales with a door rate of $76.00 per hour.
•  A U.S. shop owner with a 28,000 square foot shop will discuss how he has increased his profits by continuing his relationship with two one million dollar insurance companies after discontinuing their DRP program.
•  Shop owners, including a banner franchise operator with significant DRP work, are eager to discuss alternative methods for shop profitability.

We will also discuss:
•  How a group of Canadian shops have decreased their DRPs from twelve to two companies, but were able to increase their door rate to $57.00 per hour.
•  How shop owners are taking on a "CASH ONLY" policy, having the insurance company paying the customer directly. In the case of a customer pay job the customer will have the option of using the shop's consumer credit program.
•  How a multi shop owner that discontinued his relationship with a franchise after five years has increased his profits by returning to independent.
•  How a shop in Central Canada that was doing $3.2 million dollars in DRP sales is now doing $1.2 million dollars without DRPs but with an increase in profit.
•  How Canadian shop owners are insisting on their posted door rate, at times receiving the difference between their invoice and an insurance payment from the customer.

Also featured at the workshop:
•  The difference in shops conversion to low-VOC products in Canada and the European Union.
•  Shops that make most of their money by NOT repairing vehicles. The fees debate, are they bandits or just standing tough in their marketplace?
•  Why so many shops and insurers are ending up in court. Why can't we just get along?
•  Insurance impacts on a shop, from auto renewal rate increases to rebate regulations.

The National Collision Repair Workshop on alternative profitability will be held on Thursday, September 27, 2007, once in the morning and again in the afternoon at Automechanika Canada / CarFixWorld located at the International Centre on Airport Road in Toronto.

Cost:
Morning or Afternoon Session $99.00 plus GST per person, includes one VIP pass for the show ($35.00 value) as well as an invitation to the Beer and BBQ event on Thursday evening. 

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NATA presents FREE Career Day Forum at Automechanika Canada / CarFixWORLD

Canada’s Largest Automotive Apprenticeship & Job Fair

On Friday, September 28, 2007 the National Automotive Trades Association (NATA) will be proud to welcome thousands of young people attending Automechanika Canada / CarFixWorld Motive Power Career Day at the International Centre on Airport Road in Mississauga (10:00 am to 3:00 pm).

Focused on apprentices and senior students that are interested in motive power repair.
A jam-packed day filled with:

�� Recruitment Opportunities
�� In Person Employer Interviews
�� 6-Minute Interviews
�� Celebrities
�� Competitions
�� Workshops, Speakers
�� Overhaulin’/Demos
�� Product Demos
�� Prizes and much more!

Featuring:

�� CASTROL’s Solstice racer, as well as the builder
�� apprenticesearch.com’s race car
�� Smokin’ Joe’s Avenger Pro Modified racer
�� Pit Stop tire change competition and tire changing race
�� Dozens of exhibitors and suppliers
�� Air bag detonation demo
�� Special stage events
�� Canada Skills Ontario presentations
�� Guest speakers - how to become an apprentice in any auto repair trade

Enter to Win for yourself:
One $ 50.00 parts voucher courtesy of Standard Auto Wreckers
OR
One of two $100.00 parts vouchers courtesy of Standard Auto Wreckers

Enter to Win for your school:
A vehicle for your school’s auto lab
$ 400.00 parts voucher, courtesy of Standard Auto Wreckers
Frame dimensioning and estimating software, courtesy of Mitchell International

Here to help you: Apprenticeship Staff, College Staff, OYAP, Co-Op, Job Connect, as well as many others.

For more information on NATA’s Career Day contact 1-866-309-4272 or info@ciia.com
Exhibitor Information: www.automechanikaCanada.com
Want to understand apprenticeship?
Log on to www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/tcu/apprentices/aboutapprenticeship.html

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Helping the Collision Repair & Auto Refinish Industry in:
Hamilton-Wentworth · Halton · Brant · Niagara Peninsula

The 38th Anniversary HARA Annual Golden Horseshoe Golf Tournament Is Fast Approaching

NEW LOCATION!

DECREASE IN COST!

On Tuesday, June 26, 2007 , Flamborough Hills Golf Club will be the new location for an enjoyable day of golf.

This is our invitation to you to participate in this exciting event.

We encourage you to invite friends, family and associates to join your foursome.

Your registration form is enclosed. Please fill it out at your earliest convenience
and fax back to our office at (905) 545-3440. You may also contact Michelle
directly at 1-866-309-4272, register on-line at www.ciia.com or e-mail your request to info@ciia.com . Please ensure that we receive your registration and paymentby June 1, 2007.

The cost of the day's event is $135.00 (GST included), with an 11:00 am start.
Golf carts, an evening reception and a terrific steak dinner are included.

Our search for great door prizes is on. If you wish to donate one, please call
(905) 545-3388 or toll free1-866-309-4272.

We'd also like to remind you that sponsors for this event are welcomed and
greatly appreciated.

We look forward to seeing you on June 26th!

PRE-PAYMENT IS MANDATORY

"To represent the best interests of the industry, providing opportunities for
the growth for environmentally sound, profitable businesses, having trained professionals serving the public"
P.O. Box 47594, Centre Mall, Hamilton, Ontario L8H 7S7
Phone: (905) 545-3388 Toll Free: 1-866-309-4272 Fax: (905) 545-3440
E-Mail: info@ciia.com Web: www.ciia.com and www.autobodyhelp.ca

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AUTOMECHANIKA
CANADA

SEPTEMBER 26-28, 2007
INTERNATIONAL CENTRE, TORONTO, ONTARIO, CANADA

When would you be most likely to attend a trade show and/or conference program at the International Centre in Toronto, Canada?

Please check all that apply:

Wednesday
10am - 5pm 
12pm - 4pm 
4pm - 8pm 

Thursday
10am - 5pm 
12pm - 4pm 
4pm - 8pm 

Friday
10 - 3 
11 - 4 

Saturday
10 - 5 

(SEE HEADLINES)

Messe Frankfurt, the producer of eleven Automechanika automotive trade shows around the globe, is teaming up with CarFixWORLD to make Canada number twelve. With over 250 exhibitors and 4,000 attendees anticipated, Automechanika Canada is destined to be our country's largest aftermarket trade show.

To be held September 26-28 at Toronto's International Centre, the show has to be considered a giant leap forward for the Business Information Group (BIG). The publisher of SSGM and other automotive industry magazines, BIG realized that many players in the Canadian aftermarket - suppliers and retailers alike - wanted a comprehensive trade show.

"BIG's intuition and knowledge of the industry encouraged them to bankroll the inaugural CarFixWORLD event held last fall. To leverage that initial success into a partnership with Messe Frankfurt, and roll out Automechanika Canada a mere year later, well... I think that's praiseworthy to say the least," observed HARA President Tony Nigro. HARA ( the Hamilton District Autobody Repair Association), was the prime organizer of the Career Day event at last year's CarFixWORLD show with almost 3000 interested students attending and learning. For more information on Career Day, see: http://www.ciia.com/provinces/ontario/november06.html#2600

Anyone inclined to go "ho, hum" concerning the joint Messe Frankfurt/BIG announcement is missing its significance, according to Burkimsher. This puts the city of Toronto and the Canadian aftermarket on an international stage with Bangkok, Buenos Aires, Dubai, Istanbul, Kuala Lumpur, Mexico City, Moscow, Rome, Shanghai, St. Petersburg and, of course, Frankfurt, where the Automechanika brand had its beginning, he said.

The 2006 Automechanika show in Frankfurt attracted an astounding 165,000 visitors, 40 percent of them from outside Germany. These attendees included a significant increase in top decision makers from previous years. In addition, 96 percent of all visitors were satisfied with the exhibits and product groups at the show. This growth and satisfaction is a trend throughout all the Automechanika shows worldwide, confirming a positive outlook for the future of the industry.

Automechanika Canada will cover the entire spectrum of the aftermarket:

Featured product groups will include parts & systems, accessories & tuning, repair & maintenance, service station & car wash and tires & wheels. Additional programs will include conference sessions featuring product innovation and technical training, career opportunities for apprentices and students, product demonstrations, and industry displays. The three-day event will offer exhibitors the opportunity to showcase their products to thousands of service and repair shop owners, technicians, installers, jobbers, media, and industry professionals.

Discussions are underway with the Ontario affiliates of NATA - the National Automotive Trades Association to again manage the 'Career Day' student activities at the show. AARO and HARA, the Hamilton District Autobody Repair Association, are the current Ontario-based members of NATA, a national affiliation of 'grassroots' service provider organizations.

For further information, visit www.AutomechanikaCanada.ca

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Top Ten Steps To A Safer And More Profitable Shop (20 pages)

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Autobody Profitability Workbook (82 pages)

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Issues Facing The Canadian Collision Repair Industry (39 pages)

NOTE: To view these files you must have the Adobe Acrobat Reader installed on your computer. This Reader is free and you can download it from the Adobe Website