HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill. – I-CAR is seeking a Canadian firm to which it can transition its Canadian operations for collision repair training. Operations in Canada are continuing as usual while the training organization seeks a potential licensee.
At the Canadian Collision Industry Forum (CCIF) meeting in Toronto on Jan. 24 I-CAR Chairman Robby Robbs explained that the move is “in response to the International Board of Directors’ mandate that the Canadian market establish the manner in which I-CAR would be best structured to serve the industry."
“Early indications of market interest are encouraging,” Robbs said. “However, I would strongly suggest that now is the time for industry leaders at a national, regional and local level across all industry segments to step up.”
He cautioned that without I-CAR “the industry is at risk of each repair serving as the training ground for new technology.”
I-CAR is moving aggressively through the process and expects to complete the transition by the end of 2009.
“We are continuing to do what we do — scheduling I-CAR classes, conducting I-CAR training and working to support the training needs of the inter-industry,” said John Edelen, president and CEO. “We intend to continue to do so as we transition to a Canadian industry-supported alternative.”
Robbs said, “As a fellow Canadian, I am hoping the industry in our country recognizes the opportunity that is available to it and rises to the challenges that lie ahead.” He added, “What you have before you is a call for action and it is now up to the collision repair industry to decide what it wants and to engage.”
Interested parties should submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) by March 1 to be invited to move further in the process and to submit a detailed proposal outlining a business plan that will successfully incorporate the I-CAR vision in future operations in Canada. The I-CAR Canadian Task Force will evaluate proposals in mid-June and hopes to have a recommendation for a licensee in July.
Canadian firms interested in submitting an EOI can visit the I-CAR website at www.i-car.ca/eoi.
