The Midwest Auto Body Trade Show, sponsored by the Iowa Collision Repair Association (ICRA), will kick off its third year with an industry issues luncheon “There Is No Free Lunch” on March 28 in Altoona, Iowa.
Like this article? Sign up to receive our weekly news blasts here.This session will address insurer parts procurement demands and the proposed Iowa Senate Bill 42, which requests an interim study on automobile insurance direct repair programs.
Iowa Senator Brad Zaun, who introduced the bill, will be speaking at the luncheon. Joining Senator Zaun at the podium will be ICRA lobbyist Scott Weiser. The parts procurement discussion will include insurance representatives, collision repairers and parts managers.
After the luncheon the trade show opens at 2 p.m. Space has been added to facilitate more than 60 vendor booths this year.
“The grass roots approach with our members and vendors has proven to be a tremendous success for this industry event,” says John Arnold of Arnolds Body Shop in Davenport, Iowa, who also is vice president of ICRA.
The Midwest Auto Body Trade Show is a free inter-industry event, inviting collision repairers, insurers, vendors and students from the Midwest. Product demonstrations and educational classes will be held on the stage in the same room as the trade show.
“This is a very dynamic show, with everyone in the room for the entire event, it creates a great atmosphere for all the participants,” says Mark Martin of Ankeny Auto Body.
Free education programs will examine social media, OSHA hazard communication, global harmonization rule, plastic repair and more. Show specials, gift certificates, special attendee show discounts and door prizes will be offered. New car models will be on display on the show floor.
Manufacturers will be bringing the latest equipment and information to address the challenges of new technology, both in the automobile and in the office.
ICRA President Dale Wilgenbusch of Avalon Body Shop in Rickardsville, Iowa, says "This is a great venue for our industry to get together and learn more about what we do.
The Midwest Auto Body Trade Show and industry issues luncheon is March 28, 2013 at Prairie Meadows in Altoona, Iowa. The luncheon costs $25. Sign up online for the luncheon at www.iowacra.com. Trade show hours are from 2 to 7 p.m. If you have questions, call Janet Chaney at (480) 720-2565.
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