The Automotive Parts  Services Association (APSA), a multi-state trade association of the automotive aftermarket industry, recently joined the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) as an affiliate association to bolster APSA’s recently formed collision segment. APSA covers 10 states and represents several aftermarket industries, including independent auto parts and paint stores, machine shops, engine rebuilders, automotive repair facilities and collision repair shops.

APSA’s collision division, which is exclusive to Texas, formed in 2007 and spurred the association’s desire to affiliate with the SCRS.
 
“Collision repairers are facing many challenges these days, and it seemed like the right time to form a division that addressed their needs,” APSA President Jim Quinten said. “Though moving into the body shop industry was natural for us…we knew we needed additional support. We chose to affiliate with SCRS because their industry expertise is impressive. Their knowledgeable perspective and the information they provide will help get our collision division off to a fast start.”
 
The SCRS believes APSA’s history of association leadership, including its experience handling issues surrounding member retention, member benefits and legislation initiatives, make it a sound addition to SCRS.
 
“The meetings we have had with them to date leave no doubt that they believe in cooperation as a means to get things done, as do we,” SCRS Chairman Gary Wano said.