The Iowa Collision Repair Association (ICRA), an affiliate of the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS), has announced that it has joined SCRS and other collision industry associations in condemning third-party mandates upon collision repair businesses.
ICRA says it supports and endorses the position SCRS stated in early September regarding mandates that the insurance industry imposes on the collision repair industry. In particular, the statement addressed State Farm’s rollout of the PartsTrader electronic parts procurement program.
"The rules of the game are changing, and it is
apparent that maintaining the relationships and negotiated deals of
participating repair facilities is only a priority, so long as all
involved submit to do business in the manner prescribed by State Farm
Insurance and other carriers with similar programs," SCRS stated. "Today, these
mandates address parts sourcing and ordering, but there is valid concern
that they open the door to future market manipulation and influence
over other similarly critical collision business purchasing habits as
well."
More information:
SCRS Issues Position Statement on Insurer Mandates
Indiana Autobody Association Announces Support of SCRS Position on Insurer Mandates