The first multi-shop operator (MSO) symposium, held during Automotive Service & Repair Week (ASRW) 2011 in Orlando, attracted 130 MSOs and exceeded all expectations and attendance goals, according to event organizers. The day-long event was held Oct. 6.
"While many of NACE’s show features focus on the independent shop owner, we wanted to also address the specialized needs of MSOs," said Ron Nagy, AAM, 2011 NACE chairman. "Our experience with this year’s event gives us a great foundation for the 2nd annual symposium, and we’re already discussing how we can leverage its success to create an even better event in 2012."
"The MSO Symposium was one of the best events I have attended in my 30-plus years in the industry. Well done," said Roger Wright, Sterling Autobody Centers.
"I felt the event was well organized and the speakers were top notch. To gain insight from today’s thought leaders on where the industry is going gives one an advantage for their business to be successful," said Michael Quinn, 911 Collision Centers.
"I-CAR was delighted to be one of the sponsors of the MSO Symposium at ASRW. The event delivered meaningful information to many of the MSOs that train with I-CAR and are active Gold Class businesses," said Doug Schlueter, I-CAR South Central regional manager. "The content provided throughout the event and during the educational sessions was very useful to industry members."
The MSO Symposium was sponsored by CCC Information Services, Toyota Wholesale Parts, DuPont Performance Coatings, UniCure Spraybooths, I-CAR, The Romans Group LLC, Summit Software, Enterprise Rent-A-Car and 1-800-Radiator & A/C. The Automotive Service Association (ASA), Symphony Advisors and NACE produced the event.
The 2nd annual MSO Symposium will be held in conjunction with ASRW 2012, Oct. 10-13, at the Morial Convention Center in New Orleans, La.
