Publisher's Perspective: It's Worth Saying...

Publisher’s Perspective: It’s Worth Saying…

A recent note from a loyal reader voicing a concern that an article in a previous issue of BodyShop Business was too one-sided against insurance companies caused me to reflect on our role here at the magazine.

This week, I had the pleasure of receiving a note from a loyal reader. His letter voiced a concern that one particular article in a previous issue was too one-sided against insurance companies.

This particular reader is well-versed in our industry. He attended two years of auto body school. He has been a body tech, painter, estimator and general manager at two of the consolidated body shop companies. He has taken I-CAR training and is ASE- and AWS-certified. Plus, he has a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA). No matter how you look at it, he’s a well-versed and educated member of our industry. When I get a letter of this nature, I take it seriously. Our readers and our objectivity are taken very seriously here at BodyShop Business.

The insurance companies versus the body shops is a battle that is only rivaled by the Hatfields and McCoys. I’m not sure it will ever be solved. The reader’s point was that there are always two sides to any story. I completely agree with that statement. Jason, Josh and the entire staff here know that it’s our job to provide you, the reader, with accurate, clear and concise stories that help you navigate the collision repair waters. When you read something in BodyShop Business or any Babcox publication, you can be assured that it has been researched and checked for accurate reporting. We do not speculate or infer things that are not substantiated. Whenever possible, we solicit information from both sides of a particular issue.

Of course, when a particular article is on one side of the issue, it’s confusing to the reader to report or cite countering ideas in that article. However, that’s where the editorial staff steps in and makes sure we cover the other side in an ensuing article. It is that balanced approach overall that makes a publication a good one. Our goal is to be the information source for the collision industry. That is what we’ve done since 1982, and what we plan on doing for a long time to come.

You, our readers, are very valuable to us, and our job is to provide you with the most complete, unbiased information available. You have our commitment to do just that. Thanks for reading and writing.

You May Also Like

The Auto Parts Shortage: Causes, Solutions and Future Implications

The parts shortage has affected everyone, from individual car owners to dealerships, independent shops and technicians.

For consumers, maintaining their cars is necessary to ensure their longevity and reliability. However, with the auto parts shortage that has hit the nation, it has become increasingly difficult to find the necessary components to keep their cars running smoothly. 

The parts shortage has affected everyone, from individual car owners to dealerships, independent shops and technicians. In this article, I’ll discuss the causes of the parts shortage, alternatives to new parts, consumer tips for maintaining their vehicles during the shortage, and future implications and solutions for the parts shortage.

5 Tips for Mentoring Auto Body Technicians

These tips will help you establish a successful mentoring program and secure workers before other industries do.

Auto Body Repair: Crazy Industry, Crazy Terms

Many crazy phrases and terms used in the collision repair industry defy good business sense and logic.

NABC Donates Recycled Ride to Texas Veteran

The NABC, Allstate and Texas Collision Centers recently donated a refurbished vehicle to a deserving Frisco, Texas veteran.

A Lesson from the Jeans Store

A disappointing experience of mine at a clothing store reminded me of the importance of an educated and informed staff.

Other Posts

Body Shop Cleanliness: Spots Are Only Good for Dalmatians

A spotless shop inspires customer confidence and drives excellent performance.

Hard Work, Hustle and Determination: One Auto Body Tech’s Rise to the Top

Juan Carlos Gasga Perez’s ambition and drive led him to becoming the co-owner of his own body shop with a huge social media following.

Insurer Relations: Changes in Behavior May Create a Rough Ride

Unless you’ve been living under a rock over the past two years, you’ve no doubt experienced additional pressures by insurers to reduce their claim settlements relative to repairs and what’s being denied. 

Solid Accounting: The Difference Between Winning and Losing

Wouldn’t it be great to be able to quickly review your financials and know where you’re winning and losing so you can fix the problem immediately?