This afternoon, some of the team were at The Vella Group’s bodyshop opening in Liverpool, one of their LV= Sole Supply Sites based in Knowsley.

It was a great opportunity to watch some demos from across the supply chain as well as gain some insights from both insurers and repairers on the current issues around parts scarcity and how sites such as this one operate in order to reduce friction as much as possible. 

Representing ILC at the event were Managing Director Mark Hadaway and Business Graduate Harry Kelly. This gave two very different perspectives and relative experience – Mark having previously been editor of the Bodyshop Mag and Harry only having been to one before to replace a tyre!

Still, both thoroughly enjoyed their afternoon and learned a lot. Particularly notable conversations were around the issues relating to parts supply and the decision process to fix or replace a part and the knock on effects this has across the supply chain. In particular if a part is replaced, due to scarcity, the wait time before the new part is in the shop can be weeks, throughout which the customer will need a courtesy car and there’s friction caused at every level. Whereas if a part can be fixed to the same standard, everything is kept in the bodyshop so there’s less friction from other parties and the claim can be completed in a shorter time, leading to more efficiency and happier customers!

Business Graduate Harry said “It was a great experience for me to have a good look around and have a chat with people at various points along the supply chain to build a fuller picture of how a motor claim is completed. The business model LV= is using with these sole supply sites is fascinating, built on trust and allowing the bodyshop to do what they’re good at with minimal interference from the insurer, everyone involved working to deliver the best outcome for the customer and maximise efficiency.”