Registration now open for Ontario Automotive Service Providers Forum

The Ontario Automotive Service Providers Forum is taking place March 26 at the International Centre in Toronto. AIA Canada says the event is an opportunity to hear from industry leaders who will provide “game changing” information and advice to help ensure that your shop remains efficient and profitable, as well as the chance to meet with exhibitors who will be featuring their newest equipment, tools and shop management programs available today.

Registration is now available at $199 per person.

This year’s presenters will include:

Malcolm Sissmore, Delphi Product & Service Solutions –  “The Connected Car”

Malcolm will discuss how OEM embedded telematics are being used to increase service and repair work for new car dealerships, both during and after the new car warranty period and will feature how they are using this connected car technology to enhance their customer retention programs. To stay competitive, the aftermarket industry needs to be made aware of this technology and learn about new telematics hardware and software solutions that the traditional aftermarket can use. Attendees will be provided with information on how telematics work and how it can connect the entire aftermarket supply chain. If properly used, connected car technology can enable the independent service provider to enhance their customer relationships in addition to building strong customer loyalty.

Rui Martins – “Game Changers”

Rui will present top game changers that are or will impact the automotive aftermarket industry. From proposed new regulations to how flashing of motor vehicles or TPMS can affect your shop’s bottom line, these are just a few of the game changers that will be covered in this presentation. Make sure that your shop is ready to meet the changing face of the automotive aftermarket industry.

Melissa Fletcher – Hiring, Training  & Accessing Government Incentives

Complementing the panel presentation on investing in your most valuable asset will be a presentation from Melissa Fletcher, an Employer Liaison with Northern Lights Canada (an organization contracted by Employment Ontario & the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities). Through Government funded programs, and your local Employment Ontario Service Provider, Melissa will show you how to benefit in finding and hiring employees, training and apprenticeship programs as well as financial hiring incentives available to employers.

Jeff Walker, CAA – Driving Consumer Behaviour

Jeff will present leading market research on consumer attitudes toward the automotive industry. His presentation will touch upon a number of topics, including consumer perceptions toward vehicle safety and maintenance and repair. The Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) is one of the largest consumer-based organizations in Canada with over 5.8 million members through nine Automobile Clubs and 140 offices located across the country.

Closing Speaker: Jim Ralph – Hockey & Humour

Jim Ralph is best known for his comical impersonations of famous Canadian sportscasters, including Foster Hewitt, Danny Gallivan, Dick Irvin, Bob Cole, Brian Williams and – of course – Don Cherry. A former professional hockey player, today Jim covers the Toronto Maple Leafs as colour commentator on their radio broadcasts, where his insightful observations and entertaining anecdotes keep fans informed and entertained. As an entertainer or emcee, Jim’s steady stream of one-liners makes him one of Canada’s most popular funnymen.

The event will also include a panel session on investing in your most valuable asset.

While many business owners often state that their staff is their most valuable asset, their efforts in the training and retention of their staff frequently do not reflect this value. Shop owners need to plan many aspects of their business’ success, and ensuring that they have the best staff that is properly trained for their jobs can be a critical part of the success formula in building a great business. Hear from industry leaders including owners of automotive repair shops about their strategies to not only hire the best people but also the importance of training and how to retain the staff that you have. Not investing wisely in your staff will impact your bottom line – costing both money and time!

2014 AIA OASPF schedule:

12:00 – 1:00 pm  Trade Show (light lunch will be served)

1:00 – 1:15 pm    Opening and Welcome Remarks

1:15 – 2:15 pm     Malcolm Sissmore

2:15 – 2:45 pm     Panel Session

2:45 – 3:00 pm    Melissa Fletcher

3:00 – 3:30 pm    Trade Show/Networking Break

3:30 – 4:30 pm    Rui Martins

4:30 – 5:00 pm    Jeff Walker

5:00 – 5:30 pm    Trade Show/Networking Break

5:30 – 6:00 pm    Dinner

6:00 – 6:45 pm    Closing Speaker – Jim Ralph

AIA Canada has negotiated a special rate for 2014 Ontario Forum participants: $119 (single/double). All guests must make their own reservations directly with the Hilton on an individual basis, identifying themselves as a member of AIA Canada. Reservations can be made directly with the hotel by calling 905-677-9900 and reservations must be received at the hotel by February 24, 2014. (Note that there is free parking available at The International Centre.)

Attendees can register for the Ontario Automotive Service Providers Forum on AIA Canada’s website.