HISTORY IS STILL BEING MADE
How do you pin a lifetime to a single page of print? In the past 235 editions, Automotive Refinisher has strived to create and interesting read about collision repair and the automotive industry as a whole. Taking a look back, and seeing all that these communication platforms have become more than just a magazine – arguably there are a few reasons for its success.
The first being an undying pursuit to always do the best for the industry and all of the people within – even if it goes against the grain. Truth should always be honoured and pursued. The second is the curious nature, of which a photo-journalist really benefits, and an inquisitive mind always looks to seek the latest information and how it all works and fits together. This is a great foundation to start with.
Doing what we love – what a privilege – and always giving of our best, has developed great relationships with our readers and advertisers who are part of the Automotive Refinisher journey and family. The crusade to follow the new processes and technology in the industry has been a whirlwind to say the least, and it doesn’t look like slowing down any time soon. Just the opposite!
The past 40 years for Automotive Refinisher have been built on a foundation of many layers. Who would have guessed that this Publisher’s “dead-end job” – or so I thought – of pushing paint tins around, writing and photographing motor racing reports and overseas technical visits, would end up delivering four decades in the business of communication? Not me that’s for sure. A great life of meeting people, travelling, photography and so much more.
Thankfully over the years, my talented family and close-knit team have come to the rescue of this rambling old soul, with all the aids that the new dot.com existence has brought forth. With a well-hidden dyslexic talent, I am still able to scribble out some stories and plot a new move or two that lie ahead of me.
It’s quite a badge of honour be the “Paint Guru/old toppie” of the industry. As I grow older, there is a type of joyous exuberance to carry on and make a difference – now who could ask for more?
Highlights in this edition
Once again, we have been globetrotting to bring you the latest in technology and products from Automechanika Frankfurt, in Germany. This show is absolutely the largest in Europe for collision repair and is always well attended by exhibitors and showgoers. The 4 500 exhibitors were not disappointed with attendance and attendees really got their value for money with all that was on show – as well as sore feet!
Closer to home, the Festival of Motoring managed to dazzle and delight a petrolhead audience with new models and a hands-on experience on the race track as well as their 4×4 track.
The collision repair industry and it’s associations have been abuzz about procurement with an insurance company. Read more about the latest on this subject. Under discussion with NAAMSA has also been vehicle retail and manufacturing in SA.
Success stories are fabulous to highlight. MG Auto Paint have worked hard, understand their customers and are passionate about the industry as a whole, plus the people within it.
A latest model launch as well as a test drive are within the pages of this edition, along with the latest products and technical information. What is the best filler to use and how to repair plastic are just some of the topics deliberated.
Happy reading!
by Ian Groat
