Embracing change and driving growth: Highlights from CCIF Toronto 2025
The largest gathering of collision industry stakeholders in Canada, CCIF Toronto, returned on March 19 and 20, 2025, as part of the Canadian Auto Care Industry Conference (CAIC). Everyone who is anyone in the collision sector—collision repairers, insurers, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), suppliers and service providers—was brought together under one roof in Toronto to connect, learn vital industry insights, and view the latest innovations at the CCIF vendor showcase.
An industry-wide networking reception on March 19, 2025, officially kicked off CCIF Toronto at CAIC, where key industry stakeholders from both mechanical and collision sectors gathered to connect and discuss the industry’s trends and challenges.
A guide on how to streamline business processes to maximize profitability
To start the sessions on March 20, 2025, Jim Bethune of Bethune Consulting Services led an engaging session where attendees learned how businesses can streamline processes, reduce costs, and increase profitability by leveraging information technology.
“Technology is going to help you count the pennies. If you are not counting the pennies, you are not going to see the dollars.”
How collaboration is key to success
Strengthening collaboration in the collision repair industry, led by Tim Bissonnette, executive director of Saskatchewan Association of Automotive Repairers (SAAR), and Ryan Smith, vice president of claims, Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI), dove into the importance of collaboration and open dialogue in the collision repair industry, especially between body shops and insurance providers.
The bottom line for insurers and collision repair shops is safe repairs—and that should be the unifying component of your relationship. Work together, understand each other’s issues, and that will make your relationship easier.” said Bissonnette
Simultaneous sessions allowed attendees to customize their experience
Shortly after a networking break—where attendees could browse the latest products and services at the CCIF vendor showcase—three concurrent sessions were offered twice throughout the morning to allow attendees to sit in at least two of three sessions of their choosing this year. These sessions covered pertinent industry topics and CCIF pillars, such as profitability, vehicle technology, and human resources (HR).
One of the sessions titled The impact of vehicle technology advancements in collision repair, was led by Ryan Mandell, director, claims performance auto physical damage solutions at Mitchell. Throughout this session, Ryan explored the emerging technologies in collision repair, such as advancements in safety systems, vehicle design, and material composition—and how the fast evolution of technology impacts collision repair shops.
“It is important to note that some of the components of the vehicles that are most exposed to these potential tariffs are some of the highest technology pieces.” said Mandell, “As of now, we are expecting that if tariffs go into place on April 2nd, and as a result, we will likely see a seven per cent increase in the cost of repair.”
The second session, The human element: Harnessing the power of human nature to drive better team productivity, focused on human resources and how to manage talent effectively. Claudia Morgilo, training manager at The Collision Career Institute, led this session, where participants learned valuable perspectives and strategies on how to build a thriving workplace culture built on trust, inclusivity, and work-life balance.
“Ask yourself—how can I help my team feel a little less stressed about change? Is it the fear of the unknown? Is it a lack of understanding about the change? Is it a qualm or concern for personal impact about the change? Either way, address the root cause, trust it with your team. Show them empathy to the emotional response they’re having.”
The final session, Building the Future: The Next Generation of Collision Repair Technicians, explored emerging vehicle technologies and industry advancements. Led by Mary Mahoney, Vice President of Enterprise Mobility’s Replacement and Leisure Division, and Molly Mahoney, National Marketing Engagement Director of Collision Engineering, the session provided insights into key trends and innovations shaping the future of collision repair.
“When students know they are a part of a network that truly supports them, they are able to focus on learning, growing and eventually giving back to that same community.” said Mahoney. “We structured our program to ensure these skills are not just learned, but they are ingrained, preparing our students for the very challenges that we have likely all come across in life.”
Additionally, Mary and Molly emphasized the importance of collaboration and mentorship to ensure the next generation of collision repair professionals succeeds.
Driving forward with I-CAR
Stuart Klein, vice president, collision programs and executive director, I-CAR Canada at AIA Canada, dove into how cutting-edge techniques and technologies are transforming the collision repair industry. Attendees were able to develop an understanding of the importance of post-collision inspections, vehicle safety, and maintaining repair quality.
How to unlock smarter, better, and faster repairs
With artificial intelligence (AI) taking the world by storm, it is only fair that this was covered at CCIF Toronto—and for good reason. AI is transforming the repair process, impacting everyone in the collision repair industry, from collision repair shops and insurance providers to suppliers. Ryan Taylor, CEO of BodyShop Booster, shared enlightening ideas about how businesses can leverage AI to boost profits, minimize downtime, and enhance customer experiences.
“Who is the first point of contact for customers in your shop? Your customer service representatives, your receptionists. Are they your best soldier? Do they have the best training or equipment? If not, we could lose the job.” said Taylor. “AI will start to fix all of this. It’s incredible at communication. It can get really powerful at organizing customer appointments and accountability. It is an absolute game changer.”
Continue learning at CCIF Calgary
CCIF Toronto at CAIC was an incredible two days of connecting and learning about hot industry topics. The busy presentations and innovative CCIF vendor showcase were key reasons why CCIF conferences are an integral part of the success of Canada’s collision repair industry.
CCIF returns on September 17 and 18, 2025, in Calgary. Register now to attend to stay ahead of the curve and continue learning about the future of the industry.