In this episode, Sam Street talks with Ash Jardine, Managing Director of Bodyshop Recruitment, about the Plan 4 Profit initiative starting this year.

We begin our discussion by reviewing the evolution of Body Shop Recruit. We explore how many repairers lack a clear understanding of their true shop rates, and get an insight into the origins and development of the Plan for Profit calculator, including its expansion into multiple rate categories and the importance of the achieved rate.

Our discussion delves into the national roadshow, how the workshops will help repairers calculate accurate rates, reverse engineer estimates, and make stronger business decisions in negotiations with insurers. The episode also explores why shop rates must be reviewed regularly as costs change and how better rate awareness can significantly impact profitability.

We wrap up by highlighting the practical structure of the workshops, their accessibility, and the broader industry benefit through financial support for the Australian Collision Industry Alliance.

Links & Resources:

Plan 4 Profit

bodyshoprecruit.com.au/plan-4-profit

Do you want to sponsor Plan 4 Profit?

bodyshoprecruit.com.au/sponsors

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The Edge Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Paint and Panel, owned and published by Yaffa Media.

Hosts: Sam Street & Grant McHerron

Editor: Chris Visscher

Producer: Steve Visscher

Paint and Panel - © 2026

In this episode, Sam Street talks with Hiliary Bradbury from Australian Collision Industry Alliance (ACIA), Dan Maher from L&M Smash Repairs and Ann McClure from McClure Refinishing about ACIA's successes and challenges.

We begin our discussion by getting an overview of ACIA. Why it was founded, the work it has undertaken and the challenges involved with funnelling interested students into apprenticeships. We also explore the costs involved with attending career expo events, the need for more repairers to join, the increased interest from young car enthusiasts, and how repairers can get involved with ACIA to help attract talent and the many benefits that come with volunteering.

We wrap up by reviewing how young staff can breathe a new life and perspective into the shop, as well as supporting mature staff.

Links & Resources:

Australian Collusion Industry Alliance (ACIA)

www.theacia.com.au

McClure Refinishing

www.mcclurerefinishing.com

L&M Smash Repairs

lmsmash.com.au

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The Edge Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Paint and Panel, owned and published by Yaffa Media.

Hosts: Sam Street & Grant McHerron

Editor: Chris Visscher

Producer: Steve Visscher

Paint and Panel - © 2025

In this episode, Sam Street talks with Ray McMartin from Sydney Automotive Paint & Equipment (SAPE) about the changes in the industry that he has both seen and driven. Ray bought SAPE back in 1976 and over the years has sourced and bought game changing equipment for the repair community.

We begin our discussion by getting an overview of SAPE's history and Ray's career, how the company invested in the data and automation revolution, and the time he spent marketing Finnish Autoliner products in America and the contribution Terry Flannigan has made to the industry. The discussion also reviews how shop owners have changed over time, highlighting some outstanding shops, and the high levels of migrant representation in the early days of the industry.

Links & Resources:

SAPE Group

www.sape.com.au

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The Edge Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Paint and Panel, owned and published by Yaffa Media.

Hosts: Sam Street & Grant McHerron

Editor: Chris Visscher

Producer: Steve Visscher

Paint and Panel - © 2025