Most collision shops breathe a secret sigh of relief when business slows down (except for the owner for obvious reasons). The phone’s quiet. The chaos fades. Schedules open up. But what seems like calm is often the most dangerous period in the lifecycle of a collision repair business.

We can’t keep fighting every claim or supplement just to get paid for proper repairs. At some point, we need to push for provincial-level licensing, accountability, and real oversight in Canada.

In collision repair, slow periods are usually met with anxiety — empty bays, reduced cycle time pressure, and a feeling that the shop is “falling behind.”

In today’s business world, “busy” has become a badge of honor. Schedules are full, inboxes overflow, and leaders proudly declare that they’re “slammed.”

Every shop owner realizes the importance. Each industry professional knows it must be constantly tinkered with and improved. Everyone understands how fickle it can be.

Change presents us with great opportunities, but it can also create tremendous problems when our brains can't keep up.