With a new Board of Directors and the opening of the 2013 Labor Rate Survey, the excitement at WMABA just continues to grow. We’re closing out a productive 2012 with the expectations to have a very promising New Year.
It’s all in the comparisons.
With last year’s labor rate survey being the first, it was hard to fathom what the outcome would be. As we all waited on pins and needles for the results, we had high hopes and dreams for how this information could be utilized positively for the industry. When the data came in there was baited breath as each region was reviewed. The results we got met and exceeded our expectations. It was a collective sigh of relief and feeling of real accomplishment.
This go-around is another great feat because this time we’ll be able to….(wait for it….) COMPARE! It’s what we’ve been looking forward to throughout the entire process – where are we now and where are we going? To track our industry’s trends with relation to prices is a major achievement for the association and a huge benefit to our entire region.
As the survey opens in the first part of January, the key is to get the word out. All of the vendors will receive the notification that the survey is open and they have the opportunity to educate their customers about participation. Also, the shops that have already participated will electronically be notified and have the first chance to get their survey done.
It’s a proud moment for WMABA that this Labor Rate survey process has become a shining example of how associations can provide tools for the membership they serve.
Don’t take your eyes off Parts Procurement
With the start of the New Year, we are also reminded – even in this issue – about the continuing developments with insurance-mandated programs, and specifically in the parts procurement arena. Because you are seeing it so often, it is easy to feel like you’re seeing the same stuff. Don’t let it hypnotize you into letting your guard down!
Advancements are being made in pilot markets for the State Farm-PartsTrader program and there is no reason to think “it won’t come here”. In fact, it is just the opposite; you have every reason to think that it will. And you should plan in such a way that when it does come here you are educated and ready to decide how you want to deal with it.
Board of Directors Newbie
We are happy to continue working with the many folks who are dedicating their time to help the association move forward with its initiatives. With our recent election during the Fall Member Holiday Social (pg??), we added our newest Board member Mark Schaech, Jr.
I want to personally thank all of the Board members who have selflessly given of their time, energy and resources to make our association successful. I also thank Mark for having the courage to step up to a Board position for the year. We look forward to working with everyone to make this year’s goals a reality.
– Jordan Hendler, Executive Director
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