In 2024, data shows that the UK’s vehicle repair industry experienced a significant rebound in available capacity, with repair demand falling to its lowest levels since 2021, and new repair centres opening across the country.
According to Accident Management specialists Activate Group, this recovery has provided motor insurers with the opportunity to refine their repair networks, and align them with their strategic priorities, beyond simply securing capacity. The group explores these evolving dynamics in their latest article, “Repair Capacity Rebound: The new priorities for insurers & repair partners.”
In the piece, Activate Group highlights how this renewed capacity is reshaping insurer-repairer relationships, with insurers increasingly prioritising areas such as:
- Cost control and efficiency to address rising claims outlay.
- Sustainability initiatives to support environmental targets.
- Technological readiness to prepare for the increased complexity of newer vehicles.
- Customer service excellence in alignment with the FCA’s Consumer Duty standards.
Adrian Furness, Managing Director of Motor Repair Network, explains:
“In the immediate aftermath of the pandemic, the unprecedented strain on repair capacity meant insurers had to prioritise securing availability to keep up with customer demand.
Now, with capacity on the rebound, they have the opportunity to build networks that go beyond the essentials.
By focusing on areas like cost control, sustainability, and EV readiness, repairers can ensure their service offerings actively support insurers’ goals for efficiency, performance, and delivering an exceptional customer experience.”
Activate Group’s overview provides practical insights for both insurers and repairers, aiming to support them in navigating the changing landscape, and build stronger, mutually-beneficial partnerships.
