South Africa’s collision repair industry is undergoing a significant shift, with fewer routine repairs coming through the shops, but each job requiring greater technical expertise, time and cost to complete. According to Juan Hanekom, National Director of the South African Motor Body Repairers Association (SAMBRA), these changes reflect a broader global trend, now increasingly evident […]
The South African Motor Body Repairers’ Association (SAMBRA) has welcomed early steps taken by some insurers to cushion the impact of fuel price increases on the already strained motor body repair (MBR) sector. Fuel increases placing new pressure on workshop operations The latest fuel adjustment has placed additional pressure on repairers already contending with rising […]
The South African Motor Body Repairers’ Association (SAMBRA) has raised concern that rising vehicle write-offs are reaching a potential risk point, with some vehicles now being written off at levels as low as 35% of their value. Rising write-offs placing pressure on industry systems According to Juan Hanekom, National Director of SAMBRA, a proud association […]
SAMBRA recently participated in the 29th George Old Car Show, hosted by the Southern Cape Old Car Club. Held under the theme “Pioneers of Motoring,” the event celebrated the innovators who shaped the evolution of the automobile. The show remains one of South Africa’s most respected motoring exhibitions, attracting collectors, restorers and enthusiasts from across […]
3D printing is revolutionising automotive body repair by enabling on-demand production of custom, obsolete, or hard-to-find parts, significantly reducing repair times and inventory costs. Future advancements point toward localized, in-shop, or near-site printing of plastic components (brackets, trim) and metal parts, enhancing repair speed and sustainability. Key Trends and Future Outlook: The future of body repair […]
The motor body repair sector is evolving rapidly as modern vehicles incorporate advanced materials, electronics and structural designs. However, elements of the existing panel beater training curriculum have not fully kept pace with these developments. SAMBRA has therefore initiated a formal review of the panel beater curriculum and the associated External Assessment Standard (EAS). The […]
