The motor body repair industry is changing rapidly. From insurer agreements and compliance requirements to electric vehicles, repairability and new technologies, the environment in which our members operate today is very different from even a few years ago.
For SAMBRA, our role is to ensure that members do not have to navigate these changes alone.
Much of our work over the past few months has focused on strengthening the practical support we provide to members, while ensuring that the voice of the repair sector is heard where decisions affecting our businesses are being made.
Supporting members on current priorities
Our approval under the SMME Block Exemption Regulations is an important example. It gives SAMBRA a new ability to engage collectively on operational and commercial SLA matters with insurers on behalf of qualifying SMME members. This strengthens our ability to address contractual risk and disproportionate administrative and commercial requirements, while preserving the independence of every member to determine and negotiate their own labour rates and remuneration.
We are also putting practical support in place around Occupational Health and Safety compliance, while continuing to represent the repair sector in discussions around South Africa’s developing End-of-Life Vehicle policy.
Preparing for electric vehicles
At the same time, we are looking ahead. Electric and hybrid vehicles are already changing the skills, equipment and processes required in our workshops. SAMBRA, working with the RMI Training Department, is actively involved in ensuring that panel beaters are appropriately recognised in the emerging EV skills pathway.
Investing in the next generation
But while technology changes, one thing does not: the importance of skilled people.
That is why initiatives such as our work with Bergsig Special School matter. Giving young people the opportunity to experience the motor body repair environment, develop practical skills and see a possible future in our industry is an investment in the skills pipeline we will need tomorrow.
This edition of SAMBRA Insider reflects that broader picture. We are working on the issues affecting members today, while preparing the Association and the industry for what lies ahead.
Our commitment remains simple: to represent our members, strengthen the sector and ensure that the motor body repair industry has a strong and credible voice in shaping its future.
