While some accident repair industry observers see the rise of ADAS and autonomous vehicle systems as spelling the end for many bodyshops, others clearly see the opportunities the changes create and have full confidence that no matter what the technology, body repairers will always have a role to play. The Northern Ireland Agnew Group clearly falls into the latter category as it has announced a £3.5m investment in a new 23,000 sq ft Bodyshop, Valet and Vehicle preparation centre in the Belfast Titanic Quarter. 

The Agnew Group has 15 dealerships in Northern Ireland and made the announcement as it reported an 18% rise in pre tax profits in 2020, despite enforced closures during the pandemic and a greatly reduced turnover. This impressive performance was well ahead of most UK dealership results. 

The new repair centre will focus on repairs and the ADAS calibration sectors as well as reconditioning and used car preparation. It will include a photographic turntable area, and an alloy wheel refurbishment section. 

The Agnew Group also plans to invest £3 million in electric vehicle charging infrastructure to cope with rising demand.