The increasing trend for UK accident repair centres to become more retail focused has once again been reflected in the opening of a new facility in Hook, Hampshire. The Smart Bodyshop has been developed by an experienced industry team and the design and promotion of the new facility place great emphasis on fast track repairs, alloy refurbishment and valeting as much as traditional repair work.

The impressive facility looks more like a showroom than a workshop and utilises the latest fast repair technology such as UV materials and a mobile spraybooth to offer retail customers ultra fast repair times.

The significant investment in the new operation shows how many in the refinish industry see the market progressing, with increasing emphasis on fast track or smart repairs aimed directly at vehicle owners, together with add on services such as valeting and alloy wheel repair. Such a model places far less emphasis on volume insurance work and the inherent difficulties that often come with this.