Eblen Collision Repairs
Winner of last year’s best shop, it’s hard to fault this outstanding family business with a team totally dedicated to best practice in every area.
If you want to tick owner Dario Tonon off, show him evidence of corners being cut, or people not pulling together for the good of the industry – generally anyone who doesn’t care about improving their business or ensuring that the next generation are being trained to take over the reins one day.
Eblen’s mission statement is ‘Repairing cars the way the manufacturer would’. The business is committed to achieving repair standards that align with or exceed those set by vehicle manufacturers. Accordingly a huge amount of time and money is invested in technician training with I-CAR and OEM partners. All the technicians are I-CAR Gold and the six apprentices undertake I-CAR training too.
“By investing in training, the latest equipment, and processes to meet OEM standard, we can differentiate ourselves from competitors and attract more customers.”
The are SOPs for everything and the business is ISO 9001 accredited. Environmental sustainability is taken seriously with a huge solar system, thorough recycling and waste reduction where possible.
Eblen market the business through a number of channels from digital media to local roadside signage. The entry submission says: “We are committed to the growth and well-being of the collision repair industry, actively seeking opportunities to make meaningful contributions”, which is an understatement. Dario attends every show or conference both nationally and internationally that he thinks he can learn something from. He is chairman of the MTA SA/NT body repair division, a founding member of the Car Craft group in SA, a supporter of ACIA and volunteers for and organises a number of initiatives that assist the industry as a whole, including interacting with Government. Dario is especially passionate about promoting the industry to young people and he focuses on programs such as school-based traineeships, school-based apprenticeships, and school-based cadetships.
As well as encouraging for all staff to train, the business offers flexible working, regular social events and access to an independent HR person which allows them to provide and receive feedback in a safe environment.
Eblen Collision Repairs has developed a comprehensive approach to succession planning that encompasses all departments, ensuring continuity and consistency throughout the business.
Eblen is an example that you can be a profitable, thriving business without compromising on quality, customer service and investing in your team.