For the collision repair industry, CCIF Toronto marks the unofficial kick off of the year.

Traditionally hosted toward the end of January, this year’s event promises to be the biggest yet with a new venue— the International Centre, 6900 Airport Road, Mississauga, Ont.

A full day of seminars and panel discussions is planned for January 26 with guest speakers including Bradley Mewes of Supplement, who will host a panel on Mergers and Acquisitions, along with sessions from Jean-Luc Sauriol, AllData; Gabriel Marino, Budds’ Collision; Marie Artim, Enterprise Holdings; Dave Luehr, Elite Body Shop Solutions, Jason Bartenen, I-CAR and Patrice Marcil, Chairman CCIF.

This year, there will also be additional activities, including I-CAR classes at the International Centre and a Canadian Auto Body College visit on January 24.

The I-CAR classes will consist of: The Art & Science of Estimator Interactions (8.30am to 12.00pm) and Vehicle Technology Trends & Diagnostics Overview (1.00pm to 4.00pm).

The college tour, will feature a visit to Centennial College’s Ashtonbee Campus, January 24, (6.30pm-8.30pm).

There will also be an expanded Cars & Technology Showcase at this year’s event.

More details, including registration information can be found at ccif.ca.