The Canadian representatives of CARSTAR collision repair facilities met back on Canadian soil in Montreal from July 18 through 20 under the theme of Evolution.

Over the three days, CARSTAR franchise partners were treated to presentations from the Canadian leadership team and industry experts. All of this was enriched by the remarkable charitable and social activities that enabled them to forge new connections in the industry.

The event opened with a charity walk along the quays of the Old Port of Montreal. While the meeting was about leadership and business development, it also emphasized the importance of giving back to the community.

It was one of a number of initiatives carried out during the meeting. This involvement, close to the heart of the network, raised a total of $180,000, going mainly to Cystic Fibrosis Canada, CARSTAR’s charity of choice, during the three days event.

The event continued with presentations by Sabrina Thring, CARSTAR Canada’s COO, on the challenges facing the collision and auto glass sectors in Canada.

Michael Macaluso, Executive Vice President and Group Leader of the Paint, Collision and Glass Segment for Driven Brands, then outlined the network’s situation and the importance of evolving as a group of entrepreneurs.

A group growth

“The success of our franchisees is the very basis of the group’s growth,” he told participants. “Our entire team is working to ensure that you are winners.” He concluded his speech by stressing the importance of ensuring a balance of profits between their facilities, their suppliers and insurers.

A celebratory dinner followed at Jardin Royalmount, where participants were treated to dinner, games and a private concert by the Arkells, a Canadian-based band.

Development strategies

Throughout the next two days, participants attended various mainstage sessions and specialized breakouts. For these entrepreneurs, it was an opportunity to have the latest development strategies from the leaders of the network and a precious chance of networking with colleagues from the whole country.

Following the morning sessions on Thursday, participants were also able to discover the latest technologies, solutions and equipment presented by suppliers at the highly anticipated tradeshow.

A gala evening and the presentation of the Evolution 2023 awards brought the conference to a brilliant close. For the organizers, it was the perfect opportunity to highlight the achievements of all the franchise partners and to turn the spotlight on the owners who had particularly distinguished themselves as industry leaders. Additionally, attendees had their final opportunity to participate in the conference fundraising. During the gala evening alone, countless CARSTAR owners banded together to donate some $100,000, adding to the week’s fundraising total.

An incredible success, all who attended are looking forward to the next Canadian CARSTAR conference, to be held in Victoria, British Columbia in 2024.