Auto Windscreens,

[screenman]

Second biggest replacement company in UK went into liquidation today, sad day for all who worked for them.

[Frank EU]

Indeed it is a sad and unfortunate day for the people who worked there, but also for our trade. It only makes !@#$ Belron / Autoglass stronger, whilst they are already way too strong. Let's hope that the insurance,- leasing- and rental companies wake up and see the danger too.
Sadly enough, they probably won't and rather look the other way, the enveloppes are to powerful. Again: a very sad day.

[Glasseye]

Autowindscreens have been bumping along the bottom for a good few years now. Not so sure Autoglass will be happy about this as I think the monopolies commission may have something to say. Opportunities will arise for some national mid range independents to fill the void.

[Frank EU]

Insurance- and leasing companies should walk away from the retarded idea that one needs a nationwide network. That is, as we all know, crap. A few chains who cover a certain area, for example in the US the Midwest or in the UK the Midlands or SouthEast, should be sufficient enough. I mean; I can see the benefit for not working with local-vendors-only, that would maybe too much asked, but if one covers a certain region that would be good enough, it would work out perfectly for all. It really isn't all that ''difficult'' to find regional chains with several outlets, and it shouldn't be ''complicated'' having them in ''the system''. Result: no hassle with any commissions whatsoever. But even the so called ''commission-members'' are stupid, blind and deaf, nothing ever changes.

[D2D]

It may be time to put me out to pasture. Apparently I've been so out of touch that I have no idea what you are talking about.

[Glasseye]

Autowindscreens going out of business is a milestone in the story of automotive glazing in the UK. When I came into the business some 30+ years ago they were one of, if not the, top companies and pioneered mobile windscreen replacement nationally. In those days the market was very different. Most vehicles had toughened windscreens which shattered, leaving the driver needing a windscreen immediately. Glass repair in those days was a non starter. Their dominance in the UK market began to wane when they missed the boat with the insurance market concentrating on the trade market instead. Nationally speaking, they had a good reputation and were one of the first companies to have a dedicated training centre. Their demise has left a big hole in the market and there are a few smaller companies who are already knocking on the doors of the their ex customers offering service. These companies are leaner and meaner which will ensure prices are kept competitive but the concern will be on varying standards of workmanship.