Technical Support
The company works closely with and through its long term trading partners and distributors appointed across world 21 markets. Core to its trading strategy is the selection of leading representative distributors in key geographical markets with relevant sales, marketing, operational and training support functions. Criteria for selection includes local market knowledge, relevant market penetration and experience, sales representation, training and technical functions/facilities, logistics. Each distributor is responsible for the promotion of the product, training/technical support and shipment.Product Understanding
Over recent years the industry has learnt to understand and therefore accurately define a true Smart Repair in terms of size, nature, time and cost. Previously a lack of understanding frequently resulted in incorrect job definition or estimation, poor workmanship/quality of final repair, dubious trading and operating standards, overcharging or a simple refusal to even consider using the techniques. Latterly Ashford International, in conjunction with key trading partners, distributors and industry bodies such as Thatcham, has encouraged greater focus on 3 key areas essential to the future success and growth of the sector repair namely:
- the recruitment or selection of the technician,
- regulated and Industry approved training and post training programmes,
- the appropriate quality products to carry out successful repairs.
Product innovation combined with technician training has also increased general levels understanding and adoption.
The insurance sector is now actively encouraging the adoption of Smart Repair techniques by their approved repair networks either on mandated or opt-in basis and within the framework of performance based rebated reciprocal agreements.