The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) has officially launched the 2022 Collision Repair Expo (CRE), to be held at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre (MCEC) from 7 to 9 April 2022.
Co-locating with the Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAE), the combined shows are expected to occupy 19,500 square metres of floor space, comprehensively showcasing Australia’s $25 billion automotive repair and service industry.
With the theme ’The Future of Collision Repair is Here’, the expos will feature a range of new initiatives and features. The CRE will showcase the latest collision repair equipment, products, tools and accessories, new technology and trends, plus a comprehensive training and education programme.
“We are excited to be able to move forward with our preparations for the expo – an event run by the industry, for the industry,” said Stuart Charity, CEO of the AAAA. “After a challenging couple of years for everyone, our industry is more excited than ever to come together to celebrate, learn, conduct business and network.
“The automotive industry in Australia is undergoing unprecedented change driven by the complexity of the car parc, changes in vehicle technology and the changing capabilities and needs of our workforce and customers. Vehicles with advanced driver assistance systems, pass-through technology, embedded telematics (‘connected car’), and hybrid and electric powertrains, are on Australian roads today. These vehicles will need to be safely repaired and maintained for their useful life, anywhere in Australia.
“CRE 2022 will bring together experts from across the industry to provide the very latest information and practical tips on how and when businesses will need to adapt to these changes. The expo aims to help visitors prepare for the future, to embrace and capitalise on the evolution of the industry, and the trends and technology that are rapidly developing,” Charity added.
The AAAA said the expo continues to evolve, and the launch of several initiatives will build further value for exhibitors and attendees. The event will feature a ‘Workshop of the Future Pavilion’ which will display of state-of-the-art equipment and technology, as well as presentations from industry experts covering the latest information. The presentations will include sessions on Workshop Management Systems, EV repair techniques, ADAS calibration, and diagnostics and tooling, including J2534 pass-through technology.
For the first time, the event will incorporate a standalone seminar stage on the CRE show floor to deliver a free comprehensive training and education programme sponsored by I-CAR. The stage will display live demonstrations from the on-site Lowbake spray booth via a big video screen.
Other event components include a modified and classic vehicle display area on the MCEC concourse, celebrity appearances, interactive displays and competitions.
SAPE Group (Sydney Automotive Paints and Equipment) has returned as Major Sponsor for CRE 2022, with Charity thanking the organisation for its “strong and continued support”.
“We can’t wait for April to open the doors and finally welcome our industry back together,” Charity added. “We know visitors will have a fantastic time and arm themselves with the knowledge to thrive, ready for the exciting future that awaits.”
The AAAA said it expects more than 250 exhibitors and 10,000 visitors to attend over the three-day CRE/AAAE.