GROWTH THROUGH INNOVATION

ALIGNING STRENGTHS

The Color Compass Corporation is the largest independent automotive refinishes and related auto body supplies distributor in Canada. The growth of the company is a celebration of innovation, opportunity, and acquisition.

In 1984 Color Compass was founded with the acquisition of both White & Peters and Mutual Warehouse in British Columbia. With an eye on expansion and growth in Western Canada, Color Compass moved into Alberta with the acquisition of Carlson Body Shop Supply and PBE Distributors in 1987. Over the next ten years the group would consolidate Mutual Warehouse within PBE Distributors and further strengthen the already strong Carlson’s brand in Edmonton and Calgary. In 1997 the growth continued with the group’s largest acquisition to date with the purchase of Chase Auto Body Supplies in Winnipeg, Manitoba. As in the past, Color Compass further expanded its distribution network by opening a PBE Distributors warehouse location in Winnipeg at that time as well. With an eye on further strengthening its position in British Columbia and Alberta, 2006 and 2007 saw the acquisitions of Valley Car Colour in Langley BC, and Rocky Mountain Sales in Edmonton.

In 2011 the Color Compass Corporation finalized what would become a pivotal moment in the group’s strong history in Western Canada, with the acquisition of the corporate Akzo Nobel jobber stores in Alberta and British Columbia. With the acquisition, Chase Auto Body Supplies moved west, growing both in terms of size and talent, keeping a sharp focus on expanding their new markets within Alberta and British Columbia.

October of 2018 saw another key moment in the organization’s progression, with The Color Compass Corporation joining the Wesco Group Family of companies. Wesco, with its 70+ locations throughout the western United States, is headquartered in Lynnwood Washington, and has many parallels to Color Compass and its division’s, not the least of which, they are the preeminent distributor of paint and body shop supplies to the collision repair and industrial markets that they serve.

In early March of 2019, the Color Compass Corporation expanded yet again, with the acquisition of WD Co- Auto’s Paint, Body, and Equipment sales division. WD Co-Auto’s PB&E Division—based in Edmonton, Alberta—served independent and member-dealer collision centres throughout British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba. Shortly after, in May of 2019, PBE Distributors acquired LJ Peters Warehousing. The group always has a keen eye on innovation and exceptional service, now heavily investing in industry leading customer training, the latest repair equipment, and the evolution of supply-chain management with the Color Compass developed KUBE Inventory Management solution. Through the years the Color Compass Corporation has grown to a team of over 270 dedicated staff operating throughout Canada.

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"Cars in a Professional Collision Repair Workshop with Technicians Expertly Restoring Vehicles to Pre-Collision Glory"

Unraveling the Essentials: A Comprehensive Guide to Efficient Collision Repair Solutions

In the aftermath of a traffic accident, navigating the maze of collision repair can be a daunting ordeal. Yet, the key to swiftly restoring the harmony between life and the road lies in understanding the essentials of efficient collision repair solutions. This comprehensive guide is designed to unravel these essentials, ensuring that your vehicle receives the care it needs to return to its pre-collision glory.

**1. Initial Assessment and Estimation**

The first step in the collision repair process involves a thorough assessment and estimation. Professionals will examine your vehicle to determine the extent of the damage. Utilizing latest technologies, such as 3D scanning and computerized estimating systems, repair shops can provide accurate and detailed estimates, ensuring transparency and fairness in the repair process. Prioritizing shops that offer free, no-obligation estimates can also be a beneficial practice.

**2. Choosing OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Parts vs. Aftermarket Parts**

A crucial decision in the repair process is the choice between OEM parts and aftermarket parts. OEM parts are produced by the vehicle’s manufacturer and guarantee a perfect fit and optimal performance, maintaining your vehicle’s value and integrity. Meanwhile, aftermarket parts, often less expensive, might not always match the exact specifications of your vehicle, potentially affecting performance and safety. For high-quality repairs, OEM parts are generally recommended, though in some cases, aftermarket parts can serve as a budget-friendly alternative without compromising on safety.

**3. Technological Expertise and Certification**

The complexity of modern vehicles, with their advanced safety systems and computerized components, requires a high level of technological expertise. Choosing a repair shop with certified technicians, who are trained in the latest repair techniques and technologies, is essential. Certifications from organizations like I-CAR (Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair) signal a technician’s skills and knowledge in collision repair, offering reassurance that your vehicle is in capable hands.

**4. Paint Matching and Finishing Techniques**

The final appearance of your vehicle, upon completion of repairs, is predominantly determined by the quality of paint matching and finishing techniques. Advanced color matching technology ensures a seamless blend between the repaired areas and the original paintwork, preserving the aesthetic appeal of your vehicle. A high-quality repair shop will use environmentally friendly, water-based paints, and computerized paint mixing systems to achieve an impeccable finish.

**5. Understanding the Warranty**

Before committing to a repair shop, understanding the warranty offered on the repair work is critical. A reputable shop will stand behind its work with a comprehensive warranty that covers both parts and labor. Ensure you are clear about the warranty’s duration and what it entails. A solid warranty is a testament to the confidence a repair shop has in its workmanship and the quality of the parts used.

**6. Communication and Customer Service**

Excellent communication and customer service are the hallmarks of a reputable collision repair shop. The repair process should be transparent, with regular updates on the progress of your vehicle’s repairs. Professional shops will handle the coordination with insurance companies, alleviating one more concern from your list. Selecting a repair facility that values customer service ensures a more manageable and stress-free repair experience.

In conclusion, efficient collision repair solutions hinge on making informed decisions at each step of the process. From the initial assessment to the final touches, understanding the essentials delineated in this guide empowers you as a vehicle owner, ensuring that your collision repair journey culminates in a seamless and satisfactory outcome. Remember, quality repairs are an investment in your vehicle’s future, safeguarding its performance, safety, and resale value.

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