Autoglass

Autoglass is a vehicle glass windscreen repair and replacement company based in Bedford, Bedfordshire, England.

History

In 1972 the Doulton Group launched Autoglass, a business operating across northern England offering mobile vehicle glass repairs. In 1982 Solaglas International bought Autoglass and Windshields, a similar business formed in Bedford in 1969 operating across southern England, to create Autoglass Windshields. In 1984 the company became known simply as Autoglass. At that time the company only replaced vehicle glass, but in 1990 when Belron, the parent company formerly known as Solaglas, bought Glass Medic, repairs could also be made to chipped windscreens. In 1994 Autoglass became a registered trademark. In 2002 Carglass in Ireland became Autoglass. The company has 109 branches across the UK and 1200 mobile technicians, who can travel to the customer and repair or replace their vehicle glass.

As a result of its innovative approach the development of new tools, training programmes and operational processes Autoglass has become the industry leader in the UK vehicle glass repair and replacement industry. Including working with the Institute of Motor Industry (IMI) to develop the Automotive Technician Accreditation to ensure a consistently high standard of training and skill across the industry.

Autoglass also benefits from the research and development of its parent company, Belron, which has patented tools such as the ‘1-Tek, Ezi-wire and its own chip repair resin. Autoglass is rated as one of the top Customer Service providers in the UK, measured by a Net Promoter Score (NPS) over 75 per cent, since 2010 and rated 79% in 2011. Primarily a service provider to the insurance industry, the company also serves motorists direct. Autoglass has won several awards for its radio and TV advertising. In 2010 Autoglass began sponsoring the Afternoon Report on Sky Sports News, and in 2011, sponsored the Channel5* Laughternoons, featuring real-life staff attempting stand-up comedy. They have sponsored Chelsea FC (1997–2001), as well as the Football League Trophy from 1991 - 1994. They currently sponsor Bedford Blues rugby union team.

Function

Autoglass offers a vehicle glass repair and replacement service. Windscreens are usually damaged by loose chippings being thrown up from the road; over time this can turn into a crack. Body glass is usually damaged as a result of theft or vandalism.

Autoglass has stated it makes repairs to around 1.5 million customers a year.

Structure

The company is part of the Belron Group, the world's largest dedicated vehicle glass repair and replacement company with operations spanning over 30 countyries. Belron is part of Belgian company D'Ieteren, which ownes a group of companies which serve motorists. The UK office of Autoglass is based at Priory Business Park in Bedford.

Subsidiaries

A specialist division of the company, Autoglass Specials, repairs the windows of larger vehicles such as trucks, trains and coaches.

Training

In 2005 - 2006 Autoglass worked closely with the IMI (Institute of Motor Industry) to develop the ATA (Automotive Technician Accreditation) and was the first in the industry to introduce the training programme for its technicians, In 2006, the Autoglass National Skills Centre became the only vehicle glass training facility to hold a Thatcham quality accreditation.

See also

• Auto Windscreens
• Glass Qualifications Authority

External links

• Official website

Video clips

• Autoglass UK YouTube channel

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