BY JULIA LLOYD
The Canadian Collision Industry Forum (CCIF) held its first-ever virtual conference on October 7 and 8, featuring ample opportunities to connect and chat with industry experts via chatroom or video amid the ongoing global situation.
With more than 300 participants from more than five countries and 29 exhibitor booths, CCIF director Caroline Lacasse says the event was a success thanks to the participation of the people in the industry. All corners of the industry came together at the event, from collision repairers, insurers, suppliers and service providers, to OE manufacturers, dealers, trade associations, educators and students.
“The benefits [of a virtual conference] are that you can stay safe and join the event without travelling and spend money on travel and lodging. Some people that were not able to attend before because of time or money, can now join us from all around the world.” — Caroline Lacasse
“The benefits [of a virtual conference] are that you can stay safe and join the event without travelling and spend money on travel and lodging. Some people that were not able to attend before because of time or money, can now join us from all around the world,” said Lacasse. All sponsors with CCIF had to provide a virtual booth that could be interactive and showcase what they contribute to the industry. Some sponsors that attended were A.P.T. Auto Parts Trading, 3M, AkzoNobel, CARSTAR CANADA, Progi, ProColor Collision and Simplicity Car Care, to name a few.
“I had a great time; it has been very informative; I am representing the company [Simplicity Car Care] to increase awareness about who we,” said Ali Khan, a representative for Simplicity Car Care.
Another CCIF sponsor, PPG, featured a video showcasing its new MoodWalk Colour Dispenser, allowing attendees to view the demonstration by visiting their virtual booth. You can also find it here, on YouTube. PPG also promoted their Virtual Learning Sessions at its booth.
“We’ve got a great series of MVP Virtual Learning Sessions that we host twice a week covering many topics,” said PPG representative Surja Suba. Overall, the event went well for CCIF and its show sponsors. CCIF Director Lacasse believes this virtual event allowed for new attendees to feel more comfortable connecting with people, given the global pandemic.
“Of course meeting virtually will never completely replace the face to face warmth, because most people enjoy being able to interact in ‘real life,’ but this is a great alternative for now and as I said previously, this allows us to bring in new attendees and speakers all over the world,” explained Lacasse.
