Revolutionizing Collision Repair: The Power of Eagle MMS and Industry Insights

In the fast-paced world of automotive repair, staying ahead requires both innovative technology and a keen understanding of market dynamics. However, innovative solutions like Eagle MMS are reshaping the landscape.

In this episode of LeadFoot Automotive, Joe Toscano and Alex Rapp speak with Yanni Koutmos, co-founder of Eagle MMS, to unpack the evolution of paint material costs, the critical role of software in collision repair, and the benefits of itemized invoicing software in collision repair.

The Birth of Eagle MMS: Understanding the Problem

Yanni's entry into the automotive world was not planned but born from a deep-seated passion for cars. With years of experience as a technician, Yanni recognized a daunting problem: the misalignment between repair material costs and the rates set by insurance companies. “During COVID, I saw an opportunity to create a more effective process,” he explains.

His frustration stemmed from years of watching colleagues struggle to get compensated fairly for materials used in repairs. When COVID struck, bringing many operations to a halt, Yanni and his brother Alex seized the moment to create Eagle MMS—a software designed to provide transparency and accuracy in billing for collision repairs.

“Eagle MMS allows you to bill every UPC associated with vehicle repair, leading to more accurate invoicing,” Yanni explains. With insights from an industry insider, the software was not just a technological advancement, but a necessary tool for sustaining shop profitability.

The Rising Costs and Challenges in Collision Repair

As car repair technologies advance, so do the complexities involved in processes like collision repair. One pressing issue highlighted during the podcast is the stark increase in paint material costs. Yanni points out a significant downturn in the relationship between refinish hours and paint costs over the last two decades—a trend that has left many repair shops struggling to keep up:

• Historical Overview: In the early 2000s, a gallon of clear coat could be purchased for under $100, but now it costs upwards of $700.

• Impact on Repairs: For shops today, a significant increase in the hours needed to procure the same materials puts financial pressure on operations.

Through Eagle MMS, Yanni emphasizes the importance of itemized invoicing, allowing shops to accurately capture all costs involved in the repairs. This clarity not only aids in negotiations with insurance companies but also helps ensure the shops receive fair compensation for their work.

The Solution: Innovative Software for Real Change

Eagle MMS isn’t just a tool; it’s a game-changer for collision repair shops. Designed with user experience front and center, its software integrates seamlessly into existing operations, offering several key benefits:

1. Comprehensive Inventory Management: Eagle MMS provides access to tens of thousands of part numbers from various manufacturers, allowing shops to quickly bill for all necessary materials.

2. Ease of Use: The platform reduces the complexity involved in invoicing, enabling shops to get accurate totals with minimal effort.

3. Claims Empowerment: Equipped with detailed data, shops can engage in more effective negotiations with insurance companies, leading to higher success rates in claims management.

4. Mapping Model: Yanni emphasizes that the use of a mapping model—for associating part numbers with specific operations—greatly simplifies the invoicing process. Instead of requiring technicians to input every single detail, selecting an operation can automatically generate the necessary part list.

This podcast shares success stories illustrating these benefits, with shops reporting increases in material sales and significant boosts to their bottom line after adopting Eagle MMS.

A Vision for the Future of Collision Repair

As Yanni envisions it, the future of collision repair will hinge on a systematic adherence to factory-level repairs and transparency regarding costs. He notes that for meaningful change to occur, all players—shops, consumers, and insurance companies—must collaborate effectively. This collaborative approach is essential for ensuring that all parties' interests are met, creating a win-win situation for everyone involved.

• Educational Initiatives: Providing resources and training to equip shops in navigating the complexities of the claims process remains crucial.

• Adoption and Saturation: With market penetration still low, Eagle MMS aims to expand access to its software, encouraging more shops to adopt technology to enhance their operations.

“The goal is for shops to focus on performing valuable repairs for consumers, rather than getting bogged down in insurance red tape,” he reflects. By empowering shops with the right tools, Eagle MMS is not only helping businesses thrive but also ensuring that consumers receive trustworthy, high-quality repairs.

Involved: Your Path to Better Repairs

Eagle MMS has helped shops bill out $70 million through their platform to date. Interested in transforming your shop's invoicing process and increasing profitability?

• Visit: Eagle MMS to explore features and benefits.

• Join a Webinar: Attend their informative sessions every Tuesday at 11 AM Eastern to learn how you can streamline your process.

• Connect: For inquiries, email their support team at [email protected].

With innovative platforms like Eagle MMS, the future of collision repair looks promising. Ensuring fair pricing, operational efficiency, and streamlined processes can lead to a revolution in how repairs are managed and billed, securing the financial future of shops across the industry.

This discussion features vital insights into the evolving landscape of the automotive industry and the role technology plays in helping shops thrive amidst challenges. To stay updated on the latest automotive tech trends and insights from experts like Yanni Koutmos, make sure to subscribe to LeadFoot Automotive.

Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or a seasoned automotive professional, now’s the time to embrace innovation. Don’t just keep up with the industry—lead it.

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