...pay a detailer or a tech, depending on what part of the country you’re in.

In 1968, Industrial Finishes opened an automotive paint store in Portland, OR, and expanded its operation to Washington, Utah, Nevada, Idaho and California. It now serves customers in 30 states.

BVDS launched its system in July of last year, right smack in the middle of the pandemic. CEO Russ Ramsey wasn’t discouraged because he was confident his new site could fill a much-needed industry niche that lists every retainer and its location, and is designed so anyone can use the system without changing their current distributor.

“We have been in this business for a long time and have helped a lot of shops to make money on retainers, by making it easier to find the right ones and invoicing them correctly,” Ramsey said. “Our website has tackled the problems associated with retainers because with this system, all of the information they need is right there, with photos and drawings and an easy way to track them. It also enables your shop personnel to find out what they might need from the OE dealer prior to the repair.”

Andrew O’Lear is a shop foreman at Dick Hannah Vancouver Body Shop, one of the largest collision repair facilities in Washington with a brand new 80,000-square foot facility. He began using the system earlier this year and said it’s already an indispensable part of his process.

“The BVDS system is completely different from anything else that’s currently out there,” he said. “We don’t have to rely on our techs to determine what retainers are required. With every vehicle, they have full schematics, OE information and they also offer us the aftermarket alternative. That gives us a chance to compare prices in real-time well before we even start the repair. Then we create the invoice right there and it’s seamless.”

Bill Jaster describes himself as a “project guy” at Industrial Finishes. Recently he was assigned to introduce and demonstrate the BVD program for its clients.

“Once they see what it can do for them, they fall in love with it,” he said. “They’re capturing every penny now and saving a ton of time as well, so it's definitely a win-win.”