NEAR Wants to Hear from YOU! Annual Reader Survey Opens in December

Attention loyal readers! Every month, you peruse the pages of this magazine to read up on the latest industry trends, news bits, local features and updates from the Massachusetts Auto Body Association (MABA).

We know that YOU are the eyes and ears of this industry here in the Commonwealth and that your input matters! That’s exactly why New England Automotive Report wants to hear from YOU!

The New England Automotive Report 2026 Annual Industry Survey returns in December! Since 2021, we’ve been collecting data from you – our readers – to learn more about the experiences you are having with an aging workforce, labor reimbursement rates, parts woes, advanced technologies and more.

Every collision repair business runs differently, but as the previous survey results have shown, most shops deal with the same woes and voice similar complaints, which helps us identify what matters to you the most.

New England Automotive Report has seen some interesting trends over the years via the data collected. Results from last year indicated that trouble finding good help may still be a persisting problem, but it may be taking a backseat to other issues. In 2024, survey takers placed trouble finding good help as second to the labor reimbursement rate issue but in 2025, insurer interference/referrals and programs took second place above staff woes.

Last year, survey respondents cited Progressive in the top spot of most difficult insurance companies to deal with, putting the former-top contender, MAPFRE, into second place. It will be interesting to see which company shops give the crown to this year.

Total toss has been at an all time industry high with CCC Intelligent Solutions’ 2026 Crash Course reporting a 23.1 percent of claims resulting in a total loss therefore it will be interesting to see what shops share about their experiences in this area.

The survey will be open December 1 through midnight on December 31! Check your inbox for details about the New England Automotive Report 2026 Survey or visit grecopublishing.com for details.

It only takes 10-15 minutes to complete and responses will be kept anonymous. So don’t hold back and be sure to tell us how you really feel! Your input will go a long way in identifying trends and letting your colleagues know that you are all likely cut from the same cloth.

Be sure to look for the results in the February 2027 issue of New England Automotive Report!

Want more? Check out the November 2026 issue of New England Automotive Report!