The word whirlwind should be inked on Darren Wales’ broad shoulders. Since he joined his Wales Truck Repair & Wales Bus Repair business to the AMA Group, Wales has acquired a further nine major heavy motor repair facilities in less than two years.
For anyone else it would be a juggling act, but for Wales that’s business as usual.
“Myself and the AMA team are laser-focused on providing our clients, both transport operators and Insurers alike, with exceptional service and competitive pricing structures.
His latest addition to AMA’s Heavy Motor Division is Newcastle’s National Truck Repairs and National Central.
Wales has quickly assembled a ‘titanic’ fleet across the country including Parins Truck Repairs (Perth), All Transport Smash (SA), Western Truck Repairs (Vic), Recar Truck Repairs (Brisbane, Townsville, Clayton), Wales Truck Repairs (NSW) and Wales Bus Repairs (NSW).
“I’m proud of our team,” said Wales. “We provide a service for heavy motor Australia-wide, a ‘one-stop-shop’ for truck, bus & coach repairs.
“The response from the industry at large has been overwhelming. Our national clients have relished the opportunity to finally have a dedicated, truly national repair network of the highest calibre.
“Our insurance company partners have been extremely positive and supportive. They see the benefits in dealing with an ASX-listed public company, with the transparency, economies of scale and regulatory governance that it provides.
“And we have a great relationship with our OEMs. Streamlined parts purchasing on a national basis and the ability to work with the OEMs in gaining valuable repair processes and techniques is a must.
“Like other great businesses relationships can make or break a company. Two-way communication, understanding and problem-solving ultimately determines the quality of a partnership, and that’s a priority in any engagement with our customers, and potential customers.”
However, it’s not all plain sailing in the heavy motor repair industry. ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) has thrown a curve ball in truck and bus technology.
The equipment, training and investment to repair and re-calibrate vehicles after an accident requires an enormous investment to fix modern heavy vehicles.
“We’re in a new world and unless you can invest in the technology to be able to repair an ADAS vehicle you will be at the back of the race,” Wales said.
“AMA is at the forefront in providing this investment in order to return vehicles to original manufacturer’s specifications, something which independent operators may find very difficult.”
While Wales loves the cut and thrust of competition (and winning), the people he works with is his number one focus.
“We have a great team around us with a passion for the heavy motor industry and repair industry. I can’t speak highly enough of the dedication and commitment that our team have shown, not only in our business, but across the AMA support team.
“I have been in the industry for over 30 years and I think that I have learnt more in the past 12 months from our people than I have in many years.”