Rise in motor vehicles and road accidents influences demand

As the number of motor vehicles in New Zealand rises, there is a corresponding increase in the number of road accidents. In 2005 there were 1,150,253 licensed motor vehicles, a 3.2% increase from 2004. In the same period the number of road accidents rose by 4.5% to 10,467. These trends have resulted in a growing demand for automotive refinishers to repaint damaged vehicles.

Competition from the growing number of vehicles being imported into New Zealand has led to a decrease in the price of new and second-hand vehicles. As a result, people are trading in their vehicles more frequently. These trends have further increased demand for automotive refinishers as they are often employed to paint second-hand and imported vehicles prior to sale.

Ongoing training increasingly important

Ongoing training has become essential for automotive refinishers as paint and painting techniques change constantly. The materials used to build vehicles are continually changing as manufacturers attempt to reduce the weight, and increase the strength of vehicle bodies. For example, a number of new model cars have appeared on the market with plastic parts and panels that require different painting techniques from metal. In addition, new water-based paints are being used by some refinishing businesses.

New technology has made automotive refinishing more accurate, with the introduction of equipment such as colour matching computer programs.

More emphasis on health and safety

In recent years there has been an increased emphasis on health and safety for automotive refinishers. Safety regulations mean they now use airless sanders, protective clothing and ventilated spray booths. There are also new regulations coming into place in the next few years that will limit the amount of time spent in spray booths, and replace the use of all solvent-based paint with water-based paint.

Moderate turnover

Turnover among automotive refinishers is moderate. The average age of people in the role is rising and turnover is likely to increase as they reach retirement over the next decade. Thirty-five percent of machinery mechanics, which includes automotive refinishers, are between 45 and 65 years old, while 43% are between 25 and 44 years old. 

Younger automotive refinishers often change employers to build on their experience. Once they have gained experience, some automotive refinishers set up their own business. Some choose to move into similar roles in other industries, where their skills are transferable.

(Written 24/04/2007)


Sources:

• Business and Economic Research Ltd. (BERL). 2006 Census Data Tool. May 2006.


• Ministry of Transport. 'Casualties and Crashes'. December 2005. (www.transport.govt.nz).


• Statistics New Zealand. 'Total Motor Vehicle Registrations'. New Zealand Official Yearbook 2006. June 2005.