VEHICLE repair network ABS is investigating the feasibility of establishing a specialist body repair network for heavy vans and trucks. The move follows demand from insurers and major fleets for national coverage with common standards, and ABS has formed a working group to study the issue.

ABS is a partnership of 107 independent member bodyshops, each with its own geographical area. It is believed 20 specialists would be needed to launch a suitable national commercial vehicle repair network, which could mean further expansion of its membership. The working group is understood to be discussing operational and marketing matters before reporting back to the ABS board. The organisation already includes light commercial vehicle repairs in its portfolio.

Managing director David Wallace said: 'This is a specialist market which requires specialist repair skills, but we already have a strong foundation in our network. As far as we are aware there is no network in place offering nationwide coverage in this niche sector of the body repair market. It could prove to be exactly the kind of service national operators, specialist fleets and insurers require.'