Fiat Auto has teamed up with Akzo Nobel and Fusion Management Solutions to launch an approved bodyshop programme for its Fiat Car, Fiat Commercial Vehicle and Alfa Romeo brands.

The contract, which lasts for three years, sees Akzo Nobel act as principal programme partner and Fusion Management Solutions will manage the operation.

Though the network of 130 bodyshops taking part was already approved by Fiat, this is the first time it is being managed under one programme.

The group of bodyshops comprises of an even split of independent and franchised operators, Steve Harding, national service operations manager for Fiat Auto, says: “This scheme has been set up to improve relations with our bodyshop network and so that we can keep a better record of what our customers are doing.

“It also ensures that they receive high standards of repair and service.”

In addition, the programme is designed to ensure that all potential revenue streams are identified by the dealer network and, wherever possible, that these become an integral part of their business in the future.