Here's what we're building for MABA members — a comprehensive platform of advocacy, education, networking, and professional recognition for Michigan's collision repair industry.
MABA membership is an investment in the future of your business and our industry. When collision repair professionals stand together with one voice, we can accomplish what no single shop can do alone. Here is our vision for what your membership will support and the benefits it will provide.
This is the cornerstone of MABA membership. For the first time, Michigan's collision repair professionals will have professional lobbying representation in Lansing — a unified voice fighting for your business.
Dedicated representation advocating for laws that protect collision repair shops and the consumers they serve.
Advocacy for laws that protect consumers' right to choose their own repair facility, free from insurance company pressure.
Working to address suppressed labor rates and ensure Michigan shops are fairly compensated for skilled work.
Supporting legislation that requires insurers to cover manufacturer-specified repair procedures for consumer safety.
Regular updates when bills affecting the collision repair industry are introduced or moving through the legislature.
Ready-to-use correspondence so you can contact your own state legislators on key issues.
MABA is working with I-CAR to secure reduced pricing on certification and training programs for member shops and their technicians.
Access to educational sessions on topics including DRP negotiations, supplement writing, OEM certification requirements, and emerging vehicle technology.
A statewide event featuring nationally recognized speakers, hands-on training, vendor exhibits, and peer networking.
Member-only access to templates, guides, and reference materials for estimate documentation, repair procedures, and customer communication.
MABA is actively developing programs that leverage the collective purchasing power of Michigan's collision repair community to deliver real savings to member shops.
MABA is actively exploring Association Health Plan options that would allow member shops to pool together and access group health insurance rates. For most small shops with 5 to 20 employees, purchasing health insurance individually means little to no negotiating leverage. By aggregating members under one association umbrella, MABA could help shops access rates typically reserved for much larger employers. We are currently evaluating partnerships with Michigan-based insurance brokers who specialize in trade association plans. Details and enrollment options will be announced as they become available.
MABA is exploring negotiated group discounts on common shop expenses that affect your bottom line every month. This could include reduced pricing on shop supplies and equipment, waste disposal and hazmat compliance services, uniforms, credit card processing, and more. By leveraging the collective purchasing power of Michigan's collision repair community, MABA aims to deliver meaningful savings that more than justify the cost of membership. Vendor partnerships and discount details will be shared as agreements are finalized.
MABA is exploring a Pooled Employer 401(k) Plan (PEP) that would give member shops access to a professionally managed, low-cost retirement plan. Most small collision repair shops either cannot afford to offer a 401(k) or pay excessive fees for a basic plan. Through MABA, member shops could pool together under one plan with institutional-level pricing, professional fiduciary oversight, and streamlined administration — all managed by a third-party provider so shop owners can focus on running their business. A quality retirement plan is one of the most powerful tools for recruiting and retaining skilled technicians in today's competitive labor market. MABA is currently evaluating partnership options with providers who specialize in trade association retirement plans. Details will be announced as they become available.
Connect with fellow collision repair professionals across Michigan through events, forums, and regional meetups.
Opportunities to connect newer shop owners with experienced operators for guidance and support.
A member-only space to share advice, discuss industry challenges, post job openings, and exchange vendor recommendations.
Local gatherings that bring together shops in your area for networking, learning, and collaboration.
A professional insignia to display at your shop, signaling to customers that you are a member of a recognized professional organization committed to safe, quality repairs.
A framed-ready certificate for your lobby or office, reinforcing your shop's credibility and professionalism.
Prominent listing on michiganaba.org so consumers can find trusted MABA member shops in their area.
Use the MABA member logo in your own advertising, website, and marketing materials to build consumer confidence.
MABA will promote public awareness of consumers' right to choose their repair shop and demand safe, complete repairs.
Collective representation when addressing insurer steering, labor rate suppression, and parts procurement practices.
Template language and resources for responding to insurer pushback on proper repair procedures and OEM requirements.
A Michigan-specific report on industry trends, labor rates, and key metrics to help you benchmark your business.
Michigan built the automobile. Let's protect the people who repair them. Your membership helps lay the foundation for a stronger, more connected, and more professional collision repair industry in our state.
Michigan Auto Body Association • Incorporated February 2025 • LARA Entity ID: 803343923