LKQ UK and Ireland is helping bodyshops unlock new repair capabilities with the introduction of Plastrepair, an innovative filler-less plastic repair process that enables technicians to restore damaged parts while reducing waste and improving efficiency.
This forms part of the business’ commitment to encouraging more sustainable, alternative repair methods. It comes as independent bodyshops are facing rising repair costs alongside a broader shift across the industry towards more sustainable parts and repair methods.
Through its exclusive distributor agreement with Plastrepair in the UK, LKQ will supply the specialist tools and materials required for the process while also supporting customers through training delivered via the LKQ Academy. The solution provides bodyshops with a more sustainable alternative to traditional plastic repair methods, enabling a wider range of plastic components to be restored rather than replaced.
Plastrepair has reinvented plastic repairs, pioneered completing work without the use of problematic fillers, developed innovative 3D printed tools and customised weld products specific to the Plastrepair Repair Process. Through an approved IMI training programme, these techniques enable technicians to return parts to pre-accident condition.
This approach increases the scope of repair opportunities for bodyshops while supporting faster turnaround times, reduced repair costs and improved profitability. It also contributes to sustainability goals by enabling more plastic components to be reused rather than sent to landfill, with detailed CO₂ and PPM reporting available to help businesses track their environmental impact.
Plastrepair first entered the market in July 2022 and achieved IMI approval in 2024. Developed through Australian-led innovation and already established in Australia and the United States, the solution is now being introduced to the UK repair sector through LKQ’s distribution network.
Bodyshops can begin their Plastrepair journey by enrolling technicians on IMI-accredited training delivered through the LKQ Academy, the UK’s leading automotive training provider. An advanced technician Plastic Repairs course is also available, while a Manager & VDA Introduction course helps wider team members understand the process and the opportunities it can create for the business.
With these new capabilities in place, bodyshops can implement the Plastrepair process within their operations, purchasing the specialist tools and products required to deliver the process in-house.
Lee Smedley, Technical Training and Development Manager at LKQ, said: “Bodyshops are under increasing pressure to repair more parts, reduce waste and keep vehicles moving through the workshop as efficiently as possible. The Plastrepair process gives technicians another way to do that by opening up new opportunities to restore plastic components that might previously have been replaced. All our technicians are trained in the new repair method, and our account management team have completed immersive, hands-on sessions, giving them the practical understanding needed to support customers in bringing this repair method into their workshop.
“At LKQ, our role goes beyond simply supplying products – we’re here to provide complete solutions that help our customers run stronger, more efficient businesses. By combining innovative repair technology with IMI-accredited training through the LKQ Academy and ongoing technical support, we’re giving bodyshops the tools, knowledge and confidence they need to expand their capabilities and succeed in a changing world.”
Peter McAninch, Managing Director, Plastrepair EU Ltd., added: “The Plastrepair process represents a significant step forward for the collision repair industry because it challenges the traditional filler-based approach to plastic repair. By using specialist techniques to restore parts, technicians can achieve an exceptionally high-quality, sustainable repair while reducing cost, key-to-key times and having a positive impact on sustainability for their business and customers.
“We’ve seen the positive impact in Australia for over 10 years, and partnering with LKQ allows us to bring that same innovation to bodyshops across the UK. Through LKQ’s network and training capabilities, both large multi-site operators and independent repairers will be able to access the technology and develop new specialist repair skills that can make a real difference to their business and the customer journey.”
