South African collision repair stalwart selected for Plasnomic Plastic Repair Alliance Council

Earlier this month, Charles Canning, a director of Halo Group and a seasoned veteran of the local motor body repair industry, was selected as a founding member of the Plasnomic Repair Alliance Council.

Plasnomic, the emerging global authority in plastic repair, has officially brought together some of the most respected and dynamic individuals from across the collision repair ecosystem to form the Plastic Repair Alliance Council—a groundbreaking initiative committed to advancing and supporting the implementation of the highest global standards for plastic repair practices, tools, and processes.

This global Council comprises senior leaders and technical experts from some of the most influential organizations in the industry, including 3M, PPG, Polyvance, Mirka, ARA, AkzoNobel, Caliber Collision, Boyd Group, SEM and others. Representing a diverse, cross-regional coalition, the Council spans North America, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Australia.

These carefully selected individuals bring a wealth of industry, specialty, and regional expertise to support a multilayered approach to communication, education, and curriculum development. Their collective insight will help shape the training programs offered to the broader industry and promote a deep understanding of plastic repair processes and best practices. Council members also maintain strong working relationships with all leading paint companies, MSOs, OEMs, and insurance providers, further enhancing their influence and impact.

“As plastic components such as bumpers, headlights, and trims become the mostfrequently replaced parts in modern vehicles—and current repair volumes representonly a fraction of what can be repaired—the lack of consistent global standardspresents both a safety and cost challenge,” said Kurt Lammon, President ofPolyvance and founding Council member. As part of its next phase, the Council will nominate a Council Leader to coordinate efforts and collaborate closely with members in their respective regions and areas of expertise. This leadership role will ensure steady progress and regional alignment toward Plasnomic’s overarching mission.

“This marks a significant milestone for the global collision repair industry and a proud moment for all involved. It reflects a unified commitment across stakeholders to set aside differences and work collaboratively to elevate repair standards worldwide. The formation of the Council underscores our shared vision to drive innovation, define best practices, and establish transparent, consistent standards in plastic repair. We’re not just setting guidelines—we’re building an ecosystem of collaboration, transparency, and innovation that will uplift the entire industry and lay the foundation for a more connected, forward-thinking, and sustainable future,” said Brian Driehorst, CEO of Plasnomic.

Under Driehorst’s leadership, Plasnomic will also spearhead a broader collaborativeinitiative with key partners across the collision, materials, manufacturing, OEM, andinsurance sectors. These strategic partnerships will focus on research, innovation,and the rollout of best-practice methods for plastic repair, including certified tools,training, and advanced technologies—ensuring high-quality, compliant, and sustainable repairs globally. The newly formed group is also in the process of recruiting a COO to support its global expansion and operations.

Council Members Include:

The Council’s Mission Is Bold and Vital: