Yudu - January/February 2019

Shiſting Gears By Caryn Smith, Editor

Best Niche Association Magazine Be the Hero of Your Own Story T

he annual ARA gathering of auto re- cyclers was held in November 2018 in Orlando, Florida, and attendees got right down to business in sessions, round- tables and panels. While the Disney ex- perience provided a fairytale backdrop, in contrast, attendees discussed the real issues of the day, and potential outcomes that could work to the benefit of the in- dustry. Read the full convention story on page 28, but here are some thoughts. Like any tale with villains, heroes, dam- sels in distress, twists, turns and drama, the compelling story of do- ing business in today’s economy was told. In

To promote the use of recycled auto parts in repairs, ARA has partnered with Fender Bender magazine to include a 20- page insert in an upcoming issue target- ing collision shops and repairers solely on the value of recycled auto parts. There are also new training opportu- nities, webinars, and town hall meetings planned that will benefit ARA member’s and their employees.

In this story,

the end, the reality is that there are no true villains plotting against the indus- try. Instead, it is caught in a time of rapid technological change and thinning prof- it margins for all involved. One hero will not save the day. In this story, the damsel in distress, i.e. the industry, needs to em- power herself. The industry must unite and together be proactive. With a 75-year history of overcoming the odds, “there is nothing to fear but fear itself.” Auto recyclers who embrace change, automation, technology, train- ing – and the next-gen workforce – will find profitable avenues of opportunity. Those who pay attention to details, deliv- er great customer and employee experi- ences, and build sustainable, technology driven processes and procedures will thrive, and are heroes of their own story. The Association recognizes that a vi- tal aspect of the industry success story is peer-to-peer connections. They have identified business operators who want improve operations by learning from the experience of others. ARA has launched the “ARA Mentoring Program” to help them benefit from this knowledge. To be a part of this program, contact the ARA.

the damsel in distress, the industry, needs to empower herself.

A top priority for ARA leaders is mov- ing swiftly with the in- tent to create positive relationships directly with the OEMs. While this seems a lofty goal, in the era of emerging blockchain technology,

it is an attainable one. Auto recyclers own billions of dollars of OEM parts. The automotive recycling industry is a major player in the “reduce, reuse and recycle” movement, which brings im- mense credibility and opportunity. As the industry unites, it will be invited to a seat at the table.

One valuable industry asset that could be used as a tool to elevate the industry are the millions of data records that auto recyclers collectively possess. Data tells the story of the business and is used to forecast trends and build profits. While it appears an abstract concept, understand- ing its value is empowering (see page 42). Also empowering is insight into the volatile metals market for 2019 to help you get the most for scrap. You’ll get an overview from ISRI on page 56, and, on page 58, read how one hybrid business is thriving on both sides of the business. Lastly, we are proud to debut the new- ly redesigned Automotive Recycling Logo on the front cover and table of contents. It was time to refresh our “look” to re- flect the bright future of the industry. Next month, you’ll see new page designs inside the magazine. Stay tuned!

ARA Officers PRESIDENT

jonathan@mmauto.com

Counselman Automotive Recycling, LLC Mobile, AL

chad@counselmanauto.com

SECOND VICE PRESIDENT/TREASURER Scott Robertson Jr.

Robertson’s Auto Salvage, Inc. Wareham, MA

jr@robertsonparts.com SECRETARY

Martin “Marty” Hollingshead Northlake Auto Recyclers Hammond, IN

martyh@narparts.com

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT David Gold

Standard Auto Wreckers Scarborough, ON Canada davidgold@fenixparts.com

ARA Executive Staff & Contractors ARA Headquarters • (571) 208-0428