 The Automotive Recyclers Association (ARA) recognizes Earth Day today celebrating positive steps forward between the professional automotive recycling industry and automobile manufacturers in advancing environmental sustainability through the automotive supply chain. ARA’s recent efforts to engage auto manufacturers on the topic of sustainability and vehicle life cycle is highlighted in a new “Advocacy in Action” video released by the Association.
(The video can be seen at www.a-r-a.org on the homepage). “Earlier this year, ARA hosted representatives from General Motors (GM) at ARA Member facility Fox Auto Parts in Belleville, Michigan,” said ARA Executive Director, Sandy Blalock. “The facility tour was part of ongoing discussions between ARA and several automakers about the vital role professional automotive recyclers play in ensuring that vehicles are processed efficiently and in an environmentally friendly manner when they reach the end-of-life stage.” The tour walked the guests through the entire process of receiving, inventorying, dismantling, storage, sales, shipping and even crushing end-of-life vehicles. Several of the GM guests were fascinated to see how much of the vehicle was recycled and resold, and one guest commented, “It makes our job to focus on the areas that we can do better. Throughout the whole tour I was thinking of ways that we could design up front to make things easier to disassemble … what’s in that ‘fluff’ that we could start to eliminate.” In a high-level presentation to the Supplier Partnership for the Environment, with representatives from Toyota, Honda, and Ford in attendance, Blalock presented the critical steps in automotive recycling, and noted where vehicle manufacturers and auto recyclers could collaborate in the future. These important steps are vital to building strong relationships between the automotive Original Equipment Manufacturers and Professional Automotive Recyclers who inventory and resell quality Recycled Original Equipment (ROE®) auto parts from vehicles, and then send the hulls to be further processed at scrap metal facilities who recycle the metal. Automobiles are among the most recycled products in the world. When a consumer chooses economical ROE® automotive parts in their mechanical and collision repairs, vehicle owners help preserve natural resources, reduce air and water pollution, and divert material from landfills. It is good for the earth, and good for the wallet. “As the world continues to focus on environmental stewardship as celebrated on Earth Day, and automakers work towards zero gas emissions vehicles for the future, we want it to be known that professional automotive recyclers are part of the sustainability process, and bring valuable solutions to the table,” said ARA President Scott Robertson. “The environmental impact of materials, how parts and assemblies are dismantled and reutilized in vehicle repair, separating out what is biodegradable and what can be used to make new products, these are all aspects of vehicle engineering to which ARA members can offer valuable input. We look forward to more collaboration in the future.”
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ARA’s mentor program offers a participating MENTEE the opportunity to receive ongoing knowledge and insight from a fellow recycler. By RD Hopper There are common problems that all face. Everyone has learned from experiences that could help another facing the same problem.  ARA Developed the Peer-to-Peer Mentoring Program to facilitate auto recyclers assisting fellow auto recyclers in reaching their goals. Recyclers helping recyclers is a longstanding industry heritage, especially amongst the membership of the ARA. Two years ago, the ARA leadership found this type of support, organized into in a more structured program, was needed and important enough to start the mentor program, which assists members in getting help to reach their current goals. Getting the Most For this process to be effective, the mentee needs to consider certain things before beginning the program: GET MANAGEMENT BUY-IN: It is crucial that the management team of the mentee’s business be on board, as the only way to improve is to be able to agree on what needs improvement and tackle it. Management must be willing to spend the time and effort it takes to achieve the desired results. Everything in business is a team effort. There are no easy buttons. If everyone is not pulling together in the same direction, it will be impossible to lead the team to achieve successful results. BE OPEN TO NEW IDEAS: Auto recycling facilities come in all shapes and sizes with different business models, in different locations, using different operating software. There are different personalities with many philosophies on what a successful business looks like. There is no cookie-cutter way of managing a company that is going to work the same everywhere. No one person is going to show up and have the best answer for the situation every time. That being said, many successful people are very strong in different aspects of recycling. While fundamental truths apply across the board and there are common problems that all face, these can be successfully managed in many different ways. Everyone has learned from experiences that could help another facing the same problem. FOLLOW THROUGH PUTTING INTO ACTION: Each recycler must develop the processes and the people to satisfy the needs in its market and satisfy customer expectations. In addition, this plan must cover overhead and be profitable. Each recycler must measure each part of the process and people to evaluate changes and assess results. The processes must be “scalable,” and thank you Ron Sturgeon for that piece of advice. Each recycler must determine what is most important to their family at work and at home. Easy button? No. Hard work and opportunity? Yes. When the decision is made, everyone must be willing to devote the resources, time, and effort to work in the same direction. ARA will do its very best to help find a fellow recycler to share their insights and help another recycler establish key processes. Believe it or not, these mentors gladly help others and, at their own expense, to pay back the many people that have helped them along the way. If recyclers are willing to share, learn, and invest in the three P’s – people, process, product, as Marty Hollingshead always says – then everyone wins. RD Hopper is the owner of Sonny’s Auto Salvage in Jacksonville, AK, the company he and his wife Jennifer bought in 1998. Hopper is also a past president of the ARA. How do I Enroll in the Program? PEER-TO-PEER MENTORING is offered through ARA’s effective empowerment program. Monitored by the ARA, mentoring is available to any auto recycling facility owner or manager who is looking for a fresh perspective on their business strategy and daily business operations. Mentors & Mentees are paired based on criteria developed to create a successful match. To enroll as a mentor or mentee: 1. Email staff@a-r-a.org to receive more information on the program, as well as to request an application to mentor or be mentored. 2. Return your application to enroll in the year-long program. You will be matched with a Mentor or Mentee. It is the responsibility of paired parties to develop communication systems that work for both parties.  Do you have the right stuff? What does it takes to be a MENTOR? By Marty Hollingshead  A good mentor is a combination of a coach, a counselor and, at times, a drill sergeant, but aren’t these all qualities we already have from managing our businesses and our people? You need to know when to teach, when to get tough, and when to be understanding and supportive. Back in 2018, ARA launched the Peer-to-Peer Mentoring Program. RD Hopper was the founder of this program. His vision was to bring together some of the best automotive recycling operators to act as mentors to those that were in need of help. The program’s main objective is to improve our industry one recycler at a time. The mission is to mentor those that were new to the industry, some that may be struggling, and lastly, some that simply wanted to improve.
As we make our industry better as a whole as our main goal, and we all do a better job, the benefits will be access to greater opportunities, and hopefully we will erase negative stigmas of the past that our industry suffers. Now in our third year, we are looking for additional recyclers to be mentors who want to give back to the industry that benefits them. And, with inquiries from across the pond, we are even looking to scale this into an international program. Mentoring Means Business One of the great things about our industry and what sets it apart from others, is that even though we are competitors, we are always willing to share ideas and help one another. For those that are applying as mentors, obviously we are looking for the best. Usually, when someone is a good operator, they are also very busy with their own business. For those that are interested in becoming a mentor, you have to know and understand this: This is a rigorous program and can have a positive or a negative impact on those looking for help. With that being said, it is a serious commitment from both parties. Everyone involved will have to hold up their end for their efforts to succeed. The bottom line is this: it will require hard work and an honest effort from all involved. Honestly, if you are not willing to invest the time and work required, this program is not for you. Yet if you are, this program will most definitely be a benefit to you, and also to those you are helping. Success Isn’t Cheap Mentors must be willing to make sacrifices of their time, work, and resources to help others. This will require numerous phone calls with your mentee, as well as being able to do an evaluation on their business to understand their strengths and weaknesses, and to develop a plan of action. Obviously, there will be different methods, all depending on the needs of who you are mentoring. The focus will be on the three P’s – people, process, and product. You will also need to find out what their goals are, short-term (within the next year), and long-term (their 5-year plan). You may have to help them set realistic expectations, as well as monitor their progress to keep them focused and on-track with the task at hand. Hopefully when travel restrictions ease, we can continue with site visits, but at the very least, you will have to be readily available for any questions or concerns that your mentee may have. The Rewards are Great A good mentor is a combination of a coach, a counselor and, at times, a drill sergeant, but aren’t these all qualities we already have from managing our businesses and our people? You need to know when to teach, when to get tough, and when to be understanding and supportive. On a personal note, I can say firsthand that I have learned as much from the people that I have mentored as they have learned from me. You will develop long-term, lasting relationships with these people, and you will have a sense of fulfillment knowing that you are giving back and helping others. When this program began, RD told me that if we could save just one recycler, it will be a success. He also said, “Seeing people willing to give their time and resources to the ARA mentoring program; to selflessly invest in the future of other owners and this industry as a whole, has made me feel honored to be a part of ARA and this industry. This is a transitional time, and these mentors have shown me that those who are willing to adapt and improve their businesses will survive. I am grateful to those that have asked for help to improve, and for those volunteering to be mentors. They both have inspired me to do the same.” I encourage anyone who feels that they have “The Right Stuff” to be a mentor to the industry to contact Jessica Andrews at jessica@a-r-a.org to apply. The ARA Vision: Train, Educate, Advocate. Support your State and Local Associations! Support ARA! Most importantly, support our flag, our military, our frontline workers, first-responders, and our American values! Martin “Marty” Hollingshead is President of Northlake Auto Recyclers, Hammond, IN, and is the First Vice President of the Automotive Recyclers Association.  ARA Honorary Lifetime Member Mike French, Mike French & Company, Inc. Retires. Donates Legacy Publications to the ARA Auto Recycler’s Toolbox Magazine® and Virtual Auto Recycler Trade Show™ Now Part of ARA Publishing Program  ARA is honored to announce that longtime industry supporter and ARA Honorary Lifetime Member Mike French, who is also a longtime contributor to Automotive Recycling magazine, has generously donated the Auto Recycler’s Toolbox Magazine® and the Virtual Auto Recycler Trade Show™ to ARA. French will be retiring effective February 28, 2021 and announced the donation of his popular industry magazine and online trade show platform in a press release this week.
“Mike and his family have been strong supporters of ARA and this industry for as long as I can remember,” said ARA Executive Director, Sandy Blalock. “Our leadership and staff is humbled that Mike would choose to transfer the Auto Recycler’s Toolbox®, the online Virtual Auto Recycler Trade Show™ and accompanying website over to ARA. We are committed to preserving the integrity of these communication platforms as we integrate them with the Association’s overarching communications strategy to support automotive recycling businesses, including services and suppliers to the industry, as well as promoting the use of Recycled Original Equipment® auto parts.” MF&CO has operated since 1982 and launched Auto Recycler’s Toolbox® in 2007 as “The Auto Recycler’s Trade Show in Print®,” which served as a cornerstone of MF&CO. French felt compelled to help auto recyclers who were disconnected from others with quality information to help them succeed. The publication quickly grew as a widely-read nationwide publication with the aim to deliver all the aspects of a trade show experience to those that are unable to attend in-person industry events. MF&CO then launched the Virtual Auto Recycler Trade Show™ in 2020, to offer more tradeshow-like experiences, such as video presentations, demos, and more. “ARA’s current publishing program serves as exclusive ARA member benefits,” says Caryn Smith, CEO of Driven By Design LLC, who has supported ARA’s publishing and communications efforts for over 20 years. “We are especially excited to assist ARA to publish the Toolbox® and associated websites that reach beyond the current ARA membership audience. With the support of loyal Toolbox® writers and industry suppliers, we want to continue to offer all automotive recyclers and suppliers on the mailing list with quality information that will help them thrive. Those to love the Toolbox® will continue to enjoy it as a quality industry resource.” å The only place to buy replacement repair auto parts was at a junkyard, but we never improved our image.  This article originally ran in AutoRecyclingWorld.com on January 11, 2021.
Our industry has an identity problem. Most of the general population has little knowledge of the benefits we offer and has preconceived notions about auto recycling. We are the most misunderstood industry in the world. Unfortunately, many of the first auto recyclers began as an offshoot from an unrelated business plan – some were rag merchants, others paper and some scrap dealers. There were very little, if any, standards of environmental or quality control. We were the place that collected junk, hence the name “junkyard.” During World War II, all manufacturing was geared toward the production of war support products. The only place to buy replacement repair auto parts was at a junkyard, but we never improved our image. People started to buy our products more and more, but we never improved our processes. Recycling end-of-life vehicles was a time-consuming, dirty process mostly done by hand. Just imagine chopping up a car with a hatchet by hand, not paying too much attention as to where the oil, gasoline and other fluids flowed. We were on par with the trash dumps, but handling old abandoned vehicles. There are many auto recycling facilities that never evolved into the modern professional auto recycler of today. These facilities most likely are not computerized, do not follow environmental protocols and are an eyesore to their neighbors. The unknowing consumer might think that all auto recyclers operate and look the same. Most of these operators die off when new generations inherit the junkyard, while some are newly formed as illegal operators working out of chop shops or tow yard locations. Whatever the case, we are often judged by the lowest common denominator. Often we have long-standing customers who forget about the many great parts we supplied to them and latch onto the one part that failed after installation. We do a pretty good job in promoting our industry to those who know about us, including fellow recyclers, insurance companies, and body and mechanical shops. The problem here is that in most instances we are preaching to the choir. Body and mechanical shops have a love/hate relationship with us – they hate us when our parts are mandated and love us when they are fixing their own vehicle and want to save money. Lots of times the consumer formulates their opinion of our parts from a shop writing the estimate. Our parts are classified as “junk” and why would you take the chance with a worn-out part. Some even have signs saying they don’t perform repairs with junkyard parts. We have allowed the industry that installs our parts to formulate the consumer’s perception of our product. In the past, every time you saw a salvage yard in the movies, there was a drug deal or someone was being shot and thrown into the trunk of a car. Unfortunately, movies, TV shows and the media can formulate people’s opinions for the good and bad. It seems like after getting a bad reputation, it takes forever to make it good. I don’t think we have a bad reputation, just a misunderstanding of the benefits of our industry. Next time you take an Uber, ask the driver if they would utilize our parts in repairs. Better yet, ask a waiter their opinion, but be ready to explain why our parts are good for their wallet and the environment. An educated consumer is our best customer. Just imagine if every salvage yard around the world started promoting the benefits of our industry to the consumer and the “not yet” consumer. Ideology is formatted early in life, let’s reach out to the younger generation. They might not own a car, but they are zealot environmentalists, the perfect match for our industry. We must be viewed as stewards of the environment as a carbon-negative industry, not as the polluters that our forefathers portrayed. We should all be utilizing social media in promoting our industry, it’s cheap and far-reaching. Call your local news media and offer a tour and story on the benefits of our industry. Do the same with your town leaders and planners. Maybe we could all offer public tours on World Auto Recycling Day on September 18th! Perceptions are easy to form but difficult to change. Scott Robertson Jr. 2020-21 ARA President Thank YOU to all of the EDGE 2020 Sponsors, Exhibitors, Speakers and Attendees that helped make last week’s 77th Annual ARA Convention & Exposition a huge success! Close to 500 ARA members participated in the industry’s largest virtual event of the year, and feedback has been overwhelmingly positive! “On day two, I was so excited I asked key staff members to sit with me to view the seminars targeting their area of responsibility.” “The seminars were very informative! It was hard to pick between which one to attend. I felt the fire of motivation re-ignite again. It stirred my mind on what we need to be focusing on in the long run-outside the world of COVID." Couldn’t join us last week? You can now register to receive on demand access to all recorded Educational Sessions, Tech Talks, Keynote Sessions, as well as enjoy the Awards Gala video, all for $199 per person! Access to all uploaded content – videos, flyers, product demos – from our Exhibitors is still available in the virtual Expo Hall. Hear from industry experts, learn from your peers about what's working and what's not working for their businesses, access new training, and finish the year off strong. Content will be available ON DEMAND until November 30th - engage from the comfort of your home or office, regardless of time zone! REGISTER FOR ON DEMAND ACCESS: https://s3.goeshow.com/ara/edge/2020/registration_form.cfm  “In light of the most challenging year in history, why wouldn’t you take advantage of ALL your options?”  The Automotive Recyclers Association (ARA) announced today that a growing number of professional automotive recyclers and recycling industry suppliers have registered for the upcoming 77th Annual ARA Convention & Exposition, one of the industry’s only live training and trade show experiences of 2020. Originally scheduled to take place at the Peppermill Resort & Casino in Reno, Nevada, the event transitioned into an all virtual experience and Association leaders are excited about the new opportunities associated with an online platform.
Attendees can register at https://s3.goeshow.com/ara/edge/2020/registration_form.cfm. “For the first time, we have the capability to help and engage with more auto recyclers than ever through the top-notch virtual platform, and bring the ARA Annual Convention right to their office and to their teams,” said Scott Robertson, Jr., ARA President, and owner of Robertson Auto Salvage, in Wareham, MA. “In light of the most challenging year in history, why wouldn’t you take advantage of ALL your options?” adds ARA Executive Director, Sandy Blalock. “ARA has assembled an expert line-up of speakers and peer-leader panels who will share strategies for growth, efficiency, productivity, and recovery from the most challenging year in modern history.” Below is a sampling of scheduled educational sessions: The Future of Auto Recycling Turn the clock forward a few years and imagine the automotive recycling industry of the future. How will we cope with advancements in vehicle design, advanced ADAS technology, artificial intelligent estimating applications, and more? Join four industry veterans as they discuss the possibilities and implications for the recycled parts market. Sales for Self-Service – Thinking Outside the Box Move beyond the social media and data-driven techniques of yesterday and into the future! Learn how rapidly growing concepts such as geofencing and behavioral targeting can drive business your way. 2020 Managing Today’s Virtual Workforce Between the COVID-19 pandemic, health concerns, technological and economic issues facing automotive recyclers across the world, it may be a good time to rethink how you engage with your customers. What does “virtual” mean to you and your business? How do you implement it and measure success? Expectations of Body Shops This session will explore and explain the struggles of day-to-day body shop operations regarding Recycled Original Equipment (ROE) parts. Better understanding these struggles can help you capitalize on the dollars often un-noticed and demonstrate how quality ROE parts can help your body shop customers make more of a profit – for them and for you! Getting the Most from Social Media Learn the importance to your overall business strategy to be present on social media and how and when to leverage various platforms (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube, TikTok, etc). Recyclers Roundtable The popular Recyclers Roundtable is back and in a virtual format! Join three up-and-coming leaders from the global auto recycling community as they moderate a discussion of the most pressing issues facing today’s recycler parts market. The Annual Convention online platform will also feature:
Automotive recyclers can directly connect specific team members, who use the products and services every day, with multiple suppliers at one time to gain information and data to improve their skills or help make critical production decisions. “For 76 years, the ARA Annual Convention and Exposition has been the gathering place for the professional automotive recycling industry and an incredible place to network, learn and conduct business,” adds Robertson. “ARA is the voice of the professional automotive recycling industry and it is our duty to provide information, education and opportunity to automotive recyclers from around the world. If ever there was a year to assist all of the industry, this is it. We hope recyclers of all kinds from all around the globe take advantage of the possibilities within EDGE 2020.” For more information and to register, please visit the ARA website at www.a-r-a.org.  "With the safety of all attendees at the forefront, we have decided to re-direct all of our efforts into transitioning the 77th Annual ARA Convention and Exposition into a virtual conference. We were hopeful that this year’s Convention could remain a live event, but the current state-of-affairs simply presents too much uncertainty and risk at this time.”  The Automotive Recyclers Association (ARA) announced today that the upcoming 77th Annual Convention & Exposition will be a 100 percent virtual event. Originally scheduled to take place in person at the Peppermill Resort & Cason in Reno, Nevada, Association leaders decided last week to transition into an all virtual event due to ongoing concerns around the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Ultimately, the health and safety of the membership and staff is our top priority,” said ARA Executive Director, Sandy Blalock. “After many discussions, serious consideration, and with the safety of all attendees at the forefront, we have decided to re-direct all of our efforts into transitioning the 77th Annual ARA Convention and Exposition into a virtual conference. We were hopeful that this year’s Convention could remain a live event, but the current state-of-affairs simply presents too much uncertainty and risk at this time.” The dates of the Annual Convention will remain unchanged and ARA is in the process of adapting the full schedule of educational programming, Exposition hours and networking events into a program that will showcase automotive recycling at its best. More details will be released in the coming weeks. “For 76 years, the ARA Annual Convention and Exposition has been the gathering place for the professional automotive recycling industry and an incredible place to network, learn and conduct business,” said ARA President, Scott Robertson. “ARA is the voice of the professional automotive recycling industry and it is our duty to provide information, education and opportunity to automotive recyclers from around the world – even in the midst of a global pandemic. Yes, it will look different, but it will still be the extraordinary experience that our attendees have come to expect year after year.”  Now Accepting Nominations for At-Large Director Seat Representing Canada
The ARA Nominating Committee is now accepting nominations for the At-Large Board of Directors position representing Canada. Current Board member Dalbert Livingstone’s term will conclude at the upcoming Annual Convention in November and ARA greatly thanks Dalbert for his leadership for the past four years. The Director must be an automotive recycler and ARA member in good standing. To recommend someone, please email staff@a-r-a.org. Congress COVID-19 Relief Legislation: Congress is no closer to reaching an agreement on a new COVID-19 relief bill as negotiators from both parties have been unable to agree upon how much federal unemployment supplementation should be provided to those drawing state unemployment benefits. House Democrats have drawn a line in the sand saying that anything short of $600 per-week is unacceptable. Under the CARES Act passed in March, the federal government supplemented state unemployment benefits by $600 per-week until its expiration at the end of July. Democrats are arguing that Republican efforts to reduce the amount of federal supplementation of unemployment benefits will further damage the economy due to reduced consumer spending and that state unemployment systems cannot quickly adapt to a change in unemployment benefits. On Tuesday, Senate Majority Leader McConnell (R-KY) stated that he would be open to extending the $600 per-week benefit so long as the White House and House Speaker Pelosi agreed. This is a major development considering Senate Republicans have previously been hesitant to extend the benefits due to some workers making more money on unemployment than at work. Additionally, as part of Senate Republicans’ proposed relief bill, Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL) and Susan Collins (R-ME) introduced S. 4321. The proposed bill would allow for a second round of Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans to be distributed to businesses that can show their gross receipts have been reduced by 50% due to COVID-19 – a provision that is being heavily contested by businesses. While the second round of PPP loans is the hot topic of conversation, the bill also permits prior PPP loan recipients who received $150,000 or less to have their loans forgiven if they submit an attestation to their lender that they made a good faith effort to comply with PPP loan requirements (businesses will also need to maintain records relevant to compliance for three years). ARA: Last week, ARA joined a group of more than 480 trade groups representing a broad range of industries to urge Congress to support the business liability protections contained in the SAFE TO WORK Act (S. 4317). ARA has been working with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s COVID Liability Coalition to educate Congress on the need for business liability protections due to the COVID-19 pandemic. For a link to the letter sent to Congress click here. Automotive: Last Wednesday, General Motors announced that it had lost roughly $800 million in the second quarter. According to CNBC, the loss reflected a 34% decrease in vehicle sales that can be attributed to a decrease in demand and tight dealer inventories. Ford Motor Company posted a net income of $1.1 billion due to a $3.5 billion gain on an investment in self-driving software Argo AI. However, the automaker took a $1.9 billion hit to its pre-tax earnings during the second quarter independent of its investment in self-driving technology. If you have an article or piece of news that you think is important to automotive recyclers send an email to Emil@a-r-a.org. FOR MORE IMPORTANT INFORMATION, VISIT ARA's COVID-19 DASHBOARD   Registration Now Open for ARA’s 77th Annual Convention and Exposition ARA announced today the opening of registration for the 77th Annual Convention and Exposition taking place in Reno, Nevada on November 11-14. The registration launch follows the Association’s announcement last week that retired Navy SEAL Jason Redman will provide the meeting’s Keynote Address. “We fully realize that this year’s Annual Convention will not look like our previous annual gatherings,” said ARA Executive Director, Sandy Blalock. “But we are committed to providing the critical, industry specific educational content that our membership needs while at the same time, working diligently behind the scenes to ensure a safe and positive experience for all attendees.” The 77th Annual Convention will take place at the Peppermill Hotel and Casino. "ARA is coordinating with staff at the Peppermill to ensure that all appropriate measures are taken to address concerns related to COVID-19. This includes temperature checks, physical distancing, face coverings, and hand sanitizing stations,” said ARA President, Scott Robertson. “This will be a safe, high quality educational experience that will empower automotive recyclers with the skills and mindsets to succeed during these challenging times.” For more details on the Convention agenda or to register, please visit www.a-r-a.org.  ARA COVID-19 Relief Fund Continues Distribution of Grants As we reported last month, the goal of the fund is to distribute seventy-five $1,000 grants to ARA Direct and Affiliate Direct members. A recipient of a grant has the flexibility to use grant funds either to help their business or employees. ARA is continuing the process of reviewing applications and distributing grants to ARA direct applicants. Payment of funds is based on availability to pay. ARA appreciates those who have donated to the COVID-19 Relief Fund and who have made this program possible. ARA would like to thank Car-Part.com, Rebuilders Automotive Supply, AB CatTech, Robertson’s Auto Salvage, Northlake Auto Recyclers, Reitman Auto Parts, We Buy Key Fobs, and VET Environmental Engineering for their generous contributions. Apply for a grant from the fund HERE. Please know, information on the application that would identify the applicant is removed before it is sent to reviewers for approval.  ARA Congratulates SpaceX on Successful Commercial Space Launch; Applauds Commitment to Reutilization ARA congratulated SpaceX last week on its historic May 30th mission that successfully launched two NASA astronauts into space. The launch was the first time a private company has sent astronauts into orbit. “This is a proud moment for the American people,” said ARA President, Scott Robertson, “as well as for the professional automotive recycling industry. I commend SpaceX in the reutilization of rocket boosters for interplanetary transit and on the development of reusable rocket systems – a focus on recyclability that is proven to dramatically reduce costs and enable the United States to compete in space exploration.” Since 2017 the aerospace manufacturer and space transportation services company has launched multiple attempts into space using recycled, gently used rockets. “Our profession is built upon that same focus of recycling genuine original equipment manufacturer (OEM) automotive parts to bring cost savings to consumers and keep vehicles on the road.” ARA believes that vehicle manufacturers should emulate Space X in promoting the reutilization of their product to reduce costs by supporting the reutilization of recycled parts in vehicle repairs. Single-use manufacturing is self-serving, intentionally forcing consumers to overspend on repairs to their vehicle. Presently OEM position statements and procedures only allow for new OEM manufactured parts in vehicle repairs. “If we can reuse parts to launch man into space, we can surely reuse parts to repair our vehicles,” emphasized Robertson. “For decades, our members and their employees have efficiently removed and reutilized genuine OEM automotive parts,” said ARA Executive Director, Sandy Blalock. “The value that safe, reliable, recycled OEM parts have in today’s automotive marketplace has never truly been recognized – in large part due to misinformation campaigns by the automobile manufacturers. Recycled original equipment automotive parts are manufactured by the OEMs and built to meet their requirements for fit, finish, durability, reliability, and safety. To see the investment that SpaceX has made in recycling their aerospace products and how proud the company is to tout the cost-savings and other advantages of using recycled products is to be applauded.” Ford Motor Company’s Termination of Lighting and Bumper Core Program Highlights Lack of Commitment to Recycling Ford Motor Company terminated its lighting and bumper fascia core recovery program on June 1st, a move that ARA responded to last week and characterized as a lack of commitment to recycling. Ford stated that it was ending the core recovery program, which has been in place for several years, due to the administrative burden it created for dealers and collision repairers. “ARA is concerned about the environmental impact that the termination of this core program will have, however, we are confident that the replacement parts market will find a solution to appropriately recovering and recycling these components,” said ARA Executive Director, Sandy Blalock in a press release. “ARA is concerned about the environmental impact that the termination of this core program will have, however, we are confident that the replacement parts market will find a solution to appropriately recovering and recycling these components,” said ARA Executive Director, Sandy Blalock in a press release. A 2012 statement attributed to Ford Recycling and Remanufacturing Manager, Kim Goering, promoted that the program demonstrated the automaker’s commitment to doing “whatever we can to extend the life of these components. Even more important, however, is that Ford strongly believes it’s just the right thing to do from an environmental perspective.” That same statement acknowledged a desire by the automaker to cut into the remanufacturing sector of the aftermarket, a motive that ARA maintains is just one example of the company’s efforts to stifle competition and raise the cost of repairs. “It’s clear that over the past several years, Ford and other auto manufacturers have taken aggressive steps to push the automotive recycling as well as remanufacturing and aftermarket industries out of the market,” said ARA President, Scott Robertson. “I find it highly suspect how in 2012, Ford can publicly acknowledge that their original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts still have a lot of life left, yet they’ve taken every position to the contrary when it comes to the recycled, genuine OEM parts sold by our members. The professional automotive recycling industry is the true champion of recycling here, and I think Ford’s termination of this program shows that.”  Kinderhook Acquires Original One Parts Original One Parts, a leading provider of certified original equipment manufacture (OEM) auto parts used by collision and repair shops and dealership service centers among others, has been acquired by Kinderhook Industries LLC. Their primary proprietary VINtegrity™ Certification Process uses a six-step inspection and certification process to ensure that recycled and refinished parts meet the exact fit, form and function as a new part, thus giving repairers the solution for meeting OEM repair procedures with cost-effective refinished replacement parts. It was this process and attention to detail that drew Kinderhook into the partnership. One Parts will be led by industry veteran Wade Hilburn, as CEO and Jerry Sullivan, as Executive Chairman, who together have more than 60 years of experience encompassing manufacturing, reconditioning and insurance claims. Hilburn noted that, “This partnership will provide One Parts with the access to capital and the resources required to offer an even broader range of high-quality recycled parts to the automotive repair market in the U.S.” Kinderhook Industries, LLC is an American private equity firm based in New York City and a licensed Small Business Investment Company. Since 2003, the firm has raised over $2 billion under management and has made in excess of 170 investments, and has extensive experience with the automotive aftermarket business, which appealed to One Parts in that is will “provide and consistently deliver quality certified reconditioned OEM parts with a convenient electronic buying experience at an incredible value”, stated Wade Hilburn, co-founder of One Parts. ARA Announces Retired Navy SEAL |
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In case you missed our announcement of June 3, ARA is proud to announce that it is partnering with Jason Redman, retired Navy SEAL and Business & Motivational Speaker, to be “ARA’s 2020 INDUSTRY COACH”. Redman was well-received last year as the 2019 ARA Annual Convention & Expo Keynote Speaker and will headline the ARA 2020 Convention taking place in Reno, Nevada on November 11-14.
“We are excited to partner again with Jason in order to empower automotive recyclers with the skills and mindsets to succeed despite the adversity this year has brought to the marketplace,” said ARA President, Scott Robertson. Redman will present a series of four live events for the ARA membership to present his dynamic and actionable strategies that are used by America’s Toughest Warriors to bring success to the battlefield. The first session will take place on June 10, 2020. “
Jason really struck a chord with our members last year,” said ARA Executive Director, Sandy Blalock. “I cannot tell you how many automotive recyclers I spoke with that were personally inspired by his story and all that he has accomplished. We are proud to bring his perspective to work for our industry. Automotive recyclers will be provided what they need to GET OFF THE X OF ADVERSITY- including the impact that COVID-19 has had on their businesses - and move swiftly in the direction of their 2020 goals.”
Jason Redman is a retired Navy Lieutenant who spent eleven years as an enlisted Navy SEAL and almost ten years as a SEAL officer. He was awarded the Bronze Star with Valor, the Purple Heart, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Navy Commendation Medal, the Joint Service Achievement Medal, five Navy Achievement Medals, Two Combat Action Ribbons and the US Army Ranger Tab.
After being severely wounded in Iraq in 2007, Redman returned to active duty before retiring in 2013. In 2013 he launched SOF Spoken LLC, a speaking and consulting company which focuses on inspirational presentations on leadership, teamwork and the “Overcome Mindset” helping individuals, companies and teams to “GET OFF THE X” ™ from “Life Ambushes”. He is the author of the New York Times bestselling memoir The Trident, along with his new book Overcome which released in Dec 2019. He lives with his family in Virginia.
“We are excited to partner again with Jason in order to empower automotive recyclers with the skills and mindsets to succeed despite the adversity this year has brought to the marketplace,” said ARA President, Scott Robertson. Redman will present a series of four live events for the ARA membership to present his dynamic and actionable strategies that are used by America’s Toughest Warriors to bring success to the battlefield. The first session will take place on June 10, 2020. “
Jason really struck a chord with our members last year,” said ARA Executive Director, Sandy Blalock. “I cannot tell you how many automotive recyclers I spoke with that were personally inspired by his story and all that he has accomplished. We are proud to bring his perspective to work for our industry. Automotive recyclers will be provided what they need to GET OFF THE X OF ADVERSITY- including the impact that COVID-19 has had on their businesses - and move swiftly in the direction of their 2020 goals.”
Jason Redman is a retired Navy Lieutenant who spent eleven years as an enlisted Navy SEAL and almost ten years as a SEAL officer. He was awarded the Bronze Star with Valor, the Purple Heart, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Navy Commendation Medal, the Joint Service Achievement Medal, five Navy Achievement Medals, Two Combat Action Ribbons and the US Army Ranger Tab.
After being severely wounded in Iraq in 2007, Redman returned to active duty before retiring in 2013. In 2013 he launched SOF Spoken LLC, a speaking and consulting company which focuses on inspirational presentations on leadership, teamwork and the “Overcome Mindset” helping individuals, companies and teams to “GET OFF THE X” ™ from “Life Ambushes”. He is the author of the New York Times bestselling memoir The Trident, along with his new book Overcome which released in Dec 2019. He lives with his family in Virginia.
Automotive Recyclers Association Submits Comments to the Environmental Protection Agency on Stormwater Permitting
On June 1, 2020, the ARA submitted comments to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and their draft general permit for stormwater discharges associated with industrial activity. The stormwater permitting program began in 1992 and requires automotive recyclers to have a stormwater permit that will be renewed every five years. After each five-year period, the EPA will reauthorize and review the permitting guidelines and propose a new rule that incorporates any changes. This year, the EPA has taken unprecedented steps to strengthen the permitting requirements. For the past 30 years, the EPA has only made incremental changes to the permitting requirements. However, the EPA was recently sued for not properly exercising their statutory authority, which caused the EPA to take dramatic action in strengthening the existing permit requirements.
After reviewing the EPA’s proposed stormwater permit, ARA identified two main issues: (1) that the proposed stormwater permit displayed a clear lack of understanding for the automotive recycling industry; and (2) that the EPA had appeared to overstep its authority by addressing issues not relevant to stormwater runoff and pollutants. Automotive recyclers in every state should be aware (in the likelihood that the final EPA stormwater permit requirements will be stricter than they have in years past) that they will likely be impacted by the new permit changes. Recyclers in every state will most likely be impacted because each state will have to use the new EPA rules as a baseline for compliance.
To address the concerns of the automotive recycling industry as they pertain to the EPA’s stormwater permit, ARA joined the Federal Water Quality Coalition – a group of industrial companies and trade associations directly affected by regulatory requirements imposed under the Clean Water Act. While working with this group, ARA was able to represent the interests of the automotive recycling community. The Federal Water Quality Coalition, on behalf of its members, submitted comments addressing issues with the proposed EPA stormwater permit requirements.
Independent of working with the Federal Water Quality Coalition on this issue, ARA also worked with groups such as the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries, Inc. and the National Salvage Vehicle Reporting Program. While ARA worked with several groups and industries, ARA submitted comments independently on behalf of its membership and the automotive recycling industry.
After reviewing the EPA’s proposed stormwater permit, ARA identified two main issues: (1) that the proposed stormwater permit displayed a clear lack of understanding for the automotive recycling industry; and (2) that the EPA had appeared to overstep its authority by addressing issues not relevant to stormwater runoff and pollutants. Automotive recyclers in every state should be aware (in the likelihood that the final EPA stormwater permit requirements will be stricter than they have in years past) that they will likely be impacted by the new permit changes. Recyclers in every state will most likely be impacted because each state will have to use the new EPA rules as a baseline for compliance.
To address the concerns of the automotive recycling industry as they pertain to the EPA’s stormwater permit, ARA joined the Federal Water Quality Coalition – a group of industrial companies and trade associations directly affected by regulatory requirements imposed under the Clean Water Act. While working with this group, ARA was able to represent the interests of the automotive recycling community. The Federal Water Quality Coalition, on behalf of its members, submitted comments addressing issues with the proposed EPA stormwater permit requirements.
Independent of working with the Federal Water Quality Coalition on this issue, ARA also worked with groups such as the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries, Inc. and the National Salvage Vehicle Reporting Program. While ARA worked with several groups and industries, ARA submitted comments independently on behalf of its membership and the automotive recycling industry.
New Members
Welcome to the following new ARA members! Please give them a warm welcome to the ARA family - send an e-mail or call, introduce yourself and help familiarize them with all the great benefits of membership.
Welcome to the following new ARA members! Please give them a warm welcome to the ARA family - send an e-mail or call, introduce yourself and help familiarize them with all the great benefits of membership.
| Select Auto Parts & Sales, Inc. Natasha Broxton 2500 West Cornell St. Milwaukee, WI 53209-6217 (414) 763-3474 (414) 763-2917 Fax info@selectautopartsmilwaukee.com www.selectautopartsmilwaukee.com WBI Midway Automotive LLC Todd Whitehurst 6600 Canyon Dr. Amarillo, TX 79109-7001 (806) 376-5583 todd@wbimidwayauto.com | Yes Unlimited LLC DBA-Nissan Unlimited/ DBA-OEM Unlimited Edwin (Joe) Luna 2900 De Soto St. Houston, TX 77091-3834 (832) 467-4400 (832) 467-4402 Fax nissanunlimited@gmail.com www.nissanunlimited.com |
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