An Introduction to the Automotive Retailers Association

The Voice of the Automotive Industry in B.C.

For decades now, companies in different automotive sectors in B.C. have dealt with government ministries, ICBC, WorkSafe, taxation authorities and other institutions on a collective basis on issues of common concern through their ARA divisions and industry liaison committees. In this way industry can provide input to the entities which regulate them, supply to them and buy from them on issues of common interest without restricting their ability to compete with each other.

The ARA is the largest trade association of its kind in Canada and works on national issues with its counterparts in other provinces under the National Automotive Trades Association (NATA). Traditionally, the ARA has played a lead role in NATA since its inception in 1947.

What is the ARA?

The ARA is YOU: Professionals operating in one of these automotive service industry segments:

Automotive Glass
Auto Rental
Automotive Recyclers (BCAR)
Collision Repair
Licensed Motor Dealers
Mechanical Repair
PowerSport Dealers
Towing & Recovery

Mission Statement:

To promote the advancement of the automotive industry through education, representation and member services in order to maintain a high standard of professionalism while protecting the safety and satisfaction of the motoring public.

Vision

To be a trusted voice in the automotive industry with world class abilities.

Core values

Integrity
Ethics
Honesty
Professionalism
Candor
Adaptability

More: See the ARA 2010-2014 Strategic Plan (PDF)

Who is the Typical ARA Member?

Because we represent practically all segments of the automotive industry and our work improves the business climate in which they operate, all automotive businesses, large and small should support the Association and therefore themselves and each other by becoming members. The average ARA member has five employees, including the owner. A spouse or other family member is often one of the other employees. They work hard, and they work long hours to keep their businesses solvent because they know that if they don't, no one else will. They don't have the time or resources to "fight City Hall" or any other entity that threatens their livelihood. That's the ARA's job.

Structure of the ARA

The Automotive Retailers Association has eight Divisions, each representing a different segment of the independent automotive industry. Each Division has an elected Chairperson and an Executive Committee. These folks are members and business owners themselves. They volunteer their time to work on issues relevant to the Division and to provide guidance to the internal staff.

The ARA board of directors consists of a Chairperson, the immediate Past-chair, two Vice-chairs, Secretary-treasurer and a representative from each Division. The Chairperson, two Vice-chairs and Secretary-treasurer are elected by the membership at the annual general meeting and serve for staggered, three-year terms. The President of the Association is an ex-officio, non-voting member of the Board of Directors.

The internal staff consists of the President, Controller, Division Consultants and support staff. The ARA Group Insurance Plan is managed by the Director, ARA Group Benefits and our own administrative team. The ARA Publishing Company consists of a Publisher, Editor and a Design/Production professional.

Related Information:

• History of the ARA
• How to Join the ARA

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