An Introduction to the Automotive Retailers Association
The Eyes, Ears and Voice of the Independent Auto 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 ARA members can match the negotiating power of 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.
Who is the ARA?
The ARA is You: Professionals operating in one of these automotive service industry segments:
- Collision Repair
- Mechanical Repair
- Automotive Glass
- Automotive Recycling
- Towing & Recovery
- Auto Rental
- Licensed Motor Dealers
- PowerSport Dealers
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 among service providers, while protecting the safety and satisfaction of the motoring public in British Columbia.
ARA Objectives
- To represent the collective view of the Automotive Industry of British Columbia and to communicate that view to the public, elected representatives of the public, members of the Automotive Retailers Association, and other groups.
- To positively influence the evolution and development of the Automotive Industry in British Columbia.
- To enhance the public image of Automotive Industry professionals in British Columbia.
- To be advocates for issues of concern to automotive businesses and the motoring public of British Columbia.
- To maintain the highest professional standards among Automotive Industry businesses.
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 us 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 business 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 seven Divisions, each representing a different segment of the independent automotive industry. Each Division has an board of directors consisting of a chairperson and directors. These folks are elected by the members of their Division. They are members and business owners themselves. They volunteer their time to work on issues pertinent to the Division and to provide guidance to the internal staff. Each Division has an Division consultant assigned to it.
Each Division Chairperson is a member of the main ARA board of directors. From their ranks a President, Vice President(s) and Secretary-treasurer are elected by the membership at large during the Association's Annual General Meeting and Convention. By organizing it this way, all Divisions are assured equal representation on the main board of directors.
The internal staff consists of an Executive Director, an Executive Assistant, Division Consultants and support staff. The ARA Group Insurance Plan is managed by our own administrative team. The ARA Publishing Company consists of a Publishe/Editor and a Design/Production professional.
Related Information:
• History of the ARA
• Accomplishments of the ARA
• How to Join the ARA
ARA Members:
