Does paint blending truly takes less time than a full-panel paint job? by David Ribeiro Industry associations have one common trait—we provide a collective voice for individual businesses within an industry. A quality representation of this took place this past November during the SEMA trade show in Las Vegas, where the Society of Collision Repair […]
The Society of Collision Repair Specialists’ Blend Study Read More »
We are pleased to inform you that the Automotive Retailers Association (ARA) has extended the preferred rate program with Moneris for an additional 3 years, effective February 1, 2023. ARA members who have switched to the preferred rate program with Moneris reported savings in their processing costs. As the official supplier of debit and credit
The ARA Extends Its Partnership with Moneris Read More »
In 2022, the Automotive Retailers Association (ARA) enjoyed a number of achievements through its events, initiatives, and partnerships. The ARA looks forward to continuing these efforts in order to further support the success of automotive entrepreneurs in B.C. in 2023. 2022 was a milestone year for the ARA. As COVID-19 restrictions eased across the province,
A Look Back and Ahead for the ARA Read More »
In light of labour shortages in the automotive service industry, recruiting co-op students or apprentices who have undergone automotive program training can provide a steady supply of skilled and dedicated workers to maintain smooth operations in the shop. The British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) offers the Automotive Service Technician and Operations (ASTO) Co-op Program,1 a
BCIT’s ASTO Co-Op Students Are Available for Hire Read More »
At the age of 89, John Weston passes away. Weston’s Automotive was one of the founding members of the Automotive Retailers Association (ARA) 70 years ago. Photos: Weston’s family archive Shortly before the ARA’s 70th Anniversary Celebration and AGM, Weston’s Automotive Ltd. announced sad news about the passing of its former owner and ARA Honorary
Industry Icon John Weston Passes Away Read More »
Four young females teamed up for the Pedal Car Challenge to encourage diversity in the automotive aftermarket industry. By Iva Kestrankova, Photo courtesy of Stephanie Appel Stephanie Appel, Emily Pendlebury, Caitlan Kirkby, and Louise Trenholm met at the ARA’s Women in the Automotive Industry event last spring. That is also where they were introduced to
Collision Repair: Women Do it Better Read More »
The current situation of B.C.’s collision repair industry is dangerously similar to the trend that transpired in the U.K. in the 2000s when profitability was depleted and one-third of body shops disappeared from the market. by David Ribeiro The current situation of B.C.’s collision repair industry is dangerously similar to the trend that transpired in
The B.C. Collision Repair Industry Is in Trouble Read More »
ARA members gather to celebrate 70 years of excellence in the automotive industry over a fun-filled weekend. Photos and text by Burhan Osman From September 28 to October 1, the Automotive Retailers Association held its 70th Anniversary Celebration at the Hilton Resort & Spa in Whistler, British Columbia. This was a monumental event for the
A Big Success—The ARA’s 70th Anniversary Event Read More »
As part of the program, ICBC will cover the costs of ARA online training courses that are focused on traffic control and the safe handling of electric vehicles. by Ken Hendricks In a recent episode of the EVfriendly podcast, Mitchell Martin, owner of Mitchell’s Towing, said: “Training is critical. It gives you knowledge on What
ARA and ICBC Partner to Create the LETS Program Read More »
The Automotive Retailers Association (ARA) and ICBC have partnered on a pilot project, Labour Attraction/Retention, Education/Training and Safety (LETS). For the towing and recovery industry, the program primarily helps companies with challenges related to training. The following text was provided by the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) Eligibility Effective immediately, ICBC will cover the
ICBC and ARA Team Up to Support Industry Training Read More »