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© 2025 Auto Service World Conversations
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News, views, features and commentary about the automotive repair and service industry in Canada.
152 Episodes
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What’s it like to get laid off and go through the job-hunting process? Many have been down that road and many will again. But how you position yourself in the world, online and offline, will go along way to making that journey easier. Jacki Lutz, director of content at the Auto Care Association, discusses the realities of career transitions and job hunting. Jacki shares her personal journey of being laid off, the emotional challenges and how she leaned on her network and personal brand to nav...
In this episode, Emily Chung shares her firsthand experience selling her auto repair shop, AutoNiche in Markham, Ont. She discusses the importance of thinking early about succession planning, preparing clear financial statements and documenting business processes to ensure a smooth transition. Chung emphasizes honest communication with staff, the emotional ups and downs of the sale process and vetting potential buyers. She explains how preparing for a sale well in advance, digitizing her oper...
Artificial intelligence has been making noise for years now. And as it rapidly grows, the automotive aftermarket has been figuring out where it fits in. Tilak Kasturi, co-founder and CEO of Predii, which supports shop software and jobber business management systems, joins this episode to discuss how AI is currently helping the auto care industry and what it may be capable of in the future. He explains how AI can bridge communication gaps between different systems, standardize complex part ter...
Alain Primeau, executive vice president of UAP, shares his insights on the evolving landscape of the automotive aftermarket. He explores how technology, consumer behaviour and market dynamics are reshaping the sector. Primeau highlights the shift towards digital tools, the growing importance of quality parts and the emergence of electric vehicles. He emphasizes UAP's strategic approach to adapting to these changes, including developing key programs and supporting independent repair shops with...
Bryce Gregory, director of strategic product technology at Enersys, which goes to market as Odyssey, explores the critical role of AGM lead-acid batteries in the evolving electric vehicle landscape. Despite the rise of lithium-ion technologies, lead-acid batteries remain essential for auxiliary power, safety systems and key functions in modern vehicles. With 99% recyclability and proven reliability across diverse climates, these batteries continue to complement emerging battery technologies. ...
Donovan Ringo, senior manager of emerging technologies at NAPA, explores the transformative technologies reshaping the automotive industry, particularly for repair shops. With ADAS, EVs and autonomous driving at various stages of sophistication, Ringo emphasizes the critical need for independent shops to invest in emerging technologies. He discusses the challenges shops face in adopting new tech, from training to equipment costs, and to retain customers and compete with dealerships. With pred...
With many auto repair shop owners looking to soon exit their business, Sunil Patel, founder of Tekmetric, explains what’s important to potential buyers, from an internal one, to the shop down the street to a private equity firm. Patel outlines key steps for shop owners to make their businesses more attractive for acquisition, emphasizing clean financials, operational efficiency, and strong customer service. Tune in to hear about the importance of adopting technology, maintaining a dedicated t...
President and CEO of the Auto Care Association Bill Hanvey provides insights into the industry's current landscape. Discussing challenges like global trade uncertainties and tariffs, Hanvey emphasizes the association's role in supporting members through complex economic times. He highlights progress on right to repair legislation, the potential of AI in inventory management and the industry's global collaboration. Find out why Hanvey remains cautiously optimistic, stressing the importance of ...
J.F. Champagne, president and CEO of AIA Canada, outlines the pressing challenges facing automotive service technician training. He emphasizes the need to modernize education to keep pace with rapidly evolving vehicle technologies. With increasing reliance on diagnostic technology and complex vehicle systems, he stresses the necessity of upskilling, addresses the industry's image problem and calls for stronger advocacy to attract young talent. Support the show
Lordco executives Samatha and Ian Coates discuss the current automotive parts industry landscape, highlighted by economic uncertainty and a softer retail market during their company's 35 Annual Tradeshow. Despite challenges, they remain optimistic, highlighting their trade show strategy, commitment to premium products and customer service. Tune in to hear their thoughts on topics like consolidation, vehicle aging, technological advancements, meeting customer needs and more. Support the show
The benefits of artificial intelligence in the automotive aftermarket are seemingly boundless. But as Todd Richardson, CEO and president of In Motion Brands and Atrium Solutions Inc., explains, there is only so far you will want to take it in your shop. Tune in to hear about where this technology can help, what it can do for you and how you should carefully think about its implementation in your business. Support the show
Suzanne Morello, senior VP of marketing at Mevotech in Toronto, draws on 30 years of marketing experience to gauge how the aftermarket is evolving in the area. Tune in to also hear Morello share her journey into the aftermarket, discussing digital transformation, industry challenges, and the importance of customer-centric strategies. She explores topics like economic uncertainties, tariffs and the role of branding during tough times. Morello provides valuable insights into the aftermarket's f...
Hear more from this year's chair for AIA Canada. Learn more about his background in the auto care sector, what drives his passion for the industry, why he views this as a great opportunity and more. Support the show
Listen in to four discussions with leaders from top automakers at the 2025 Canadian International AutoShow. Host Adam Malik chatted with Said Deep from Ford Motor Company of Canada, Matt Girgis from Volvo Canada, Mike Szymkiewicz and Lou Ann Gosselin from Stellantis and Elias El-Achab from Kia live from the floor of the show during Media Day. Tune in to hear their thoughts about the state of the industry, new vehicle trends, supply, the economy, geopolitical issues, electric vehicles and more...
The leadership team of Pacer Dynamics — Eddie Tso, Joshua Lin, and Albert Liu — discuss their journey into the automotive aftermarket, one that may not be typical. The trio shares how their diverse backgrounds and friendships led them to form this Canadian-owned brake disc manufacturer, highlighting the importance of industry connections, adaptability and a passion for the aftermarket. They also detail their experiences at their first AAPEX, the lessons learned through pivots and relationship...
This is a cross-post from the Logistics Lowdown podcast, presented by Turnkey Media LLC. David Johnston, George Weston Ltd. research chair and centre director in Sustainable Supply Chains at the Schulich School of Business at York University, and founding and current program director of the Master of Supply Chain Management (MSCM) at Schulich. In this episode of The Logistics Lowdown, we talk with David about the challenges facing young professionals looking to get into the supply chain sect...
The passion for the automotive aftermarket runs deep for many professionals in this industry and Johanna Smith is no exception. She’s the new director of sales and marketing at Associated Equipment and will be working closely with the Canadian market. Johanna shares her passion for the automotive aftermarket, highlighting the importance of relationships, innovation and empowerment within the industry. Support the show
Leading industry expert and Jobber News columnist Kumar Saha joined Auto Service World Conversations to discuss the latest implications of the trade standoff between Canada and the United States. A 25% tariff has been announced for Canadian goods going into America, while Canada retaliated with a tariff package of its own. As the auto industry is uniquely positioned in this battle — auto parts cross borders multiple times during production — Kumar shared his thoughts on what impact this could...
Todd Campau, associate director of the aftermarket at S&P Global Mobility, explores the unique dynamics of the Canadian automotive market, with a focus on electric vehicle adoption, market trends and the impact of the economy on the aftermarket. He provides insights into the factors driving Canada’s lead over the U.S. in EV growth, the implications of changing incentives, and the challenges posed by parts proliferation. Todd also dives into differences in consumer preferences, vehicle age...
The state of the automotive aftermarket is complex. Shane O'Kelly, CEO of Advanced Auto Parts, talks about where the industry is and where it’s going. He explores the increasing importance of technology, from right-to-repair issues to the challenges posed by advanced driver assistance systems. O'Kelly also shares insights on Advanced Auto Parts' decision to keep its Canadian operations and what he learned while trekking across the country to meet with store owners and operators. Support the s...
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Auto car services are essential for maintaining the safety, reliability, and longevity of your vehicle. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs not only ensure your car's optimal performance but also contribute to safer driving conditions for you and others on the road. From routine tasks like oil changes and tire rotations to more complex repairs such as brake and engine diagnostics, auto car services cover a wide range of needs to keep your vehicle running smoothly.https://roadrunnerautomotive.ca/services/