CARS 2026 Executive Outlook: Pamela Lee

CARS reached out to leaders in the automotive repair and service sector of the automotive aftermarket to ask them about their thoughts about the industry over the next 12 months: How will this year be different, what will drive change and what will be the biggest challenge. We will present their answers in alphabetical order over the coming weeks…

You can view the full feature in the February 2026 issue.

Pamela Lee, President, CEO | Mr. Lube Canada

Strategies that increase early engagement (e.g. high schools and trade schools offering mentorships and job shadowing) can shape career decisions before alternatives are chosen.

Shop leaders should prepare their facilities to be technologically agile and adaptable.  Shops already collect data from multiple sources but only those with integrated digital systems can fully optimize workflows, strengthen actionable insights and maximize trust in customer experience.

Equally critical is ensuring unrestricted access to repair, calibration, and software information. Supporting right-to-repair legislation in Canada is vital for maintaining consumer choice and enabling the automotive aftermarket to compete and innovate. Shop leaders who prioritize these strategies position their facilities to thrive in the era of increasingly complex automotive systems.

Attracting new talent means meeting the next generation where they are and clearly showing the value of the trade. Social platforms like Instagram and TikTok can make the profession more relatable by highlighting real career paths, strong community impact and the technology driving today’s service.

Strategies that increase early engagement (e.g. high schools and trade schools offering mentorships and job shadowing) can shape career decisions before alternatives are chosen. To retain talent, shops must foster a culture of growth which includes professional development, rewards and recognition and, in some cases, opportunities to earn equity in the business.

In 2026, shops will face the ongoing challenge of geopolitical pressures affecting supply chains, pricing, and consumer spending.

The opportunity: Shops that deliver exceptional service despite these hurdles will stand out, build trust and gain a competitive edge. In a discerning market, winning the customer’s trust becomes your strongest advantage.