Under a new format and name, AIA Canada held its annual national conference in Toronto to share industry updates, news, trends, insights and analysis.
The Canadian Auto Care Industry Conference brought together the association’s national gathering for the mechanical repair sector as well as the Canadian Collision Industry Forum. The two events have traditionally been held as two separate events.
The first day focused on the mechanical repair sector. AIA Canada president J.F. Champagne kicked off the day with a look at where the industry is today and where it’s headed, focusing on advocacy and initiatives at the association level.
Champagne also announced he will exit the association in 2026 and the search for a successor is underway. He joined the organization in 2015.
A panel discussion was moderated by James Channer, CEO of InMotion Brands, looking at the labour market and analyzing if and how immigration could help with the talent issue in the industry. Tony Kuczynski, president and CEO of Mister Transmission and incoming AIA Canada chair, Paul Prochilo, CEO of Simplicity Car Care, Susan Mowbray, partner in consulting at MNP and Karim Mouldi, president of Canari Recruitment International took part in the discussion.
A trio of concurrent sessions were held. Susanne Morello, senior vice president of marketing for North America at Mevotech gave a presentation under the theme of women in auto care. She talked about empowering women, building personal brands and growing an inclusive environment that promotes growth.
Under the Young Professionals in the Auto care sector (YPA) category, Charles Fordjour, aftermarket national sales manager at CarFax Canada, explored time management, finding ways to avoid burnout and making sure you spend more time doing the things you enjoy.
Rick Nadeau, president at Quorus Consulting, presented under the market research and data theme, exploring consumer experiences and expectations of vehicle tech — and how they view the aftermarket in being able to repair these items.
During lunch, awards were handed out to three top aftermarket professionals. Bob Jaworski, president and CEO of Auto Electric Service Ltd., took home the highest honour bestowed by the national association with the Distinguished Service Award. Kari Hann was named the Young Leader of the Year Award winner, presented by the YPA. The High Fives for Kids Foundation Distinguished Recognition Award went to Andy Murphy.
A live episode of Curbside Chat was held. Hosted by Lorraine Sommerfeld, panelists Mathew Growden, an independent consultant, Bill Hanvey, president and CEO of the Auto Care Association, and Trevor Tennant, president of Piston Ring Service, talked about top trends in the industry, from tariffs to consolidation.
Steve Greenfield, CEO of Automotive Ventures, explored the outlook for vehicle technology and the advancements taking place.
With a federal election looming David Coletto, founder and CEO of Abacus Data, discussed polling, issues and a picture of the political landscape in the country.
The day wrapped up with a networking session. Day two focused on the collision industry.
Please view our photo gallery below and highlight reel.
Online hub
The same week as the conference, AIA Canada announced a new online hub to provide industry members and businesses a space to advocate for their top priorities, such as right to repair. This hub provides resources for members to communicate with candidates from across the country directly.
The hub is available at www.autocarevotes.ca.
“The auto care industry is in a pivotal moment. Members of Parliaments (MPs) and candidates are actively engaging with businesses and residents in their communities, making it the perfect time to advocate for policies that can ensure the long-term success and sustainability of the country’s auto care sector,” the announcement said.
AutoCareVotes.ca offers tools and support for meeting candidates. After introducing their business, location, employees and services, members can access AIA Canada’s talking points to guide conversations with key messages about industry requests. These include supporting right to repair, combating auto theft and addressing labour shortages.
The hub also provides resources for written advocacy. Visitors can send personalized letters to candidates, drafted by AIA Canada, and download a presentation deck summarizing talking points, policy positions, and guidance on arranging in-person meetings.
“You play a crucial role in ensuring those seeking public office understand the importance of our industry. This is your chance to influence the conversation about the future of Canada’s auto care sector and the federal government’s role in supporting our goals,” the announcement said.
AIA Canada CAIC Photo Gallery
Leave a Reply