Lordco CEO Coates to retire

Doug Coates

Doug Coates will retire as Lordco’s chief executive officer at the end of February, the company has announced.

Coates took over as chief executive officer of Canada’s largest privately held automotive parts distributor after his brother and a founder of the company, Ed, died in February 2014 from pancreatic cancer.

The company said Coates “brought stability and steady guidance during a period of unexpected transition” in an announcement. He also served as salesman, store manager and vice president of sales and marketing since joining the company in 1984.

“With the utmost sincerity and gratitude, the entire Lordco family wishes to thank Doug for his commitment, loyalty and leadership,” said Lordco president Marlyn Coates. “As CEO, Doug worked diligently overseeing initiates, including the company’s northern expansion and significant improvements to Lordco’s distribution network resulting in record sales results. We are grateful to Doug and his supportive wife Lornie for their dedication and contribution and wish them well in retirement.”

The search for a successor is currently underway to lead the family-owned company, which has more than 100 stores throughout British Columbia. Lordco was founded in 1974 when it opened its first store Maple Ridge, B.C.