Auto Service World Conversations

ASW Conversations: Strategic growth and building the aftermarket, with Bestbuy’s Nick Brunet

It’s been a year of growth and innovation for Bestbuy Distributor and president Nick Brunet joins this episode to talk about the journey. He discusses overcoming industry challenges like tariffs, expanding its shareholder base across the country and the opening of a new DC in Montreal. Bruney also explains how the company is leveraging data-driven strategies to enhance operations, its commitment to supporting shareholders, fostering a collaborative culture and developing future talent. He also dives into the group’s new partnership with Federated, its focus on technology adoption, and the ongoing drive to build a resilient, forward-thinking organization in the evolving aftermarket industry. Support the show

ASW Conversations: From Setback to Comeback: Navigating the Job Market with Resilience, with Jacki Lutz

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 navigate the market. Whether it’s a career setback or a new opportunity, Lutz offers insights on resilience, not giving up on yourself and practical strategies for staying visible and relevant.Support the show

ASW Conversations: Preparing, Planning and Selling, with Emily Chung

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 operations and focusing on both tangible and intangible assets to maximize business value and continuity played key roles through the process.Support the show

ASW Conversations: How AI is Working Behind the Aftermarket Scenes, with Predii’s Tilak Kasturi

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 terminology and create seamless workflow solutions. Kasturi explores how technology promises to revolutionize how automotive businesses operate, making processes smarter and more responsive.Support the show

ASW Conversations: A Vision for the Aftermarket’s Future, with UAP’s Alain Primeau

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 succession planning.Support the show