If you mention the word ‘challenge’ to Willis Thys of Action Recycled Auto Parts in Winnipeg, MB, you can expect to hear a determined response.

“A challenge is not a problem. A cha-llenge is simply something that requires a solution,” says Willis. No matter what your profession in this world, this is the kind of attitude needed to confront the trials that we face on a daily basis. For Willis, the challenges dealt with in the ever-changing world of auto recycling are not a stumbling block, but merely part of an equation that, with his outlook, always produce a successful outcome.

A part of the auto recycling world for 25 years, it was Willis’ decade-long job as a mechanic that first attracted him to the industry. He is an automotive mechanic, a heavy-duty mechanic, and small engine repair technician with inter-provincial certification in all three areas. Although it was working with parts that lured him in, Willis didn’t make the commitment to recycling immediately. In 1982, Action Recycled Auto Parts was established, and Willis entered into a three-month trial basis partnership to see if it was something he would be interested in. He hasn’t looked back since.

The staff of Action Recycled Auto Parts

When asked what he is most proud of, Willis responds without hesitation, “Our staff.” The team at Action Recycled Auto Parts is comprised of 45 people, all of whom are passionate about what they do – a quality that no doubt serves the customer. Willis is especially proud of the aftersales service at Action Recycled Auto Parts. “If there are any problems we always stand behind it, bring it in and make repairs. We make sure that the customer is back on the road as quickly as possible.” This service, combined with quality parts, is what makes Willis’ recycling plant stand out. At Action Recycled Auto Parts, the return rate on parts is less than three per cent.

DEDICATION TO SATISFACTION

While Willis maintains a steadfast philosophy to keep him going when the going gets tough, changes in the industry are inevitable. And having been involved in the recycling field for more than two decades, Willis has observed how some yards have taken the necessary steps to improve the overall quality and customer satisfaction. Increased warranties, deliveries, and testing are some of the changes that have taken place in higher-end yards, and Willis’ business is among those of which have improved on all of the previous levels. Action Recycled Auto Parts is proud to have the most extensive testing procedures in the country.

Moving at the speed of the industry isn’t enough for Willis. He moves ahead of it. “My viewpoint has always been that the more we do ahead of time, whether environmental or technological, the more that we have something that’s attractive to offer to our customers,” he says. And according to Willis, something new is always coming up. Willis is impressed by the improved technology and software that has become available to the industry, and has recently purchased a power link yard management system. Five years ago, the business started selling air bag kits, and recently added aftermarket parts. Moving forward, he has just recently expanded the building by adding five more bays (totalling nine) and the warehouse is now 16,000 square feet.

In addition to co-owning Action Recycled Auto Parts, Willis also has many other roles in the auto industry. Not only is he involved in the Automotive Recyclers of Canada and of Manitoba, but he also has a part in the collision repair industry. Willis is the VP on the collision side of the Automotive Trades Association of Canada, and he also serves as Chair of the Manitoba I-CAR Committee.

“Collision repair makes up a third of our business. We wanted to get involved because the industry contributes so much to our success that wanted to give back to the industry what they have done for us,” he says. His involvement is not limited to his various roles, but is also seen in his business at Action Recycled Auto Parts, “We want to help the industry, whether it’s through bettering their situation with the public insurer, or with any negotiations they have.”

Willis has established a firm foundation in both the Auto Recycling and Collision Repair industries through his tenacious spirit, exceptional customer service, and commitment to quality. In keeping his senses attentively tuned to the up-and-coming technologies, there’s no telling how far Willis and Action Recycled Auto Parts may go in the future. One thing is for sure: Willis Thys doesn’t slow down. He continues to sprint past the hurdles to finish strong every time.