CHALLENGE MAKES THE PRIZE SWEETER

That’s the truth for JLM Metal Recycling and Auto Parts

Jamie Maillet grew up in the auto recycling industry, working for her parents in the Hamilton, Ontario-based Bodyline Auto Recycler shop. Part of this work was done while she worked towards a college degree–an impressive feat on its own.

Today, Jamie now owns JLM Metal Recycling and Auto Parts, with plans to grow the business on the horizon. “We’re in a continuation. We have installed a new scale at our Waterford location and purchased a shear excavator for our Hagersville location,” said Jamie. Despite a year of global instability and a worsening supply chain crisis, JLM Metal Recycling saw a good year of operations. “Business was good this year! Everyone was eager to get back, it was a quick and positive year for scrap auto parts, lots in and out. Made many great connections with others in the area!”

Beyond a good business year, any shop owner would be proud of their workplace accommodating to its employees’ needs. The company’s proudest accomplishment of the year? “Having everything back to normal so our employees are happy and secure,” she exclaims. The next year spells some challenge however, with the auto recycling market becoming particularly competitive–excellent for the drivers, not so much for businesses buying their wrecks.

“The only struggle that comes to mind is sourcing material in a competitive market. Buying vehicles from an auction is a lot more competitive, getting good salvage you can part out and make money off is increasingly difficult. Scrap has been steady, but the price of everything is increasingly expensive, including new offices.”

New opportunities and emerging challenges are nothing new for any seasoned businessperson though–and Jamie seems ready as ever for 2024. “We’re going to watch prices and keep doing what we’ve been doing.”