Estérel, Quebec — The Quebec Association of Auto Parts Recyclers (ARPAC) members gathered at l’Estérel Resort in Quebec last week for its annual congress.
This year’s theme was “Let’s Preserve the Earth”, emphasizing ways to accelerate the turn toward sustainability and green thinking in the industry and beyond.
The congress began with a casual welcoming dinner and address from ARPAC president and CEO Simon Matte at Restaurant Rok in Estérel, Qué., about a two-hour drive from Montreal. Attendees had the opportunity to mingle with other members of the auto recycling industry prior to Friday when the festivities kicked off.
On Friday, ARPAC attendees boarded a shuttle to Lemieux pièces d’autos usagées, where they had the opportunity to tour the recycler’s yard and witness what the business calls “the best used car parts.” The tour was followed by a reception, featuring several food trucks and a cocktail hour. All profits from alcohol sales went toward supporting the ARPAC Foundation.
Friday evening saw attendees return to the l’Estérel Resort for a show by comedienne Cathy Gauthier.
On Saturday the hotel hosted an exhibition to promote the longevity of the trade. A banquet was held Saturday evening, featuring a silent auction and dance with music from the Montreal-based music group Electrik.
The silent auction raised $52,000 for the ARPAC Foundation and its humanitarian efforts.
ARPAC was established in 1971 through the joint efforts of several recyclers who wanted to pool their experience and share a common dream in establishing the foundations of auto recycling. The organization strives to be a leader in the sale of high-quality, controlled-original recycled car and truck parts and maintains a view of respect for the Quebec environment. Today, ARPAC is a key player in vehicle recycling in Canada, with 75 members across the province.
ARPAC’s 50th anniversary is two years away, and the association will be hosting a celebratory convention from October 12, 2021 through October 17, 2021. Hosted at the Quebec City Convention Centre, the 2021 convention is sure to be a can’t-miss event for any auto recycler; planning has already been two years in the making.
Check out Collision Repair‘s photos from the ARPAC annual congress below!
