The leading advocate for independent automotive service professionals.

A message from the Executive Director, Diane Freeman

As we say goodbye to 2021

As this year comes to an end, I hope this finds you and yours healthy. This year has been challenging at times. I hope that this holiday season gives you reflection and rest.  The global pandemic reminded us all of the vital importance of the aftermarket industry to Canadians.  We were instrumental in ensuring goods kept flowing across the borders and that our food chains were stocked and essential items necessary to continue to help the essential workers do their jobs. Canadian Automotive Service Providers kept Ontario roadways and highways safe.   In the year where we were not certain of how long this pandemic was going to last.  Full pandemic recovery is hopefully coming soon and we all have the collective strength to get through this together.

AARO Conference & Trade Show – March 30th to April 2nd, 2022

In past years it was three separate events: Symposium/Trade Show/ Lindertech Conference

“The Future of Electrification,  Leading Technical  Instructors, MVIS Changes to Heavy Duty & Emissions Program with MTO “

The AARO Conference and Trade Show will be a new event in 2022 that in past years was held as three separate smaller events. The Board of Directors of AARO made the decision to bring these events together to provide an opportunity for the aftermarket industry to participate in a full educational/technical training program with a trade show component where technology and trends affecting the aftermarket industry are shared over a four-day schedule. This event will also include an Annual General Meeting and networking opportunities to bring a full conference experience.

Predicting the course of the COVID-19 pandemic in Canada continues to present unprecedented challenges. We remain optimistic that reopening of businesses and travel will continue to grow in 2022 so that this annual conference and trade show will proceed in-person. We are looking forward to a sold out event.

We have the dates for the AARO conference which will start Tuesday, March 29, 2022 with the Annual General Meeting.  Followed by a four(4) day event of networking and educational experience and industry changes to MVIS & Emissions with the MTO.

Register to join us by contacting Patty Kettles, Manager of Events & Programs at patty.kettles@aaro.ca
or contact the AARO office  1-800-268-5400

Welcome Patty Kettles

We are pleased to announce that Patty Kettles has joined the AARO team.
Patty has over 30 years of automotive experience and will be our new Manager, Events & Programs.
Meet Patty at our upcoming AARO Conference & Trade Show in March 2022.

Repair It Right

Defending the Right To Repair. We are strongest when we stand together. Follow the link and find what you can do today.
Canadians demand the right to choose their auto service facility. Today’s vehicles transmit data directly back to the manufacturer making it increasingly difficult for independent garages to service and repair them. CBC columnist @PaulOnCBC spoke with AARO’s Emily Chung on the challenges this poses in her shop

Welcome New Members!

Ken Kheita – Active Green+Ross, Markham
Matt Skoberg – Chestnut Avenue Auto, Hamilton
Richard McMullin – Ricky Ratchets Auto Repair, London
Chris and Dave Harrigan – Harrigan’s Auto Clinic, Niagara Falls
Julie Whitehead – Julie’s Tire and Auto, Thorold
Marc Surprenant – Surprenant Truck Stop, Osgood
Margaret Honey – Honey’s Garage, Russell

AARO has partnered with @tirediscountergroup and now members enjoy deep discounts on a wide selection of brand name and private label tires, and a complete line of steel and alloy wheels for both summer and winter use.