Impact of the Towing and Recovery Division
Join the ARA Towing & Recovery Division and be part of a network dedicated to strengthening BC’s towing industry. We advocate for fair regulations, improved safety standards, and better working conditions while providing resources and training to help your business thrive. As the industry evolves, we work to ensure tow operators have a strong voice in policy discussions and access to the tools needed for success.
DRIVING PROGRESS: ARA's IMPACT ON TOWING & RECOVERY
Impound Lot Operators Program
In 2024, the ARA reached a significant milestone for the Impound Lot Operators (ILO) program. After over a decade of persistent advocacy, RoadSafetyBC introduced new rates and important administrative updates that directly address many of the challenges ILOs have faced for years. These improvements represent a major breakthrough, ensuring fair and equitable treatment for ILOs and resolving most of the longstanding issues within the program. This achievement highlights the power of consistent, strategic advocacy by the ARA, strengthening the ILO program for the future.
INDUSTRY PARTNER
2016
ARA advocates for ETI program to collect unclaimed vehicle fees.
2017
ARA launches ILO admin training program.
2019
ARA study reveals ILO program raits insufficient.
2020
ARA advocacy leads to provincial review of ILO program.
2021
RSBC partially addresses cost concerns with fee increase.
2023
RSBC commissions Deloitte for ILO rate review.
2024
ARA achieves major administrative reforms and rate increases in ILO program.
Labour rate increases.
The ARA shared labour information with the government to support and advance the towing and recovery industry, resulting in a combined 9% increase over three years.
Registered owner searches.
ARA members can access exclusive search services, including registered owner searches, liens, ICBC deck, and CarFax, through our dedicated search department. These registered owner searches help confirm the legal owner of a vehicle, offering vital information for vehicle sales, impound, legal, and insurance purposes with a quick turnaround time.
SEARCH ACCESS
- Registered Owner
- ICBC
- Lien
- CarFax
Insurance quality parts program.
The ARA’s newly formed committee, comprising leaders from the collision repair, vehicle dismantling, and recycling industries, is driving this initiative.
The primary goal is to enhance the use of recycled parts in insurance claims, improving coordination between repairers, recyclers, and ICBC.
INDUSTRY PARTNER
Best Practices
Advocacy
Training
Tools & Resources
Car-part.com
INDUSTRY PARTNER
Industry updates, networking, and events.
We provide the latest industry news, information, and networking opportunities through the publication of Tow Canada Magazine. Stay informed on important changes that impact your business and connect with peers across the industry.
AUTO CAREERS BC
Investing in the future of our workforce.
The ARA is committed to supporting the province’s future workforce and developing the automotive service industry. Initiatives such as AutoCareersBC and the Pedal Car Challenge are aimed at engaging and fostering the next generation of automotive professionals.
$164,945 RAISED
The ARA has worked to fundraise for scholarships and bursaries to support individuals who aspire to work in the automotive trades, including towing & recovery.
In 2015, the ARA established the Automotive Retailers Foundation Inc. (ARFI) as a registered charitable foundation with the goal of advancing education and relieving poverty in Canada – particularly within the automotive trades sector.
EVfriendly training program.
New and Improved
The ARA is excited to announce the expansion of our EVfriendly training program, which demonstrates our industry’s commitment to embracing the growing trend of electric vehicles.
The ARA supports towing and recovery operators in adapting to industry changes, particularly with the rise of electric vehicles.
Our EVfriendly program provides the training and resources needed to handle challenges safely, while advocating for policies that ensure a sustainable future for the towing industry.
ARA member benefits.
Over 1,000 active ARA business members.
ARA is the largest trade association of its kind in Canada.
70+ years representing the automotive industry in BC.
3,000+ active ARA Group Benefits Plan members.
The Automotive Retailers Association (ARA) is the largest trade association representing the automotive industry in British Columbia. Our primary focus is on addressing the key issues and needs of our industry so that our members can concentrate on the success and growth of their businesses. With over 1,000 business members throughout the province, the ARA plays a vital role in representing the automotive sector within BC.
The ARA represents the automotive service industry in British Columbia by working with the government and stakeholders in ways that help entrepreneurs grow.
- The ARA Group Benefits Plan has covered members for decades. This places it among the longest running and most stable association plans in Canada.
- The plan insures thousands of employees in all divisions of the ARA as well as associated members across Western Canada.
- By participating in the plan, members are leveraging their investment and reaping the rewards of having a strong voice for the automotive industry through the ARA.
- Investing in employee benefits enhances job satisfaction and provides security for employees and their families while also sending a clear message to employees that they are valued members of your organization.
The ARA’s training website provides unique online courses. The ARA also works with external educators to provide the training necessary for businesses to remain viable in today’s automotive service industry.
The ARA’s buying power gives members special pricing on a wide range of products and services offered by our supplier partners. When you join the ARA, you become a member of our buyers’ group, which provides the opportunity to save money on things like our employee benefits program, business and home insurance, group RRSP plan, credit card processing, office supplies, uniforms, coveralls and work wear, collection services, and much more.
The ARA is a hub, connecting you with peers, experts, government, training providers, associations, and suppliers through networking event such as meetings, conferences, training sessions, and social gatherings.
The products and services that the ARA provides to members at special rates include license and lien searches, lien registrations, ICBC damage checks, CarProof, collections, forms, signs, decals, and more.
Contact your Towing & Recovery Division advisor today.
Ken Hendricks
Senior Industry Relations Advisor
- 604-419-4863
- kenhendricks@ara.bc.ca
- 1-8980 Fraserwood Court, Burnaby, BC
“On behalf of the Automotive Retailers Association, we invite you and your company to join our vibrant community focused on enhancing the towing and recovery industry in BC.
With over 70 years of experience, the ARA has played a vital role in supporting the collision industry across the province. We offer unwavering representation and advocacy, along with valuable resources designed to foster your business’ growth and success. Together, we can drive progress and innovation in the towing and recovery sector.”