ARA to host 81st annual convention and expo

Each year, the Automotive Recyclers Association (ARA) Annual Convention & Expo draws attendees from across the globe. This year’s gathering Oct. 23-26 is a sure bet for professional growth and productive networking as ARA celebrates 81 years of representing the industry in Reno, Nevada, at the recently renovated Peppermill Resort & Casino.

81 years of industry education

As usual, ARA has put together an exciting lineup of speakers and topics, using feedback from last year and reviewing proposals submitted earlier this year.

Throughout Friday and Saturday, nearly 50 automotive recyclers and industry experts share their insights on topics that ARA members and attendees have requested, including parts preparation and shipping, wheel stands, cyber security, electric vehicle (EV) battery handling, process standardization, increasing efficiencies, market changes and leveraging opportunities in your control. ARA also welcomes several new speakers this year.

The popular Tech Talks continue, interspersed throughout the educational program to allow time for more attendees to take advantage of these focused timeslots dedicated to providing insight into new tools or more efficient ways to use tools.

Photo courtesy of the Automotive Recyclers Association

Attendees can benefit from the ARA Expo, one of the largest in the industry. It offers the unique opportunity to interact with approximately 80 industry vendors and learn about innovative products and technologies to enhance your business.

“The valuable insights from peers and the relationships built at ARA Conventions are priceless,” says ARA Executive Director Sandy Blalock. “Attendees have told us that they get a lot out of the educational sessions, but the biggest assets to attending are the long-term relationships built and the invaluable insight shared between industry colleagues, including what does and doesn't work. The return on investment of attending an ARA convention is immeasurable.”

Networking opportunities abound

Since networking is so beneficial, ARA provides several opportunities to encourage further sharing of ideas. 

Daily prayer meetings are hosted by ARA Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, Mike French. This group meets, shares prayer needs and starts the day on a positive note.

International delegates benefit from the Global Best Practices session Friday afternoon and an International Networking Reception Thursday night following the close of the expo. This provides an opportunity for conversations about the similarities and differences in the market for recycled parts experienced by our friends from around the globe. 

The Ladies of Automotive Recycling Association (LARA) keeps growing. A LARA Wine & Cheese social is scheduled prior to the Friday night awards dinner, and all ladies in attendance are welcome to join this special event.

The theme for the Friday night networking and awards dinner is Cowboy Casino Royale. The ARA has listened to attendees’ input to make this popular event more relaxed and fun. Enjoy the sights, sounds and tastes of the night and celebrate your colleagues as the 2024 STAR Award winners are recognized.

Closing this year’s event will be the new “Afterglow Party.” This is your chance to relax, share last-minute tidbits with colleagues, enjoy some tunes from the DJ, dance and enjoy the night.

This also marks the end of an era as ARA says thank you to Blalock and Meeting Planner Kim Glasscock as they return to the consulting sector.  

Why gamble with your future?

Don’t miss this opportunity to increase your odds of future success! Come to Reno to learn, network and celebrate at ARA Annual Convention & Exposition.

Visit here to book your room. The ARA room block closes Sept. 14. Those calling the hotel to secure accommodations must indicate code AARAC24 to receive the group rate. In an effort to reduce last-minute cancellations and the liability this creates for ARA, all reservations require a one-night nonrefundable deposit.

Please note that no third-party company is hired to assist and/or proactively reach out to ARA members in any way regarding room reservations.