Bestbuy Distributorss recognized shareholders and vendors at its 70th Annual AGM, and also ushered new board of directors: (l-r) Arthur Edwards (Northwest Auto Parts); Treasurer Scott Anderson (Peterborough Automotive); Rob Dow (Jack Dow Auto Supplies); John Brunelle (Part Stop Auto & Industrial); Mark Haner (Auto Parts Authority); Tony Racioppo (Fincham Automotive); Chair Doug Wilson (Fat Guys Auto Parts); Vice Chair Michael MacPherson (Down East Auto Parts).

One of Canada’s most enduring aftermarket organzations, Bestbuy Distributors honoured suppliers and shareholders at its 70th Annual AGM and Spring Conference including the gala dinner event in Toronto.

It was the first AGM for President and COO Nick Brunet, who joined Bestbuy in October 2023.

He spoke of the excellent participation by both shareholders and vendors.

“We had 92% of our shareholders represented today, either in person or by proxy, so that is a pretty amazing turnout. We’re seeing the engagement from everybody. So thank you to everybody for being here,” said Brunet.

The organization took the opportunity to honour long-standng shareholders in attendance:

• 747 Auto Parts – 10 Years (Kumar Thuraisamy)
• Auto Magic – 35 Years (Lisa Bailey & Doug Thorne)
• McNeil Auto Supply – 35 Years (Ian McNeil)

Bestbuy ushered in a new board of directors, with Doug Wilson, Fat Guys Auto Parts in Thunder Bay, Ont., returning as chair serving his second term; Vice chair, Michael MacPherson, Down East Auto Parts, Montague, PEI, Treasurer Scott Anderson of Peterborough Automotive, Rob Dow, Jack Dow Auto Supplies, John Brunelle, Parts Stop Auto & Industrial, and Arthur Edwards, Northwest Auto Parts, Tony Racioppo, Fincham Automotive, returning as directors. Newly joining the board this year is Mark Haner of Auto Parts Authority in Edmonton, Alta.

Notably, Gary Thibault, The Partsman in Oshawa, Ont., has decided to leave the board after 18 years.

Chairman Doug Wilson thanked him for his dedication and contributions. “It is with mixed emotions that we say goodbye to one our longest serving members of the board directors. For the last 18 years. Gary has been an invaluable asset to the company, offering wisdom, guidance, and unwavering dedication.

“Though we are sad to see Gary leave the board of directors, we are grateful for his years of service and leadership. His passion for Bestbuy Distributors is a source of inspiration to all of us.”

Vendor Awards

The organization also honoured vendors with a number of awards recognizaing their service to Bestbuy and its shareholders:

• Horace J. Pratt Award as Vendor of the Year: Mevotech
• Marketing Partner Award: Dorman Products
• Bestbuy Partner Award: ProMax Auto Parts Depot
• Cornerstone Award: Bosch Auto Parts
• Rising Star Award: Wilmar–Performance Tool Products

As is customary, Bestbuy held its annual tradeshow event at its nearby head office and distribution centre, were shareholders and vendors continued conversations on new offerings and long-standing relationships.

Bestbuy AGM Awards and Recognition

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