What the 2026 URG Conference Revealed About the Future of Automotive Recycling
By Kristi Werner
In May 2026, nearly 1,000 automotive recyclers, technology providers, suppliers and industry partners gathered in Denver, Colorado, for the 2026 URG Conference with Team PRP. With attendees traveling from across the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom, the conference once again demonstrated why it has become one of the automotive recycling industry’s premier events and a meeting place for those shaping the future of recycled OEM parts.
Appropriately themed Back to the Future, this year’s conference returned to Colorado, where the very first URG Conference was held. While the location honored the organization’s history, the week’s conversations focused squarely on its future.
Across more than 85 educational sessions, industry leaders explored AI, cybersecurity, EVs, inventory management, leadership, sales, digital commerce, and business innovation.
The topics were diverse, but the underlying message was consistent: automotive recycling continues to evolve at a rapid pace, driven by technology, stronger data, and a commitment to raising industry standards.
One of the most anticipated sessions featured the URG Board of Directors, who joined CEO Kristi Werner to discuss the organization’s strategic priorities. Board members include David Gold (Standard Auto Wreckers), John Jr. Catalano (Bionic Auto Parts), Matt Carman (Lentini Auto Parts), Kelly Roepke (Y-Yard Auto & Truck), Matt Ehlers (Road Tested Parts), Ryan Falco (Aesop Auto Parts), and Pat Huesers (PAM’s Auto). Together, they highlighted ongoing investments in technology, education, partnerships, and member services while engaging members in an open discussion about the future of the industry.
One of the conference’s most significant announcements was the continued rollout of Auto Part Search, URG’s next-generation marketplace for recycled OEM parts. Developed with direct feedback from recyclers and continually refined through collaboration with buyers—mechanics, repair shops, insurers and industry partners—the platform is designed to simplify the way collision repair facilities, mechanical repairers, insurers and consumers search for and purchase recycled parts.
Features such as VIN-based fitment, real-time inventory, detailed imagery, warranties and streamlined purchasing reflect the industry's continued investment in creating a more modern and connected buying experience.
Auto Part Search not only streamlines purchasing, but also the claims and repair process. Adjusters can now create quotes for shops to review the recommended recycled parts for the repair and complete the purchase through a simplified, online checkout process.
Rather than simply launching another parts marketplace, Auto Part Search represents a broader shift towards greater efficiency for insurers, repairers, and recyclers alike. It makes recycled OEM parts more accessible, more trusted, and easier to integrate into the repair process.
The conference also reinforced the importance of collaboration beyond technology.
One of the week’s most meaningful moments came through URG’s continued partnership with the National Auto Body Council and its Recycled Rides® program. Across two vehicle gifting events, four vehicles were presented to deserving veterans, made possible through the combined efforts of collision repair facilities, insurers, and URG member recyclers who donated the recycled OEM parts needed to complete the repairs. It served as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when every part of the industry works together.
The conference also celebrated those whose contributions have helped shape automotive recycling over many decades. Carol Roedder of Modern Imports and Jim Counts of Counts Consulting were inducted into the URG Hall of Fame, recognizing careers dedicated to advancing professionalism, innovation and leadership throughout the industry.
For more than 30 years, URG has provided a forum where recyclers can collaborate, learn and challenge one another to improve continually. Increasingly, those conversations are extending beyond automotive recycling to include technology providers, insurers and the collision repair community as a whole.
As the industry continues to evolve, one thing is becoming increasingly clear: the future of automotive recycling will be driven not only by better technology, but by stronger partnerships across the entire repair ecosystem. If the conversations in Denver were any indication, that future is already well underway.
See you back in Orlando in 2027!
Kristi Werner is the Chief Executive Officer of United Recyclers Group (URG), a leading organization dedicated to advancing the automotive recycling industry through innovation, technology, and collaboration. With over 18 years of experience in the recycling sector, Kristi brings deep expertise in operational efficiency, software solutions, and member-focused program development.
Kristi began her career in 2005 with Actual Systems Pinnacle as a software trainer, where she quickly advanced to project management and later sales, gaining a comprehensive understanding of both the technical and business sides of automotive recycling. In 2011, she joined United Recyclers Group, where her passion for technology-driven growth and member success helped shape URG’s modern direction. She was appointed CEO after more than a decade of service and leadership within the organization.
A graduate of St. Cloud State University with a Bachelor of Science, Kristi went on to earn her Master of Science from Colorado Technical University. She is committed to expanding URG’s suite of programs and benefits, fostering collaboration across recyclers, and supporting the industry’s ongoing digital transformation. Having witnessed firsthand the evolution of recycling technology, Kristi is a strong advocate for empowering recyclers to reach their full potential through innovation, education, and community.
