SAN DIEGO, Calif.—Enlyte, a leader in technology, networks and services for the property and casualty industry, announced today it has entered into an agreement to acquire PartsTrader, the industry's leading parts procurement marketplace.

The acquisition represents a strategic investment that brings together two complementary businesses within the Auto Physical Damage ecosystem. PartsTrader will become a wholly owned subsidiary of Enlyte and will continue to operate as an independent entity alongside Mitchell's Auto Physical Damage division. Both organizations will maintain their distinct identities and operations while benefiting from the collective strength of the Enlyte portfolio. Both Mitchell and PartsTrader will continue as open platforms—allowing the choice of other information providers, as well as suppliers and other partners within the ecosystem. 

“This acquisition reinforces Enlyte's commitment to the Auto Physical Damage industry and our focus on delivering comprehensive technology solutions that improve outcomes across the collision claims and repair sectors,” said Alex Sun, CEO of Enlyte. “By bringing together Mitchell's premier damage appraisal solution with PartsTrader's leadership in parts procurement, we're positioned to deliver even greater value to our insurer and repair customers and the market. We're excited about the natural synergies between our companies and look forward to the opportunities ahead.”

“Joining the Enlyte family represents an exciting new chapter for PartsTrader,” said Steve Messenger, CEO of PartsTrader. “As part of Enlyte, we'll have additional resources to accelerate our growth while continuing to serve our customers with the same commitment to excellence they've come to expect. Our companies share a vision for innovation and customer success, and I'm confident this partnership will create significant value for the auto physical damage claims and repair industry.”

The companies have signed an agreement and expect the deal to close in 2026, following regulatory approvals from both the United States and New Zealand. Raymond James & Associates and Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC served as financial advisors to Enlyte, and Kirkland & Ellis LLP and Quigg Partners served as legal counsel. The financial terms of the transaction will not be disclosed.

About Enlyte

Enlyte (enlyte.com) is a P&C industry leader providing claims technology innovations and connectivity solutions, specialty networks, case management, pharmacy benefit and disability management services. Serving over 2,000 entities, including a majority of Fortune 500 employers, Enlyte leverages its portfolio of solutions to simplify processes and improve outcomes for auto, workers’ compensation and disability claims.

About Mitchell

Mitchell International, Inc. is a leader in the development of innovative auto physical damage technology solutions. Combining decades of experience with an open platform, proprietary data and intelligent, cloud-first applications, we help insurance carriers, collision repairers and vehicle manufacturers protect dreams and restore lives. Each day, more than 20,000 organizations turn to Mitchell to support efficiently managing claims and safely returning consumers to the road. For more information, follow Mitchell on Facebook or LinkedIn.

About PartsTrader

As the world’s leading parts procurement marketplace, PartsTrader brings together repair shops, parts suppliers, and insurance carriers on one efficient, market-driven platform. PartsTrader helps repair shops make more accurate decisions regarding part-type, price, and availability. Suppliers can quickly grow their market presence and instantly reach thousands of new shops while improving the way they serve their current customers. Insurance carriers gain transparency into the parts procurement process and access to valuable market data, allowing them to increase accuracy and efficiency on every claim. PartsTrader LLC, based in Chicago, is privately held. For more information, visit partstrader.com.

Media Contacts

Mindset Agency for Enlyte
Jeff Miller
jmiller@mindsetagency.com
541.207.6413

Enlyte Public Relations
Tom Kerr
tom.kerr@enlyte.com
610.451.4996

Source

The Vehicle Recyclers’ Association (formerly known as the Motor Vehicle Dismantlers’ Association—MVDA) was formed in 1943, and has been representing the interests of UK vehicle recyclers ever since. VGA members are spread throughout the UK, in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. 

A key highlight of the AGM was the celebration of the individuals whose leadership and dedication have shaped the VRA’s journey. 

Graham Hall, the outgoing President, was recognized with lifetime honorary membership and a special presentation for his years of service, guidance, and unwavering support. His legacy is woven into the association’s fabric. 

Long-standing Treasurer Jason Bishop was presented with a well-deserved trophy marking more than a decade of committed service—his financial stewardship has been central to the VRA’s stability and growth. 

In his absence, the immediate past Chairman, Ray Kirk, was also honored with an award for his significant contribution and leadership.  

These individuals have laid the foundations for the next phase of the VRA.  

Members voted in a refreshed leadership team committed to driving the association  

forward with energy and focus. 

• Chair: Andy Latham 

• President: Terry Charlton 

• Treasurers (shared role): Rob Austin & Savo Vavan 

The full committee remains in place to ensure continuity, and the VRA signaled a commitment to broadening representation by welcoming more expertise, diverse voices, and industry engagement as the association grows. 

At the heart of the AGM was the unveiling of what we are calling VRA 2.0—an ambitious plan to modernize how the association operates. 

This new vision for VRA centers on four strategic priorities critical to the future of the industry: 

To deliver on these priorities, the VRA will adopt a more structured, accountable governance model. An executive committee, supported by a wider management committee and a dedicated administrator, will ensure each area receives focused attention. Clearly defined roles, measurable progress, and transparent use of resources will underpin this transformation. 

The goal is simple: to create a proactive, future-ready trade association that supports its members with professionalism, credibility, and purpose. 

Members were unequivocal in calling for continued transparency and strong governance. The association’s reserves belong to its members, and every decision must respect and protect that responsibility. 

There was also widespread recognition that the VRA’s drive for professional standards in recent years has elevated the entire sector. The ambition now is not just to maintain that momentum—but to accelerate it. 

With stronger governance, a broader base of expertise, and a sharper focus on the issues that matter most, the association is positioning itself—and its members—to stay ahead of emerging regulations, evolving technology, and new commercial opportunities, and now the real work begins as we come together to build a VRA that is more resilient, more influential, and more valuable to every member. 

NEW—CHECK OUT ARA’S PODCAST! 

ARA UNSCRIPTED is a candid, open-format podcast where ARA Executive Director, Vince Edivan sits down with interesting people from across the automotive recycling industry and beyond. We dive into real conversations about work, life, leadership, challenges, wins, and everything in between. No scripts. No filters. Just authentic stories and insights that inspire, educate, and connect. 

Representing ARA at SAE’s Government/Industry Meeting 

Emil Nusbaum, Vice President of Strategy, Government & Regulatory Affairs for the Automotive Recyclers Association, attended SAE’s Government/Industry Meeting (GIM) in Washington, D.C. January 20th – January 22nd. GIM provides a unique, neutral forum where policymakers, regulators, academia, OEMs, and industry leaders come together to share perspectives on critical mobility issues, including safety, emissions, and environmental policy. Emil’s participation helps ensure automotive recyclers are part of these important discussions—supporting the kind of informed dialogue that leads to practical, effective policies and a stronger future for our industry. 

Urgent NHTSA Industry Alert: Two More Deaths from Substandard, Dangerous Chinese Air Bag Inflators 

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration warns all vehicle suppliers, dealerships, mechanics, distributors, and law enforcement agencies that ruptured replacement air bag inflators made by China’s Jilin Province Detiannuo Automobile Safety System Co. (DTN) have killed or injured vehicle occupants in at least 10 crashes. NHTSA urgently advises to not install substandard inflators from this company and to ensure any used vehicles that have been in a previous crash where the air bag deployed now have air bags that are legitimate replacements. All parties should be extremely cautious about sourcing air bag modules and utilize verifiable vendors. 

NHTSA is now aware of eight drivers who were killed in otherwise survivable crashes, while two other drivers suffered severe injuries. Each vehicle had its original equipment air bag replaced after a previous crash. Although all known crashes have occurred in Chevrolet Malibu and Hyundai Sonata vehicles with salvage or rebuilt titles, NHTSA does not have information to suggest the risk is limited just to these makes and models. The agency is issuing a Consumer Alert to used car buyers and owners after the two most recent crashes in December claimed the lives of two more drivers of vehicles with DTN replacement air bag inflators likely illegally imported from China. 

These dangerous, substandard air bag inflators have malfunctioned in crashes, sending large metal fragments into drivers’ chests, necks, eyes, and faces, killing or severely injuring people in otherwise survivable crashes. NHTSA has an open investigation into these DTN inflators. 

As DTN has acknowledged on its website, the inflators are prohibited from sale in the United States. Whoever is bringing them into the country and installing them is putting American families in danger. The auto repair industry should be on the lookout for these dangerous inflators and should alert NHTSA immediately with any additional information. 

Your customers trust that you are providing quality components that comply with the highest safety standards. Use reputable vendors and be on the lookout for any dubious transactions that could involve DTN replacement air bag inflators. For dealers, it is important to know the history of vehicles in your inventory. If a vehicle has been in a previous crash where the air bag deployed, it should be inspected immediately for one of these inflators, especially if it has a salvage or rebuilt title.  

If you find a DTN inflator, the vehicle should not be driven until the inflator is replaced with genuine parts. If you know of the sale or distribution of DTN inflators or encounter a vehicle with one of these suspect parts, contact the local Homeland Security Investigations office or FBI field office to report it, or submit an online complaint to the National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center.  

Also, report it to NHTSA online or by calling the agency’s Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern time.   

ARTI Scholarship Fundraiser: A Remarkable Success! 

ARTI Scholarship Fundraiser: A Remarkable Success! 

We are thrilled to announce that the ARTI Scholarship Fundraiser was an outstanding success, raising over $100,000 to support scholarships for post high school education. This achievement would not have been possible without the incredible generosity of our donors and the enthusiastic participation of everyone who joined in the Live and Silent auctions. 

Event Highlights: 

• Live Auction Excitement: Guests enjoyed competitive bidding on unique items that brought energy and fun to the evening. 

• LARA Fundraising: The ladies made a significant impact, raising additional funds during the LARA event. 

• Surprise Sumo Wrestlers: The unexpected appearance of Sumo wrestlers added a memorable twist and plenty of laughs! 

If you missed this year’s event, you truly missed out on an unforgettable night of camaraderie, excitement, and generosity! 

• Supporting Post High School Education: Thanks to your support, the funds raised will provide scholarships for a wide range of post high school educational opportunities. Eligible recipients can apply these scholarships toward College, University, Accredited Trade, Business, and Technical Schools. Our mission is to empower the next generation to pursue their academic and professional goals with confidence. 

• 2026-27 Scholarship Application Information: The application for the 2026-27 ARTI Scholarship will be available soon. Please share this information with your staff and encourage all eligible individuals to apply. These scholarships are designed to help make higher education accessible to more students, whether they choose a traditional college, university, or a specialized trade, business, or technical school. 

Properly Communicate Your eBay Fitment Issues for Change! 

ARA’s Interchange Committee continues to work with eBay to communicate concerns the industry has over fitment issues. As a result of that collaboration, eBay has a dedicated email address and staff for those concerns: myfitment@ebay.com. 

If recyclers have any fitment concerns when listing their automotive parts, please don’t  

hesitate to contact this email address. Please try to provide a screenshot or an explanation why the fitment is incorrect. By only informing eBay that of the error will not help us to improve our fitment catalog. 

Do you have peer interchange ideas?    

Do you have people calling you and asking for medium duty truck parts like Ford Super Duty F450 and Ram 4500, or maybe Chevy Silverado 4500? Have you figured out which parts fit the Ford 250/350 Super Duty and Ram or Silverado 2500/3500?  

To submit your interchange information, please send the following information to:  

ARAPI@a-r-a.org.  

• Interchange Numbers  

• User Notes (Please provide a description of what changes need to be made for this part to become interchangeable)  

• Your Contact Info  

ARA’s Interchange Committee wants YOUR IDEAS for recycler-to-recycler part interchangeability information that doesn’t necessarily meet the criteria for traditional interchange information. Send in your ideas to ARAPI@a-r-a.org. The Committee is working hard to help recyclers make more sales outside of what is provided by interchange. 

ARA Attends EPA/DOE Meeting on Battery Collection and Extended Producer Responsibility 

ARA recently participated in an in-person stakeholder meeting hosted by the U.S.  

 Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Department of Energy (DOE). The  

session brought together industry leaders and government officials to discuss policy  

proposals and recommendations for improving battery collection systems. 

Key discussion topics included the development of best practices for battery collection and the role of extended producer responsibility (EPR) in ensuring sustainable battery management. These efforts are part of the EPA’s ongoing work to issue recommended, voluntary best practices for battery collection and extended producer responsibility, supporting a safer and more efficient circular economy for batteries. 

Honda Circularity Center Opens in Ohio 

Honda North America recently opened its new Resource Circularity Center in Ohio, a facility dedicated to advancing sustainability through reuse, repurposing, and remanufacturing within its manufacturing supply chain.  

Emil Nusbaum, Vice President of Strategy, Government and Regulatory Affairs at the ARA, was quoted in coverage of the opening, “It’s a reflection of a changing environment where there really is an emphasis on sustainability. It’s great to see that car manufacturers are starting to recognize the value in reusing, repurposing, and remanufacturing parts and equipment in their supply chains. This helps maximize existing resources and reduce waste.”  

The opening of the center highlights the growing role of circularity in the automotive sector and the importance of recycling and resource efficiency into manufacturing operations. 

Industry Show Review | Collision Industry Conference (CIC) By Vince Edivan 

On November 4, 2025, the Collision Industry Conference (CIC) brought together leading professionals from the automotive collision repair sector at Resorts World Las Vegas. This event, held in the Rose Ballroom, was part of a larger week of industry collaboration, coinciding with the SEMA Show. The meeting provided a platform for open discussion, committee updates, and recognition of outstanding contributions. 

Committee Highlights Risk, Liability, and Safety 

A major focus of the meeting was the Industry Relations Committee’s deep dive into risk and liability in collision repair. The committee emphasized that the “empty chair” – the customer – remains central to every discussion. Panelists addressed the legal exposure faced by repair shops when procedures are not properly followed, highlighting the importance of: 

• Management oversight 

• Robust standard operating procedures (SOPs) 

• Verification processes (e.g., weld destruction tests, photographic documentation) 

These practices are essential for compliance and for protecting both customers and businesses from future litigation. The committee also discussed workplace safety, emphasizing risks associated with hazardous materials and heavy equipment. Technician safety requires strict adherence to manufacturer guidelines, comprehensive training, and proper liability insurance. While safety protocols such as protective curtains during welding and mask usage are vital, consistent implementation remains a challenge. The committee advocated for a culture of transparency and collaboration, empowering every team member to interpret and challenge work instructions to ensure the highest standards. 

Technology and Data Standards 

The conference also spotlighted the ongoing evolution of technology and data standards. The Collision Industry Electronic Commerce Association (CIECA) continues to develop IT standards and implementation guides for electronic commerce, facilitating seamless communication among repairers, insurers, manufacturers, and suppliers. The committee’s work on data standards ensures the industry remains agile and responsive to emerging challenges, from diagnostics and software integration to parts and materials management. 

Networking and Recognition 

CIC is not just about technical discussions – it’s also a hub for networking and recognition. Attendees were encouraged to interact with presenters through Q&A sessions and open microphones, fostering engagement and shared learning. The evening concluded with the Collision Industry Red Carpet Awards, celebrating outstanding contributions and reinforcing the value of community within the industry. 

Industry Recognition & Awards 

A highlight of the Collision Industry Red Carpet Awards was the recognition of outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions to the collision repair sector. Among those honored was Don Porter, industry consultant for URG – United Recyclers Group. Congratulations to Don Porter for receiving a CIECA Outstanding Achievement Award, presented during the awards ceremony. This accolade reflects Don’s dedication to advancing industry standards and fostering collaboration across organizations. 

The awards segment celebrated not only individual achievements but also the collective spirit of innovation and excellence that defines the collision industry. By spotlighting leaders like Don Porter, CIC reinforces its commitment to recognizing those who drive progress and inspire others within the field. 

Looking Ahead 

As the collision repair industry faces increasing complexity – from advanced vehicle construction to evolving regulatory requirements – the CIC meeting underscored the need for ongoing education, collaboration, and innovation. Committee discussions made it clear that the future will be shaped by those willing to embrace transparency, invest in training, and adopt new technologies. The meeting’s open format allowed for candid conversations about shop management, technician safety, and customer care, setting the stage for continued progress in 2026 and beyond. 

Industry Show Review | CIC and SEMA By Shannon Nordstrom 

Representing ARA, I attended the Collision in Industry Conference (CIC) which was held at Resorts World this year. Looming outside seen through a window in the break area, the Las Vegas Convention Center – the home of SEMA – was in sight, but we had to wait another day to indulge for SEMA/AAPEX.  

CIC is full of the movers and shakers in the collision industry. ARA Executive Director Vince Edivan and JR Reinert from Chuck’s Auto Parts were also there representing the professional automotive recycler on behalf of ARA. I was also there with my “Under the Hood” (UTH) radio show hat on.  

CIC has active committees that work all year round and give their reports as the day long program proceeds. Their reports are presented to initiate discussions. They also do a unique feature with “open mics” at certain times during the program where members can bring items to the floor or stump for a position. It appeared that “hot topics” were the OEM “conquest” programs, which match prices of aftermarket and used parts on estimates with OEM parts and has been expanded much from the regular scope many years ago.  

There was discussion about the personal data (PII-personal identifiable information) left in salvaged vehicles and who should take on the responsibility of “wiping” the vehicle. I was able to give input at the mic on what we saw in regard to PII when a leadership group from ARA recently visited the UK and toured facilities. We saw that it was a priority there and the auctions had a responsibility to confirm it was done, and also that the manufacturers are “on board,” we were told, with easier methods to “clear” a vehicle of PII.  

The CIC committee chair was very intrigued to know this as it seemed they had not investigated the European positions yet, which was surprising to me. There are already bills in some state legislatures regarding this subject and we will be hearing more about it in the coming years.  

The issue of parts supplying and the electronic systems was headlined in a seminar titled “A Race to the Bottom.” There were many other things that our team was taking note of, and it is always good to be in the room when these discussions are at the ground floor. While our members are busy dismantling and selling auto parts, ARA is watching out for your interests, that is just another of many reasons why you need to be a member of ARA.  

My wife Tamie and I then attended SEMA/AAPEX, also in Las Vegas. The town was as busy as ever for one of, if not the biggest automotive events in the world. “Industry Week” as some call it, is FULL of anything and everything that surrounds the automotive aftermarket whether it be products, services, concepts, parts, accessories and just about anything else you could imagine.  

At the AAPEX show, there are product vendors of every type and size and from about every country you could find on a map, it seemed. I was able to meet up with our National Sales Representative for UTH and spend time with him meeting and thanking our show’s partners, in addition to courting new partners. Some of our partners are AAPEX exhibitors, several are at SEMA, so it gives me an amazing opportunity to take in the “SEMA Build” cars that are literally everywhere as “bait” to bring you into a booth or to show off the skill of the builders and the effectiveness of the products they use.  

There are some tremendous people in the industry, and it is a pleasure to sit down and have these conversations.  

Of course, I always have my Nordstrom’s Automotive Inc. hat on, as well. I met with vendors with whom we do business, and explore some new opportunities.  

When we built Nordstrom’s 2.0, we earmarked a few dismantling spaces for a future hoist for heavy vehicles, and we are starting that research. One goal on this trip was to find options. We have started to dismantle more EV’s and a recent intake of several Hummer EV’s found us without a proper hoist to safely handle the width and weight of these hefty vehicles.  

Our High Voltage Vehicle Certified team came up with a safe and effective workaround to remove the 3000-pound battery, but for the future, we need a proper hoist which can also be used for the medium-duty trucks we occasionally dismantle. In addition, our managers are reviewing options so we can make the best decision.  

This event always yields the discovery of new equipment and technology that will be helpful for our company’s growth, it is always a great and busy week.  

A work-related event was a highlight. As almost 25-year high volume sellers on eBay, we were invited to fun “Thank You” event at CABO WABO one evening. There, we had a chance to meet the upper management team of eBay including Jesse Kiefer, VP, GM of Parts and Accessories (seen above with me and Tamie). We appreciated the conversations with their team and other partners with eBay selling parts all over the globe.  

The week would not be complete without taking advantage of Las Vegas as a destination. We attended the Wizard of Oz at the Sphere, and it was incredible to experience the 4D format, which is unique in the world.  

We had wonderful culinary dinners while there and capped the week off seeing Michael Jackson “One,” a Cirque du Soleil show at Mandalay Bay, also recommended!   

I am thankful for the opportunity to be in a position with my involvement in many endeavors to attend these events and to also represent ARA. These opportunities will help advance professional automotive dismantling, inform my perspective, enhance my knowledge for predicting industry trends, and strengthen our current prospects.  

If you have never taken the time to go to SEMA/AAPEX, I highly recommend attending, if even just one time. 

The Big Shift – Transitioning to Generations 

Ron Wilbert

We will put our faith in an abundance of remaining rock-steady GenX leaders and charged-up Millennials and Gen Zers who are moving into leadership!   

Heading home from the great 82nd ARA Convention and Expo in Birmingham, Alabama. Upon returning, I had some time to think as we had a three-hour layover in Orlando. You are probably asking yourself why we flew south when we live in upstate New York, and I did too, but only Southwest Airlines knows that answer. 

Anyways, a realization came over me. Our convention and ARA staff have been taken over! This was not a hostile takeover but instead one that I am very proud of. Many of the organizations and clubs we are involved in have had the same leadership for so long that the organizations will die when their leaders do. My generation of recyclers – the baby boomers – has been pretty much in charge for a long time and has done a great job. Two great examples are recent past presidents Nick Dario, Daurio Auto – Truck, Inc., and Marty Hollingshead, Northlake Auto Recyclers. Their invaluable wisdom contributed significantly to the development of the ARA. But folks, I believe they are the last of the “boomers” to be at the helm of ARA.  

So it is not a matter of what is coming; it is more about what is here. We will put our faith in an abundance of remaining rock-steady GenX leaders and charged-up Millennials and Gen Zers who are moving into leadership!  So how and why have we been so blessed by all this youth and their great enthusiasm to be Recyclers?    

I believe it is because these young Independent managers and owners have unlimited opportunities to control their own destinies and prove their entrepreneurial spirit. It’s also obvious to me that the influx of consolidators has created a whole new wave of Independents who have dramatically improved their existing businesses or opened new shops in areas that used to be dominated by large, strong Independents 

“We will put our faith in an abundance of remaining rock-steady GenX leaders and charged-up Millennials and Gen Zers who are moving into leadership!” 

 who have sold their business to make way for retirement.  

The Independent advantage allows many to use their marketing strategies to outmaneuver the big guys easily. I was amazed by the attendees I met at the show who were there for the first time and were so excited to learn and gain a deeper understanding of the business. One great example was Natasha Broxton of Select Auto Parts in Milwaukee, WI. She, like many others, feels their chance to build a legacy as a family-owned Independent auto recycler is as good now as it’s ever been.  

Speaking of a strong legacy independent auto recycler, I would like to congratulate Shannon Nordstrom, Nordstrom’s Automotive, on becoming the newest president of the Association, which is long overdue. He has been giving his time and talent to all of us for many years as part of the Certification Committee, and his family business is a great example of what can be achieved with dedication.  

Finally, to my son, Eric Wilbert, also an amazing independent auto recycler and the immediate past president of ARA, you did a great job. You made your Wilbert Family proud with your dedication to the Industry. 

‘Till next time, 

Ron Wilbert 

 Ron Wilbert is a second-generation recycler who is proud to have all four of his sons and his one stepson involved in the Family Business: Brian, Eric, Aaron, Daniel Wilbert, and Matthew Hayes. Wilbert’s has 15 family members involved in the business to help manage their 8 locations in New York and Ohio.