ARC Adopts Gold Seal Program

The Automotive Recyclers Association (ARA), Manassas, Va., has announced that the Automotive Recyclers of Canada (ARC), London, Ontario, has become the first international association to adopt its Gold Seal Program. As part of its decision, ARC also elected to have all of its automotive recycling members adhere to the Gold Seal standards.

All ARC members are already audited to the Canadian Auto Recyclers Environmental Code (CAREC); Gold Seal certification will now take those members to the next level, according to the ARA.

The Gold Seal Program sets up a quality assurance accreditation program for ARC members that uses a series of standards, audits and CSI (customer satisfaction index) requirements to help ensure high quality recycled parts are reliably provided to repairers, insurers and the motoring public, the ARA states.

"This is an exciting step in the development for our Gold Seal program," says Chris Wright, president of ARA. "The service and collision repair marketplace is advancing and becoming more complex with each passing day. Professional automotive recyclers’ participation in the Gold Seal program helps participants meet those developing challenges from customers in the market."

ARC says its business certification program will channel the strength of the ARC recycler network and assist in addressing the unique characteristics present in the Canadian market.

"We are pleased to be the first international association to support ARA's efforts to enhance the auto recycling industry on a global scale,” says Steve Fletcher, ARC managing director. “Adding on to the existing Gold Seal model has meant a smooth transition for our members.”