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Founded in 1926, Colonial Auto Parts is one of the oldest continually operating auto parts wholesalers in Canada. The St. John’s, Newfoundland based organization currently operates 21 locations, more than 60 delivery trucks, and employs more than 200 auto parts professionals.

A family owned business headed by brothers Doug and Bill Elton for half a century, Bestbuy has been an important part of the business since 1966. Despite the buying power it offered, the decision was a tough one, he says.

“At that time I was sort of against losing our independence. Since then it’s been all straightforward,” says president Bill Elton. Today, he couldn’t imagine being without it. “You couldn’t make money today. As an independent you can’t make it alone.”

With the warehouse that provides purchasing benefits, marketing programs, and getting customers on-line with the new Bestautoconnect solution, it gives all members across Canada the ability to choose from a variety of tools to help their business he says.

“We pick and choose what we want. We are independent.”
Independent, but not alone.

When Maritime Bestbuy shareholder A.P.M Ltd. went up for sale, the Bestbuy organization was “a key asset” in making the acquisition says general manager Bill Elton.

“Bestbuy was instrumental in dealings with the bank. Not only was our interest in acquiring the company successful, but it provided us with the financial arrangements to facilitate a better deal,” says Squires.

He says that initiative, and committee work to ensure strong succession planning, are just two of the less recognized benefits, but are just as important for the long term success of the organization and its shareholders. It’s important to Bestbuy’s board because it’s important to the members, he says.

“When you put forth your issues, even the smaller members get heard.”

Elton is clear on what the decision to join Bestbuy would mean for a business.

“I think that it would be the best thing they ever did.”

Bill Elton
Colonial Auto Parts
St. John’s, Newfoundland
Shareholder since 1966

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