The Role of APIA in the Vehicle Recycling Industry.

APIA representatives visiting parts suppliers throughout the country are often greeted with the comment … “The APIA is too quiet, it isn’t doing anything, it’s a waste of time and money”.  This is an attitude we can understand but find frustrating as it is simply not true.  Lets consider and explain.

The APIA is not a small group of people sitting in a palace dictating to the recycled parts industry. The APIA is the representative of its members in the recycled parts industry. It’s you – or at least those who have any interest in the future of their industry and business. 

The APIA is a voluntarily managed part time by an elected executive. Any member is able to be elected to that management team and any who do not wish to be officially on the committee are welcome to come to and participate in executive meetings. All others are invited to advise by writing or speaking to an executive member about issues that concern them or to offer suggestions regarding what the APIA can do to help it’s members.

We have regular dialogue with other repair industry groups such as CRA, Insurance Council, MTA, IMVDA, LMVDA and MIA.  These discussions ensure our interests are considered in all of their decisions. We have also researched and written codes of practice that should be followed in regard to ensuring your liability is reduced in the event of a tragedy and this advice has been adopted by the CRA & Insurers as part of their criteria for selecting suppliers.

There are however, things the APIA cannot do.

It cannot contravene the laws administered by the Commerce Commission. eg. Be seen as a cartel that fixes prices or uses collective muscle to pressure customers.

It cannot dictate to Land Transport NZ in regard to the continual rules that are unquestionably hurting our industry.  We are only invited to “consult” and make every effort to influence decisions.

We cannot dictate to insurers or other customers in terms of their buying practices and prices.

We cannot force or constrain members or non-members in any way in regard to the way they run their business.  So long as they are trading legally all we can do is advise and suggest based on the collective knowledge of successful people in our industry.

People have expressed dissatisfaction with APIA’s dealings with LTSA regarding frontal impact issues. These comments are bred from ignorance as without APIA involvement our industry would likely not exist now. Our dealings with LTSA and LTNZ require quiet diplomacy and the use of sound logical reasoning based on fact.  Even then there is no guarantee that our wishes will be considered much less accepted.  We can advise that APIA is negotiating right up to Ministerial level on behalf of the industry and has not conceded any issue to date. We have done as well as any other consultation group in the vehicle repair industry and considerably better than most.  Negotiations must take place quietly. As an industry representative we will not do your cause any good by being obnoxious, arrogant and impetuous. 

There is also the issue of who does this work on behalf of the recycling industry. It is not easy to find members willing to undertake hours of research, go to Wellington and debate these issues with bureaucrats and politicians. We would be delighted to have members volunteer to assist.  If however, you feel unable to help in these areas don’t be disheartened – there are ways you can help. The first and most obvious is to belong to the association and to provide funds through subscription to help pay for outside professional advise. This is a smart investment joining with others to achieve things you cannot do by yourself. The second is to encourage others in the recycling industry to join and share the load.  The thing that is not helpful is criticism unless you are willing to take over and have a go yourself. 

Some have commented that APIA could do more in terms of industry publications, advice on legislative matters and negotiations with insurance companies.  Please keep in mind that any activity undertaken will inevitably involve cost.  If members are comfortable with significantly increased subscriptions and the employment of full time personnel then APIA may be able to expand its role.  This is totally a decision that needs to evolve from members and if you feel strongly about these matters please attend and bring them up at the AGM.

In an effort to unite the recycling industry, help with dissemination of information and bring about a huge reduction in parts sourcing costs, APIA has recently expanded our association website. This has the potential to also provide lots more services to members but will only do so if members support the initiatives introduced so far. Please look at the site (www.apia.co.nz) and discuss how you can benefit with our web administrator Grant Pawson (021-388760).

If you have any opinion regarding the APIA please share it with an executive member or our representatives.  We strongly feel that APIA is playing a valuable role in the vehicle repair industry on your behalf.