Westcan Auto Parts is expanding its current successful footprint by acquiring long-time Port Coquitlam auto parts store B&J Parts.
B&J Parts has been a local favourite since 1968, when it was founded started by current president Scott Sallstrom’s parents, Bill and Joyce.
“The community has been fantastic in supporting us over the years,” Sallstrom says.
“We have customers coming in who were my parents' customers. Their kids now have children, so we’re seeing the third generation. It's been a nice transition seeing that happen.”
While the ownership of B&J Parts is changing, the shop will continue to offer the same top-tier service with the same friendly, reliable staff, including Sallstrom and his brother Drew, who will remain on at the auto parts store.
B&J parts has always had a strong commitment to its staff, and Sallstrom is pleased to see that Westcan will continue to honour that commitment, working to retain all of its current staff.
The shop’s acquisition also has several advantages, key among them increased access to inventory and selection.
“The sale is going to be an improvement in a number of areas,” Sallstrom says.
“Inventory is going through the roof. Westcan has completely redone the warehouse, added a whole bunch of additional shelving and inventory, so our coverage on things will be excellent. That will be a big change.”
B&J customers will continue to receive the same locally-focused service with the advantage and benefits of being part of a large company with significant buying power, allowing them to reap the rewards on things such as discounted pricing.
Westcan Auto Parts is a leading auto parts wholesaler and retailer that specializes in aftermarket automotive parts, tools, industrial equipment, safety supplies and accessories.
It is currently part of the Uni-Select network, which is made up of over 500 stores and 16 distribution centres across Canada, which help service all your automotive and related needs.
“We now have more sources than we used to have because we’re part of a number of large buying groups. Our ability to source large products and offer competitive pricing has certainly improved with this sale,” Sallstrom says.
“Because we serve a lot of different market segments including automotive, industrial, marine and safety, the key has been finding where to get the quality stuff. It has always been a feather in our hat being able to provide that type of service.”
B&J Parts takes great pride in being there for its customers. Part of its enduring success has been that they have always cared about their customers’ projects and go out of their way to find the right supplies paired with the depth of knowledge brought by its long-time staff.
They have also always taken great pride in their community, working for years to give back to various community organizations, including sponsoring local sports teams and donating to local high schools.
“As my father put it many years ago, the community is who supports us, and we’ve got to give back and support your own community,” Sallstrom says.
“It’s essential. It’s what builds a strong community.”
Under its new Westcan ownership, B&J Parts will continue its commitment to local philanthropy while expanding its reach to help out globally.
“I’m just really pleased with the new owners taking over. I really believe the culture of the company will remain and grow. Everything I’ve seen in the past few months indicates that in a big way,” Sallstrom says.
“I’m really glad to be a part of Westcan. It’s really important for us to remain here throughout the transition with the people we’ve been serving for so many years.”
To learn more about the services offered by B&J Parts, please visit www.bjparts.ca.
