Kacey Frederick

In recent years, catalytic converter theft has dominated news across the U.S., plaguing not only drivers, but those who purchase and sell the component, and the businesses servicing these cars. A piece of legislation currently in Congress, the PART Act (H.R.5221), may enable nationwide standards for converter etching, creating a program that would involve different parts of the automotive industry, including independent repair shops.

ASE recently announced it will be acquiring WrenchWay, after the two organizations have collaborated on projects such as ASE Connects. With the integration, there will be improvements to both groups’ processes, such as collecting data on the industry and connecting shops, schools, and students. To better understand what the acquisition will mean for clients of both ASE and WrenchWay, leaders from both organizations break down some of the changes coming soon.

Shop Name: Open Bay Auto Owner: Wendy Hermann Location: East Moline, Illinois Bay Count: 5 Staff Size: 5 Average Daily Car Count: Approximately 6 and growing When Wendy Hermann first took over the building that would house Open Bay Auto, it needed some work done. Originally built around the 1950s-’60s, it had yellow-tinted brick and a flat roof, giving it the look of a typical industrial automotive building.