The auto recycling landscape is undergoing a remarkable transformation from what Mike Kunkel calls "our grandfather's industry" into a sophisticated business sector attracting mainstream financial players and consumer acceptance. This eye-opening conversation with one of the industry's most respected consultants reveals both the tremendous opportunities and significant challenges facing recyclers in 2023 and beyond.

Kunkel's work with Profit Team peer groups offers a fascinating window into how successful recyclers approach business growth. These collaborative communities of 6-8 similarly-sized, non-competing yards share detailed financial and operational data, allowing for deep analysis that "climbs in the radiator and out the exhaust pipe of the business." The process isn't always comfortable—Kunkel notes participants need "thick skin" when their "baby is called ugly"—but the results speak for themselves, with businesses achieving breakthrough performance through structured accountability and shared wisdom.

What makes auto recycling truly unique is its collaborative spirit. Where other industries guard trade secrets fiercely, recyclers openly exchange best practices, successful programs, and implementation strategies. Kunkel points to practices once deemed impossible by industry consultants that have now become standard operating procedure thanks to this collective knowledge sharing. For recyclers considering peer group participation, finding the right match based on business size, temperament, and operational focus proves crucial for meaningful improvement.

Looking ahead to the URG Conference in Orlando (April 10-12), Kunkel anticipates record attendance as recyclers seek strategies for navigating what he predicts will be a more challenging post-pandemic environment. With specialized tracks for different operational roles and increased focus on self-service yard operations, the conference represents the industry's commitment to continuous evolution and improvement. As Kunkel puts it, "when you talk about member benefits, there's nothing more handy than providing the right information to the right people at the right time in the right format."

Ready to take your recycling business to the next level? Register for the URG Conference by March 8th to secure early bird pricing and join hundreds of forward-thinking recyclers committed to industry excellence.