ABOUT US

Established in 1995, United Recyclers Group, LLC was created through the efforts of three dynamic auto recyclers. Their goal was to obtain more control over their parts data, and bring to the marketplace an inventory management system that was created by auto recyclers.

Today, the vision of these three auto recyclers has formed the largest progressive group of auto recyclers in North America. With OVER 700 member locations throughout the U.S. and Canada, URG has created one of the most proactive organizations for the auto recycler.

MISSION STATEMENT

Our mission is to lead the industry in providing superior products and services tailored to the operational needs of automotive recyclers. By embracing technology, building innovative product lines, and offering exceptional educational opportunities, URG places focus on helping our members create efficiencies, improve data security and integrity,  increase profit margins, and enhance their ability to sustain long-term growth.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

PAT HUESERS

Never willing to accept the current industry practices as good enough, Pat pushes the boundaries out as far as possible to get people out of their comfort zone.  He has spent the last thirty years as co-founder of PAM’s Auto in Minnesota.  His focus is company infrastructure in relation to IT, facility, certifications, compliance, and talking Minnesotan, you betcha!

PATRICK GARRITY

Patrick owns Bay Auto Parts and Grandpa John’s Pick & Pull (both in Green Bay WI) and Sharp Auto Parts (in Stillwater MN). With a BA from the University of Wisconsin, Patrick joined his family auto recycling business in Green Bay. Patrick switched Bay Auto Parts from the HYMS system to Pinnacle, then joined URG’s Computer Features Committee in developing Pinnacle Classic and Pro.

MATT ELHERS

Starting as a salesman in 1994, this first generation auto recycler purchased Mr. R’s Auto Salvage in Buffalo, WY with his father, employing 14 staff. URG has been an important part of Mr R’s development since first attending the URG training conference in the early 2000s, and they continue to attend every year, learning and developing relationships within the URG network. Matt became a URG board member because he believes URG offers great value and benefits that help auto recyclers of all sizes and markets.

JOHN CATALANO JR.

John is a 3rd generation auto recycler, co-owner and President of Bionic Auto Parts & Sales Inc. in Chicago IL. In his 26 years, John Jr has worked at every level of the business, and operated multiple kinds of businesses. John Jr works hard to stay on the forefront of the industry by continually learning and training and believes in donating and dedicating time to organizations like URG, which are instrumental to the success of our industry.

MATT CARMAN

Matt Carman is a 4th generation auto recycler, starting as just a boy at Lentini Auto Salvage. Today, as the CEO of Lentini, he knows that it takes more than determination and hard work – Matt understands that this industry about more than salvaging auto parts for reuse, it is about running a noble business, underpinned by sound principles, and a strong formal organization of well-trained, well-respected employees who understand they are part of one of the largest recycling industries in the world. Matt has served on the management board of the PRPNE, is honored to be elected to the URG Board, and looks forward to learning from the present board and contributing to fulfilling the URG mission.

RYAN FALCO

Ryan is President of Aesop Auto Parts, boasting a network of 20 facilities and 800 employees. Since 2008, Ryan has worn many hats – starting as a sales rep at Midway Auto, holding various positions all the way up to General Manager and Partner when the company was acquired in 2022. His vast experience in the industry has made Ryan esteemed among his colleagues and a sought after speaker/trainer for events all across the U.S. 

KELLY ROEPKE

Kelly Roepke is President and GM of Y-Yard Auto & Truck Inc, in Effingham, IL. Having grown up in her family’s business, her time working and training in each department gives her a unique perspective and appreciation for teamwork, accountability and clear communication. Among her many industry accolades are: 2008 “Most Influential Successor”; 2009 YBNext Top 20 Under 40; 2010 “Most Influential Woman.” In addition to being an industry dynamo, Roepke is an active philanthropist and serves on the boards of Crossroads Bank and Effingham Regional Career Academy.