John MacDonald, formerly of Ideal Supply Co., has been named as this year’s recipient of the AIA Canada Distinguished Service Award. while Paul Prochilo, CEO of Simplicity Car Care, received the Young Professionals in the Aftermarket (YPA) Young Leader of the Year Award, and a trio of others were honoured for their dedication to giving.

The presentations were made at the Automotive Industries Association of Canada’s Annual General Meeting May 8, 2019, in Mississauga, Ont.

AIA Canada also recognized those that have made outstanding contributions to the AIA High Fives for Kids Foundation.

The AIA Distinguished Service Award recognizes outstanding service and leadership, which contributes to the growth and development of Canada’s automotive aftermarket industry. It is the highest award presented by AIA Canada to an individual member.

The YPA Young Leader of the Year Award is presented annually on behalf of the YPA Committee to an outstanding young aftermarket professional for their dedication to the industry, leadership, and innovation. 

John MacDonald – 2019 Distinguished Service Award Recipient 

John MacDonald, a 35-year industry veteran, joined his family’s business, Ideal Supply Co. Ltd, in 1983. He retired in October of 2018.

John is a graduate of Georgian College and holds a diploma in business administration. In 2002, John received the Distinguished Alumni Award from Georgian College. He was nominated for the Premier’s Award that same year.
John has sat on the boards of numerous organizations and is currently the incoming chair of Listowel Memorial Hospital’s Foundation Board.

He has been a strong and active supporter of AIA Canada and has served on many committees and councils including chairing AIA Canada’s WD/Wholesalers Council and the Young Executive Society (now known as Young Professionals in the Aftermarket) in 2008. 

He was chair of the AIA Canada Board of Directors in 2012. John also served as a director on the AIA High Fives for Kids Foundation Board and actively raised funds for this charity.  

Paul Prochilo – YPA Young Leader of the Year Award Recipient

Paul Prochilo is the Chief Executive Officer of the Simplicity Car Care franchise, where he has been instrumental in establishing Simplicity as a major upcoming car care organization. Prior to Paul’s appointment with Simplicity Car Care, he held the position of director, corporate strategy with Prochilo Brothers Auto Collision, a multi-shop operation located in Toronto, Ontario. 

Paul graduated from Ryerson University in 2003 earning his bachelor’s in commerce and then completed his certificate in change management. 
Paul is an active player in the aftermarket industry. He has been a member of the CCIF steering Committee (2014-2016) and chairman of the PPG Elite Performance Group (2013-2016). Most recently, a member of the AIA Collision Industry Council.

Paul’s belief that collaboration and active communication are integral to the successful development of industry and community are just part of what makes him a deserving recipient of this year’s award.

AIA High Fives for Kids Foundation Recognition Awards

The AIA High Fives for Kids Foundation Recognition Awards are given to an individual, member company and AIA Canada division that demonstrate an exceptional commitment to fulling the Foundation’s mission of bringing positive change and improvements to the quality of life for children and youth in their local communities. 

The recipients of the recognition awards are:

• Individual – Ken Coulter, President, Specialty Sales and Marketing
• Company – Vast Auto
• Division – AIA Canada Ontario Division

To learn more, please visit www.aiacanada.com