Departing chairman Doug Wilson of Fat Guys Auto Parts in Thunder Bay, Ont., was honoured with the inaugural Dale Devlin Legacy Award for his significant contrbutions as chairman of Bestbuy Distributors.

Bestbuy Distributors awarded the inaugural Dale Devlin Legacy Award, recognized long-standing shareholder members and honoured its top vendor partner during its annual Gala Dinner in Mississauga, Ont.

Held on the eve of the group’s annual trade show held at its nearby distribution centre, this year’s event featured a streamlined program, allowing attendees to catch what proved to be the final playoff game of the Montreal Canadiens’ season. The abbreviated schedule kept the focus squarely on shareholder milestones and the organization’s key awards presentations.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the inaugural Dale Devlin Legacy Award.

The award recognizes individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the growth and success of Bestbuy Distributors. It is named in honour of the late Dale Devlin, a long-serving chairman whose family remains deeply involved in the organization. Earlier in the day, Ben Devlin of McLeod & Richmond joined the board of directors during the annual general meeting.

The first recipient was Doug Wilson of Fat Guys Auto Parts in Thunder Bay, Ont., and the most recent past chairman of Bestbuy Distributors.

“Doug came in (as chairman) at a really difficult time where we were transitioning through a lot of changes,” said Bestbuy president Nick Brunet. “He stewarded the company, protected its value and, together with the board, did a tremendous job. It’s a very meaningful award.”

Brunet added that it was especially fitting to present the award with members of the Devlin family in attendance.

Bestbuy also ushered in its new board of directors:

In addition to Doub Wilson, also retiring from the board was long-time Director and Treasurer Rob Dow, whose years of dedicated service helped strengthen the organization and support its continued success.

The election of two new Directors marks the beginning of a new chapter for Bestbuy’s governance.

2026 Bestbuy Distributors Board of Directors

• Michael MacPherson (Down East Auto Parts), Chairman
• John Brunelle (Part Stop)
• Scott Anderson (Peterborough Automotive)
• Tony Racioppo (Fincham Automotive)
• Arthur Edwards (Northwest Auto Parts)
• Mark Haner (Auto Parts Authority)
• Ben Devlin (McLeod & Richmond) – Newly Elected
• Trevor Sylvester (Cawthra Automotive) – Newly Elected

On the supplier side, Magnacharge Battery received the Horace J. Pratt Vendor of the Year Award.

The honour is determined by shareholder voting and recognizes performance, service levels and overall support.

“This is voted on by our shareholders,” Brunet told attendees. “It’s based on performance, fill rates and overall service. It’s a pretty big deal.”

Accepting the award on behalf of Magnacharge Battery were Craig Neal (Greater Toronto Area), Frederic Bachand (Quebec) and Jacob Carter (Southwestern Ontario).

“We have a great staff, we have a great product and we try to deliver the best that we can every day,” said Carter. “We want to thank everyone for their support and for this honour.”

The evening also recognized shareholder membership milestones:

40 Years

• Peterborough Automotive

35 Years

• The Partsman

25 Years

• Independent Distributors Ltd.

15 Years

• Demar Pièces Auto
• Down East Auto Parts
• Fat Guys Auto Parts
• Jack Dow Auto Supplies
• JD Performance

5 Years

• Apex Auto
• Just Brake
• L.Y. Parts
• Rainbow Auto Parts

The annual Trade Show on attracted 82 vendors at the Mississauga Distribution Centre, where activity was brisk among vendors, even as shareholders hustled to be ready to depart on their incientive trip.