The heartbeat of the auto recycling industry pulses through every conversation in this special edition of URG On the Go, recorded live from the vibrant URG Team PRP conference in Orlando. DJ Harrington welcomes old friends and industry leaders who share candid insights about their businesses, relationships, and commitment to advancing the industry.
Matthew of Honeycomb Converters reveals how their company represents the powerful marriage between American Iron and Metal (a $4 billion recycling powerhouse) and Phoenix Group Metals. With operations spanning North America, Honeycomb focuses on ethical catalytic converter processing—bringing integrity to a component with an unfortunately tarnished reputation. Matthew's emphasis on networking resonates throughout the episode: "In our business, it's all about that network—who you know, who you meet."
The conversation shifts to Bo Wroten, founder of Recyclers Cross Dock, who transformed a simple observation into a thriving transportation network for the industry. What began with just six Florida customers has expanded to 82 clients across 11 states. Bo's entrepreneurial success story demonstrates how recognizing an unaddressed need can create substantial business opportunities. Beyond his business achievements, Bo shares his passionate involvement with the URG Scholarship Foundation, which will award approximately $60,000 in scholarships this year to support both four-year and technical education for children and employees of URG member businesses.
Tom Andrade of Everett Auto Parts rounds out the episode with perspectives as both a successful recycler processing 30,000 vehicles annually and an incoming ARA leader. His hybrid operation employs about 100 people across multiple service areas, representing the diverse opportunities within modern auto recycling. Tom articulates why even the most accomplished recyclers continue attending industry events: "I think it's an internal drive to strive for more, to do better, and the conversations and people that you meet at these things—that's where most of the information comes from."
Listen now to experience the authentic connections and valuable insights that make the URG conference an essential gathering for forward-thinking recyclers. What connections could transform your business at the next industry event?
