The announcement took place during FBA’s 25th anniversary celebrations in Melbourne last month. CoolDrive was specifically recognised with the VIC/TAS Established Family Business Award, marking a significant achievement for the company.
“Being named a winner of a Family Business Australia Excellence Award was an absolute privilege and a delightful surprise,” CoolDrive Auto Parts CEO John Blanchard said.
“This recognition is especially meaningful considering the esteemed company we find ourselves in.”
Blanchard emphasised CoolDrive’s commitment to building enduring relationships with customers, employees, and business partners. He noted “as a family business, we place a strong emphasis on fostering trust and loyalty with these important stakeholders.”
Reflecting on the company’s journey since its inception in 1977, Blanchard highlighted CoolDrive’s humble beginnings in the family garage, where they initially sold passenger car air-conditioning parts. Over the years, CoolDrive strategically expanded its presence and diversified into various automotive-related categories.
“Now, 45 years later, and still family-owned and operated, we take immense pride in being recognized as Australasia’s preferred automotive parts distributor,” Blanchard added.
CoolDrive, with 38 branches across Australia and New Zealand, distinguishes itself through innovation and boasts an industry-leading product range and service offerings.
The company’s extensive inventory comprises over 300,000 parts spanning air-conditioning, auto electrical, engine management, rotating electrical, tools and equipment, underbody and suspension, engine cooling, lighting, brake and clutch, filtration, lubricants, workshop consumables, and performance and motorsport.
This accolade from Family Business Australia follows another prestigious recognition earlier in the year when Deloitte Australia included CoolDrive Auto Parts in its list of Australia’s Best Privately Managed Companies for 2022.