John Blanchard Honoured with AAAA Outstanding Service to Industry Award
CoolDrive Auto Parts Executive Chairman, John Blanchard has been recognised for his outstanding contribution to the automotive aftermarket industry, receiving the prestigious ‘Outstanding Service to the Industry’ award at the recent Australian Auto Aftermarket Association Expo (AAAE).
The award acknowledges individuals who have made a significant and lasting impact on the automotive aftermarket sector, with John recognised for his more than four decades of leadership, innovation, industry development, and commitment to supporting both CoolDrive customers and employees.
John joined the family business in 1984, building on the strong the foundations established by his parents W.J and Shirley Blanchard who established Automotive Imports Pty Ltd in 1977.
Initially operating from the family garage, the business specialised in passenger vehicle air-conditioning components and technical expertise. These humble beginnings helped shaped the values that continue to define CoolDrive today – hard work, resilience, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to customer service.
While studying to become a Chartered Accountant, John worked across multiple areas of the CoolDrive business, managing finances while also assisting in the warehouse packing orders.
This hands-on experience provided John a strong understanding of operations, logistics and customer service, helping shape his long-standing belief in the importance of relationships, reliability and investing in people.
Appointed CoolDrive’s CEO in 1996, John led the business through a period of substantial growth and transformation over the following 28 years.
Under John’s leadership, CoolDrive expanded to become Australasia’s preferred automotive parts distributors, employing close to 1,000 staff across 38 branches across Australia and New Zealand.
Today, CoolDrive distributes a comprehensive range of automotive products including air-conditioning, braking, electrical accessories, engine cooling, engine management, rotating electrical, tools and equipment, underbody and suspension, and workshop products to customers across Australia, New Zealand, Asia, Europe, and the Americas.
Importantly, throughout its growth, CoolDrive has remained 100 percent Australian family owned and operated, reflecting John’s strong commitment to long-term investment in local industry and the ongoing development of the automotive aftermarket sector.
“Receiving this recognition from the industry is incredibly humbling,” said John Blanchard.
“When my parents started the business nearly 50 years ago from the family garage, I don’t think any of us could have imagined what CoolDrive would grow to become today.
“I’ve been fortunate to work alongside so many passionate and dedicated people throughout my career, from our staff and customers to suppliers and industry colleagues, and this award is something I’m very proud to share with them.
“The automotive aftermarket industry is built on relationships, trust, and a willingness to continually evolve, and it has been a privilege to be part of that journey.”
John Blanchard’s career continues to exemplify customer service excellence, progressive leadership, quality product supply, and industry advancement, making him a highly deserving recipient of the AAAA Outstanding Service to Industry Award.
For further information on CoolDrive Auto Parts, please visit www.cooldrive.com.au.
