Sustainability is integral to our corporate strategy, guiding us since our inception.
Today, sustainability remains a core part of our global values. Our sustainability practices
are adopted around four core pillars – planet, people, communities, and governance.
Over the years, the sustainability projects we have been investing in are helping to
WWFWreduce our carbon emissions, implementing energy-efficient solutions, and
developing sustainable product lines.

At LKQ, we are dedicated to being the employer of choice, cultivating a dynamic
work environment where every individual is encouraged to be their authentic self.
As we close this celebratory year, we are immensely proud to announce our designation
as a Great Place to Work for 2024 in our US operations. This achievement is a milestone in
our deliberate and strategic journey, underscored by our “Your Voice Matters” engagement
survey. This initiative has been pivotal in tailoring our policies and practices to the real
needs and preferences of our team. This recognition is more than an honor; it’s a reflection
of our commitment to providing comprehensive support to our employees and fostering
an atmosphere where extraordinary achievements are the norm. As we mark the end
of our 25th year, this accomplishment not only symbolizes our past successes but
also paves the way for a future where our staff feels deeply valued, actively listened to,
and continually inspired.

Our customer-centric approach is not just about satisfaction, it is a cornerstone of
our profitable growth strategy. Our business was built as an “alternative” parts provider.
We believe to this day that our customers and end-consumers should have a choice in
the parts they use to repair vehicles. By understanding customer needs and leveraging
our internal processes, we ensure that the parts we offer meet the quality standards
anticipated by our customers and end-consumers. This strategic approach positions
us to provide high-value solutions, fostering customer retention, and attracting new
potential growth

As a company we are most confident about our future: With more than 51,000 LKQ team
members who are dedicated to our successes, we are looking forward with excitement
to 2024 and the next 25 years to come. LKQ is more committed than ever to maintaining
and enhancing its commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction.

“We are our choices.” In these four words Jean-Paul Sartre, the French philosopher, summed up that every decision we make is made by us alone and adds to our character and specifically to who we are. His existentialist message is not just true for human beings but also for companies. Where we go is based on our choices 

Being an employer and brand of choice is what LKQ is seeking. And it is our remarkable teams of talented individuals across our operations that enable us to consistently exceed our customers’ expectations of our service. “We are immensely proud to have cultivated a diverse, global customer base that not only relies on us for superior-quality products but also sees us as a trusted partner in their journey toward success,” says Nick Zarcone, President and Chief Executive Officer LKQ Corporation. “Our customers are not just transactions; they are long-term relationships we’re committed to nurturing. That’s why our customers are at the heart of LKQ’s mission. In this ever-evolving market, they turn to us as their go-to source, confident in our ability to meet and exceed expectations.” 

At the same time, LKQ strives to be the employer of choice. “At LKQ, we don’t just offer jobs; we offer fulfilling careers. We go beyond traditional benefits to create a culture where each employee can flourish both personally and professionally,” explains Genevieve Dombrowski, Senior Vice President of Human Resources LKQ Corporation. “Our commitment to well-being is just as important as career development, offering a holistic approach to employee welfare. This balanced focus makes us not just a workplace, but a space where ambition meets well-being, where talent is nurtured, and where every individual is inspired to thrive.” 

Investing in the latest technologies and our people allows us to stay at the forefront of our industry. Across LKQ’s business organization, we share a common understanding of the value of our people, our customers and our suppliers. Besides, we are dedicated to fostering a workplace that values not just performance but also the well-being of our people, ensuring a healthy work-life balance . 

As we strive to be the employer and brand of choice, we recognize that our employees and customers are at the heart of our success. Their stories, experiences, and insights drive us forward. In the following pages, explore the narratives of these exceptional individuals who make LKQ what it is today. Through their voices, you will uncover our commitment to excellence, innovation, and enduring relationships. These stories embody our choices, the paths we have taken, and the future we are crafting together.

Employee Story 1: 

Miranda M., the Operations Manager in the Salvage business sector within the United States at LKQ, became part of our organization’s team in 2014. Her journey began as a witness to both the LKQ culture and her deep-seated passion for the intricacies of operations management. So profound was her dedication that she chose to reshape her academic path, shifting her bachelor’s major to focus on Supply Chain and Operations Management while attending the University of Georgia. Her long-standing dream of becoming an operations manager came true upon her graduation. LKQ recognized her talents and dedication, offering her the prestigious position of Regional Operations Manager for the southeastern region of the United States. Throughout her career at LKQ, Miranda’s professional journey has been characterized by constant evolution and progressive growth. 

Employee Story 2: 

“Every day, LKQ brings new learning experiences,” remarks Aaron K., who serves as the Inventory Manager within LKQ’s North America Salvage business segment. Reflecting back to 2007, Aaron juggled two jobs, but an enticing opportunity in the dismantling department beckoned him toward a full-time commitment with LKQ. It was here that he embraced the role of overseeing cycle counting, a pivotal step in his quest to gain a deeper understanding of inventory management processes. Fueled by his profound automotive expertise and an unwavering passion for personal and professional growth, Aaron embarked on a relentless journey of discovering more about the company and exploring various positions within it.

Employee Story 3: 

While we celebrate our 25th anniversary this year, Amanda B., the Director of Employee Experience at LKQ Corporation, celebrates her 17th year of dedicated service with the company. Despite her lengthy tenure, Amanda continues to be impressed by the incredible achievements LKQ has accomplished in its 25-year journey. Central to LKQ’s ethos is the belief that its employees are the greatest asset, underpinning every endeavor with a People First approach. Amanda is proud of what LKQ has empowered her with, she enthusiastically shares, “In my current role, I enjoy being able to change the lives of our employees by providing them with resources and assistance when they need it the most.” 

Employee Story 4: 

Sylwester M. joined LKQ Europe with a clear goal: to make a significant impact, and he has exceeded expectations. When asked why LKQ Europe was his employer of choice, he explained, “LKQ Europe is the first organization I have worked for where I feel I have a real impact on the organization. I have found everything I need here – from development and training opportunities to being involved in projects and decision-making, to being part of the day-to-day running of the business and spending time with colleagues. This is why I feel comfortable recommending our company to friends.” As LKQ Europe evolves, Sylwester envisions a promising future. The diverse experiences and regional expertise within the organization facilitate the efficient sharing of best practices. With an optimistic outlook, he asserts, “Looking at our continued growth as an organization, further major achievements, and a motivated team, I have no doubt – our future is bright.”

Customer Story 1 (Slovenia): 

Metod K. is one of our customers from STAHLGRUBER Slovenia. His journey with LKQ began in 2016, and it has been a story of reliability and quality ever since. Metod’s decision to choose LKQ was driven by the commitment to excellence. He explains, “I’ve been choosing LKQ and its subsidiaries for their top-notch cooperation and consistent delivery of high-quality OEM parts. The company’s staff is highly skilled, and their consultation services are excellent. They offer products that perfectly match my business needs.” When asked to describe LKQ in a word or a sentence, Metod simply says, “Correct.” It’s a testament to the precision and reliability he associates with LKQ’s products and services. 

Customer Story 2 (Czech Republic): 

A customer from LKQ CZ established its relationship with LKQ at the inception of its business. They say, “I have been with LKQ since the beginning of my business. On the team of the Příbram branch, headed by sales representative V. Hájek, I can always rely on.” From day one, the business owner knew they needed a reliable partner to help them navigate the automotive industry, and LKQ proved to be just that.

Customer Story 3 (DACH): 

Florian P. is one of our customers from LKQ DACH. He highlights that LKQ is not purely a parts distributor but a business partner, simply put: “Meaningful and future-oriented.” That is why he highlights the LKQ Academy, the most comprehensive educational platform in the European automotive aftermarket. Florian: “Best of all, LKQ offers a very broad training portfolio that covers everything from wheel alignment and high-voltage technology to diagnostic systems. What’s more, the training competencies can be individually designed for the respective employees.” 

Customer Story 4 (Benelux-France): 

In the pursuit of excellence within the European auto service industry, LKQ Europe stands as a beacon of reliability and innovation. Customer satisfaction is at the core of our operation. Guy V. is one of our customers from LKQ Benelux-France, for him, the impression of LKQ’s service is large, fast, and customer-friendly. With the vast range of high-quality products, coupled with a fast logistics system, we are allowed to consistently meet and exceed our customers’ expectations. Guy says, “LKQ offers a large assortment and fast deliveries which attracts us to their services time and time again.”

We are LKQ 

Back in 1998, Donald Flynn and a group of investors founded LKQ. Their ambition was to provide high quality auto parts to a marketplace that was eager for cost effective repair solutions. In the course of the past 25 years, the company had many landmark moments. 

This article is going to walk you through LKQ’s history in each continent that we operate in. You will see: LKQ’s culture and history is more than what’s visible with the eyes. We have much richer stories and would like to share them with you – to celebrate where we are standing at today.

We are LKQ North America

It all started from here 

25 years ago, Donald Flynn and a group of investors founded LKQ Corporation. 

Their idea was simple, yet bold and visionary – to reimagine the automotive salvage marketplace. Don Flynn had been a senior executive at Waste Management when the idea dawned upon him to do for the salvage industry what Waste Management had done for the trash industry. Namely, to aggregate many of the small & independent trash companies into a single company, and through that scale, bring efficiency, improved quality processes, and value to the industry by providing a better customer service experience. 

And that’s exactly what happened in 1998 with the formation of LKQ. The company’s name – “LKQ” – came directly from an alternative parts term, “Like-Kind-Quality”, which signified that a part was designed to perform similarly to the Original Equipment (OE) part. These days, as LKQ has diversified both geographically and into product and service segments beyond its origin – salvage business, the “LKQ” acronym is now referred to “Leadership. Knowhow. Quality” which more accurately reflects its place in the world. 

Over the past 25 years, LKQ has been focused on growth, through internal development and approximately 300 acquisitions worldwide, in the areas of aftermarket, recycled, and remanufactured parts, paint-related products, self-service retail business, specialty vehicle aftermarket equipment and accessories, and services. 

Today, LKQ is the leading provider of alternative and specialty parts to repair and accessorize automobiles and other vehicles. LKQ continues to be a thought leader in driving the industry forward, in everything from efficiency and sustainability to product quality to expansion into other related businesses, like services. 

LKQ has been an environmental leader since the day the company was founded in 1998 as a salvage dismantler and recycler of passenger vehicles. And we are “LKQ Proud” to say we’ve become the largest automotive recycler in the world, with its North American operations recycling more than 90% of the materials from the vehicles we procure that would otherwise go into landfills.

We are LKQ Europe

The automotive aftermarket leader 

This year, LKQ celebrates 25 years. A quarter of a century in which LKQ has made a huge impact in the auto repair industry. The company’s legacy, leadership and growth in Europe is equally as impressive. LKQ Europe came into being following the acquisition of Euro Car Parts in 2011, significantly expanding its reach and expertise. The company’s European history actually goes back much further: One of its subsequent acquisitions, STAHLGRUBER Group, was founded in Germany in 1923. 

Since 2011, LKQ’s presence in Europe has grown rapidly following a number of acquisitions. It now has a presence in more than 20 European countries, it employs approximately 26,000 people, has a network of more than 1,000 branches, and supplies more than 100,000 workshops. 

“At LKQ, we’re all connected through a common goal and shared passion. To provide our customers with the best possible service and be leaders in our field,” says Varun Laroyia, CEO LKQ Europe. “Simply put, collectively we have the most impressive range of experience and understanding of the market. And this has led to our market leadership position.” 

From sustainable logistics and breakthrough products, through to industry expertise and exceptional customer loyalty, the regions of Europe have much to be proud of. 

Crossing the pond: UK and Ireland 

Since joining LKQ in 2011, LKQ Euro Car Parts has empowered its customers to find what they need faster and more efficiently. Trade, retail and collision are the key sectors, and as the leading distributor of car and light commercial vehicle parts, it offers the widest range of spare parts and repair solutions in the UK and Ireland. Its reach spans more than 280 branches, stocking over 100,000 different parts, and equipped with a hub and spoke distribution model which disrupted and redefined the UK market. 

In addition to the company’s rapidly growing e-commerce platform, LKQ Euro Car Parts offers innovative services to enhance the customer experience and foster business growth. The wider group also supports body shop customers through LKQ Coatings and marine and leisure customers through the Arleigh Group.

The DACH Region: Germany, Austria and Switzerland 

The STAHLGRUBER Group, which was acquired in 2018, is one of the main players in car parts wholesale in Germany and Austria. Since beginning of 2023, it operates under the name LKQ DACH, and includes the division brands LKQ STAHLGRUBER in Germany and Austria, LKQ PV AUTOMOTIVE, NEIMCKE and also LKQ RHIAG Switzerland. Around 5,800 employees work for the group at 167 locations. In addition to trading in automotive spare parts, accessories, workshop equipment and tools, LKQ DACH offers comprehensive service packages for the entire automotive repair industry, by supporting strong network with wholesale partners and garage customers, and focusing on maintaining long-standing relationships with its customers. 

For LKQ Europe, it offers extraordinary logistics, product availability, plus a highly efficient nationwide distribution network throughout the DACH region. 

LKQ Europe has a special attachment to the region, as its head office is located in the Swiss town of Zug. 

Italy: more than 60 years of dedicated service 

The acquisition of the holding company of Rhiag-Inter Auto Parts Italia S.p.A (RHIAG), in 2016, was undoubtedly a major move for LKQ. The group is a leading player in the independent aftermarket in Italy, as well as many other countries. It is Italy’s leading distributor by size, turnover, logistics network, product range and services. Its range of innovative solutions and services are provided by 17 branches and two central warehouses. RHIAG has also developed proprietary brands in Italy, such as ENERGY batteries and Starline automotive parts and products. 

Its long-term goals and ambitions are to lead the aftermarket industry transformation, set the standard for affordable and sustainable mobility and become the voice of the aftermarket in European legislative discussion. In 2022, LKQ RHIAG celebrated its own anniversary; 60 years of dedicated service to the automotive aftermarket in Europe.

The CEE Region: Eight countries and LKQ Europe’s Innovation and Service Center 

Czech Republic, Slovakia, Ukraine, Hungary, Romania, Poland, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Slovenia. Today the region supplies more than 90,000 garages across the CEE countries. LKQ CEE is rightfully proud of the complete Technical Sales support offered in the Czech Republic, and some other countries, under the LKQ Academy platform. The Academy provides unique and knowledge-based services Europe-wide, such as garage equipment consulting, garage equipment maintenance and services, diagnostics tools consulting and many more. 

The CEE region also boasts the state-of-the-art LKQ Europe’s Innovation and Service Centre located in Katowice, Poland. It is supposed to act as a catalyst for the company’s innovation and digitalization strategy. 

Benelux and France – and one of the most innovative warehouses 

In 2013, LKQ Europe acquired Sator Beheer, the leading distributor of automotive aftermarket parts in the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg and northern France. Since then, it has grown from being a Dutch distributor exporting to Belgium and France, towards becoming a true regional company with a strong identity in all three countries. 

LKQ Benelux-France offers products and services in the automotive aftermarket within four divisions: parts, paint, tools and equipment, and support. 

An important milestone for LKQ’s operational excellence at the regional and European level, was the construction of the Central Distribution Center (CDC) in Berkel en Rodenrijs, close to Rotterdam. The CDC is equipped with the latest technology in mechanization combined with traditional warehousing. The size and scale of this facility plays a vital role in supporting LKQ’s European network and logistics footprint. 

The expansion in the region continues apace. In early 2023, LKQ Europe announced the acquisition of Dutch-based Rhenoy Group. Founded in 1991, Rhenoy is a leading supplier of remanufactured engines, and recycled OEM car parts.

LKQ India operations in Bengaluru started in 2008 with one member and has evolved significantly over the last 14 years.; Today, we have 1200+ strong and dedicated intellectual force to deliver the growing everyday demands of our LKQ global organization. We offer extensive services in the areas of financial operations, IT, analytics, supply chain, design, business operations, and many more domains.
LKQ India leverages global scale to create an efficient way of providing value-added services to business units across the globe. Our best-in-class solutions are personalized for each business unit, facilitating operational reliability and positive transformation.
We strongly believe that people are our assets. Our diverse and multicultural talented workforce sets us apart from our competition. As we continue to grow, we strive to hire the best talent and provide them with excellent career paths with progression opportunities across various domains. People engagement, well-being, collaboration, training, reskilling, & upskilling people, and creating a positive environment for members to have fun with work are significant attributes of our competitive advantage.

We are LKQ India:

Competency center for Our Global Operations 

LKQ India operations in Bengaluru started in 2008 with one member and has evolved significantly over the last 14 years.; Today, we have 1200+ strong and dedicated intellectual force to deliver the growing everyday demands of our LKQ global organization. We offer extensive services in the areas of financial operations, IT, analytics, supply chain, design, business operations, and many more domains.
LKQ India leverages global scale to create an efficient way of providing value-added services to business units across the globe. Our best-in-class solutions are personalized for each business unit, facilitating operational reliability and positive transformation.
We strongly believe that people are our assets. Our diverse and multicultural talented workforce sets us apart from our competition. As we continue to grow, we strive to hire the best talent and provide them with excellent career paths with progression opportunities across various domains. People engagement, well-being, collaboration, training, reskilling, & upskilling people, and creating a positive environment for members to have fun with work are significant attributes of our competitive advantage.

LKQ India’s values & culture form the foundation upon which we continue our journey of building a world-class organization. For us, culture is all about:

• Passion — a shared passion for work, relationships, and life
• Trust — trust in the organization, in the leadership, and in each other.

LKQ India fosters an inclusive, collaborative, innovative, and open culture in which our members are offered opportunities to learn, grow and advance in their careers. This makes us cherish working with others and building on each other’s mutual success. Our culture focuses on establishing purpose, leading by example, rewarding excellence, encouraging mentoring, communicating, and transparency.

Fun is one of our core values; we induce fun through day-to-day activities to make
it an integral part of our learning process and work culture, promoting collaboration, engagement, leadership, and teamwork.
We keep business and people at the center of everything we do. We focus on delivering best-in-class innovative and value-added services through planned and continuous improvement of our processes and people.

Country: Canada

Line Of Business: Specialty

Country: US

Line Of Business: Aftermarket

Country: US

Line Of Business: Aftermarket

Country: US

Line Of Business: Salvage

Country: US

Line Of Business: Self-Service (Pick Your Part)