From accounting to automotive: The inspiring journey of Mathieu Côté
Mathieu Côté left his career in accounting to venture into the automotive industry, where he has distinguished himself through his leadership and entrepreneurial spirit. He plays a pivotal role in the sector’s evolution by focusing on innovation and human connections. Today, he is the co-owner and general manager of four NAPA auto parts stores in the Quebec region, as well as the co-owner of Distribution Côté et Fils, rebranded as DCF in 2024, specializing primarily in electric vehicles. Discover his journey and vision for the future of the industry.
Mathieu Côté, General Manager, Pièces d’auto Alain Côté and DCF
What does your role involve?
My role primarily involves tracking goals with each of our managers. I support them by helping identify the necessary strategies to achieve these goals while providing guidance and assistance. I play a central role in defining the company’s overall vision and strategic directions.
I also take part in client meetings, oversee general operations, and contribute to business development. Thanks to a strong and capable team, I am able to focus more on developing strategic partnerships and innovative projects.
Additionally, it is crucial for me to engage with strategic partners in the automotive maintenance and repair industry. Currently, I serve as Vice President of the Quebec division of AIA Canada, a position I have held for the past two years. I also collaborate with the CPA of Quebec through initiatives such as a battery diagnostics training program developed in partnership with them.
What daily challenges do you face, and how do you overcome them?
The current market is characterized by the growing consolidation of repair shops, which tend to merge or specialize, requiring us to adapt. Moreover, our clients face expertise challenges due to emerging technological advancements in the industry.
To help them address these challenges, we have implemented initiatives to support and prepare them for new realities. This includes developing training programs in collaboration with our subsidiary DCF, formerly Distribution Côté et Fils, which features a comprehensive training center, as well as other projects aimed at meeting their diverse needs. DCF also operates a reconditioning center for hybrid and electric vehicle (H&EV) batteries, offers dielectric certification services for insulated personal protective equipment, and provides a wide range of specialized EV products.
We also emphasize enhanced customer service and increased business meetings. Thanks to our strategic position, we are well-placed to support our clients and play a key role in the industry’s development. This responsibility is one we take to heart. These challenges are opportunities to continually improve our services and strengthen the trust our clients place in us. By offering strong support and a tailored program to meet their needs, we contribute to the success of their businesses and our own.
How did your interest in the industry develop?
What draws me to this field is the combination of its entrepreneurial aspect and the importance of human relationships. The industry relies heavily on the quality of relationships, whether with clients, suppliers, or employees. My motivation is simple: if my client succeeds, I succeed, and my supplier benefits as well. This dynamic creates a virtuous cycle where everyone finds their place and thrives, including my employees.
Adaptability is also crucial in this field, as is the ability to navigate a constant learning curve. Every day presents new challenges and opportunities to grow and excel. It’s this balance between relationships, learning, and entrepreneurship that inspires me.
What is the biggest change or evolution you have witnessed in the industry since you started?
The most significant change I’ve observed since joining the industry is the emergence of new technologies. These innovations are progressively transforming the sector and will have a major impact in the years to come. Preparing for these changes now is essential to being ready when they become unavoidable. This requires investing in training, adopting an adaptable mindset, and staying ahead of technological advancements to effectively support our clients through this transition.
About the campaign I am AIA
I am AIA aims to raise the profile of auto care industry professionals in Canada with the goal of humanizing our industry and showcasing members of AIA Canada. If you are interested in participating in sharing your story through this campaign, we encourage you to apply.