IRVING, Texas -

Along with handing out five different awards and generating thousands of dollars for an industry-related charity, the American Recovery Association cheered the success of this year’s North American Repossessors Summit (NARS), sponsored by Harding Brooks Insurance.

ARA officials highlighted that the 11th annual event generated “staggering” attendance of more than 600 participants, including recovery and remarketing professionals as well as finance companies.

ARA president Dave Kennedy said that NARS cemented its place as a “must-attend” event for the recovery industry to benefit attendees and exhibitors alike, with sponsorships and exhibitor opportunities selling out months in advance.

“NARS 2019 set the tone for the future. It was amazing — the energy and feeling of unity was felt in every session and networking event,” Kennedy said. “Every year, I am floored by the event’s ability to bring together professionals from all sides of this industry, while also raising thousands to benefit recovery agents in need.”

NARS 2019 kicked off with workshop options and unique networking opportunities for attendees. During NARS’ Locksmithing Workshop, attendees learned a new vertical that could help add to their bottom line. The annual AT&T Stadium Tour led attendees through the facility to a private field-level dining experience, and even a little rain couldn’t keep golfers away from the annual NARS Golf Tournament.

Other networking opportunities at NARS 2019 included the Harding Brooks Insurance sponsored cocktail party and Digital Recognition Network (DRN) sponsored closing party. 

Through a compelling line-up of speakers, NARS 2019 equipped attendees with the practical knowledge and inspiration based on the conference theme, “Adapt, Conquer and Overcome.”

Retired U.S. Navy Seal Mike Sarraille inspired the crowd to practice extreme ownership and have moral courage. Scott Jackson shared his story of having it all, losing it all, and how learning to first adapt and conquer helped him eventually overcome obstacles at every turn in his life. Brandon Gray shared his candid financial expertise on exit-planning during his strategic planning session. The NARS 2019 Keynote speaker, best-selling author Bob Burg, brought the house down with his philosophy on how living life the “go giver way” leads to both professional and personal success. 

NARS 2019 also introduced the first-ever NARS Industry Awards, which honored exemplary industry professionals.

The inaugural honorees included:

— Agent of the Year: Michael Simpson
— Service Representative of the Year: Jon Jendral
— Humanitarian of the Year: Ray Franklin
— Agency Owner of the Year: Richard Grosvenor

Additionally, the prestigious Art Christensen Award was given to Mike Reiter for his outstanding contributions and service to the recovery industry.

In addition, fund-raising efforts contributed more than $20,000 to the Recovery Agents Benefit Fund (RABF), thanks to DRN, Reiter and silent auction sponsors, which included:

— Anthony Gentile of Dynamic Wrecker Sales
— David Kennedy of First Credit Resources
— Fidel Sanchez of Midwest Keyless
— Emily Massey of SCAR
— Mike Sarraille of Echelon Front
— Steve Simons of Paramount Recovery Service

NARS 2020 will be held next April. More details about the 12th annual event will be announced soon. Visit reposummit.com for more information.