Schram Auto Parts has a rich history deeply intertwined with the automotive industry. Like many businesses during World War II, Schram Auto Parts played a crucial role in the war effort by supplying scrap metals to the U.S. government. This patriotic contribution led to a temporary pause in their regular operations. Post-war, in 1946, Harold Sr. strategically relocated the business to a larger 7-acre site at 2549 Dixie Highway in Waterford, Michigan. Remarkably, this location still serves as the company’s headquarters today, demonstrating Schram Auto Parts’ enduring roots in the community.
In 1957, Harold Sr. passed the leadership of Schram Auto Parts to his son, Harold Jr. Harold Jr. brought a vision of innovation, aiming to transform Schram Auto and Truck Parts into a nationally recognized leader in the automotive recycling industry. His commitment to modernization was evident in the extensive construction projects between 1962 and 1969. These expansions included a cutting-edge 23,000-square-foot warehouse and dismantling facility, significantly enhancing Schram’s operational capabilities and setting new standards for auto parts recycling.
A pivotal strategic decision was made in 1972. Recognizing General Motors’ dominant presence in the local automotive manufacturing landscape (producing 75% of cars in the area), Schram Auto Parts strategically focused exclusively on GM parts. This specialization in GM recycled parts lasted over three decades and cemented Schram’s reputation as the go-to source for reliable, high-quality GM components. This specialization allowed Schram to deeply understand the intricacies of GM vehicles and parts, providing unparalleled expertise in this niche market.
The early 1980s marked the transition to the third generation of Schram family leadership, with Ken, Bob, and Tom Schram taking over the reins. Continuing the family legacy of innovation and excellence in car parts and truck parts, these brothers further propelled Schram Auto Parts to industry prominence. Ken and Tom Schram became influential figures in the automotive recycling sector through their leadership roles in both the Automotive Recyclers of Michigan (ARM) and the Automotive Recyclers Association (ARA). Their involvement in these organizations highlights Schram’s commitment to industry development and best practices in auto recycling.
Schram Auto Parts experienced substantial growth in 1998, expanding the Waterford facility to an impressive 55,000 square feet. This expansion included advanced dismantling bays and state-of-the-art fluid reclamation systems. This made it the world’s largest facility specializing in late-model GM recycled parts, showcasing Schram’s dominance in the GM parts market. A year later, in 1999, the Schram family broadened their reach by acquiring Buds Auto Parts in Mason, Michigan. This acquisition added a substantial 20-acre site with extensive dismantling and recycling operations, further solidifying Schram’s position in the auto parts industry. By 2002, the Mason location expanded to 52,000 square feet of warehouse space and six dismantling bays, demonstrating consistent growth and expansion of Schram Auto Parts Car Parts and truck parts offerings.
In 2005, Schram Auto Parts made a significant strategic shift, expanding beyond its GM-exclusive focus to include parts for all makes and models. This diversification was a crucial step in adapting to the evolving automotive market and better serving a broader customer base. By offering a comprehensive range of car parts and truck parts, Schram ensured its continued relevance and leadership in a dynamic industry.
The early 2000s also saw the fourth generation of the Schram family stepping into leadership roles, bringing fresh perspectives and driving digital transformation within the company. This new generation focused on enhancing Schram’s digital presence and marketing strategies to meet the demands of the modern marketplace. Embracing technological advancements, Schram implemented computerized inventory systems. These systems provided real-time access to their extensive inventory and the inventories of thousands of other recyclers, significantly improving their ability to quickly and efficiently fulfill customer orders for diverse auto parts. With a fleet of over two dozen delivery trucks and comprehensive shipping services, Schram Auto Parts now efficiently serves customers not only locally but also nationally and internationally, ensuring timely delivery of needed car parts and truck parts.
Responding to changing customer needs and economic conditions, Schram Auto Parts launched the U-Pull & Save Auto Parts yard at their Mason location in 2009. This innovative venture allowed customers to remove parts themselves at discounted prices, catering to the do-it-yourself market and providing affordable options for quality used auto parts. The U-Pull & Save concept proved particularly popular, especially during challenging economic times, emphasizing Schram’s adaptability and customer-centric approach.
The U-Pull & Save operation further expanded in 2015 with the acquisition of the former GM Stamping Plant in Pontiac, Michigan. This significant addition brought 30 more acres and 1,800 vehicles into their inventory, dramatically increasing the availability of U-Pull & Save auto parts and reinforcing Schram’s commitment to providing accessible and affordable car parts.
As Schram Auto and Truck Parts moves forward, their commitment to innovation and growth remains steadfast. They are continuously exploring and implementing new technologies and strategies to optimize their operations. This includes expanding their e-commerce platforms to provide a seamless online experience for customers seeking schram auto parts car parts and investing in sustainable practices that align with the future of automotive recycling. Schram’s focus remains on anticipating industry trends and ensuring they continue to deliver top-quality service and parts to their valued customers. The next generation of Schram leadership is dedicated to upholding the company’s legacy while strategically positioning Schram for continued success and growth in the ever-evolving automotive parts market.
Schram Auto and Truck Parts acknowledges the invaluable contribution of their dedicated employees, who they consider family. Their unwavering commitment has been instrumental in Schram Auto Parts reaching this remarkable milestone of nearly a century in business. As they look towards the future, Schram Auto Parts is excited about the endless possibilities and committed to serving customers for the next 100 years and beyond, providing top-quality schram auto parts and car parts.
