Who We Are & What We Do
Modern Sales Co-op is recognized as Canada’s largest organization of its kind, serving as a dynamic cooperative that supports independent automotive, heavy duty, industrial, and agricultural businesses nationwide.
As an industry leader and respected member of the broader community, Modern Sales Co-op offers members an extensive portfolio of products and creates unique business opportunities for vendors not available elsewhere in Canada.
With a trusted vendor network, hundreds of member locations, and over 90 years of experience, Modern Sales Co-op has established itself as a reliable, adaptable, and highly diversified co-operative.
A cooperative Built on people
Modern Sales Co-op is built on people, not profit. Through collaboration, shared buying power, and a highly diversified product offering, our members work together to meet common goals and support independent businesses across Canada.
- People-First Cooperative: Built around members working together to meet shared needs and goals.
- Diversified Product Offering: Supporting independent businesses across automotive, heavy duty, industrial, agricultural, and related sectors.
- Guided by Integrity: Our operations are shaped by honesty, fairness, and integrity.
- Coast-to-Coast Network: Members across Canada, supported by trusted vendors from around the globe.
IT Initiatives
Cutting-edge technology solutions that streamline operations, enhance connectivity, and drive digital transformation across the supply chain.
- Cloud Infrastructure
- Data Analytics
- System Integration
Advertising Solutions
Strategic marketing programs designed to amplify brand visibility, reach target audiences, and drive measurable business growth.
- Digital Campaigns
- Brand Development
- Market Analysis
Vendor Programs
Comprehensive support systems for vendors, including training, resources, and tools to maximize success in the modern marketplace.
- Partner Support
- Training Resources
- Growth Tools
Our Culture
As a cooperative, we are an organization built on people, not profit. Our members work together to meet shared needs and goals. This spirit of collaboration has allowed Modern Sales Co-op to grow into a strong, resilient company with a highly diversified product offering and an ever-expanding membership.
All operations are guided by core values of honesty, fairness, and integrity, which inform every aspect of the organization's practices
Our History
Modern Sales Co-op began in the mid-1930s, when seven Canadian business owners came together with a shared vision: to build stronger, more meaningful relationships with the vendor community.
More than 90 years later, that founding purpose continues to guide the organization. What started as a small group of seven has grown into a national co-operative supporting independent businesses across Canada. At its core, Modern Sales Co-op remains built on the same values that shaped its beginnings: honesty, openness, social responsibility, and a genuine commitment to its members.
Through long-standing partnerships with both members and vendors, Modern Sales Co-op continues to create opportunities, strengthen relationships, and support the success of independent business owners nationwide.
Founded as Auto Sense Auto Parts
Modern began in 1936 as Auto Sense Auto Parts, a manufacturer’s agency formed by seven automotive wholesalers who joined together to increase their buying power and negotiate fairer terms.
Expanding Vendor Partnerships
By 1966, Modern had partnered with more than 30 manufacturers, strengthening its network and expanding the opportunities available to members.
Transition to Modern Sales Co-op
In 2001, Modern Sales transitioned into Modern Sales Co-op, becoming the cooperative organization it is known as today.
Barrie Headquarters Opens
On June 26, 2003, Modern Sales Co-op opened its third warehouse and relocated its head office to Barrie, Ontario. The site spans 10 acres and includes more than 100,000 square feet of warehouse space.Calgary Warehouse Opens
On March 5, 2018, Modern Sales Co-op expanded westward with the opening of its fourth warehouse in Calgary, Alberta.A National Cooperative Network
More than 90 years later, Modern Sales Co-op has grown to support over 200 members and more than 740 locations across Canada.Distribution Centres
Strategically located across Canada, Modern Sales Co-op supports members through four warehouse locations:
- Barrie, Ontario
- Langley, British Columbia
- Calgary, Alberta
- Winnipeg, Manitoba
Located in every province across Canada
Serving communities from coast to coast
