RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. – Aftermarket industry veterans and experts will discuss a wide range of topics focusing on the theme of "Shift Forward" at the 2008 Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium (GAAS), which takes place Tuesday, May 20, and Wednesday, May 21, at the Hyatt Regency O'Hare in Chicago.
"Let's Know Them Before We Need Them," moderated by Ray Pohlman, vice president government relations, AutoZone, and featuring panelists Leslie Waters, former legislator, Florida House of Representatives, and Randel Johnson, vice president, Labor, Immigration and Employee Benefits, U.S. Chamber of Commerce. The panel will examine the importance of government affairs and political action as a part of a company's annual business planning.
"Decision Makers – What Drives Today's Independent Repair Shop Owner to Choose One Parts Source Over Another?," moderated by Gary Molinaro, editor/publisher, The Greensheet/Automotive Week, will focus on how the shop owner of today has changed from the shop owner of the past, especially in regard to sourcing parts.
Panelists include:
• Jim Bastone, owner, Bastone Auto Service;
• Scott Bennett, director of operations, Bennett Auto Supply; and
• Fred Myers, president, One Stop Undercar.
The "Family Affair" panel, moderated by John Washbish, president, CRM and Under Vehicle Group, Affinia Group, will look at how family owned/operated businesses have retained the legacy of their family business, while bringing new ideas to help move their companies forward and overcome the challenges associated with rapid growth in a global economy.
Panelists include:
• Craig Bond, senior vice president, Bond Auto Parts (third generation, WD/jobber);
• Dominic Grote, vice president, sales and marketing, Grote Industries (fourth generation, manufacturer); and
• Doug Reevey, president, Autotec (second generation, technician).
"Private Equity and the Aftermarket Panel," moderated by Dan Smith, founder and president, Capstone Financial Group, will discuss the possibility of merger and acquisition activity continuing in the near and long term, and the role margin pressure will play in driving transactions.
Panelists include:
• Bodil Arlander, senior managing director, Bear Stearns Merchant Banking;
• Kristin Newhall, partner, The Riverside Company; and
• Jeremy Thompson, partner, ONCAP.
To register for the 2008 Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium, the proceeds of which benefit the GAAS scholarship program, go to: www.globalsymposium.org.
