ATLANTA -- Genuine Parts Co. (GPC) has announced a new automotive operating unit, the Heavy Vehicle Parts Group USA. The new unit, based in Atlanta, GA, will have dedicated facilities across the U.S. which supply quality replacement parts for the repair and maintenance of heavy-duty trucks and trailers. This group will serve fleet operators, major repair facilities, trailer OEM's and others in the heavy-duty parts distribution channel.

Heavy-duty industry veteran Jay Lott, will serve as general manager for the new operating unit. Commenting on the new unit, Lott said, "The U.S. heavy vehicle parts division follows the template established in our Canadian heavy-duty business. Through a network of three distribution centers and 80 stores, this group provides industry leading name brand parts, as well as quality private label HD Plus brake, suspension and other components, to fleet operators across Canada."

Tom Gallagher, chairman, president and chief executive of GPC, added, "Our U.S. expansion in the heavy-duty aftermarket provides Genuine Parts with the opportunity to gain share in a replacement parts business currently estimated at $15-20 billion annually. We are pleased to have Jay lead this effort."