BOUCHERVILLE, Quebec -- Uni-Select has completed the purchase of Automotive Information Management Inc. (AIM), a program distribution group, with head offices in Cartersville, Ga. AIM offers a membership program that grants access to preferred purchase terms offered by selected manufacturers.

This acquisition is a strategic initiative and aims to expand the Uni-Select Network and increase drop ship sales (or the delivery of products directly from manufacturers to customers). After the transaction, AIM will maintain its operations to serve its member customers. In addition to assisting AIM members to better meet market conditions, the transaction will allow these members, under a unified program, to benefit from greater availability of automotive product through the Uni-Select Network of warehouses.

"This transaction is in line with our strategy of continuing to develop the U.S. market and becoming a consolidator to program distribution groups that have distinctive branding while continuing to maintain and operate existing business relationships with member customers. This solution is a win-win scenario as it allows the member customers to benefit from programs and resources that will make them more competitive while allowing us to continue our growth in the U.S. market," said Richard Roy, president and chief executive officer of Uni-Select Inc.

"From its inception, our program distribution group has enjoyed a membership that has remained strong and loyal. As part of the Uni-Select Network, AIM will have the ability to better serve its member customers, and will have the tools to pursue its expansion of sales to other new customers," added Jack Clayton, president of Automotive Information Management Inc.