The Automotive Distribution Network convened its fall membership meeting this week in Washington, D.C., at the Mayflower Hotel. More than 150 Network members representing 50 shareholders joined 100 manufacturer partners for the three-day event, which is designed to promote collaboration among the membership, staff and vendors.
“Every fall, the Network’s shareholders gather to discuss what’s happening in their respective markets and evaluate new opportunities that may exist collectively for the group,” said David Prater, Network president. “The fall meeting also enables the group to continually refine several of its award-winning programs in the areas of marketing, product and IT, while also celebrating our shared successes.”
On Monday, the membership met with the group’s manufacturer partners to learn about initiatives that have been under development since the last fall meeting. Presentations included the Network’s partnership with Sophio Software and the introduction of new marketing initiatives heading into 2017, while Thomas William Deans, author of “Every Family’s Business,” offered useful information on succession planning.
During the meeting, the group also announced the impending retirement of Bob Barstow, who is stepping down at the end of the year as vice president of marketing after 18 years with the Network.
