Long-time industry veteran John F. Creamer was presented with the Martin Fromm Lifetime Achievement Award by AWDA at its 2012 annual conference. Presenting the award was the 2003 winner, Mort Schwartz.
This very selective award recognizes individuals who, over the course of many years, have distinguished themselves through their commitment to, and high level of performance within, the motor vehicle aftermarket. Recipients of this award are considered to be “backbones” of the aftermarket industry.

Born in New York City, Creamer began his aftermarket career in 1963 as a salesman for Wheels, Inc., an automotive and marine parts distributor, eventually working his way to company president. Wheels, Inc. was sold to American Parts System, and Creamer was named northeast regional vice president.

During his time at APS, Creamer served on both the AWDA and ASIA boards of directors. This experience gave him a taste for the association world and, in 1969, he left APS to join Martin Fromm and Associates (MF&A) in Kansas City as executive vice president. MF&A managed trade associations including several that still exist in one form or another: AWDA, the Association of Diesel Specialists, Council of Fleet Specialists and the Paint, Body & Equipment Association.

As director of member services for AWDA, Creamer was responsible for the development and execution of an extensive education program. Support for industry education continues as Creamer’s legacy and one of AWDA’s primary focuses. In 1995, Creamer was named president of AWDA, serving as its chief staff person.

In 1978, Creamer founded Distribution Marketing Services, which he continues to operate today. The company specializes in M&A activity, marketing and executive placement within the aftermarket. Creamer is often called upon to assist in financial deals being considered or undertaken by aftermarket companies.
Creamer’s “lifetime of achievement” in the aftermarket continues to this day. He serves as an advisor to the AWDA board and is ­always willing to assist with tasks and projects whenever called upon by his association or peers within the industry.

In presenting the award, Mort Schwartz, himself a 2003 Fromm Award winner, said of Creamer, “Jack’s commitment to the industry has been unshakable over many decades. He is a familiar face, a contributing member, a friendly and comforting presence…a true backbone of the aftermarket industry.”