Multi Parts, a developer and manufacturer of aftermarket auto parts for full line co-manufacturers and their leading global brands, recently instituted a “Longevity Recognition Program” for its growing roster of long-term employees.

Multi Parts has always recognized employee longevity milestones with pay and other compensation; however, Multi Parts’ Chairman Barry Cohn wanted to go further. “I wanted something instantly recognizable to say this is a long-term Multi Parts person. It says something about the person and hopefully, it says something about what we value.”

This was the inaugural year of the Multi Parts Longevity Recognition Program and ceremonial pinning. On May 29, Multi Parts’ teams in China, Europe, and the U.S. each gathered to honor the employees who received five-, 10-, 15- and 20-year lapel pins. Precious stones in the pins denote different tenures.

Ironically, in Barry Cohn’s zeal to make certain every deserving employee was recognized, he neglected to “recognize” his own 30-plus years with the company. His son and Multi Parts’ President Brian Cohn, presented Barry with a special, one-of-a-kind, lapel pin. Cohn said it recognizes his father’s vision and grit for starting Multi Parts under anything but ideal circumstances.

“My dad’s start-up capital was purely sweat equity,” he said. “From the day I began with Multi Parts I have understood that ultimately, my work honors his legacy.”

In recognizing long-term employees, Brian Cohn added, “I have received the nicest messages from members of our team, expressing thanks for our recognition of their commitment. Seeing that they value this company and their respective roles as much as we value them is tremendously gratifying.”