GERMANTOWN, Tenn. — The Automotive Distribution Network’s National Jobber and Service Dealer Advisory Councils recently assembled for a joint meeting to provide unique insight and feedback as the association continues to enhance its programs to meet the ever-changing needs of its affiliates at the street level, according to Mike Lambert, president of the Network.

“By opening the lines of communication between some of our top jobbers and installers in the field, our Network Headquarter staff can more effectively find out what’s working—and not working—to help ensure that our programs remain fresh and relevant,” Lambert said. “From the expanded warranty program to our unique consumer promotions to training initiatives to telematics, the councils shared ideas and their perspectives on what’s happening in their respective markets to provide an interesting cross-section of opinions that will influence our staff’s decisions as we further develop our programs to stay one step ahead of the competition.”

Held at the Marriott Town Center in Charlestown, W.Va., the joint council meeting featured a discussion about the future of telematics in the automotive aftermarket, including a close look at Delphi’s beta test model and the technology’s value from consumer and fleet points of view. The Network’s council members also toured the state-of-the-art NGK spark-plug manufacturing facility and campus in nearby Sissonville, W.Va., in addition to spending time with their top management team.

Operating under the brands of Parts Plus, IAPA, Auto Pride and CMB, the Automotive Distribution Network is one of the largest, most diverse program groups in the industry.