STAUNTON, Va. – Federated Auto Parts says it expects another record turnout for its national membership meeting, which takes place May 13-16 at the Gran Meliá Golf Resort in Puerto Rico. In addition to Federated members and supplier partners, members of the Pronto leadership team will be in attendance to facilitate the affiliation benefits of the Automotive Parts Services Group (The Group).
During the meeting, Federated will celebrate its 30th anniversary. Founded in 1985 by the late Art Fisher, Federated has grown to be one of the largest auto parts distribution and marketing organizations in North America. A special 30th anniversary logo has been created to commemorate the milestone.
“As we celebrate our 30th anniversary and welcome our new partners from Pronto, this year’s Federated national meeting has extra significance,” said Rusty Bishop, CEO of Federated. “It is an ideal time for members and vendors to all meet in one location and discuss plans and opportunities for the coming year. We will also have a chance to map out and execute strategic initiatives that benefit all channel partners and members of The Group.”
In Puerto Rico, Federated members will be able to participate in a wide-range of informational sessions on such topics as technology, inventory management and training as well as get a preview of the upcoming promotional and marketing programs. The membership also will receive presentations from select manufacturers on their newest products and attend the Federated Vendor Expo. In addition, prior to the official start of the meeting, the Federated Co-Man Council and Board of Governors will meet.
The annual awards dinner will be a celebration of 30 successful years. Federated leadership will present awards including the Art Fisher Memorial Membership Award, Outstanding Vendor of the Year and the Federated Shop of the Year during the ceremony. In addition, the annual Toys for Tots auction will be held.
“We want to thank all of our members for their support, commitment and loyalty throughout the last 30 years,” said Bishop. “Federated would not be the successful organization it is today without its members. They have always been willing to work together for the betterment of Federated. We also want to thank our supplier partners for working side-by-side with us. Art would be so proud to see how far we have come.”