Editor’s Note: It should be noted that Autologue’s announcement of its purchase of the distribution management systems (DMS) business of WHI, which includes PartsWatch, AutoEase and Maccel, is not related to the independent computer software business known as DMS Systems. DMS Systems continues to be run as an independent computer software business managed by its CEO, Grady Davis, headquartered out of Rocky Mount, North Carolina.
Autologue Computer Systems Inc. has acquired three inventory management systems from eBay Inc.
Jim Franco, CEO and president of Autologue Computer Systems Inc., said, “I am so grateful and blessed to have an opportunity to acquire these great distribution management systems (DMS’s). These three systems – PartsWatch, AutoEase and Maccel – have been in the automotive aftermarket for many years. Our team is excited to add these systems to our product offerings. We have found that one DMS does not fit all sizes of jobbers, distributors or WDs. Now with eight different systems to offer, we can satisfy the very small to the large, multi-location customer. The most important aspect is the addition of 30 experienced, quality and committed service-minded team members. We intend to merge, integrate and transfer knowledge to incorporate all the years of experience of our team of now 90-plus employees. We have found that with these acquisitions that the No. 1 asset is the collaboration of our teams. We also recognize that technology is, and will be, one of the most important aspects to continue to improve the parts distribution business.
“Technology is changing rapidly, and we are committed to making any and all efforts to bring this to our customers,” said Franco. “We plan to integrate all our existing eCommerce technology for all of the hundreds of our new customers. These products include online ordering, eOffice, invoices, statements and bill pay online, eDelivery, delivery management with signature capture and eSalesBI/CRM, outside salesperson tools, just to name a few. We have a proven track record that these eCommerce tools enhance the relationship between the distributor and the end user, and definitely increase loyalty and customer retention.”
Franco added, “I believe the No. 1 reason for Autologue’s success and the opportunity to acquire now 17 technology companies over the past 20 years is our ‘Customer First’ service commitment and attitude. After personally interviewing each one of the newly acquired DMS’s employees, I found that their service level aligns perfectly with the Autologue ‘Excellent Customer Service’ philosophy. I have continued to surround myself with personnel experienced in the automotive aftermarket. This has positioned us to understand the needs, challenges and opportunities of our customer base. I have found that if we help enough customers to get what they want, the company will be successful, and I’ve been very blessed to adopt this philosophy.”
