Dayco, a leader in components for engine products and drive systems, is focused on driving growth in the heavy-duty aftermarket. To meet the ongoing needs of its commercial vehicle customers, the company recently hired Ron Barnes as National Commercial Vehicle Business Development Manager. He will lead Dayco’s recently formed Heavy-Duty Aftermarket group. In addition, the company’s commercial team has secured business from Midwest Wheel, one of the largest distributors of heavy-duty parts in the Midwest.
Barnes joined Dayco in June as a highly experienced veteran with more than 25 years of experience in the automotive and heavy-duty aftermarket industries. Barnes spent the last 9 years at Tenneco where, most recently, he held the position of strategic account manager for U.S. commercial vehicle customers. Throughout his career, Barnes has worked directly with all the commercial vehicle OEMs, CV retailers and CV buying groups. In his new role, Barnes will be responsible for developing and expanding Dayco’s brand presence with all heavy-duty and fleet customers nationwide, including its newest account – Midwest Wheel Company.
Over the last 100 years, Midwest Wheel Company has grown to become one of the largest truck parts distributors in its region with six locations in Iowa and Missouri. With a full range of replacement parts for commercial and passenger vehicles, the company was ready to make the switch to Dayco’s full line of premium aftermarket belts and hoses.
“Last month, a team of six Dayco sales and marketing personnel traveled to Iowa and Missouri to help with the conversion,” said TJ Fontana, director U.S. sales for Dayco’s N.A. Aftermarket. “This was the largest changeover we’ve had since Covid and we’re so proud of how the team worked to make it happen while still maintaining social distancing protocols.”
Not only did Dayco conduct changeovers for all six warehouse locations, but they helped set up nearly 50 repair shops and jobber locations. Midwest Wheel is the largest member of the HDA Truck Pride program.
