CRYSTAL LAKE, Ill. — United under the theme, “Evolution,” the 2009 VIPAR Heavy Duty Annual Business Conference was held at the Marco Island Marriott, in Marco Island, Fla., Oct. 18-23. This year’s conference marked the organization’s 20th anniversary and featured an increase in attendance among VIPAR Heavy Duty distributors, supplier partners and industry associates, according to the network.
“The strong turnout we achieved was reflective of the positive upbeat attitude that pervaded our annual business conference and the value that our distributors and supplier partners see in our event,” said Steve Crowley, president, VIPAR Heavy Duty. “While there were mixed opinions regarding the business climate that lies immediately ahead of us, there was a strong determination among attendees to evolve with these times and maximize the opportunities before them.”
A keynote presentation on “Adapting to Change” was delivered by outdoor adventurer, Ed Viesturs. “Ed helped inspire our distributor members with his adventures climbing the world’s highest mountains without the use of supplemental oxygen,” said Jeff Paul, director of marketing, VIPAR Heavy Duty. “His message was timely considering the need for adaptability in the constantly evolving business environment. Importantly, he told us that in reaching the top it’s not just what you’ve achieved, but how you’ve achieved it and that getting to the top is optional, but getting down is mandatory.”
Other presentations included a report on VIPAR Heavy Duty’s strategic direction, along with a progress report on the organization’s launch of its new distribution centers with brake remanufacturing facilities, an update on business development plans, the introduction of 2010 marketing strategies and programs and a report on business technology systems.
The VIPAR Heavy Duty Annual Business Conference brings together VIPAR Heavy Duty distributors, supplier partners, and industry associates to facilitate the productive exchange of ideas and information benefiting all participants. The event included: general sessions, break-out meetings, the annual stockholders meeting, tradeshow, one-on-one stockholder/supplier partner meetings, as well as various other business programs.
VIPAR Heavy Duty’s 2010 Annual Business Conference will be held Nov. 14-19, 2010 at the Marco Island Marriott in Marco Island, Fla.
For more information on the VIPAR Heavy Duty Annual Business Conference, visit www.vipar.com or email: [email protected].
