GERMANTOWN, Tenn. – The Automotive Distribution Network recently hosted its largest fall membership meeting ever, with more than 300 attendees on hand at the Vinoy Renaissance Resort in St. Petersburg, Fla., including 175 vendor partners representing 91 companies and 82 members from 33 Network WDs, according to Mike Lambert, president of the Network.
“The huge turnout made this one of the most positive, productive meetings we’ve ever had, as our members and vendors discussed their collective goals for the immediate and long-term future of the Network and finalized strategies for achieving them,” Lambert said.
During the gathering, the Network membership elected its new chairman, Danny Ward, president of Atlanta-based Southeastern Automotive Warehouse (SAW). Addressing the membership for the first time as chairman, Ward introduced his son Blake, who recently joined SAW, the company started by Danny’s father, Bill, in 1965.
“Blake and I are proud to be associated with such a fine group like the Network,” Ward said. “Along with our vendor partners, I’m confident the Network will continue to be leaders — not followers — in the automotive aftermarket.”
Over the course of the two-day meeting, the Network named its eight committees. With representatives from 85 percent of the membership, the committees help chart the future direction of the association, further illustrating the Network’s focus as a member-driven organization.
The Network operates under the brands of Parts Plus, IAPA, Auto Star, Auto Pride, CMB and Network Products.
