AAPEX Space Drawing Applications are Due Jan. 14
Wednesday, Jan. 14 is the deadline to receive an exhibit space application to participate in the AAPEX 2004 Online Exhibitor Space Drawing. AAPEX 2004 will take place Nov. 2 through Nov. 5 at the Sands Expo Center in Las Vegas. More than 1,900 exhibitors will participate in AAPEX.
AWDA Segment Liaison Candidates Under Review
AAIA is in the process of reviewing candidates to join the professional team at AAIA headquarters and serve as liaison to the new Automotive Warehouse Distributors Association (AWDA) segment. AWDA officially became a segment of AAIA on Jan. 1. Individuals interested in learning more about the position, which will be based at the AAIA national headquarters in Bethesda, Md., should contact Kathleen Schmatz at 301-654-6664 or [email protected].
Car Care Council Reports Increased Web Site Usage, Women’s Board Membership Up
In 2003, usage of the Car Care Council’s Car Care Newspaper Supplement (CCNS) Web site grew dramatically, the council said. The growth coincides with the first year of the Car Care Council’s “Be Car Care Aware” consumer-education campaign. In addition to the news of increased usage of Car Care Council materials, the Car Care Council Women’s Board’s announced that its membership more than doubled in 2003, setting a record high number.
Borruso to Chair Motor Vehicle Lighting Council
Joe Borruso, president and CEO of Hella North America in Plymouth, Mich., has been elected chairman of the Motor Vehicle Lighting Council (MVLC). Joe Borruso, president and CEO of Hella North America in Plymouth, Mich., has been elected chairman of the Motor Vehicle Lighting Council (MVLC).
AIA Canada and Matthew.Scott Data Marketing Begin Aftermarket Service Provider Market Research Project
The Automotive Industry Association of Canada (AIA) has selected Matthew.Scott Data Marketing Solutions as the agency of record for a new automotive service provider market research project. In order to better serve the needs of AIA membership, which includes wholesalers, warehouse distributors and suppliers, and their ultimate customer base — installers — AIA is investigating what types of services automotive service providers need to survive and thrive in the industry.
AASA to Host University of the Aftermarket’s Inventory Management Seminar
Gain a better understanding of the fundamentals of inventory control management and the purchasing process by attending the University of the Aftermarket’s Inventory Management Seminar. The event is set for Monday and Tuesday, March 8-9, at MEMA’s Research Triangle Park, N.C., headquarters and will be hosted by the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA).
Automotive Market Research Council Begins 2004 Light Duty Aftermarket Forecasting Project
The Light Duty Aftermarket Committee of the Automotive Market Research Council (AMRC) has begun research for its annual aftermarket product forecasting project. The project gathers market information, both in dollars and units, for 11 different product lines and systems. Each year the light duty aftermarket project establishes demand trends by product line and for the light duty aftermarket overall, including a three-year dollar forecast by product and a review of market issues impacting sales.
Protecting Intellectual Property: OESA Forum for Suppliers
Suppliers struggling with protecting Intellectual Property (IP) can attend the OESA Model Terms and Conditions Workshop on Wednesday, Jan. 28, at The Crowne Plaza Hotel, Romulus, Mich. The OESA Model Terms and Conditions document represents a fair and balanced relationship between buyers and sellers that addresses issues in a fair and equitable manner. The hands-on forum will enable suppliers to discuss the various provisions within the model terms and engage in general dialogue regarding industry terms and conditions. There are four concurrent sessions.
Suppliers Use Show as Bridge to Buyers
Most people think of Detroit’s auto show as a glitzy showcase for the latest cars and trucks from automakers around the globe. But auto parts makers increasingly are using one of the most influential auto shows in the world to promote their wares to the vehicle manufacturers that buy them and the consumers who use them.
Kathleen Schmatz Takes Over as President and CEO of AAIA
Jan. 1 marked the first day of Kathleen Schmatz’ new role as president and CEO of the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA), a trade association representing more than 2,700 companies that manufacture, distribute and sell motor vehicle parts, accessories, tools, equipment, materials, supplies and services. Schmatz, who has served as AAIA’s executive vice president since January 2002, takes over the role from Al Gaspar, who retired at the end of 2003 after 30 years in the aftermarket industry. Gaspar is president emeritus and will serve as a consultant to the association.
SEMA Creates Specialty Equipment Insurance Alliance
SEMA has expanded its member benefits with the creation of the Specialty Equipment Insurance Alliance (SEIA). The Alliance provides business insurance coverage to SEMA member companies through the services of Driver Alliant Insurances Services, one of SEMA’s benefit partners. Headquartered in San Diego, Calif., Driver Alliant has been a SEMA member company since 1993, and has provided services to SEMA members for a decade. An insurance provider with extensive experience working with trade groups such as SEMA, Driver Alliant works with each SEMA member on an individual case basis.