New Hampshire Store Manager Named 2005 Counterman Magazine Counterperson of the Year

By Amy Antenora, managing editor

AKRON, OH — When New England customers say that Sanel Auto Parts is their “first call” for auto parts, what they really mean is they rely on veteran store manager Dennis Call to solve their automotive parts needs.

Because of Call’s uncommon dedication to his industry and customers, Counterman magazine yesterday named the Sanel Auto Parts store manager the 2005 Counterman magazine Counterperson of the Year. This prestigious national award was created in 1986 to recognize those who excel in the demanding parts distribution profession.

“I am truly humbled by this award,” said Call from his store in Pittsfield, NH. Call’s store is owned by Automotive Supply Associates, a Parts Plus/Automotive Distribution Network member warehouse based in Concord, NH.

Call’s long automotive career began in 1969, including a stint as an auto mechanic. Call says his technical knowledge is part of his store’s success.

“I possess many years of mechanical knowledge,” said Call. “Because of that, my customers tend to look to me for assistance in resolving their automotive technical issues, whether it’s locating that hard-to-find part or just giving them solutions.”

Call began selling auto parts in 1972 and joined the Pittsfield store in 1975, where he was named store manager just one year later.

“His ability to communicate and build customer loyalties is outstanding,” said George Segal, president of Sanel Auto Parts.

“We were particularly impressed with the number of customer testimonials and letters we received about Dennis,” said Counterman Editor Brian Cruickshank, who will present the award to Call during Automotive Aftermarket Industry Week, held Nov. 1-5 in Las Vegas. “We were inundated with letters of support from customers and colleagues, each of whom lauded Call’s knowledge, customer service, honesty and integrity. Sanel Auto Parts, Automotive Distribution Network and the entire industry are lucky to have professionals like Dennis on the counter.”

Somehow, Call, who is ASE Certified, also finds time to devote to his community. He spent 20 years volunteering with the Chichester (NH) Fire-Rescue Department, where he served in every rank, including fire chief, before his retirement in 2000. The Town of Chichester also benefited from Call’s leadership when he served two terms on the town’s Board of Selectmen, the Chichester Zoning Board and various other civic committees.

The Counterperson of the Year honor includes an all-expenses paid trip to Las Vegas to attend Automotive Aftermarket Industry Week (AAIW), the world’s largest trade-only automotive show. Cruickshank will present Call with the award at an Automotive Warehouse Distributors Association luncheon held during AAIW on Oct. 31.

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