Snap-on Names Tom Ward to Newly Created Post
Snap-on Tools has appointed Tom Ward to the new position of president, sales and franchising for the company. Ward will continue as vice president, Snap-on Inc. In his new role, Ward will help lead the execution of the company’s strategies to further enhance the franchise business and increase Snap-on Tools’ support of its franchisees. He will work closely with the field sales organization to ensure the success of the company’s franchisees.
Thomson Delmar Learning Launches ChiltonPRO Electronic Automotive Repair Information System
Thomson Delmar Learning has launched a new electronic automotive repair information system for the professional market. The new tool, called ChiltonPRO, covers more than 20 years of domestic and import vehicles in an online or DVD format. ChiltonPRO also offers technicians access to all of Chilton’s auto repair information for the first time.
Snap-on Announces 2006 First-quarter Results
Snap-on’s net earnings for the first quarter of 2006 increased 23.5 percent to $22.1 million from $17.9 million a year ago. Diluted earnings per share were 37 cents this year compared with 31 cents a year ago. Operating earnings increased 14.9 percent to $39.4 million from $34.3 million in the prior year. The operating margin on total revenues improved to 6.5 percent from 5.6 percent a year ago. Net sales were $593.5 million in the first quarter of 2006 compared to $598.7 million in the prior year. Sales increased by $9.8 million, or 1.6 percent, due to higher volume and pricing, which was more than offset by $15 million of currency translation.
Eaton Reports First Quarter Net Income Per Share up 14 Percent
Eaton Corp. announced net income per share of $1.36 for the first quarter of 2006, an increase of 14 percent over net income per share of $1.19 in the first quarter of 2005. Sales in the quarter were a record $3.01 billion, 14 percent above the same period in 2005. Net income was $208 million compared to $187 million in the first quarter of 2005.
Identifix’s Direct-Hit System Now Used in More Than 5,000 Automotive Repair Shops
Identifix, a provider of online and hotline diagnostic and repair information, announced that more than 5,000 automotive repair shops across the country are now using the company’s Direct-Hit online system diagnose and repair vehicles. Direct-Hit is a subscription-based online diagnostic database offering real-world, proven diagnostic and repair information. It was developed from more than 2.5 million Identifix repair hotline calls to the company’s 37 ASE master certified technicians. Direct-Hit is constantly updated with the addition of more than 5,000 vehicle problems and fixes on a monthly basis.
Eaton Creates New Vehicle Solutions Business Unit
Eaton Corp. has created has realigned its VORAD and MD Tools Mobile Diagnostics product lines under the new Vehicle Solutions Business Unit (VSBU). With this move, the company said it hopes to transform its business model from a component-based supplier to a systems-based solutions provider. Future VSBU offerings will include integrated diagnostics, safety and other operational management solutions for fleets. A key element of Eaton’s Vehicle Solutions vision is a new product development and sales agreement with @Road, Inc., a Fremont, CA-based provider of on-demand Mobile Resource Management solutions.
USA TODAY Reports on Tech Shortage
The following article, which appears in the Thursday, Feb. 16 edition of USA TODAY, is one of many recent media reports reinforcing to the general public the idea that there is a dire shortage of technicians in the industry today. This article, and others, recognizes the work of AYES and other OE-supported technician recruitment initiatives while the aftermarket is rarely represented in these types of initiatives.
CARQUEST Brakes Announces Back To School Promotion Winners
CARQUEST Brakes has announced its “Back To School” promotion winners. Ten winners traveled to McHenry, IL, in October to the CARQUEST Brakes Training Facility for a week-long session on brake diagnostics and advanced ABS. Of the winners, Peter Gelinas of Seattle, WA, won an additional $500 CARQUEST Tools & Equipment Gift Certificate for having the highest score on a final exam, given at the conclusion of the weeklong training.
Dave Bellaver Joins ATK As Post Sales Support Services Manager
Dave Bellaver has been named post sales support services manager for ATK North America. In this position, Bellaver will be responsible for ATK’s warranty departments in both Santa Ana and Dallas, TX. These responsibilities include customer care, support service, inspection, reception and future development plans in the department.
ATK Promotes Dave Bellaver to Post-Sales Support Services Manager
Dave Bellaver has accepted the position of post-sales support services manager for ATK North America. In this position, Bellaver will be responsible for the warranty departments in both Santa Ana, CA and Dallas. These responsibilities include customer care, support service, inspection, reception and future development plans in the department.