Aftermarket Legislative Advocate Passes Away
A long-time friend of the aftermarket, Jack Heyler, died on Dec. 26, 2003 after a six-year battle with emphysema. Heyler was a tireless worker in support of the independent aftermarket, leading industry efforts to defeat legislation that would have extended state mandated emissions warranties to 10 years/100,000 miles; and to obtain passage of SB 1146, which mandated that car companies make emissions-related service information and diagnostic tools available to the independent service industry. He was active in the Automotive Service Counsels of California and the Society for Automotive Engineers, helping found the Service Technicians Society a SAE affiliate group.
Dana and GETRAG Sign Joint-Venture Agreement with Volvo
A recently formed joint venture company between Dana and GETRAG has signed an agreement with Volvo Car Corp. (VCC) to purchase a 60-percent interest in VCC’s operations in Koping, Sweden. The resulting joint venture with VCC will be known as GETRAG All Wheel Drive AB, a Dana/GETRAG Co. The company will produce all-wheel-drive (AWD) and chassis systems and components for passenger cars and sport-utility vehicles.
Former Urda Exec Forms New Aftermarket PR Agency
Kristen Simpson, former executive at Akron, Ohio-based PR agency Urda Co. (now Urda-Roberts), has launched Simpson Communications LLC. The new public relations agency, based in Shaker Heights, Ohio, will specialize in business-to-business communications for the automotive aftermarket. Simpson Communications will offer a full range of public relations services, including new product launches, press events, media relations, copywriting, strategic planning, event management and internal communications.
Motor Industry Chiefs See More Mergers and Acquisitions Ahead, Especially in Asia
Automotive executives are losing their taste for strategic alliances and expect to see an increase in mergers and acquisitions in the industry over the next five years, particularly in Asia, according to the results of the fifth annual survey of the automotive industry by consultancy KPMG LLP. Consolidation was seen as occurring globally, but respondents in particular focused on Asia, where 73 percent said they expect an increase. Sixty percent pointed to an increase in Europe, while 50 percent of those polled saw stepped up M&A activity in North America.
Bridgestone Americas’ Lampe To Retire
John Lampe, chairman, CEO and president of Bridgestone Americas Holding, who led the company’s remarkable recovery after devastating tire recalls in late 2000 and early 2001, announced today that he is retiring effective Mar. 31. He will be succeeded as chairman and CEO of BAH by Mark Emkes, currently chairman, CEO and president of Bridgestone/Firestone North American Tire (BFNAT). Lampe announced his retirement this afternoon during a company-wide live Web cast and conference call. In addition, Lampe and Emkes granted Tire Review an exclusive in-depth interview about the retirement and the company’s future plans earlier this morning.
Hawk Corp. Announces Restructuring Plan
Hawk Corp. has initiated a new plan to focus on its two primary business segments — friction products and precision components, in an effort to improve the company’s global competitive cost position and support long-term growth initiatives in these segments. As part of the repositioning plan the company intends to achieve cost savings at its friction products segment by moving operations at its Brook Park, Ohio, location to a new U.S. production facility. Hawk also said it plans to sell its motor segment and engage the services of an investment banker to advise the company as it reviews strategic alternatives relating to Hawk’s Tex Racing business unit.
Brake Parts Inc. Names VP of Sales for Branded Products
Brake Parts Inc. has promoted Mike Fiorito to the position of vice president of sales – branded products. As part of its continuing focus on customer relationship management, the company is combining the leadership of its branded sales groups, according to Charlie Westmoreland, senior vice president of sales.
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).
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.
Herman Trend Alert: What Some Recruiters Look For
As futurists, we are often asked by concerned parents what advice they should give to their children. What courses to take? Where will the jobs be in the future? Because of the speed of evolution of occupations and technology, we recommend that young people study liberal arts to gain a good grounding in a wide range of areas. Students learn how to research and explore, solve problems and make decisions, challenge and collaborate—vital skills in today’s workplace. We’ve seen another trend emerging recently.