icarz Names New Executive Vice President
icarz, Inc., a leading provider of software for in-store and distributor systems, has the announced appointment of Sanjay Apte to executive vice president. Apte will be responsible for software development, delivery and support.
Vince Daviero Named Director of Northwood’s University of the Aftermarket
Vincent Daviero has been named director of Northwood’s University of the Aftermarket, effective June 1. Daviero’s most recent position was director of training and education at Tires Plus franchise division of Bridgestone/Firestone-Morgan Tire & Auto Inc., where he produced materials for instructor-led sales training programs. His accomplishments include the conceptualization and development of instructional curricula and on-site instructor-led training programs.
DST Asks: What Topics Would You Like to Read About?
Right now, today, perhaps no other industry is as poised and ready to transform itself as the automotive aftermarket parts and service industry to leverage technology usage to dramatically enhance productivity and boost bottom-line performance. That’s why we took the opportunity, after publishing three months worth of weekly columns, to ask our readers what they would like us to discuss in the next three months. The responses were interesting and thought provoking. Here’s a general recap of what we’ve covered so far and, based upon your feedback, topics for the near future.
Goodyear to Close Lincoln, Neb., Belts and Hose Warehouse
Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. plans to close its warehouse and distribution center in Lincoln, Neb., between July and the end of the year, effectively cutting 160 jobs. According to a company press release, Goodyear will transfer warehouse activities to an undisclosed logistics firm. Goodyear currently operates two large hangars and two smaller buildings in Lincoln, totaling about 290,000 square feet. The company’s new warehouse will be a single, larger building, the release said.
DST Asks: What Factors Do You Look at When Measuring the Cost of Managing Inventory?
Manufacturers and very large distributors have benefited from the productivity- and efficiency-enhancing features of automated warehouses for years. That technology is now available to virtually any size business. What factors do you take into account in measuring the cost of managing your inventory and do you have the data available to make those measurements?
TI Automotive Receives Fuel System Contract
TI Automotive has been awarded a contract to supply the complete fuel system for a new sport-utility vehicle that will be built in the U.S. by a German automaker.
Process Performance Metrics
In the previous two installments, we discussed the process enterprise and how it is created in an organization. Last issue in particular, we identified that one of the key roles of the process owner is to identify important dimensions of process performance and establish appropriate measures. This week we’ll talk about key differences between traditional measures of performance and the new measures needed in a process enterprise.
DST Asks: Have You Explored the Benefits of Formless Printing Technology?
Many firms throughout the supply chain have discovered the benefits and enormous payback of investing in formless printing technology (formless printing eliminates the requirement for costly preprinted forms, such as invoices). Have you explored the potential ROI benefits that formless printing could provide your business within months of implementation? Have you further explored the potential benefits of direct electronic communication of formed documents via e-mail or e-fax?
SKF/Chicago Rawhide Recognized as a John Deere Hall of Fame Supplier
SKF/Chicago Rawhide was recently named a “Partner-level Supplier” to John Deere. The company was inducted into John Deere’s supplier Hall of Fame, part of the John Deere Achieving Excellence Program. Hall of Fame status is achieved after a supplier earns Partner-level recognition for five consecutive years.
Tire Wholesalers Inc. Adds New Location
Tire Wholesalers Inc. (TWI), a Troy, Mich.-based wholesaler, has added a new warehouse in Kalamazoo, Mich., as part of the company’s long-term strategy. The new location will begin serving TWI customers on Monday April 19. Tire Wholesalers Inc. (TWI), a Troy, Mich.-based wholesaler, has added a new warehouse in Kalamazoo, Mich., as part of the company’s long-term strategy. The new location will begin serving TWI customers on Monday April 19.