University Forum to Present S.W.O.T. Analysis Of OE Dealers
It goes without saying that our industry continues to change before our very eyes. Distribution channels and methods continue to change. What worked as recently as a year ago might not be working now. The University of the Aftermarket’s annual University Forum can help you stay competitive, and keep pace with our ever-changing market. The event takes place on Sunday, Oct. 31 prior to the kickoff of AAPEX 2004. This year, University Forum will feature — Bill Hanvey, vice president of marketing for Motormite/Dorman; and Jon Owens, AAP, publisher of Counterman magazine, aftermarketNews.com and AAPEX Today at Babcox Publications. At University Forum, Owens and Hanvey will lead a presentation titled: “S.W.O.T. Analysis Of OE Dealers,” which will address this major supplier to traditional channels of the aftermarket.
Modine Develops Fuel-Cell Parts
Modine Manufacturing Co. is developing fuel-cell components for an underground mining machine being built for the U.S. Department of Energy. The Racine, Wis.-based company will supply a cooling system for the machine that’s expected to run from a fuel-cell and battery-hybrid engine in tight spaces up to 1,000 feet underground.
Lund International Names New Channel Manager
Automotive accessories designer Lund International has added a new executive to its sales and marketing team. Robert Cobb will serve as the company’s new channel manager for the Hardware, Home Center, Mass Merchant Farm and Fleet chains.
Caliber Collision Centers Names Director of Client Services, Texas Operations
Caliber Collision Centers, an Irvine, Calif.-based collision repair business, has named Tresa Parker as its director of client services for the company’s Texas Operations. Caliber Collision Centers operates facilities in Texas and California. This newly created position is designed to help strengthen new and existing relationships with insurance clients and customers in the Texas market, according to the company.
KC HiLites Hires Bob Cook Sales
KC HiLites, a leading brand of auxiliary lighting, has selected Bob Cook Sales for sales representation in the Southern states.
Auto Data Network Acquires CarParts Technologies
Data Network Inc., a provider of software and real-time data services to the automotive industry, has acquired California-based CarParts Technologies, Inc. The deal was completed 17 months ahead of schedule. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Midas Returns To Profitability
Midas has reported net income of $2.6 million — or 16 cents per diluted share — for the second quarter, which ended on July 3. This marks company’s first quarterly net income since the third quarter of 2002. Last year, Midas reported a second quarter loss of $32.7 million — or $2.10 per diluted share — after business transformation charges of $50.8 million — or $1.99 per share — for establishment of an accrual for warranty obligations, asset write-downs and employee severance costs related to the company’s shutdown of its wholesale distribution system.
Federal-Mogul Expands Industry-Leading Abex Heavy Duty Brake Offering with High-Temperature Applications
Three new, highly effective, high-temperature heavy-duty brake linings for trucks and trailers have been introduced by Abex, the commercial-vehicle industry’s premier brand of linings, lined shoes, stop box kits and severe duty disc pads. Abex brake products are manufactured and marketed by Federal-Mogul Corporation.
Standards Testing Labs Names New Account Manager
Standards Testing Laboratories (STL), the world’s largest independent testing facility for tires, wheels and related automotive components, recently named Roger Zingg account manager, test machinery sales. In this position, Zingg will be responsible for managing commercial test machinery sales, which includes client development, estimates, needs assessment surveys and customer service. Zingg will also handle day-to-day client management activities.
Standards Testing Labs Names New Account Manager
Standards Testing Laboratories (STL), the world’s largest independent testing facility for tires, wheels and related automotive components, recently named Roger Zingg account manager, test machinery sales. In this position, Zingg will be responsible for managing commercial test machinery sales, which includes client development, estimates, needs assessment surveys and customer service. Zingg will also handle day-to-day client management activities.