China Unveils Draft Trade Rules for Auto Sector
The Ministry of Commerce has released draft regulations covering trade in autos and auto parts as part of China’s drive to meet its market-opening commitments made to the World Trade Organization. The rules cover imports and domestic autos, second-hand vehicle sales, auto component sales and vehicle rentals.
Dan Griffin to Retire from MFSG on Dec. 31; Dan Pike Promoted to General Manager
The Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA) announced today that Dan Griffin, executive vice president of MEMA Financial Services Group (MFSG), will retire effective Dec. 31. Dan Pike has been promoted to general manager of MFSG and will assume day-to-day responsibilities for MFSG on Jan. 1, 2005.
Dana AAG Announces Organizational Changes
While still waiting to complete its move to new ownership by Cypress Group, Dana Corp.’s Automotive Aftermarket Group (AAG) has announced several organizational changes. The changes affect both the under hood and under vehicle portions of the business. According to Terry McCormack, president of the group, the changes will “further streamline and strengthen our ability to lead the aftermarket in responsiveness, service and product offering.”
Exide Technologies CEO to Resign, Company Names New CFO
Craig Muhlhauser, president and CEO of Exide Technologies, has announced he will leave the company on or before April 1, 2005. Mulhauser did not provide a reason for his resignation, other than to say that with the company’s successful emergence from Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings and with a new board in place it was time for him to pursue new opportunities.
Apogee Enterprises Announces Board of Director Changes
Apogee Enterprises, which develops value-added glass products and services for the automotive, architectural and large-scale optical industries, has announced election of a new director and resignation of an existing director. Apogee’s board of directors has nine members. Mark Burke has been elected to the Apogee board of directors and will serve on its finance committee. Robert Edwards, executive vice president and CFO of Safeway Inc., has resigned from the Apogee board of directors.
Effingham Automotive Warehouse Celebrates 75 Years
Effingham Automotive Warehouse in Effingham, Ill., recently celebrated 75 years in business. This Parts Plus WD celebrated the milestone with a two-day booth show attended by more than 3,000 people.
FleetPride Announces Two Executive Promotions
FleetPride, Inc., one of the nation’s largest aftermarket distributors of heavy-duty truck parts, has promoted Timothy Gadus to the position of vice president and chief accounting officer. Gadus joined FleetPride in 1998, holding the positions of director of finance and director of corporate development before serving in his current position as the corporate controller and assistant corporate secretary.
AASA Names New Member Services Manager
Theresa Spera has joined the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA) as its new member services manager. Spera comes to AASA from The Exceleration Group in Cary, N.C., a business consulting and market analysis organization, where she served as manager of marketing and client services.
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.
GM’s Hogan Defects to Magna
Mark Hogan, the head of advanced vehicle development at General Motors Corp., is leaving at the end of the month to become president of Canadian auto parts giant Magna International Inc., according to people familiar with the matter.