Pickups Plus Completes Acquisition of Automotive International’s Auto Preservation Division
Pickups Plus, a retailer and national franchiser in the $38 billion truck and SUV aftermarket accessory industry, has acquired the Auto Preservation Division of Automotive International Inc. AI is a privately owned company based in Cincinnati, Ohio that supplies car care and environmental protection products.
MEMA Names New Executive Director of Association Management Division
Brent Hazelett has been promoted to executive director of Management Services Group (MSG), the association management division of MEMA. He has served as the executive director of the Filter Manufacturers Council (FMC) since May 1998, and will continue to serve in that capacity as well.
ExxonMobil Brings Two New Motor Oil Formulas to Market
ExxonMobil has unveiled a new synthetic motor oil for light trucks and SUVs. The new Mobil 1 Truck & SUV Formula, designed for use in both gasoline and diesel engines, protects truck and SUV engines in high temperature conditions, according to the company. The company also recently introduced its new Mobil 1 Racing 0W-30 formula, designed to give high-performance automotive enthusiasts the same boost and protection as professional race car drivers.
Herman Trend Alert: Overtime to Increase
Under ideal conditions, employers have just the right number of employees to perform the work that needs to be done. Overtime payroll costs are minimal, incurred only in those rare instances when there is some unusual circumstance or a critical employee is ill or on vacation. Over the past few years, companies have reduced employment to minimum staffing levels. People have been asked to work extra hours from time to time on an “as-needed” basis. This strategy has been a preferred alternative to hiring more people and increasing fixed payroll costs.
TIA Consolidates, Maryland Office Becomes New HQ
The Tire Industry Association (TIA) will consolidate all of its offices in Bowie, Md., as of Feb. 1. TIA’s operations in Kentucky will be relocated and the building will be put up for sale. TIA said this decision comes after months of in-depth analysis into the cost-effectiveness of operating two offices in different states. Two members of the Louisville staff, Senior Vice President of Education and Technical Services Kevin Rohlwing and Director of Training Chris Marnett, will be moving to the Maryland office.