iATN Heads to Southern Cal for 2004 Convention
The International Automotive Technicians’ Network (iATN) will hold its 2004 convention Sept. 24-26, at the Coast Anaheim Hotel, in Anaheim, Calif. Traditionally a casual event, the convention will offer several technical and business management sessions, in addition to networking opportunities. The convention will also feature “TechNight Live: iATN West Coast Diagnostic Challenge.” There will also be a special luncheon address, as well as a dinner and reception for attendees.
TRW Automotive and FAWER Sign Commercial Steering Joint Venture Agreement
TRW Automotive J.V. LLC and FAWER Automotive Components Co. Ltd. have formed a new joint venture called TRW FAWER Commercial Vehicle Steering (Changchun) Co., LTD. The new company will manufacture and sell steering gears for the commercial vehicle market.
Sell-Out Inventory Management Seminar Shows Industry’s Interest in Topic
The University of the Aftermarket’s Inventory Management Seminar, held March 8-9, drew a sell-out crowd, revealing the topic’s high interest to the industry. The event was hosted by the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA), the aftermarket segment association of the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA). The seminar gave participants a better understanding of the fundamentals of inventory control management and the purchasing process. Major areas of focus were distribution center inventory management, store inventory management and supply chain inventory management.
Judge Dismisses Class Action Move Against Steeltex Tires
A California judge today dismissed a motion seeking national class action status for an on-going lawsuit alleging defects in Bridgestone/Firestone North American Tire’s entire Firestone Steeltex line. The ruling, which came after months of delays, is expected to be appealed by attorney Joseph Lisoni, who has made it a personal crusade to force the court-ordered recall of all Steeltex tires.
Circuit City to Sell StreetGlow Products
StreetGlow, Inc., which produces performance lighting products for the aftermarket, has announced that its Auto-Neon brand of performance lighting products will now be distributed through the national Circuit City retail electronics chain. Circuit City will offer more than one-third of StreetGlow branded products with the remainder of the line available through special order. StreetGlow products can also now be professionally installed at Circuit City.
Cooper Tire Re-Launches Avon Brand; Unveils Three New Lines
Cooper Tire & Rubber Co. has re-launched its historic Avon tire brand and also announced an exclusive distribution deal with The Tire Rack and the unveiling of three new lines. The announcement was made at a meeting attended by top Cooper officials and The Tire Rack executives at The Tire Rack’s headquarters in South Bend, Ind.
Midas Completes Debt Refinancing
Midas has entered into a three-year, $115 million credit facility to refinance its existing debt. The new facility consists of a $55 million revolving loan and a $60 million term loan from a group of lenders led by Bank One, NA.
Bosch Named Service Parts Grand Vendor of the Year by Advance Auto Parts
Advance Auto Parts has named Robert Bosch Corp. recipient of the 2003 Service Parts Grand Vendor of the Year Award. Advance presents this award to the vendor with the top overall performance in the areas of service level, product and program quality, merchandising/promotions, customer service and account management.
MACS, Four Seasons Sponsor Car Care Council Women’s Board Scholarships
The Car Care Council Women’s Board has announced that the Mobile Air Conditioning Society Worldwide (MACS) and Four Seasons, Inc., a division of Standard Motor Products, Inc., have each agreed to sponsor a $500 scholarship for a female student interested in entering the automotive aftermarket.
Jasper Engines and Transmissions Names Clevite Engine Parts a Preferred Supplier
For the eighth consecutive year, Dana Corp.’s Clevite Engine Parts has been named a “Preferred Partner” by Jasper Engines & Transmissions. The award was presented during the Jasper Engines & Transmissions Annual Preferred Partners Banquet on March 9. Out of more than 2,000 Jasper vendors, Clevite was one of only seven to earn the Preferred Partner Award.