ASA Chief Staff Executive Addresses Consumer, Insurer Issues on Two CBS Programs
The Automotive Service Association (ASA) and its Chief Staff Executive Ron Pyle played a significant role in two CBS programs that addressed the issue of insurer-owned body shops. Pyle was recently interviewed at ASA’s headquarters in Bedford, Texas, and appeared Wednesday, Feb. 11, on the “CBS Evening News” during its “Eye on America” segment. On Thursday, Feb. 12, Pyle provided follow-up coverage on this issue when he was interviewed again by CBS during an appearance on “The Early Show.”
Friday is Deadline to Submit Info for AASA Top Suppliers List
Friday, Feb. 13 is the deadline to submit information for participation in the 2004 Top Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers List, published by Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA), the aftermarket segment of the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA).
CBS News to Address Insurer-Owned Shop Issues This Week, ASA’s Ron Pyle to Be Featured
Two CBS programs are scheduled to address the insurer-owned body shops issue this week. The first program is slated to air today, Wednesday, Feb. 11, on the CBS Evening News during its “Eye on America” segment. Ron Pyle, ASA’s president and chief staff executive, was recently interviewed for the segment at ASA’s headquarters in Bedford, Texas. Pyle will provide follow-up coverage on this issue when he is interviewed again by CBS during an appearance on The Early Show Thursday, Feb. 12.
Deadline Approaching for Participation In Top Aftermarket Suppliers List
The deadline for participation in the 2004 Top Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers List, published by Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA), the aftermarket segment of the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA), has been extended to Friday, Feb. 13. Produced by Babcox Publications, this multi-page, full-color publication will feature insightful information on the largest suppliers to the automotive aftermarket. The form to participate is available online at http://www.aftermarketnews.com/top70.asp. The 2003 AASA Top Aftermarket Suppliers list is also available at the link.
New Import Parts Specialist Certification Tests Available
Aftermarket firms can begin the new year with a competitive edge by encouraging employees and customers to take the newly updated Auto International Association (AIA) Import Parts Specialist and Master Import Parts Specialist certification tests. Better-trained counter personnel and service technicians are vital to ensuring quality repairs and satisfying import nameplate customers. These tests address the pressing need for professionals with knowledge and training to help drive improved sales and provide the best customer service to import nameplate owners.
MEMA Joins Aftermarket eForum as Sponsor
MEMA has joined as a sponsor of the 2004 Aftermarket eForum scheduled for Monday, Aug. 2, through Wednesday, Aug. 4, in Chicago, Ill. Other sponsors of this industry-wide event include the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA), the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), the Automotive Warehouse Distributors Association and the Automotive Industries Association of Canada (AIA), R.L. Polk & Co., Comergent, Evant, Gcommerce, Prescient Technology, DST and WorldPac.
New Ideas Should Help Old Favorite
After getting whacked by big upheavals in the automotive supply world, the wobbly SAE World Congress, Detroit’s biggest and most important trade show, seems to be finding its legs again.
Commemorative Issue of FOCUS Marks MEMA’s 100th Anniversary
MEMA is teaming with Babcox Publications to publish a special commemorative issue of its quarterly magazine, Focus, in June 2004 to mark the association’s 100th anniversary. This special edition will be a collector’s item, produced in “coffee-table” quality. The magazine will commemorate the past 100 years of contributions that suppliers and individuals have made to the original equipment, aftermarket and heavy duty industries, a historic timeline and many historic photos from MEMA and its member companies.
Three More Speakers Added to Manufacturers’ Rep Conference
Three more manufacturers have agreed to participate on the Town Hall Panel taking place at the Manufacturers’ Rep Conference on May 16-17 in Chicago, Ill. Larry Easterlin of Technical Chemical Co., Mike Mayer of Master Lock Co.; and Charlie Walker from Gates Rubber/Stant will discuss pressing issues, along with Bill Lorenz from Siskel Sales Co. and Bob Knight from PSKB Inc.
Delphi Achieves Record $3.2 Billion in Commercial Vehicle Business Bookings in ’03
Delphi achieved a record $3.2 billion in new commercial vehicle business bookings during 2003, according to company officials. Much of the new business is with Delphi’s engine management systems, along with audio, safety, climate control and electrical/electronic distribution systems, according to Maggart. While every major region saw a business increase during the year, a majority of the growth came from Asia-Pacific and Europe.