TIA and GE Extend 20-Year Credit Partnership
The Tire Industry Association (TIA) and GE Retail Sales Finance have extended their 20-year private label credit partnership that enables TIA members to offer extended financing to their customers through the CarCareONE credit card network. The program was launched in 1984. The CarCareONE program provides extended financing terms from 30 days to one year, emergency roadside assistance for one year and electronic processing that enables dealers to obtain rapid credit decisions while the customer waits in the store.
DCX Accused of Intimidation
The controversy over DaimlerChrysler AG’s lending policies in Chicago, where the company is under a boycott and sales of the automaker’s vehicles continue to erode, appears to have escalated. Two longtime Chicago automobile dealers accuse DaimlerChrysler of harassing them because they plan to testify in a federal lawsuit on behalf of a former dealer, who accuses the automaker of racist lending policies. They say the company has made unreasonable requests for documents through subpoenas.
iATN to Hold Technical Training Sessions at Annual Convention
The International Automotive Technicians’ Network (iATN) 2004 Convention will feature three technical sessions, two management classes, an interactive TechNight Live: West Coast Diagnostic Challenge, a special luncheon presentation on OBD-II Technology and a keynote dinner presentation on “The State of the Industry.” The convention will take place Sept. 24-26, at the Coast Anaheim Hotel, in Anaheim, Calif.
Second Day of Presentations at 2004 GAAS Predict Strong Growth
The second and final day of the 2004 Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium (GAAS) ended on a strong note with some impressive new numbers and predictions for the future success of the industry. For the first time in many years, financial analysts are beginning to sit up and take notice of the aftermarket.
Tom O’Brien Joins ARI
Tom O’Brien, former vice president of marketing at Dana Brake and Chassis, has joined ARI as vice president sales, special markets. In this new position, O’Brien will be responsible for national accounts, co-manufacturers, OE service and export sales for all ARI divisions.
New AAIA Chairman Outlines Vision for the Aftermarket in New Century
David Caracci, newly elected chairman of the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association’s (AAIA) Board of Directors, has outlined his vision for the future of the aftermarket. In a statement issued late last week, Caracci said he has a “positive vision for the aftermarket as we work together to meet the challenges and potential of today and tomorrow.” He is calling for industry-wide involvement and participation to assure a “robust, healthy future for our industry.”
Keith Kreft Awarded ETI Founder’s Award
Keith Kreft of Cupertino, Calif., was presented the Equipment and Tool Institute (ETI) Founder’s Award at the association’s recent board meeting. The Founder’s Award honors individuals who have demonstrated outstanding commitment and support of the Institute. It is ETI’s highest honor. Kreft is the 14th recipient of the award since it was established in 1985.
Retooling a Pool of Talent: Michigan Reaches Out from Brawn to Brains
Diego Rivera’s famous mural of Detroit’s industry depicts big, muscular men pulling on steel and manipulating heavy machines as they mold new cars. But if Rivera were here today, how would he see the city? Probably not muscling steel girders around. He’d see MBAs and computer geeks creating the modern automotive world in front of their computers.
Executive Interview with Kathleen Schmatz, President and CEO of AAIA
Our latest edition of “Executive Interview” features Kathleen Schmatz, President and CEO of the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA). Schmatz became president and CEO of AAIA on Jan. 1, 2004. She had served as executive vice president of the association since January 2002. In addition to filling us in on her first few months at her new post, Schmatz shared with aftermarketNews.com updates on AAIA’s merger with AWDA, Right to Repair legislation and the Be Car Care Award Campaign.
Prominent ASA Leader Passes Away
Allen Richey, former CEO of the Automotive Service Association (ASA), passed away early Wednesday morning, April 21. He began his association career as editor of the 11-member Independent Garagemen’s Association (IGA) of Texas’ monthly magazine. As his responsibilities with IGA grew, he worked to provide training and education to association members. His vision for offering training and education to the automotive repair and service industry was realized in the formation of the Automotive Management Institute (AMI). As a result of his lifelong devotion and commitment to the industry, Richey was instrumental in the successful merger of two renowned automotive associations, the Automotive Service Council and the Independent Automotive Service Association, to form what is now ASA.