Champion Parts Reports Fourth Quarter and Higher Year-End Profits
Champion Parts, Inc., remanufacturer of automotive parts, reported continued profitability for the fourth quarter, and higher profits for the year, which ended Dec. 31, 2003. Champion Parts, Inc., remanufacturer of automotive parts, reported continued profitability for the fourth quarter, and higher profits for the year, which ended Dec. 31, 2003.
American Tire Distributors Announces 2003 Results
American Tire Distributors has reported its operating results for the fiscal year, which ended Dec. 27, 2003. Consolidated net sales from continuing operations for fiscal 2003 improved 4.9 percent or $52.1 million to $1,112.5 million versus $1,060.4 million in fiscal 2002. The company’s fiscal 2003 pre-tax income was $27.2 million compared to $62.7 million for fiscal 2002. Excluding the fiscal 2002 gain on repurchase of Series D Senior Notes, fiscal 2003 pre-tax income increased $14.2 million from fiscal 2002.
AWDA Names Larry Northup to Direct Segment at AAIA
The Automotive Warehouse Distributors Association (AWDA) has appointed Larry Northup to direct its day-to-day operations, as a segment of the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA). AWDA joined forces with AAIA in January 2004. Northup, who currently serves as senior director of segment management at AAIA, immediately assumes the role of AWDA liaison. Working closely with the AWDA volunteer leadership and AAIA’s professional staff, he will be responsible for coordinating the segment’s membership marketing and recruitment activities, meetings and conferences, including the annual one-on-one meetings, government relations and communications.
ArvinMeritor Receives Vendor of the Year Award from NAPA Canada
ArvinMeritor’s Light Vehicle Aftermarket (LVA) group has received the 2003 Vendor of the Year 2003 from NAPA Canada. NAPA Canada is part of Genuine Parts Company, a distributor of automotive replacement parts in Canada, the U.S. and Mexico.
Executive Interview with Joe Puishys, President of Honeywell Friction Materials
Our latest edition of “Executive Interview” features Joe Puishys, president of Honeywell Friction Materials. A 25-year veteran of the company’s automotive businesses, Joe Puishys has served as president of Honeywell Friction Materials since early 2002. His responsibilities include overseeing the most recent corporate effort to align closely with Honeywell’s business initiatives and operating plan. He has already played a major role in the cost cutting and six sigma programs occurring throughout the organization. Join us as Puishys gives us an update on Honeywell Friction Materials, including plans to expand manufacturing operations and launch new products.
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.
ANSA Automotive Parts Distributors Announces New Line of Exhaust Systems
ANSA Automotive Parts Distributors has announced the availability of the new Silverline direct-fit performance exhaust systems for Acura RSX, Chevrolet Cavalier, Honda Civic and Prelude, Hyundai Tiburon, Mazda Miata, Pontiac Sunfire, Subaru WRX and Toyota Celica.
ArvinMeritor Unveils New Educational Shock and Strut Web Site
ArvinMeritor’s Light Vehicle Aftermarket (LVA) group has unveiled a new informational Web site designed to educate consumers on shock and strut care. The site — www.checkyourshocks.com — features information and simple graphics to help the consumer easily learn and understand the aspects of shock and strut care.
Lean Manufacturers Recognized for Excellence
Ten automotive suppliers are among the recipients of the 2004 Shingo Prize for Excellence in Manufacturing. Dubbed the “Nobel prize of Manufacturing” by Business Week magazine, the Shingo Prize recognizes manufacturers who follow Toyota’s LEAN manufacturing principles. Administered by the College of Business, Utah State University, nine state-level awards and a public-sector category, primarily for Military Depots doing re-manufacturing, have been implemented in recent months.
WIX Filters to Sponsor Local Race Teams
WIX Filters wants to help build excitement for motorsports beyond the bright lights of Daytona and Bristol and plans to do so through product sponsorships for local race teams.