The Network Holds Virtual Fall Vendor Meeting

The Automotive Distribution Network held its first virtual vendor meeting on Oct. 20with more than 330 supplier representatives from 140 companies in attendance. Discussions encompassed current market conditions, marketing and product initiatives, inventory planning and deployment, capitalizing on national accounts and IT solutions. A round table discussion featuring David Prater, Tom Frey and Steve Tucker followed the Network staff presentations. The round table portion of the event went on for almost an additional 45 minutes as questions flooded in from the 330 participants.

“We were very pleased to be able to present to such a wide and varied audience,” said David Prater, president of the Network. “Using this virtual format allowed us to communicate directly with our supplier partners including people we normally do not get to include in our face-to-face meetings. To be effective, it is important that our suppliers understand all of the tools that are available to them.”

“We were excited that supplier participants came from IT, marketing and supply chain departments adding a new element to the meeting,” said Steve Tucker, vice president. “Now more than ever this business environment favors those who can act rather than react. Getting everyone together allows us all to plan more efficiently and work to take advantage of new opportunities quickly.”

Federated Auto Parts Distributors announced it is entering into a collaboration with the Association of Independent Oil Distributors (AIOD) – one it said will focus on mutual benefits for the respective members.

“Federated is constantly looking at ways to improve value for all constituents and this agreement provides that,” said Sue Godschalk, president of Federated. “This collaboration provides added volume and opportunities for our suppliers, new partners for our members, and added supply points and products for shop customers. We have enjoyed working closely with several AIOD members in the past and this agreement will expand and create further opportunities for both Federated and AIOD.”