Warren Distributing Acquires Automotive Inventory Management Systems

Warren Distributing Inc. (WDI) announced on Oct. 15th that it closed escrow on the purchase of Automotive Inventory Management System (AIMS), a warehouse distributor located in Simi Valley, California.

“We are very excited to welcome AIMS into the Warren Distributing family,” said Brian Weiss, president of WDI. “It fills in a critical gap in our Southern California distribution footprint. We are also delighted that Bob Duxler, the former president and CEO of AIM’s will be joining WDI in a leadership role to maintain customer continuity in the process.”

“There are many parallels between AIMS and WDI,” said Duxler. “Both companies have survived and prospered in the aftermarket for over 50 years, both Brian and I started with our fathers and we both served on the board of directors of our respective distribution groups.”

Duxler served as chairman of APA management group from 2011 to 2013. Weiss is currently a director of the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance.

Regarding the acquisition, Duxler said, “Recognizing the importance of growth, I felt it was in my best interest to align myself with a bigger company and the biggest buying group in the industry.” He went on to say “I am looking forward to expanding my career options with Warren and as long as I stay healthy, I will serve in any capacity WDI desires.”

Warren Distributing is headquartered in Santa Fe Springs, California, and operates nine distribution centers in Southern California and Las Vegas and is a member of the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance.

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.”