The Greensheet Issue #25-21 (Full)

Jul 12, 2021

Quick Hits …
(A few short items to get us started this week)

Jefferies LLC predicts that May vehicle miles traveled (VMT) was 269.70 billion miles (up 27% year over year), with an upper limit of 281.30 billion miles and a lower limit of 258.10 billion miles. Its model predicts that June VMT was 274.60 billion miles (up 12% year over year), with an upper limit of 286.90 billion miles and a lower limit of 262.10 billion miles.

Liqui Moly CEO Ernst Prost has announced plans to step down after more than 30 years with the company, effective Feb. 22, 2022. Click here to read Prost’s letter announcing his pending departure.

NAPA Canada will host the first nationwide edition of its virtual XPO Sale Aug. 30 to Oct. 8. The event will include more than a hundred virtual booths, special prices and rewards, as well as new products, equipment and tools. For more information, visit napaxposale.com.

Parts Authority has acquired Coney Island Auto Parts, which operates out of seven locations in New York and New Jersey.

 

Biden Executive Order Tackles Right to Repair; Associations Urge FTC Action

On July 9, President Biden issued a wide-ranging executive order that, among other things, addressed various Right to Repair issues. Biden’s order encourages the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to limit manufacturers from placing unfair, anticompetitive restrictions on third-party repair or self-repair of items, “such as the restrictions imposed by powerful manufacturers that prevent farmers from repairing their own equipment.”

The order also encourages the FTC to establish rules barring cell phone manufacturers and others blocking out independent repair shops, noting that tech and other companies impose restrictions on self- and third-party repairs, such as by restricting the distribution of parts, diagnostics and repair tools.

MEMA and AASA applauded Biden for issuing the executive order, which they state includes vehicle manufacturing.

“We look forward to working with the FTC to protect safe, affordable and equitable motor vehicle repair for American consumers and applaud the president for taking action,” commented AASA President Paul McCarthy. “Consumer choice and competitive markets are essential to the success of the automotive aftermarket, and today’s executive order make it a federal priority.”

“We applaud the president for taking this step, which will help ensure safe and affordable transportation for consumers over the life of a vehicle,” stated MEMA CEO Bill Long. “The industry must align behind repairabilty, as it supports brand and resale values, economic equity, and customer satisfaction over the lifetime of a U.S vehicle fleet that averages over 12 years old. We pledge to work closely with the administration, Congress and all industry stakeholders to address these issues.”

Eric Sills, AASA vice chairman and CEO of Standard Motor Products, said the Biden administration made a strong statement that consumer access to quality vehicle repair must be protected, noting that without these rules, U.S. consumers would have limited repair options.

The CAR Coalition — a group of independent auto parts, management and repair companies, associations and insurers committed to preserving consumer choice and affordable vehicle repair — lauded Biden’s executive order, which the coalition contends will enhance competitiveness in the U.S. economy and enhance consumers’ ability to choose where and how they repair their vehicles.

“The CAR Coalition applauds the Biden administration for putting consumers first in the vehicle repair process,” Justin Rzepka, executive director, said in a press release issued July 9. “This executive order will help expand choices for consumers and establish a more level playing field in the post-collision vehicle repair market. Competition breeds better service and more options.

“We look forward to working with the Biden administration on the implementation of this order. We also continue to urge Congress to address this important issue through legislation.”

The Auto Care Association on July 9 issued a statement expressing gratitude for the administration’s emphasis on consumers having access to a competitive repair market and noting that the association will be meeting with the FTC to urge the commission to engage in multi-sector rulemaking to address Right to Repair issues across all industries, as well as those that might be more sector specific to the aftermarket.

“It is heartening to see that the Right to Repair efforts that Auto Care Association has been pressing for over the last two decades are now gaining traction in the federal government,” said Bill Hanvey, president and CEO. “We urge the administration and the FTC to take strong actions in order to reduce anti-competitive barriers to repair for our industry so that we can continue to service our customer’s vehicles.”

Additionally, the Auto Care Association, Automotive Oil Change Association, Service Station Dealers of America and Allied Trades, SEMA CAR Coalition, Automotive Recyclers Association and Tire Industry Association on June 30 sent a letter to the new chair of the FTC expressing appreciation to the FTC for findings and conclusions in the report Nixing the Fix: An FTC Report to Congress on Repair Restrictions. The report highlights the barriers that face consumers when they seek independent repairs, including from independent motor vehicle service facilities.

The aftermarket trade groups also included recommendations for the commission, including …
• Obtain legislation that would provide vehicle owners with access to data transmitted by their vehicle as well as the ability to have that data made available to the independent repair shops where they have their vehicle repaired.
• Improve consumer education and compliance assurance with the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act (MMWA).
• Advocate for new legal authority that would expand the scope of MMWA to include commercial vehicles.
• Develop better enforcement tools to better ensure compliance with MMWA.
• Eliminate manufacturer marketing practices that discourage the use of non-OE parts or services.

 

 

Bob Hirsch Retires

The Gold Eagle Company has announced the retirement of Bob Hirsch, who joined the privately held, family-owned business in 1957 alongside his father and company founder Armin Hirsch. Bob Hirsch has served as the chairman and, most recently, as senior vice president and director.

Bob Hirsch will continue to serve on the company’s board of directors and his brother, Rich, will remain as chairman.

“Bob Hirsch is known throughout the automotive aftermarket and is considered a beloved icon for our industry,” said Gold Eagle Co-CEO Marc Blackman. “Bob has touched and mentored so many people in our industry. Our company and the aftermarket industry simply would not be the same without Bob Hirsch.”

For the past 10 years, Bob Hirsch has chaired the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF), which provides financial support for industry employees and families in need, and has been active in fundraising for the American Cancer Society.

Founded in 1932, Gold Eagle is a full-service, private-label manufacturer with expertise in the lubricant, fuel additive and surface protection verticals. Gold Eagle takes established product lines and expands legacy brands into new verticals. Its product lineup includes Sta-Bil, 303 Products, TriNova and Heet Gas-Line Antifreeze.

 

Clarios International Prepares To Go Public

Milwaukee-based Clarios International, the former Johnson Controls Power Solutions Group, filed a registration statement July 2 with the SEC for an initial public offering (IPO) of its common stock on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the symbol “BTRY.” The company also plans to make a public offering of shares of “Series A” mandatory convertible preferred stock.

The pricing and timing of the offerings had not been established prior to the publication of this story.

After completion of the offering, entities affiliated with Brookfield Asset Management and Caisse de depot et placement du Quebec will continue to own a majority of the voting power of shares eligible to vote in the election of Clarios’ directors. As a result, Clarios will be a “controlled company” as defined the NYSE.

Clarios, one of the world’s largest suppliers of batteries, designs and manufactures advanced, low-voltage batteries for global mobility and industrial applications. Its batteries power cars, commercial vehicles, motorcycles, marine vehicles, powersports vehicles and industrial products.

The company claims in its filing with the SEC to have the No. 1 market position in the Americas as well as Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) in terms of low-voltage mobility batteries in addition to the No. 3 market position in Asia.

The majority of demand for Clarios’ products comes from the aftermarket. In fact, for the 12 months ended Sept. 30, 2020, approximately 80% of the company’s unit volume — and an even larger share of its gross profit — was generated via the aftermarket.

The company sells its products through a number of recognized global and regional brands, such as VARTA, LTH, Heliar, OPTIMA, Delkor and MAC. Clarios also provides private-label brands to its aftermarket customers, including DieHard, Interstate, Duralast, Bosch and EverStart.

The company claims longstanding relationships with such industry customers as Interstate, AutoZone, Bosch, Advance Auto Parts, Walmart and LKQ.

 

Dorman To Acquire Dayton Parts

Dorman Products has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Dayton Parts in a deal valued at $338 million. According to Dorman, Dayton generated $168 million in net sales for the 12 months ended December 2020. Dorman reported more than $1.09 billion in net sales in fiscal 2020, an increase of roughly 10% compared to the year prior that was primarily organic.

The transaction, which is subject to customary closing conditions, including antitrust clearance, is expected to close in the second half of 2021.

Dayton offers a complete line of undercarriage and other related products for commercial vehicles in the United States and Canada.

“The combined company will have best-in-class, heavy-duty supplier capabilities with strengthened fleet and distributor relationships across the United States and Canada,” Dorman stated in an announcement dated June 27. “Dayton provides deep product coverage in the high-touch undercarriage component category, complementing Dorman’s current heavy-duty offering by adding approximately 25,000 SKUs and bringing strong brand recognition to Dorman’s light- and heavy-duty businesses, with a 100-year legacy of aftermarket participation and valuable long-term partnerships.“

The acquisition is expected to significantly expand Dorman’s heavy-duty manufacturing and distribution platform, providing distribution centers closer to wholesale distributors throughout the United States and Canada, with an average product delivery time of one to two days.

“This combination aligns with our previously stated strategy to diversify our customer base and product offering by further penetrating the heavy-duty segment, providing us with a complementary and attractive platform in an industry with strong underlying demand trends,” Kevin Olsen, Dorman’s president and CEO, said. “Through the combined company, we will be able to offer our increasingly diverse customer base a more expansive product offering with improved distribution efficiency. We will also be able to leverage Dorman’s strong customer network and robust new product development process to accelerate Dayton’s revenue growth.”

Paul Anderson, Dayton’s president and CEO, added: “The combination of Dorman and Dayton is extremely exciting. Our two companies are highly complementary, and when you add Dorman’s new product capabilities, the combination gives Dayton a significant opportunity to deliver new solutions to its customers and drive outsized sales growth.”

In connection with the transaction, Dorman expects to enter into a new $600 million revolving credit facility, which will replace its existing $100 million revolving credit facility. Borrowings under this new credit facility that are used to complete the transaction will result in net leverage of less than 1.0x, according to Dorman.

“The robust cash flow generation of the combined companies, along with the new revolving credit facility, are expected to provide Dorman with greater flexibility to execute on its strategic priorities,” Dorman stated in the aforementioned announcement.

Until the transaction closes, both companies will operate independently and execute on their respective strategic priorities.

 

 

Jason Scott Joins The Group

Jason Scott has joined The Automotive Parts Services Group’s purchasing team as executive vice president of vendor relations and product strategy.

“Our APSG purchasing team, with Mike Mohler’s leadership, has done a great job helping our members and suppliers find mutually beneficial ways to work together to grow their businesses,” said Larry Pavey, CEO of The Group. “With the recent merger of Pronto and The Network, we felt the added workload required additional talent and are excited to add Jason to the team.”

Scott brings experience in the areas of merchandising, product and category management, global sourcing, supplier relations, and strategic planning. Prior to joining The Group, Scott spent 15 years with the Genuine Parts Company in a variety of management positions, most recently as senior director of product management for application products.

An automotive aftermarket veteran, Scott also has held strategic planning and product development roles at Four Seasons and was senior director of product development with the Altrom Automotive Group.

Editor’s Note: The new Pronto Automotive Distribution Network, together with Federated Auto Parts, comprises the Automotive Parts Services Group.

 

Category Expert Rob Payne Joins Automotive Parts Associates

Automotive Parts Associates Inc. (APA) has added Rob Payne as product director. Payne is an industry veteran who has spent the majority of his career with O’Reilly Automotive, first as a counterperson, advancing into inventory control and then in category management. Most recently, he worked with the Genuine Parts Company as a category manager.

“I am excited to have Rob join the team. He has a wide range of experience and a great rapport with our valued supplier partners,” said Steve Tucker, president of APA. “I look forward to working with him as we grow by improving our programs to benefit our shareholders and suppliers.”

Payne will join Paul Brokaw, with primary responsibilities including negotiating and maintaining product line programs and communicating updates and changes to shareholders.

 

AutoZone Announces SVP Promotions

AutoZone Inc. has announced two senior vice president promotions: Dennis Leriche, vice president of stores, to senior vice president of store operations; and Grant McGee, vice president of stores, to senior vice president of commercial. They will join the company’s executive committee and report to Preston Frazer, executive vice president of store operations, commercial and loss prevention.

 

CarParts.com Identifies Jacksonville As Location For Its Sixth DC

Torrance, CA-based CarParts.com Inc. plans to open its sixth distribution center in the first quarter of 2022. The Jacksonville facility will add 180,000 square feet to the company’s more than 1 million square feet of warehouse space nationwide. The new DC will include a photo studio and a “will call” area servicing online and commercial customers.

“The Jacksonville distribution center will let us cover 55% of the country with one-day shipping and over 98% of the country with a two-day transit time, including both the Miami and Atlanta metropolitan areas,” said COO David Meniane. “Jacksonville has a talented work force, and its proximity to the port also increases efficiencies and decreases lead times.”

The follows CarParts.com’s recent announcement of plans to expand its Grand Prairie, TX distribution center.

 

Pritzker Private Capital-Backed PLZ Purchases Champion Brands

PLZ Aeroscience Corp. (Downers Grove, IL), an independent specialty aerosol and liquid product manufacturer, has acquired the specialty lubricants manufacturer Champion Brands LLC. Financial terms of the transaction have not been disclosed.

PLZ specializes in the development, manufacture, packaging and distribution of contract-fill, branded and private-label products. The company has a proprietary portfolio of products in the household cleaning, personal care, food service, maintenance, specialty and industrial, and automotive markets. Its automotive offering includes …
• Interior and exterior cleaning and detailing products, such as glass cleaner, leather and vinyl cleaner, bug and tire remover, and tire cleaner.
• Maintenance items, such as brake cleaners and system maintenance products, antifreeze, coolant filters and system cleaners.
• Performance and pro kits, such as fuel additives, motorsports maintenance items and oil system maintenance products.

Among PLZ’s automotive brands are Penray and Sprayway.

Champion produces more than 300 functional fluids and performance products, including brake fluid, fuel treatments, semi-synthetic and full-synthetic engine additives, and specialty motor oil. The company operates a 450,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Clinton, MO, serving customers in the automotive, heavy duty, agricultural and performance racing markets.

“Champion is a market leader within the automotive aftermarket industry, and we look forward to leveraging their capabilities across our combined enterprise to strengthen the value proposition we bring to our customers,” said PLZ President and CEO Aaron Erter. “Champion is an incredible addition to PLZ as we continue growing our specialty automotive and industrial footprint across North America.”

Matt Lowe, the third generation of Lowe leadership at Champion, will remain with Champion following the transaction. “We look forward to leveraging PLZ’s extensive industry experience and national footprint to help grow Champion in the years to come,” Lowe said.

Pritzker Private Capital owns PLZ. With Pritzker’s support, PLZ has grown organically and via acquisition, including four in the last two years: Liquid Technologies and Precise Packaging in 2019 followed by Mansfield-King and Custom-Pak Products in 2020.

Pritzker partners with middle-market companies based in North America with leading positions in the manufactured products, services and healthcare sectors. Among its holdings is Memphis-based Highline Warren, the manufacturer and distributor of automotive maintenance products that recently acquired the assets of Sapp Bros.’ diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) division.

 

 

NTN Retains Canada Sales Agency

NTN Bearing Corp. has appointed Ontario-based National Sales Inc. (NSI) to represent NTN Canada’s automotive aftermarket portfolio. NSI President Sean Williams will work in collaboration with NTN Canada’s automotive aftermarket division led by Robert Pitt with the support of Jim Dunlevy, inside sales associate. NSI is a limited line sales agency in the automotive aftermarket providing coverage from coast to coast with a sales force comprised of 16 representatives.

 

Davico Manufacturing Expands To Mexico

Davico Manufacturing has added a manufacturing facility in Coahuila, Mexico. According to the company, the expansion allows Davico to meet growing customer demand and take more control over its supply chain. “This new facility is an expansion of our production capacity and will be in addition to our rapidly growing production plant and corporate headquarters in New Bedford, MA,” said President Ray Surprenant.

The facility will have capabilities to produce all of the company’s direct-fit catalytic converter and exhaust products. Production began in June and continues to ramp up.

“We will continue our commitment to manufacturing in the USA as we have since 1987,” Surprenant said, “but this expansion will further allow us to better serve our industry with additional capacity and improved lead times, while maintaining the highest quality.”

 

Jeff Wingard Joins GB Remanufacturing

GB Remanufacturing (Long Beach, CA), one of the largest remanufacturers of premium gasoline and diesel fuel injectors and fuel injection related components, has announced Jeff Wingard as its central regional sales manager.

Wingard brings almost 20 years of automotive aftermarket experience to GB, including time as a sales manager with NSK as well as director of sales – traditional for Airtex/ASC and business development manager and heavy-duty product manager at ASC Industries.

“Jeff has a long history of working with customers and program groups to grow their business,” said Michael Kitching, president and CEO of GB. “He is well respected in our industry by both customers and colleagues, and has a common-sense approach that will be beneficial as we continue to grow the gasoline and diesel fuel injection category for our distributors.”

Wingard is based in Canal Fulton, OH.

 

Private Equity Firm Ink Deal To Acquire Rough Country

TSG Consumer Partners has signed a definitive agreement to acquire a majority stake in Dyersburg, TN-based Rough Country from Gridiron Capital. Gridiron Capital and Rough Country management will remain “significant investors,” and the company will continue to be led by the current management team, according to a June 29 announcement from TSG.

Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. The deal is expected to close early in the third quarter of 2021.

Rough Country is a provider of branded aftermarket performance-enhancing products and accessories to the truck, Jeep and SUV enthusiast market. Its product offering includes suspension lift and leveling kits, shocks and stabilizers, and other accessories, including lighting, steps, winches, fender flares and cargo management products.

“TSG is the global leader in building world-class consumer brands, and we are excited to enter our next phase of growth with their support,” said Ken Dunn, CEO of Rough Country. “Over the past few years, we have experienced great success under Gridiron’s ownership. With TSG’s unrivaled auto aftermarket and digital marketing expertise, we’ll continue to expand our brand reach, digital presence and diversified customer base as we help fulfill consumers’ passions for off-road and outdoor lifestyles around the world.”

“Rough Country’s winning combination of robust direct-to-consumer distribution and quality brand enables it to deliver unrivaled value to its loyal customer base,” said Pierre LeComte, managing director at TSG. “We look forward to leveraging our digital and brand-building expertise to help fuel the company’s product, distribution and category expansion in the years to come.”

Ropes & Gray LLP acted as legal adviser and Jefferies LLC acted as financial adviser to TSG. Benesch, Friedlander, Coplan & Aronoff LLP was legal adviser and Robert W. Baird & Co. served as financial adviser to Gridiron Capital.

TSG is a private equity firm that’s active in the consumer industry. Among its previous investments are Joe Hudson’s Collision Centers, Mavis Tires, Power Stop and Meguiar’s.

Gridiron Capital is an investment firm focused on partnering with founders, entrepreneurs and management teams in the branded consumer, business-to-business and business-to-consumer services markets, as well as niche industrial segments, in the United States and Canada. Among its previous investments are Dealer Tire, Dent Wizard and Ramsey Industries.

 

 

Air Flow Sold To Private Equity Firm

Taglich Private Equity (TPE) has acquired Air Flow Research Heads Inc. (AFR) — a manufacturer of high-performance cylinder heads, intake manifolds and other automotive aftermarket components — in partnership with AFR’s founding family and management. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

AFR’s 42 production and office employees located at its headquarters in Valencia, CA will remain with the current executive team and staff. Founder Ken Sperling’s son, Rick, will remain president as well as a “significant owner of the company,” according to an announcement dated July 1.

“AFR has a fantastic brand and impressive legacy, which we want to continue,” said Will Morris, partner at TPE. “We are thrilled to be partnering with the management team in supporting the continued growth of AFR, both organically and through acquisitions of other performance aftermarket companies.”

TPE arranged financing for the transaction with equity provided by TPE, the management of AFR and Farragut Capital Partners, which also provided subordinated debt. Byline Bank provided senior debt financing.

TPE is a financial sponsor that has been investing since 2001 in lower middle market manufacturing, business service and consumer product companies.

 

Race Winning Brands Adds Midwest Tech Support Manager

Race Winning Brands (Mentor, OH), a manufacturer of high-performance engine components for the automotive and powersports aftermarkets, has hired industry veteran Vic Wood as a regional tech support manager. As such, Wood will service automotive engine builders, performance shops and distributors throughout the Midwest.

He comes to Race Winning Brands with over 40 years of automotive aftermarket experience. A native of Australia, Wood has worked with such long-established racing component manufacturers as the Hedman Performance Group, B&M/Mcleod Industries and Weld Wheels.

 

Record Number Of Applications Submitted For SEMA Launch Pad 2021

SEMA reports that the 9th annual SEMA Launch Pad competition has attracted a record 181 applications, which greatly surpasses the previous record of 120 applications.

Fifteen applicants have been selected as semi-finalists. In the next round, these applicants will be narrowed down to the five finalists who will pitch their business ideas at the 2021 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. There, a panel of judges will select three winners, who will receive cash prizes of $5,000, $20,000 and $75,000 to be used for the benefit of their businesses.

To learn more about the program and each of the 15 semi-finalists, visit sema.org/launchpad.

 

PRI Expands Membership To Racers, Motorsports Enthusiasts

Performance Racing Industry (PRI) is expanding its membership program to allow racers and enthusiasts to join racing businesses in the association that provides support for racetracks under threat of closure, advocates for the racing community against various legal threats, and coordinates educational programs designed to help businesses and racers succeed.

More than 300 businesses in the racing industry have joined PRI’s membership program since it debuted in March, according to the association, with several companies extending their commitment to support the racing industry for a minimum of 10 years by becoming PRI Founding Members.

PRI offers different levels of benefits, and rates start at $40 per year for a pro membership. Features and benefits include …
• Entrance to the PRI Show for qualified attendees.
• Inclusion in the Performance Racing Political Action Committee.
• 12 Issues of PRI Magazine Digital Edition.
• Subscription to the PRI e-newsletter.
• Posting access on the PRI Jobs Board.

Enrollment in PRI membership will launch alongside attendee registration for the 2021 PRI Show. For more information, visit PerformanceRacing.com.

 

 

FullSpeed Automotive Acquires 25 Shops In Dallas-Fort Worth

FullSpeed Automotive has acquired 25 quick-lube and automotive service centers in the Dallas-Fort Worth market. The transaction included four different brands, the majority of which were Kwik Kar Automotive Lube & Service Centers. Financial terms of the acquisition were not disclosed.

This follows four acquisitions in four different states over the last six weeks, adding a total of 29 shops to FullSpeed’s portfolio. The company has completed 12 acquisition deals that added 46 locations since MidOcean Partners acquired FullSpeed in November.

“We look forward to continuing to expand our footprint across the country and completing additional acquisitions,” said Kevin Kormondy, CEO of FullSpeed. “Our strategy, in addition to building our franchised operations, is to continue to identify and work with independent shop owners who are considering a sale if they can find the right fit, as we did here.”

Greenwood Village, CO-based FullSpeed now has more than 675 franchised and company-owned shops. The company’s flagship brands include Grease Monkey and SpeeDee Oil Change & Auto Service.

MidOcean is a New York-based alternative asset manager specializing in middle-market private equity and alternative credit investments.

 

Clean Harbors Inks Deal To Expand Used Motor Oil Collection, Re-Refining

Clean Harbors Inc., parent company to Safety-Kleen, has signed a definitive agreement with Vertex Energy to acquire certain assets related to Vertex’s used motor oil collection and re-refinery business in an all-cash transaction valued at $140 million, subject to working capital and other adjustments. The deal is expected to close in the third quarter of 2021, subject to approval by U.S. regulators and Vertex shareholders, as well as other customary closing conditions.

The assets being acquired include a 20-million-gallon re-refinery in Columbus, OH and a 69-million-gallon re-refinery in Marrero, LA. The deal involves 17 service branches throughout the Midwest and Gulf Coast regions, supported by approximately 200 employees and a fleet of collection vehicles.

Based on current market pricing of Vertex’s re-refining products and production levels of its plants, the assets are expected to generate more than $100 million in annual revenue. Clean Harbors expects the acquired assets to achieve at least $15 million in adjusted EBITDA in the first full year of operations.

According to Clean Harbors, the transaction will allow it to …
• Expand its re-refining network.
• Add approximately 90 million gallons of annual waste oil production capacity, increasing Clean Harbors’ existing re-refining capacity by approximately 40%.
• Strengthen its waste oil collection capabilities, particularly in the Midwest and Gulf Coast.
• Complement its existing assets with a waterfront terminal in the Houston ship channel.
• Add an experienced team of employees and operations across seven states.
• Grow the scale of its Safety-Kleen Sustainability Solutions segment and leverage operating efficiencies.
• Generate cross-selling opportunities with Clean Harbors’ Environmental Services segment

“Expanding our re-refining network through the addition of the Vertex assets, which include our first re-refining operation in the Gulf Coast region, will enable us to further grow our presence in the renewable lubricants and fuels markets,” stated Alan McKim, chairman and CEO of Clean Harbors. “Vertex’s waste oil collection and branch footprint complements our existing network of locations and expands our service capabilities within a number of key states.”

Houlihan Lokey was the financial adviser to Vertex.

 

 

HDA Truck Pride Announces E-Commerce Pact With PhaseZero

HDA Truck Pride has announced an e-commerce partnership with PhaseZero to bring digital commerce technology to its distributor members. PhaseZero CxCommerce is a software-as-a-service (SaaS) platform designed to …
• Allow customers to purchase products through an online channel in addition to traditional counter or call-in service.
• Provide customer-specific pricing integrated with business systems.
• Connect distributors with customers, suppliers and manufacturers.
• Deliver real-time visibility to inventory across all locations.

“Our CxCommerce solution and the execution approach allows HDA Truck Pride members to respond quickly in changing market conditions and better serve their customers by offering flexible options,” said Ram ChandraSekar, founder and CEO of PhaseZero. “It also promotes employee interactions in-store or online, or a hybrid approach, allowing a traditional brick-and-mortar business access to the best digital technology available to complement their industry expertise, customer relationships and last-mile delivery services.”

In related news, more than 500 industry professionals from over 170 distributor and supplier companies are expected to attend the in-person HDA Truck Pride Annual Shareholders Meeting taking place July 12-15 in Dallas, which will include more than 4,500 one-on-one meetings between members and suppliers. A virtual component to the Annual Shareholders Meeting is scheduled for July 21-22.

As you may recall, HDA Truck Pride delayed its normal pattern of hosting an April meeting because of COVID-19 concerns.

 

Registration Now Open For Heavy Duty Leadership Program

The University of the Aftermarket will host its Heavy Duty Leadership program Oct. 3-8 at the Sloan Family Building for Aftermarket Studies at Northwood University in Midland, MI. The initiative is designed to foster the development of a new generation of executives who will help drive the heavy-duty aftermarket to new levels.

The one-week residential executive development program is designed for early- to mid-career, management-track heavy-duty professionals in all market segments.

The program is led by heavy-duty industry leaders who collaborate with faculty from Northwood’s DeVos Graduate School of Management and the University of the Aftermarket. The partnership allows for a mix of practical and theoretical instruction. Heavy Duty Leadership includes a blend of …
• Industry research and market analysis.
• Discussion and debate of new challenges and competitive strategies.
• Individual skills training in team management, leadership roles, strategic thinking and planning.
• Insight into supply chain solutions and industry trends.
• Presentations from industry leaders.

For more information, visit universityoftheaftermarket.com and click the button for “course calendar.”

 

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NEW … Hella Inc.: Product Management Specialist – Lighting – (IAM) V

Expert for the highly complex product portfolio (e.g. competition, trends, user needs, Contact Person for major customers and Work out possible strategic opportunities with them).Setting up and maintaining personal contacts with customers while taking into account the hierarchies of particular customers, and within the group. Involved in carrying out the necessary measures to achieve the departmental aims. … (more) … Click here to find out more.

NEW … Hopkins Manufacturing Corp.: Sales Manager

Position Description: To develop, provide, and manage a sales strategy, to achieve stated performance objectives for assigned product lines and accounts across in multiple channels as Hardware, Mass, Farm/Fleet … (more) … Click here to find out more.

Hella: E-Commerce Sales Specialist

Hella Automotive is seeking a sales and marketing specialist to grow our e-Commerce sales channel. The candidate will manage assigned accounts to drive brand recognition and increase sales. … (more) … Click here to find out more.

Newegg: Director of Marketing

The Director of Marketing is responsible for developing comprehensive retail marketing strategies and overseeing the execution and reporting of all marketing initiatives for Newegg’s Automotive category. … (more) … Click here to find out more.

 

People Watching 7/12/21

Monro Inc. has hired Matt Henson as its chief human resources officer. He brings over 25 years of experience in human resources, most recently as vice president of field human resources at AutoZone Inc. In his new role, Henson will lead Monro’s human resources function and strategy, including talent acquisition; learning and development; employee engagement; diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives; and all other facets of organizational and performance management.

Wayne Schaack of the Pronto Automotive Distribution Network has been elected as the 2022 secretary to CAWA board of directors. Schaack joins fellow officers Chair Michael Rukov of RepWorks Marketing, Vice Chair Young Suhr Jr. of APW-Knox Seeman Warehouse, Treasurer Tom Ogaz of the Parts Authority and Immediate Past Chair Mike Mohler of the Automotive Parts Services Group.

• Byron Foster — who was Dana Inc.’s senior vice president and chief commercial, marketing and communications officer — will succeed Bob Pyle as president of Dana Light Vehicle Drive Systems after Pyle announced that he will be leaving the company to accept a CEO position outside the mobility industry.

 

News Briefs 7/12/21

PureFlow AirDog is Meyer Distributing’s Performance Vendor of the Year for 2020.

• Premium Guard Inc. received a bronze Content Excellence Award from the Automotive Content Professionals Network (ACPN) for its Premium Guard Filters web catalog.

• Dana Inc. received a 2021 Receiver’s Choice Award from ACPN for its Spicer catalog.

• Rowerdink is now available as a supplier on PartsTech.

• Motor State Distributing has added Prosport Gauges to its vendor product line.

• 4 Wheel Parts on July 1 launched its line of new 4WP Factory Bronco parts and accessories in all 95 of its brick-and-mortar locations and online through its Bronco HQ portal, 4wheelparts.com/broncohq.

• FleetPride Inc. now stocks TRW Remanufactured steering gears from ZF in all five of its distribution centers and carries a customized assortment at its nationwide branch locations.

• CRC Industries is continuing its fundraising partnership with NAPA Auto Parts for the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund (IFHF). Throughout July and October, a portion of CRC product sales at participating NAPA stores will be donated to IFHF.

• Group 1 Automotive expects its second quarter 2021 U.S. parts and service gross profit to have increased roughly 10% on a same-store basis compared to a year ago, based on preliminary results reported July 8. Comparisons versus the second quarter of 2020 are distorted because of substantial COVID-related business disruptions in the year-ago period. Houston-based Group 1 owns and operates 188 automotive dealerships, 242 franchises and 48 collision centers in the United States.

• Champion Blue Flame Performance Diesel Engine Oil will be the official oil for this year’s East Coast Diesel Nationals July 17 at Numidia Dragway in Numidia, PA.

• The Capstone Financial Group played a role in Warn Industries’ acquisition of substantially all of the assets of Fabtech Industries, a manufacturer of aftermarket suspensions for light trucks, Jeeps and SUVs. Capstone completed a pre-market analysis and valuation of Fabtech to identify its value drivers and potential buyers. Capstone also released the deal to the market through a competitive bidding process, as well as negotiated counteroffers, disclosures, and final terms and conditions.

SEMA is accepting nominations for its 2021 industry awards: Person of the Yar, Manufacturer of the Year, WD of the Year and Gen-III Innovator of the Year. Nominations close July 23.

Diesel Performance Parts, a diesel parts distributor located in Nashville, is moving its business operations to the DMS’ DX+ Warehouse Management System.

 

Event & Trade Show Briefs 7/12/21

Nominations are due Sept. 1 for the second annual AAPEX Shop Owner of the Year, Service Adviser of the Year and Technician of the Year awards. AAPEX 2021 will take place Nov. 2-4 at the Sands Expo and Caesars Forum Conference Center in Las Vegas.

• The MERA – The Association for Sustainable Manufacturing’s fall remanufacturing conference will be held Oct. 4-5 in the Detroit area. Details and registration information to come.

• The 2021 AASA Technology Conference taking place Oct. 11-12 in Memphis will be the association’s first live event after COVID-19 restrictions were put in place in 2020; however, the event will include an online segment for those who are not comfortable traveling. Breakout sessions will focus on IT and cybersecurity, supply chain issues, digital commerce and heavy duty. For more information or to register, click here.

• Registration is now open for its 56th annual Upholstery and Trim International Council Convention scheduled for Oct. 13-15 at the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort & Spa in San Antonio. The event will include pre-scheduled, private, one-on-one business meetings and a wholesaler-only networking reception. For additional details, eligibility, hotel and registration information, visit autocare.org/uticconvention.

SEMA representatives took part in nearly 100 meetings with lawmakers from Capitol Hill during June and July, according to the association. As part of the virtual 2021 SEMA Washington Rally, more than 60 SEMA member companies joined association staff in a record number of meetings with officials from the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate.

QA1 Precision Products (Lakeville, MN) will host its an open house event Friday, July 16, its first since the completion of its facility in 2020. Guided tours will be followed by a cruise to the Street Machine Summer Nationals at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. The open house marks the return of QA1’s annual event following a two-year hiatus related to the transition to the new building in 2019 and coronavirus precautions in 2020.

 

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