Suppliers to Benchmark the Cost of Auto Industry Absenteeism
A dozen U.S. auto suppliers hope next month to finish a two-year effort to determine the cost of lost productivity due to absenteeism and “presenteeism” -people who are on the job but not functioning at appropriate productive levels. The group, dubbed the Automotive Supplier Action Committee, says it focused upon the industry’s hourly workforce, where absenteeism is roughly 10 percent, or about three times that of other industries.
UAP Announces Senior Executive Appointments
Larry Samuelson, CEO of UAP Inc., has announced four senior executive appointments. Robert Hattem has accepted the position of president and COO of UAP Inc. Terrence LeBlanc has been named executive vice president of the auto parts division. Pierre Vocelle has accepted the position of regional vice president of auto parts for Quebec and Scott LeProhon has been appointed senior vice president of special marketing projects.
Kayaba to Expand Global Manufacturing Operations
Next month, Kayaba Industry Co., Ltd. (KYB) will acquire a 75 percent shareholding in AP Amortiguadores SA (APA) currently held by ArvinMeritor. In the U.S., Kayaba is set to expand its manufacturing base at Franklin, Ind, to support growing sales of KYB shocks and struts to the North American aftermarket.
Michelin North America and ACCC Sign Three-Year Contract Extension
Michelin North America has extended its partnership with American Car Care Centers (ACCC), signing a three-year contract extension to supply the independent dealer network with Michelin, BFGoodrich, Uniroyal and private and associate brand tires. This new agreement extends a strategic partnership between the two companies which began in 1993. ACCC is one of the largest networks of independent tire and automotive service dealers, with more than 1100 locations nationwide.
Exide Closer to Exiting Chapter 11
Exide Technologies said it reached an agreement with its creditors and lenders on a plan to exit Chapter 11 protection, one that gives unsecured creditors 10 percent of the reorganized company. 11
Stylin’ Concepts Expands Call Center
Stylin’ Concepts, a direct marketer of parts and accessories for light trucks and SUVs, is expanding its call center, retail and administrative operations in Independence, Ohio. The company will move some of its warehouse operations to another location. Due to the need for more office and retail space, the company said it will move some of its distribution functions to a site outside the Independence area. The move will affect approximately 20 warehouse employees, most of whom will be absorbed into existing company operations in Independence.
Automakers Help Allies Handle Crises
Seeking to mitigate disaster costs after events such as 9/11 and last year’s blackout, Detroit automakers said Wednesday they’ll ask their suppliers and dealers to take part in a crisis management plan that will prepare them for emergencies. The automakers, working together through a trade organization called the Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG), released a booklet that could serve as a guide for suppliers and dealers that either don’t have a contingency plan or want to modify an existing one. GM said that it will begin rolling out the process to all its 3,700 suppliers next week. The AIAG said the plan is voluntary for suppliers and will result in minimal costs for the companies.
Johnson Controls Delays Move
Plymouth Township, Mich., will retain its largest taxpayer for the time being. Johnson Controls officials recently announced they will not to move to Salem Township this year, but still expect to relocate their headquarters and technology facilities from Plymouth Township to a larger site when a suitable location is found.
Brake Parts Inc. Promotes Mike Zissman to VP Product Development for Under Vehicle Group
Brake Parts Inc. has promoted Mike Zissman to the position of vice president of product development for the Under Vehicle Group. Zissman has more than 30 years of experience working in the automotive aftermarket industry and almost 19 years with Brake Parts Inc. He has held numerous positions in sales, marketing and product development, including vice president of the McQuay Norris/Aimco sales group, director of data administration and senior director of product development.
Proposed Wal-Mart Causes Concern for Local Auto Parts Distributor
The idea of a new Wal-Mart going up in one Charlotte, NC, suburb is the cause of concern for some in the area, particularly a nearby automotive parts distributor. According to a report in the Charlotte Observer, a hearing on an application to build the new Wal-Mart store lasted more than five hours on Tuesday. Wanda Miller owns Belmont Automotive Distributors, which is located near the new proposed outlet for the national retail giant. Miller testified that she was concerned that Wal-Mart would take away business from her shop.