People Places & Racing News

Movers & Shakers: Fisher Auto Parts, KOI Auto Parts Merge; Axalta Racing Launches "Fast Talk" Blog

 Rugged Ridge Trail Access
The Rugged Ridge Trail Access Program has awarded more than $27,000 to non-profit off-road organizations since the program launched at the 2013 SEMA Show.
  

Rugged Ridge Trail Access Program Provides Financial Support for Off-Road Hobby
Following its November launch at the 2013 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Rugged Ridge announced its Trail Access Program has awarded six grants, totaling more than $27,000, to non-profit off-road organizations. The grants were awarded to the Off-Road Business Association, Stay the Trail, the New Mexico OHV Association, the Colorado Association of 4WD Clubs, the Colorado OHV Coalition and the Blue Ribbon Coalition for the purpose of keeping recreational trails open on public land and supporting the off-road hobby. Each of the donations—which come as part of a larger philanthropic effort from Rugged Ridge’s parent company Omix-ADA—can be designated for use toward education, stewardship, litigation, or any other activity advocating the conservation of public land and access to recreational trails. More information on the Rugged Ridge Trail Access Program is available at www.ruggedridge.com/trailaccess.

Fisher Auto Parts, KOI Auto Parts Announce Merger
KOI Auto Parts President Dave Wesselman announced that Fisher Auto Parts will acquire controlling interest in KOI Auto Parts, effective April 1, 2014. Once implemented, KOI reports, minimal changes will occur to customers, suppliers and team members. “KOI is excited about this merger with all our employees getting the opportunity of a lifetime to grow both professionally and personally,” Wesselman said. “Our management team remains in place and all 1,000-plus team members have retained their positions. It was very important to KOI’s Board of Directors that all of our employees retain their jobs and have the advancement opportunities this merger provides. It is business as usual at KOI.” Fisher Auto Parts now has 470 locations plus more than 100 independent jobbers in 18 states.

Port-A-Cool Named Grainger 2013 Supplier of the Year

Port-a-cool
Port-A-Cool was honored as the Grainger 2013 Supplier of the Year during Grainger’s annual supplier conference held recently in Rosemont, Illinois.
 
  

Port-A-Cool was honored as the Grainger 2013 Supplier of the Year during Grainger’s annual supplier conference held recently in Rosemont, Illinois. Grainger recognizes a select group of suppliers for outstanding performance throughout the year through its Partners in Performance award program. The award distinguishes suppliers who achieve excellence in several categories, including responsiveness, information integrity, on-time shipping and variability, management commitment and order fulfillment. Grainger suppliers receive ratings throughout the year for their performance in each of these categories. With exceptional ratings in all categories, Port-A-Cool earned the top honor among more than 3,200 active suppliers.   

New Logo Launched for ATP Automotive
ATP has introduced a new, contemporary logo for its flagship brand—now known as ATP Automotive. “We have made many positive changes at ATP recently, and our new brand identity is the latest transformation,” said Roy Lipner, president and CEO of ATP Inc. “The ATP Automotive logo was thoughtfully developed to reflect our focus on the industry, our ability to adapt to a changing marketplace and, most importantly, our ongoing commitment to be a valued supplier to our customers.” In addition to the new brand identity, ATP will introduce updated packaging and several new products in the coming year. Historically known as a transmission products supplier, the ATP Automotive product line currently includes automatic transmission filter kits, repair kits, exhaust manifold kits, harmonic balancers, timing covers, cables, flywheel and ring gears, interior vent filters and chemicals. “This is an exciting time at ATP,” said Gary Rogak, chairman of the board of ATP Inc. “Our company has a long history of providing high-quality automotive products. Although the ATP Automotive look is new, we will remain dedicated to partnering with our customers to build lasting and profitable relationships."

Axalta Racing Launches "Fast Talk" Blog

Axalta Coating Systems has launched its first blog. Titled "Fast Talk," visitors can view the inaugural post—"Brilliant Flames Heads to Bristol." Blog posts will be made monthly, except when Axalta-sponsored races are on the horizon, such as this weekend's race in Martinsville. Fast Talk also features a new persona—the Axalta Racing Girl, whose writings will provide commentary and opinions. This virtual character seeks to engage with racing fans and appeal to a wide demographic. “2014 is an exciting year for us.  We’re off to a quick start with the January launch of a multitude of social media channels, and now we have the Fast Talk blog,” says Wade Robinson, Axalta Strategic Marketing and Racing Director. “Axalta Racing Girl is sure to make guest appearances throughout Axalta Racing’s social media channels. Fans should stay tuned, because you never know what’s next.”