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The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies brought in 15 new companies representing 62 new locations to the VIPAR Heavy Duty and Power Heavy Duty networks in 2025. Together, these businesses reflect remarkable diversity—ranging from multigenerational family-owned operations to fast-rising newcomers and, for the first time, international distributors in Central America. Despite their differences, each company shares one goal: leveraging the resources of the network to accelerate their growth and deliver more value to customers.

 

“These distributors bring an incredible range of experience, capabilities, and regional expertise,” said Chris Baer, president and CEO of VIPAR Heavy Duty. “From established shops with decades of history to innovative businesses breaking new ground, what unites them is a clear vision for the future and the drive to use our network to fuel their success. That shared commitment strengthens our entire organization.”

 

New VIPAR Heavy Duty Distributors in 2025

 

Truck Depot Corporation

30 Locations across Guatemala, Honduras, Costa Rica, and El Salvador

Truck Depot marks a historic milestone as the first Central American distributor to join VIPAR Heavy Duty. Truck Depot’s staff of more than 500 employees operate a mix of sales channels—including warehouses, retail stores, service shops, mobile assistance, and e-commerce. Founders Oscar Sevilla L., Gabriel de la Fuente E., and Diego de la Fuente Schutt began operations in 1999 focusing on suspension and brake parts with Maxi Repuestos SRL and Ultra Repuestos de Honduras S.A. de C.V. Grupo Vintage S.A. was added in 2005, and in 2024, Truck Depot Corporation was established to encompass all. They distribute spare parts and accessories for all mass cargo and passenger transportation types and offer large inventories, strong brands, and professional staffing. 

 

Universal Truck Service LLC

Roseville and New Brighton, Minn.

Led by Gene Perry, Universal Truck Service represents three generations of family leadership, with over 90 employees serving the Minneapolis–Saint Paul metro area. The company operates 50 service bays, performing truck and trailer repair, engine and transmission work, mobile repair, tanker maintenance, Cummins warranty repairs, hydraulic hose services, and parts delivery within a 60-mile radius.

 

Seagull Diesel Parts Inc.  

Salt Lake City, Utah

Founded by Jimmy Jacketta in 2010, Seagull Diesel Parts offers transmission and driveline service, engine diagnostics and repair, electrical troubleshooting, welding, radiator and cooling system service, vehicle inspections, frame and alignment work, DPF filter cleaning and replacement, and air conditioning service. 

 

Tampa Spring Company

Tampa, Bradenton, Lakeland, and Ocala, Florida

Tampa Spring is a family owned and operated business serving customers since 1927. Owned by John Messina, Tampa Spring offers a comprehensive range of truck and heavy duty vehicle repair parts, including a full line of automotive leaf springs, helper springs, air springs, and coil springs. They sell to and service both wholesale and retail customers with 60 employees, four outside sales representatives, 10 delivery vehicles, and 58 service bays. 

 

RENOSA (Repuestos Noé, S.A. de C.V.)

San Salvador, Ilopango, Lourdes Colón, and Santa Ana California, El Salvador

RENOSA strengthened VIPAR Heavy Duty’s presence in Central America and are a strong addition with an impressive list of supplier relationships. The company was founded in 1990 and is owned by Rigoberto Martínez. He leads more than 100 employees who provide high quality service to the heavy and semi-heavy transport systems in El Salvador, including differential, suspension, transmission, and brake system components as well as filtration systems and engine repairs. 

 

Childers Auto & Truck Parts Inc.

Pikeville and Mt. Sterling, Kentucky

Founded in 2023 by Ken and Allison Childers, Childers Auto and Truck Parts is a family-owned business that has rapidly emerged as a strong presence in the heavy-duty parts and service market. The company supports fleets, owner-operators, municipalities, and off-highway customers with truck and trailer parts, full-service repair, diagnostics, and critical support services. 

 

Super Industrial SRL

Santo Domingo, Bávaro, Haina, and Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic

Super Industrial SRL (La Casa del Camionero), owned by Carolina Mederos, is a family company that was established in 1975 for the reconstruction of clutches, brakes, radiators and rectification of drums, discs and steering wheels for trucks. In 1986, they opened their first store for the sale of all types of original and replacement parts for trucks, buses, and trailers of North American manufacture. Today, their reconstruction workshop and branch locations provide service and parts for the entire island.

 

New Power Heavy Duty Distributors in 2025

 

NorthWest Bearing & Industrial Supply Co. Inc.

Woodward and El Reno, Oklahoma

NorthWest Bearing & Industrial Supply has been serving the gas compression, agricultural, and farming industries in Western Oklahoma since 1991. Owned by Bob and Denise Mitchell, the company is a trusted source for industrial bearings, filters, and hydraulic components. They operate a 15,000-square-foot facility in Woodward and a 2,400-square-foot branch in El Reno. Its team of 20 experienced professionals supports sales, purchasing, warehousing, delivery, accounting, and a fleet of eight delivery vehicles.

 

RBR Truck Parts LLC

Hutchins, Denton, Duncanville, and Fort Worth, Texas

Founded in 2018, RBR Truck Parts is a heavy-duty aftermarket parts distributor serving owner-operators, fleets, service centers, and municipal accounts in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex. Its Hutchins location is strategically located near Interstate 45, close to major ports, rail yards, and warehouse hubs that support the region’s trucking industry. RBR stocks a broad range of engine, suspension, brake, wheel and tire, filter, fluid, and accessory products. The company is led by owner Rony Santos and general manager Cesar Perez.

 

Milian Truck Center 

Tampa and Medley, Florida

Established in 2018 by Osman Lleo, Milian Truck Center is a family-owned distributor with three locations, including two in Tampa—one of Florida’s key regional transportation hubs and home to the state’s largest shipping port. The company employs 45 people, operates four delivery vehicles, and manages 60,000 square feet of warehouse space, supplying aftermarket truck parts to fleets and owner-operators. 

 

Knox Trailers Inc. / DBA KP Services Truck and Trailer Parts

Knoxville and Crossville, Tennessee

Founded in 1993 by Steve Fultz and Tommy Jones, Knox Trailers offers heavy-duty truck and trailer parts, repair, and refurbishing services. Operating out of a 32,000-square-foot Knoxville facility and a new 4,800-square-foot warehouse and showroom in Crossville, the company provides 14 service bays, a paint booth, and a dedicated fleet of delivery and service trucks to meet customer needs quickly and reliably.

 

West Ridge Heavy Duty Parts LLC

Logan, Utah

Established as recently as October 2023, West Ridge Heavy Duty Parts is a fast-growing, service-driven company founded by Jared Strawn and Russel Guymon. They offer a full range of heavy-duty truck and trailer parts and services, including flywheel resurfacing, custom driveline and hydraulic hose fabrication, U-bolts, and welding services. Their customer base includes a diverse mix of on-highway fleets, owner-operators, agriculture, and mining operations across class 5 through 8 vehicles.  

 

Accurate Alignment and Frame Service Inc.

Appleton, Wisconsin

Accurate Alignment and Frame Service has been a family-owned business in the northeastern Wisconsin market for the past 70 years. Owned by Mark and Dennis Broehm, they offer heavy-duty truck and trailer parts, shop supplies, tools and equipment, and extensive repair capabilities. With 24 service bays, 34,000 square feet of shop space, and a 14,000 square foot warehouse, the company supports fleets, municipalities, independent service facilities, and owner-operators.

 

A & L Systems NexGen LLC

Redford, Michigan

A & L Systems NexGen offers a full range of heavy duty truck parts and specializes in the engineering and installation of auto-lubrication systems for both on- and off-road equipment. They service fleets, municipalities, independent service facilities and owner operators in the Detroit area from their 6,500 square foot warehouse and showroom. Originally established in 1980, the business was purchased in 2024 and is owned by Ron Meehan. 

 

Brakes & Wheels Inc./Gordo Bros.

Odessa, Texas

Brakes and Wheels distributes a full line of heavy duty parts, operates a brake reline shop, repairs utility trailers and installs toolboxes, brush guards, head-ache racks, and other accessories for the oil field customers they service. They serve independent owner-operators, local fleets, oil field service companies, and city and county service centers out of a 20,000 square foot facility located on 2 acres. The business was started by Connie and Ray Quiroz in 1975 and is owned today by Connie and their sons Rene and Gilbert.

 

VIPAR Heavy Duty has hired Jeremy Whiting as Director of Business Development, supporting the East Coast and Southeast distributor territories. Whiting brings more than 15 years of experience in the heavy duty industry, along with a deep and multigenerational connection to the aftermarket. He will be based in Jacksonville, Florida.

 

Whiting began his career as an account manager for JB Hunt. In 2013, he joined his family’s business, Brookline Machine Company Inc., a long-standing member of the Power Heavy Duty network. Founded in 1938, Brookline Machine spans four generations of Whiting family leadership.

 

“Some of my earliest memories are going to truck shows and visiting Brookline as a kid,” said Whiting, reflecting on his history in the heavy duty industry. “I can’t imagine being anywhere else.”

 

Whiting learned the ropes as inside sales/shop tech and made his way to operations manager where he was responsible for managing $3 million in inventory across five branch locations in four states. While there, he also led the development and implementation of their first e-commerce platform.

 

Whiting later expanded his industry experience at Neapco, a leading supplier of driveline solutions. As a regional sales manager, he spent four years managing distributor relationships and revenue operations across the East Coast and Southeast US. His responsibilities included organizing customer support efforts, managing rep agencies, and overseeing VIPAR Heavy Duty IMPACT Conference participation. Through that role, he worked closely with VIPAR Heavy Duty and Power Heavy Duty distributors.

 

“I’ve been attending the IMPACT Conference for several years, and the culture of this organization always stood out,” Whiting said. “VIPAR Heavy Duty feels like a family business. When the opportunity appeared, it felt like the right next step at this point in my life and career.”

 

Whiting notes that his transition into the role comes with a strong advantage—he is already familiar with many distributors across his territory, including several he supported through Neapco as well as long-standing contacts from Brookline Machine.

 

“I’ll be walking into meetings with people I’ve known for years,” he said. “It makes the transition feel natural.”

 

Whiting was hired to fill the position left open by the retirement of Dick Croft. Croft has been a highly respected and valued Director of Business Development since 2001 and will retire on January 31, 2026. 

 

“Jeremy’s extensive experience in the heavy duty aftermarket, combined with his deep understanding of distributor operations, makes him a strong fit for VIPAR Heavy Duty’s culture,” said Joe Meyer, Vice President of Business Development. “He brings a relationship-driven approach, and we are confident Jeremy will seamlessly support our East Coast and Southeast territories.”

 

 

From the opening remarks by VIPAR Heavy Duty President & CEO Chris Baer to the closing message from keynote speaker Tony Hawk, the 2025 IMPACT Conference delivered a powerful and recurring theme — Resilience.

 

The independent heavy duty aftermarket has navigated a period of significant challenges since the network last gathered, including uncertainty surrounding tariffs, freight, regulations, and supply chain pressures, as well as the accelerating need to adopt advanced technology tools such as artificial intelligence and enterprise resource planning systems. Despite these headwinds, VIPAR Heavy Duty reports continued growth in both its distributor network and business initiatives.

 

“The IMPACT Conference is a powerful reminder of the strength and adaptability of our network. Coming together in person allows us to deepen relationships, share insights, and align on strategies that ensure we are all better equipped to face challenges and seize opportunities,” said Baer.

 

This year’s strong attendance showed that the network is engaged and looking to the future. An impressive combination of attendees, 1:1 Meetings, and trade show booths provided ample opportunity to explore new business channels and plan for the future. 

 

Baer set the stage on opening day with an update on the current state of the VIPAR Heavy Duty network. 

 

Conference Highlights

 

Expansion Across the Americas: 

Distributor growth is apparent in the number of companies and points of sale, and in the success of those distributors who are excelling with just one location. In addition, VIPAR Heavy Duty continues to expand its presence in Central and South America, adding new stockholders in Guatemala, El Salvador, Venezuela, and Colombia. These distributors are helping to build the network in new regions, bringing market expertise and vision to new areas. 

 

Operational Excellence and Innovation: 

The conference showcased major initiatives, including the implementation of an Oracle NetSuite ERP system, the launch of PARTSPHERE RMS 2.0, automation in the Global Parts Network reman brake process, and enhancements to PARTSPHERE PIM & DAM product data systems. These innovations are improving efficiency, competitiveness, and service.

 

Supplier Partnerships: 

VIPAR Heavy Duty highlighted collaboration with suppliers, encouraging them to expand and contribute to growth in new markets. Several suppliers were recognized for their engagement and support, aligning with VIPAR across the Americas in both strong existing programs and creative new offerings.

 

Training and Development: 

Through initiatives like the Nucleus Knowledge Center, VIPAR Heavy Duty continues to prioritize training and professional development, addressing critical workforce needs and supporting the next generation of industry leaders.

 

Strengthening Leadership for the Future: 

Baer announced that in a special motion, the VIPAR Heavy Duty Board of Directors voted to appoint current Vice President of Marketing, Jeff Paul, to Executive Vice President as of Jan. 1, 2026. “Jeff sets a high bar for commitment, drive, and integrity, and our organization is fortunate to have him to guide the ship in future years,” said Baer.

 

Baer also announced that Jim Pennig, who retired from his position as Vice President of Business Development this past summer, will return to the company to redesign its national accounts program. 

 

VIPAR Heavy Duty leadership was joined by guest speakers from the industry to provide a well-rounded agenda.

 

• Shannon O’Brien, Commercial Vehicle Lead for MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers presented “Suppliers Respond: Insight from the Front Lines.” Her research, conducted exclusively for VIPAR Heavy Duty, combined a detailed supplier survey and in-depth interviews to provide meaningful feedback to distributors on shared challenges and opportunities with suppliers.
• John Kairys, Executive Director of the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation shared the AACF story with IMPACT Conference attendees at various sessions and a trade show booth. The AACF is a 501(c)(3) organization that supports people employed in the heavy duty aftermarket industry and their families during times of hardship. They were the beneficiary of this year’s IMPACT Memorial Golf Outing. VIPAR Heavy Duty was proud to enter into a new partnership with AACF earlier this year to support their fundraising efforts and raise awareness. 
• Thierry Mugnier, Founding Partner and CFIO of NEXUS Automotive International SA, spoke to suppliers about the Latin American expansion opportunities available to them through VIPAR Heavy Duty’s partnership with NEXUS. He emphasized NEXUS’ goal to create stronger alignment between its North American and European organizations, noting that collaboration and shared responsibility among distributors and partners are essential to the network’s success. He also highlighted that by the end of 2025, VIPAR Heavy Duty will represent the largest and strongest group of heavy duty distributors within the NEXUS community.

 

The conference concluded on a high note with a keynote presentation from legendary skateboarder and entrepreneur Tony Hawk. From his first shaky ride on his brother’s skateboard (and a handful of splinters!) to becoming a global icon, Hawk’s story was one of resilience, creativity, and relentless determination. Every fall became fuel to rise higher — on the ramp, in business, and in life. He’s helped make skateboarding a legit cool sport — one kids now choose the same way they choose baseball or soccer.

 

“Skating is an individual endeavor with a huge sense of community,” Hawk shared. “If I’ve helped make skateboarding more acceptable, that’s my greatest legacy.” His message reminded the heavy duty audience that passion, perseverance, and purpose can build lasting impact — no matter the field.

 

The 2026 VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies IMPACT Conference is scheduled for Oct. 18-23 at the JW Marriott Marco Island in Marco Island, Fla. 

 

The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies is pleased to announce that legendary skateboarder and entrepreneur Tony Hawk will deliver the keynote address at the 2025 IMPACTTM Conference, taking place Oct. 19-24 in Orlando, Fla. 

 

Hawk — the man who put skateboarding on the global map — will present his inspiring keynote, “How Did I Get Here? The Ascent of an Unlikely CEO.” With his trademark modesty and humor, Hawk will share the remarkable journey from professional skateboarder to successful CEO, offering lessons on leadership, perseverance, and staying true to one’s values.

 

In a sport that's especially youth-oriented, Hawk, a 50-something father of four, still connects with his audience by staying true to who he is. Moving easily between the ramp and the boardroom, he founded a skateboard company, Birdhouse, and has a video game series bearing his name that has sold over $1 billion worldwide, making it the best-selling action sports game franchise in gaming history. He founded The Skatepark Project (formerly the Tony Hawk Foundation), which has given away over $13 million to over 700 skatepark projects throughout the United States that serve over nine million visitors a year.

 

Starting his business out of the trunk of his car, Hawk pledged to maintain authenticity in all he did, and it has served him well. His story of building global brands and giving back to the community, and his lessons of leadership, perseverance, and initiative are sure to resonate with both seasoned leaders and those just beginning their journey — even if they don’t grind rails in a skatepark.

 

“Tony Hawk stands out as an entrepreneur who worked hard, rose through the ranks, and achieved great success, which perfectly aligns with the experiences of our distributors,” said Jeff Paul, VIPAR Heavy Duty Vice President of Marketing. “Our attendees are sure to head back to their businesses inspired to catch air and carve their own path to success with renewed energy and vision.” 

 

The IMPACT Conference is a weeklong event that brings together the heavy duty aftermarket industry’s leading distributors, suppliers, industry associates, and aftermarket leaders. In addition to Hawk’s keynote, the conference will feature business and industry updates, annual stockholder and member meetings, interactive panels, educational sessions, a trade show, networking opportunities, and more than 1,500 one-on-one distributor-supplier partner meetings.

 

 

Tony Hawk — the man who put skateboarding on the global map — will present his inspiring keynote, “How Did I Get Here? The Ascent of an Unlikely CEO” at the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies' 2025 IMPACT Conference in Orlando, Fla., this October.

 

The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies is gearing up for its highly anticipated IMPACTTM Conference, scheduled for Oct. 19-24 at the JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes in Orlando, Fla. Widely recognized as one of the heavy duty aftermarket’s premier networking and business events, the conference brings together VIPAR Heavy Duty and Power Heavy Duty distributors, supplier partners, and industry leaders for an energizing week of connection, education, and collaboration.  

 

The weeklong event will feature business and industry updates, a keynote address, annual stockholder and member meetings, educational sessions, a trade show, networking opportunities, and more than 1,500 one-to-one distributor-supplier partner meetings.

 

“IMPACT is where strategic decisions are made, new opportunities emerge, partnerships are forged, and our network moves forward together,” said Chris Baer, VIPAR Heavy Duty President and CEO. “Since we last met, we’ve surpassed 1,000 distributor locations, expanded deeper into LATAM and new markets throughout the Americas, and rolled out transformative technology solutions. We are preparing for the 2025 IMPACT Conference with great optimism, momentum, and a shared commitment to shaping the future of the heavy duty aftermarket.”

 

Each year, VIPAR Heavy Duty honors industry friends and their contributions to the network and aftermarket through the IMPACT Memorial Golf Tournament. This year’s beneficiary is the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF), a 501(c)(3) organization that supports people employed in the heavy duty aftermarket industry and their families during times of hardship. VIPAR Heavy Duty was proud to enter into a new partnership with AACF earlier this year.

 

Prime opportunities for networking and mentorship further elevate the conference experience, with specialized gatherings designed for professionals with shared interests, including the dynamic GenNext speed mentoring session, the Young Leaders Round Table Lunch, and the Women in Business Networking Reception.

 

 

The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies is gearing up for its highly anticipated IMPACTTM Conference, scheduled for Oct. 19-24 at the JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes in Orlando, Fla.

 

The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies has launched the Nucleus Knowledge Center™, an all-new online training platform designed specifically for heavy-duty truck parts professionals. The new resource provides training courses, reporting, feedback, and certificates of completion in a user-friendly format for both learners and administrators. 

 

Basic, intermediate, and advanced courses are available to learners through on-demand, online classes and videos and instructor-led, recorded webinars. Content supports all areas and roles in the heavy duty parts business, including counter staff, outside sales, and technicians. For administrators, an intuitive dashboard makes it easy to assign training and then track course enrollment and completion. Quizzes and assessments are automatically initiated, and certificates of completion are awarded. 

 

Built on a world-class learning management system, the platform is exclusively available to distributors within the VIPAR Heavy Duty and Power Heavy Duty networks.

 

“The launch of the Nucleus Knowledge Center represents a pivotal step in advancing workforce development across the heavy-duty aftermarket,” said Jeff Paul, VIPAR Heavy Duty Vice President of Marketing.

 

“As the industry undergoes a generational transition, training is more mission-critical than ever. For distributors, the platform delivers accessible, consistent, and customizable training that strengthens product knowledge, enhances customer service, and drives long-term business performance. In turn, it helps suppliers maximize the return on their training investments and ensures that those selling and servicing their products are prepared to do so with knowledge and confidence.” 

 

Development of the Nucleus Knowledge Center was led by Al Vaisvila, Training/End User Program Manager for VIPAR Heavy Duty. Working closely with distributors, suppliers, and a professional learning management system provider, Vaisvila ensured the platform was designed with both learners and administrators in mind. 

 

“Our distributors are busy running their businesses. Finding, scheduling, and monitoring quality training can be daunting on top of the everyday attention and tasks that need to be performed. This platform significantly reduces that burden and simultaneously empowers their team to identify the right parts, solve customer challenges, and maintain strong, lasting relationships,” said Vaisvila.

 

“This is just the beginning of a long-term initiative for continuous learning and innovation, and one that underscores our commitment to supporting both our distributors and suppliers. This is not a one-size-fits-all solution – it’s a platform built to evolve. We’re starting strong, and once you're on this path of continuous learning, opportunities for growth continue to unfold,” added Chris Baer, VIPAR Heavy Duty President & CEO.

 

 

VIPAR Heavy Duty's new online training platform, the Nucleus Knowledge Center, was designed specifically for heavy-duty truck parts professionals and is exclusively available to members of the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies.

 

The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies is proud to announce the promotion of Joe Meyer to Vice President of Business Development. Meyer brings 35 years of experience in the heavy duty aftermarket and has been an integral part of the VIPAR Heavy Duty organization, serving as Program Manager since 2018.

 

Meyer has been responsible for leading strategic supplier relationships and developing high-value programs across VIPAR Heavy Duty and its family of companies. Known for his thoughtful, strategic approach and ability to connect supplier capabilities with distributor needs, Meyer has played a key role in advancing several of the organization’s largest and most successful programs.

 

“Joe is a terrific program manager who has built deep relationships across the industry,” said Larry Griffin, Vice President of Program Management. “He skillfully aligns supplier strengths with customer requirements, resolves challenges in a fair and professional manner, and represents VIPAR with integrity. While we’ll miss him in Program Management, I’m confident he’ll thrive as Vice President of Business Development.”

 

Meyer’s extensive career includes sales and sales management roles with Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems, Grote Industries, Borg Warner Automotive, and Chicago Rawhide (now SKF). His dual experience in sales and program management—along with a keen understanding of both supplier and distributor needs—positions him exceptionally well for his new role, where he will oversee the organization’s growth initiatives and partnerships across The Americas.

 

“Joe has spent his entire career in sales and strategy. He’s a planner, a thoughtful leader, and someone who never takes shortcuts,” said Chris Baer, President and CEO of VIPAR Heavy Duty. “He’s worked closely with each of our department heads, knows our business inside and out, and understands the pressures that both our distributors and suppliers face. Having someone with his knowledge, vision, and people skills on our leadership team is a real advantage.”

 

Meyer holds a degree from Southwest Missouri State University and will continue to be based out of his office in St. Louis, Missouri.

 

“I am truly blessed with this opportunity, and I look forward to working with my team, distributors, and suppliers to mutually grow the business as VIPAR Heavy Duty moves forward. The industry continues to change and evolve, and I look forward to the challenges that it will bring,” said Meyer.

VIPAR Heavy Duty congratulates Jim Pennig, who will retire from his role as Vice President of Business Development for the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies, effective June 30, 2025.

 

For nearly two decades, Pennig has served as a key member of the executive management and leadership teams, playing a pivotal role in the organization’s strategic growth and success. His tenure has been marked by major milestones, including significant expansion of both the VIPAR Heavy Duty and Power Heavy Duty networks, the development and execution of the company’s expansion strategy in Mexico and Latin America, and the foundational work on its national accounts program.

 

Widely respected across the heavy duty aftermarket industry, Pennig is known for his calm and measured approach, relentless work ethic, and deep commitment to collaboration and results. His colleagues, distributor members, supplier partners, and peers regard him as a trusted leader who brings integrity and vision to every opportunity.

 

“Jim’s contributions to our organization and the industry are immeasurable,” said Chris Baer, President and CEO, VIPAR Heavy Duty. “His leadership, strategic insight, and unwavering dedication have helped shape who we are today. We are incredibly grateful for his service and wish him all the best in his well-earned retirement.”

 

VIPAR Heavy Duty extends its sincere appreciation to Jim Pennig for his years of leadership and lasting impact on the organization and the heavy duty aftermarket.

 

Joe Meyer, Program Manager for the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies since 2018, will succeed Pennig as Vice President of Business Development. With 35 years of sales and business development experience in the heavy-duty aftermarket, Meyer is well-versed in the dynamics of the market, which will prove highly beneficial in driving value for distributors and managing relationships with supplier partners. Pennig and Meyer have spent significant time collaborating to ensure a successful transition.

The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies is proud to announce a new partnership with the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF), extending the foundation’s reach to the heavy duty aftermarket community to provide critical support to industry members and their immediate family during times of personal crisis.

 

Since 1959, AACF has helped individuals and families facing financial hardship due to unexpected adversity such as natural disasters, catastrophic medical conditions, life-changing accidents, and devastating fatalities. Through this new partnership, AACF’s support will now be available to individuals working in the heavy duty aftermarket and their immediate family members during the hardest moments of their lives. 

 

The process to apply for financial support is simple and can take as little as five to seven days. Once eligibility is established, an application is completed and sent to the AACF Recipient Committee for review. If approved, the funds can be sent to the recipient or directly to a business, such as hospitals, funeral homes, or landlords.

 

“We pride ourselves in our efficiency because we know that when people need help, time is not always on our side. We can help much faster than most employers and government programs and will do everything possible to expedite the process,” said John Kairys, Executive Director, AACF. 

 

The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies is honored to help promote the foundation's mission by raising awareness of these valuable resources, providing support through charitable giving efforts, and serving as a liaison within the heavy duty aftermarket. 

 

The AACF is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. With the exception of two full-time staff positions, AACF is run entirely by volunteers from the aftermarket industry. 

 

“Our partnership with AACF furthers our commitment to supporting the heavy duty aftermarket community—not only in business, but in life. It reflects the heart of this industry – a community that shows up for one another when it matters most. We encourage everyone in our network to spread the word about this important resource, and when able, support its mission to help those in need in our industry,” said Chris Baer, VIPAR Heavy Duty President and CEO. 

 

For more information, please visit https://hd.aftermarketcharity.org.

 

The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies announced Tom Ruud has joined its team as Program Manager. Tom will be working in multiple capacities including Program Management, Global Parts Network (Product Distribution Center and Brake Related Product Management), and Business Systems. He will report to Larry Griffin, Vice President of Program Management.

Ruud brings 13 years of heavy-duty industry experience to the team, with a proven track record in product and program management, supply chain management, and production and warehouse operations. He previously served as Director of Supply Chain at Wheelco Truck & Trailer Parts and Service, which was acquired by FleetPride, Inc. last year. Most recently, he was Sr. Manager of FleetPride’s OE Operations. Over the course of his career in the heavy-duty aftermarket, he has gained valuable experience in product pricing and procurement, globally sourced products, rebate management, and ERP software implementation.

“We are excited to welcome Tom to the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies. His extensive industry experience brings valuable insight that will support our continued growth. In addition to his role as Program Manager, Tom will be involved in several strategic initiatives that are critical to our long-term success. Having team members on board who understand the complexities of the supply chain and today’s evolving business systems is essential, and Tom’s previous experience positions him well to help navigate those efforts. We look forward to his contributions to the success of the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies for many years to come,” said Griffin.

 

Ruud will be based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

 

“What I’ve always loved about the heavy-duty industry is that, while it’s large and complex, it still feels like a small, tight-knit community. It’s a relationship-driven business, full of good, reliable, hardworking people. When I first entered the industry 13 years ago I was amazed at how quickly things were evolving, especially in areas like marketing, supply chain, and technology. I’ve seen firsthand how this industry has not only caught up, but in many ways, has surged ahead,” said Ruud.

 

“As for VIPAR Heavy Duty, I’ve known the organization and its leadership for many years, and the decision to join their team was easy. It’s the culture that drew me in—VIPAR Heavy Duty is a well-run organization that genuinely cares about its people and its role in the industry. Surrounding yourself with good people makes all the difference.”