CLEARWATER, Fla.—The Private Brand Tire Group (PBTG) and the Tire Association of North America are joining forces to provide private brand marketers with more training opportunities. Beginning this month, PBTG members will pay TANA member rates on all association training programs, such as its new Internet-based technician training. TANA's new management training and technology conferences also will be available to PBTG members.
The private brander group and TANA are planning a ``survival kit'' of programs and seminars, many of which will be introduced at the PBTG's convention May 6-7 in Clearwater and at TANA's annual trade show in Las Vegas, said PBTG Executive Director Don Dominguez.
Seminars will focus on the financial aspects of running a business, setting up point-of-sale materials at stores, training employees on how to sell, and how to set up stores that are attractive to customers, he said.
The groups are cooperating to fulfill a common goal—``the survival of the independent dealer,'' he said. Since Executive Vice President David Poisson joined TANA and combined its show with Automotive Aftermarket Industry Week in Las Vegas, private branders are pleased to see increased buyers at their booths as well as with TANA's overall direction, Mr. Dominguez said.
Combining member benefits packages is another aspect of the two groups' cooperation, he said. Members of both organizations will receive discounts on office supplies, phone and fax services, computer training, hotels as well as a 3-percent discount on Texaco gasoline.
The groups also will work together on legislation affecting the tire industry, particularly the newly proposed Death Tax Elimination Act.