CLEVELAND, Ohio — First Brands Group L.L.C. — marketer of Anco and Trico-brand wiper blades, Autolite spark plugs and Raybestos brake system components — is pledging a $500 donation to the University of the Aftermarket Foundation (UAF) for each new customer it gains during the upcoming Automotive Warehouse Distributors Association (AWDA) virtual event.
"We recognize that the future of our industry is dependent upon having skilled professional technicians to keep motorists on the road," Glenn Barco, vice president, sales, First Brands Group, said.
The company's pledge to donate to the UAF is tied to the launch of new customer program being unveiled during the AWDA's virtual event Nov. 16-19.
"We are looking forward to meeting with our valued customers during AWDA and presenting our portfolio of industry-leading brands to them," Mr. Barco said. "As a thank you, we will make a donation to the University of the Aftermarket Foundation in the name of each customer who takes on a new line by March 31.
"This program gives us the opportunity to help our customers grow their businesses and strengthen the technician community at the same time."
UAF Chairman Bob Egan expressed the foundation's appreciation for the "innovative way that First Brands Group has found to help us ensure a bright future for our industry through education."
The UAF relies on industry partners to support its mission of funding scholarships and educational programs to ensure a knowledgeable, well-trained aftermarket work force. In 2020 alone, the UAF awarded over 460 scholarships totaling more than $640,000.
Besides the Anco, Trico, Autolite and Raybestos brands, the company's offer also includes Carter fuel and water pumps, FRAM and LuberFiner filtration products and StrongArm lift supports.
The University of the Aftermarket Foundation funds educational programs and hundreds of scholarships each year to help educate and develop the next generation of aftermarket professionals.