GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Auto-Wares L.L.C., an Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance member, presented six firms with annual supplier awards at its recent Tech Expo.
Grand Rapids, Mich.-based Auto-Wares Group distributes automotive parts to more than 750 stores throughout six Midwestern states: Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin and Kentucky.
Gates Industrial Corp. P.L.C. was named 2024 Supplier of the Year for providing "high-quality products and exceptional customer support and service." The Denver-based company makes power transmission and fluid power solutions.
"This recognition is a testament to the hard work put in daily by everyone at Gates to ensure our partners like Auto-Wares have the support needed to enable us to win together," Colby Florea, Gates vice president, sales, said.
Todd Leimenstoll, president and CEO of Auto-Wares Group, said Gates had been and would continue to be a "tremendous partner."
"They have an excellent team and a strong desire to help our company grow," Leimenstoll said. "Together, we've accomplished great things in 2024 and look forward to what the future brings together."
More than 2,500 service techs, parts store owners and automotive aftermarket professionals attended the Auto-Wares Group Tech Expo held Feb. 7-8 in Grand Rapids.
Auto-Wares store, sales and leadership teams voted on the 2024 Supplier Awards. Other winners are:
• Rising Star Supplier of the Year: Mevotech / MacPherson Ride.
• Sales & Marketing Supplier of the Year: DRiV Inc.
• Data & Technology Supplier of the Year: Standard Motor Products.
• Outstanding Shipping Supplier of the Year: Bosch.
• Rep of the Year: Glen Roy, NRS.
