American Car Care Centers Inc. (ACCC) announced a decision by its board of directors to dissolve the organization by Jan. 31, 2014.
Since its 1989 formation, ACCC has grown to encompass a combination of 21 distribution and retail operations forming a network of 1,100-plus points of sale nationwide.
During the last 24 years ACCC has provided members with a vast array of programs, promotions and support while distributing over 200 million tires through the ACCC network.
Growth and consolidation of ACCC's member-distributors, coupled with changing industry dynamics, led to this decision after several months of discussion.
Len Lewin, president and CEO of ACCC, stated, "As you might imagine, the decision was not an easy one, but after evaluating every alternative, we collectively came to the conclusion it is the right, long-term decision for all involved."
ACCC member-distributors will continue to service their independent retail customers and will work closely with dealers to ease their transition into new marketing programs, said ACCC.
Lewin further stated, "ACCC has consisted of some of the finest distributors and retailers in the industry, this structural change will not impact their ability to service their customers nor impede their forward progress in any significant way. They are all seasoned organizations with experience and knowledgeable people; they know how to win. It is now time for them to begin the next chapter."
When ACCC was founded in late 1989, Modern Tire Dealer reported it to be a “new nationwide distribution concept” established by six tire wholesalers led by Larry Morgan of Merchant’s Tire in Manassas, Va. Others involved were:
* Straus-Frank Co. of San Antonio, Texas;
* Bauer Built Inc. of Durand, Wis.;
* Siegel Tire and Battery of Edison, N.J.;
* Wholesale Tire of Salt Lake City; and
* Universal Tire of Nashville, Tenn.
MTD reported the program would involve common store identification, a nationwide warranty on tires and auto service, a training program, common point-of-purchase displays, advertising, marketing and business management aids.
ACCC President Jim Matthews of Merchant’s Tire told MTD the group would be particular about who could join. He expected the organization would grow to be about a dozen stockholder-distributor-partners with more than 1,000 outlets covering the U.S.
MTD’s coverage also stated that the establishment of ACCC was “just one example of the creative business concepts independent tire dealers are using to combat the competitive forces in the marketplace today.
“Look for more groups of this type to be established as large independent dealers combine forces to help their dealer accounts complete against the mass merchandisers, warehouse clubs and others who are vying for market share. Collective strength while retaining local independence is an attractive combination when fighting against nationwide chains.”
For further information regarding this matter, contact Lewin at (901) 680-9927.
