GERMANTOWN, Tenn. – The Automotive Distribution Network recently hosted Australia’s Automotive Brands Group (ABG) to discuss worldwide aftermarket trends as well as their respective marketing programs, manufacturer partnerships and IT initiatives.

“As part of our ongoing relationship with ABG, we continue to exchange information to strengthen our programs to ensure our mutual success,” said Mike Lambert, president of the Network. “Both groups also gain a much better understanding of how the industry functions in different parts of the world. We share our knowledge of operations in North America, while ABG offers their perspective on aftermarket trends in Australia and the Pacific Rim.”

Australia’s largest privately owned distributor and franchise operator, ABG provides independently owned auto stores and service dealers with business tools and marketing elements to more effectively compete, much like the Network’s Parts Plus and Auto Pride programs. This year, executives from ABG met with Network representatives in Tucson, where they toured the facilities of longtime Parts Plus member Merle’s Automotive Supply.

“With the Network, we have been able to begin to implement aspects of their Parts Plus Car Care Center program into our toolbox,” said Grant Jarrett, ABG general manager. “We look forward to continuing these discussions with the Network as we both identify new initiatives that will not only better our respective groups but the industry as a whole as well.”