TROY, Mich. – The Original Gabriel (Ride Control LLC) has signed agreements with four new master distributors, which will distribute the company’s Fleetline and GasSLX products to the heavy-duty (HD) aftermarket, effective immediately.
The four newly appointed distributors are:
· Aurora Auto Parts and Accessories LLC
· Automann USA
· FleetPride Inc.
· Fort Garry Industries LTD
Gabriel says it is discerning in its selection, ensuring that the end-customer’s experience with a master distributor is consistent with the legendary Gabriel brand, its heritage and its enduring quality products. Master distributors are similarly discerning, especially with regard to product quality.
“Gabriel Fleetline and GasSLX shocks have a long history of real-world use and proven durability," said Robyn Spitzke, president of Fort Garry Industries. "They are well-known and requested products among our customers."
Gabriel says it recently parted ways with its previous distribution source, removing a layer separating it from its master distributors and customers.
“Having a more direct distribution channel has been our goal for some time and we welcome direct interaction with our heavy-duty aftermarket customers,” said Lisa Bahash, president and CEO, Gabriel (Ride Control LLC). “HD customers will receive excellent service through Gabriel’s long-established distribution system and know-how.”
"FleetPride chose to be a master distributor of Gabriel because they are an experienced ride control manufacturer. This win-win situation adds an established brand to FleetPride’s vast product offering, while providing Gabriel with our nationwide distribution capabilities,” said Michael Keller, FleetPride director of product management.
The Gabriel HD lineup includes Fleetline 83000 series shocks for class 3-6 vehicles, Fleetline 85000 series for class 6-8 trucks, buses and trailers, Fleetline cab shocks and GasSLX, an adjustable shock for class 7-8 trucks and buses. Gabriel products are proven in the heavy-duty market having withstood the tough demands of real-world use for more than half a century, the company stated.
“Our goal is to meet the growing demands of our distribution network by offering a full breadth of quality shock products. We chose a partnership with Gabriel as they are a well-known name in the heavy-duty industry with a full suite of premium shocks and a proven track record,” added Shelley Sheagley, Aurora’s vice president of marketing.
Gabriel says its heavy-duty OE replacement coverage exceeds its nearest competitor’s listed offerings by more than 50 percent in total, with more than 3,000 OE part numbers and more than 2,000 competitors’ aftermarket part numbers.
“Automann is pleased to continue to offer the Gabriel line of products,” said Harjeev Khanduja, vice president, Automann. “Our customers want the Fleetline and GasSLX products they know they can count on, Automann wants an experienced supplier, and Gabriel fits that bill on both accounts.”
