North American Tool Suppliers (NATS), a distribution buying group, held its annual vendor meeting in New York City May 6-8.
NATS President, Sandor Epstein, created the association two years ago. With nine founding members the group approached the automotive tool and equipment market with a "vendor partnership agreement." NATS is now 19 members strong with 26 total locations. The organization has members located all across the United States and one member in Canada. NATS was developed with the core principles to create a true partnership between manufacturer and distributor to ensure success for both parties.
"I believe that we have just started to scratch the surface of what is possible when vendors and NATS members work together," said Sandor Epstein.
NATS meeting began Sunday, May 6 in New York City with a round table discussion between manufacturers and distributor members. Discussion covered industry topics, how to improve the buying group/vendor relationships, and sales and marketing.
"Our roundtable discussions allow us to gather many segments of the automotive industry into one room for an open and lively discussion on the topics and challenges facing the automotive aftermarket," said Epstein. The round table discussion was followed up with a group dinner where attendees could network and socialize.
Monday and Tuesday vendors were given 30 minutes to present to the NATS members. "Manufacturers also appreciate the individual meetings with the members. Here they are able to discuss their products with our membership in one location in a closed forum," said Epstein.
Buying groups are essential to the distributor business, keeping the competitive playing field level and delivering best pricing to the mobile distributor and glass fronts to provide best pricing for the end customer. NATS focuses on strong internal cooperation amongst its members to achieve total group effectiveness.
While 19 members strong, NATS is open to talking with any other warehouses interested in joining. Learn more about NATS online at www.NATSonline.org, and contact Epstein directly.
