Supply Chain Partner of the Month: Association of Independent Manufacturers'/Representatives Inc.
Established: Early 1970s
The Association of Independent Manufacturers'/Representatives Inc. (AIM/R) is dedicated to the use of manufacturers reps in the plumbing, HVAC/R, kitchen/bath, waterworks, irrigation and related industries.In its early years the organization struggled financially, but was saved by personal contributions from several of its members. Today, AIM/R is committed to advocating the interests of manufacturers' reps and promoting the use of an outsourced field sales structure.
Membership
Primarily manufacturers reps, but there is also an associate division for manufacturers. Current membership consists of 325 rep agencies and 74 manufacturing companies, for a total membership of 399 member companies.It is governed by a 16-member board of directors and has representation on the boards of ASA, ASAEF and ASA's VMD. Manufacturers' Agents National Association (MANA) provides its executive director leadership and administrative/back office support.
Mission Statement
“AIM/R is the national trade association that benefits independent sales representatives in the plumbing, industrial, HVAC/R, decorative kitchen and bath, waterworks, irrigation, and related industries by promoting proper utilization of the rep function. AIM/R provides its members with a competitive advantage through education, information exchange, networking, and a wide array of quality member services.”Notable Achievements
- The annual conference provides educational seminars, networking opportunities and updates on industry trends.
- The associate member division expects to grow, seeking a closer link to and stronger working relationship with industry manufacturers.
- Increasing its influence and membership among agencies in related industries.
Current Priority Projects
- Manufacturer Advisory Council (MAC) that will take place during the ASA/ISH show in Chicago this year.
- To review its strategic plan in 2006, which will be updated to address the current landscape in its industry and businesses.
- To vote on its annual Golden Eagle Award, which will be announced at the ISH show.
A Word With…Bill Freeman, chairman of the board
When asked what's in store for 2006, Bill Freeman said, “Our industry and supply chain dynamics appear to be changing so fast right now, there is no telling what may be in store for reps even before the year ends. AIM/R is doing everything it can to ensure that members are educated and committed to improving their product and market knowledge, speed and relationships at all levels. More information can be found at www.aimr.net.“ISH and ASA have also put together solid programs and seminars for this year's show in Chicago. They address a number of change issues currently at play in our industry, so we hope that can boost attendance. We will have an AIM/R booth for reps and manufacturers to join and/or learn more about the association's programs, we will be hosting our principal reception for our members and manufacturers and holding our Manufacturers Advisory Council meeting at the event.”
Current Officers and Directors
CHAIRMANBill Freeman
Spirit Group Inc.
PRESIDENT
Rick Banner
Keyline Sales Inc.
PRESIDENT-ELECT
Frank Parks
Parks-Peyton Inc.
SR. VP-CONFERENC
Bill Godwin
G&S Sales Inc.
SR. VP-EDUCATION
Glenn Thurman
Lewis Marketing Inc.
SR. VP-INDUSTRY&PR
Brian Burke
Burke Agency Inc.
SR. VP-MEMBERSHIP
Mike Parham
Pepco Sales Co.
Mark Creyer
L&R Associates Inc.
Ryan Davenport
Davenport Associates
Mike Dungan
Sales Engineers Inc.
Karl Grabowski
J&K Sales Associates
Mike Jackson
The Jackson Agency
Ken McGregor
McGregor & Associates Inc.
Eddie Pulley
Pulley & Associates Inc.
Sig Schmalhofer
Signature Sales
Jeff Smith
Ludwig, Smith & Walker Inc.
Links
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