AASA, Brake Manufacturers Council Announce Integration

The Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA) and the Brake Manufacturers Council (BMC) announced an agreement to integrate the BMC as a product council of AASA. “This agreement between the leadership of AASA and BMC will benefit North American suppliers and create more collaboration among brake suppliers, whether aftermarket or original equipment,” said Steve Handschuh, AASA president and COO. “This agreement will create a unique forum for BMC members and will foster open discussions of common concerns and industry issues.”

“BMC members are excited about the opportunities that integration with AASA opens,” said Pat Healey, president of the Friction Materials Standards Institute (FMSI), who currently acts as BMC’s executive director. “The FMSI looks forward to continue to work with AASA and BMC on issues of common concern.”

Under the agreement, BMC will become a product council of AASA. It will operate under the leadership of the AASA Board of Governors. Its daily operations will be directed by Jack Cameron, AASA vice president and new BMC staff executive.

“Membership in the BMC is open to original equipment or aftermarket suppliers of brake components,” said Cameron. “We are working now with the BMC leadership and will announce the meetings and programs for 2010 soon.”

According to MEMA President and CEO Bob McKenna, this agreement between BMC and AASA is in the best interests of all members.

“This closer relationship between AASA and BMC will result in expanded services and programs for all members,” said McKenna. “It will add even more to the member value proposition and greater return on investments for both groups’ members.”

For more information about the AASA Brake Manufacturers Council, contact Jack Cameron at jcameron@mema.org.