Barton Auto Parts Show Breaks Out

Barton Auto Parts’ annual trade show in Hamilton, Ont., provided the multi- branch jobber with a great opportunity to break out of its traditional image.

Barton’s Import Auto World provided the first high-profile evidence of the company’s change in thinking to a strong import focus, combined with a strong emphasis on training and creating a partnership with customers.

It is a strategy that has been several years in the making.

“It is hard for some of our more domestic make-oriented suppliers to come to terms with, but from a customer standpoint, it is something they are asking for. It is a process; it is not an instant reward.”

He says that the focus of much of the effort has been on educating everyone about the move.

On a sad note, it was the first Barton show since company patron Mort Krieger passed away in January. While he was definitely missed at the festivities, a low-key tribute was held in his honour.