VIPAR Heavy Duty partners with many of the industry's leading suppliers to provide end-users with access to premium brand products through our network of distributors. See Our Partners
Find Your Local Parts & Service Professional
Search
News
Check out the latest news from North America's Leading Truck Parts Network.
10/29/2025
Resilience and Growth Take Center Stage at the VIPAR Heavy Duty 2025 IMPACT Conference
From the opening remarks by VIPAR Heavy Duty President & CEO Chris Baer to the closing message from keynote speaker Tony Hawk, the 2025 IMPACT Conference delivered a powerful and recurring theme — Resilience.
The independent heavy duty aftermarket has navigated a period of significant challenges since the network last gathered, including uncertainty surrounding tariffs, freight, regulations, and supply chain pressures, as well as the accelerating need to adopt advanced technology tools such as artificial intelligence and enterprise resource planning systems. Despite these headwinds, VIPAR Heavy Duty reports continued growth in both its distributor network and business initiatives.
“The IMPACT Conference is a powerful reminder of the strength and adaptability of our network. Coming together in person allows us to deepen relationships, share insights, and align on strategies that ensure we are all better equipped to face challenges and seize opportunities,” said Baer.
This year’s strong attendance showed that the network is engaged and looking to the future. An impressive combination of attendees, 1:1 Meetings, and trade show booths provided ample opportunity to explore new business channels and plan for the future.
Baer set the stage on opening day with an update on the current state of the VIPAR Heavy Duty network.
Conference Highlights
Expansion Across the Americas:
Distributor growth is apparent in the number of companies and points of sale, and in the success of those distributors who are excelling with just one location. In addition, VIPAR Heavy Duty continues to expand its presence in Central and South America, adding new stockholders in Guatemala, El Salvador, Venezuela, and Colombia. These distributors are helping to build the network in new regions, bringing market expertise and vision to new areas.
Operational Excellence and Innovation:
The conference showcased major initiatives, including the implementation of an Oracle NetSuite ERP system, the launch of PARTSPHERE RMS 2.0, automation in the Global Parts Network reman brake process, and enhancements to PARTSPHERE PIM & DAM product data systems. These innovations are improving efficiency, competitiveness, and service.
Supplier Partnerships:
VIPAR Heavy Duty highlighted collaboration with suppliers, encouraging them to expand and contribute to growth in new markets. Several suppliers were recognized for their engagement and support, aligning with VIPAR across the Americas in both strong existing programs and creative new offerings.
Training and Development:
Through initiatives like the Nucleus Knowledge Center, VIPAR Heavy Duty continues to prioritize training and professional development, addressing critical workforce needs and supporting the next generation of industry leaders.
Strengthening Leadership for the Future:
Baer announced that in a special motion, the VIPAR Heavy Duty Board of Directors voted to appoint current Vice President of Marketing, Jeff Paul, to Executive Vice President as of Jan. 1, 2026. “Jeff sets a high bar for commitment, drive, and integrity, and our organization is fortunate to have him to guide the ship in future years,” said Baer.
Baer also announced that Jim Pennig, who retired from his position as Vice President of Business Development this past summer, will return to the company to redesign its national accounts program.
VIPAR Heavy Duty leadership was joined by guest speakers from the industry to provide a well-rounded agenda.
Shannon O’Brien, Commercial Vehicle Lead for MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers presented “Suppliers Respond: Insight from the Front Lines.” Her research, conducted exclusively for VIPAR Heavy Duty, combined a detailed supplier survey and in-depth interviews to provide meaningful feedback to distributors on shared challenges and opportunities with suppliers.
John Kairys, Executive Director of the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation shared the AACF story with IMPACT Conference attendees at various sessions and a trade show booth. The AACF is a 501(c)(3) organization that supports people employed in the heavy duty aftermarket industry and their families during times of hardship. They were the beneficiary of this year’s IMPACT Memorial Golf Outing. VIPAR Heavy Duty was proud to enter into a new partnership with AACF earlier this year to support their fundraising efforts and raise awareness.
Thierry Mugnier, Founding Partner and CFIO of NEXUS Automotive International SA, spoke to suppliers about the Latin American expansion opportunities available to them through VIPAR Heavy Duty’s partnership with NEXUS. He emphasized NEXUS’ goal to create stronger alignment between its North American and European organizations, noting that collaboration and shared responsibility among distributors and partners are essential to the network’s success. He also highlighted that by the end of 2025, VIPAR Heavy Duty will represent the largest and strongest group of heavy duty distributors within the NEXUS community.
The conference concluded on a high note with a keynote presentation from legendary skateboarder and entrepreneur Tony Hawk. From his first shaky ride on his brother’s skateboard (and a handful of splinters!) to becoming a global icon, Hawk’s story was one of resilience, creativity, and relentless determination. Every fall became fuel to rise higher — on the ramp, in business, and in life. He’s helped make skateboarding a legit cool sport — one kids now choose the same way they choose baseball or soccer.
“Skating is an individual endeavor with a huge sense of community,” Hawk shared. “If I’ve helped make skateboarding more acceptable, that’s my greatest legacy.” His message reminded the heavy duty audience that passion, perseverance, and purpose can build lasting impact — no matter the field.
The 2026 VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies IMPACT Conference is scheduled for Oct. 18-23 at the JW Marriott Marco Island in Marco Island, Fla.
Tony Hawk Announced as Keynote Speaker for VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies’ 2025 IMPACT™ Conference
The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies is pleased to announce that legendary skateboarder and entrepreneur Tony Hawk will deliver the keynote address at the 2025 IMPACTTM Conference, taking place Oct. 19-24 in Orlando, Fla.
Hawk — the man who put skateboarding on the global map — will present his inspiring keynote, “How Did I Get Here? The Ascent of an Unlikely CEO.” With his trademark modesty and humor, Hawk will share the remarkable journey from professional skateboarder to successful CEO, offering lessons on leadership, perseverance, and staying true to one’s values.
In a sport that's especially youth-oriented, Hawk, a 50-something father of four, still connects with his audience by staying true to who he is. Moving easily between the ramp and the boardroom, he founded a skateboard company, Birdhouse, and has a video game series bearing his name that has sold over $1 billion worldwide, making it the best-selling action sports game franchise in gaming history. He founded The Skatepark Project (formerly the Tony Hawk Foundation), which has given away over $13 million to over 700 skatepark projects throughout the United States that serve over nine million visitors a year.
Starting his business out of the trunk of his car, Hawk pledged to maintain authenticity in all he did, and it has served him well. His story of building global brands and giving back to the community, and his lessons of leadership, perseverance, and initiative are sure to resonate with both seasoned leaders and those just beginning their journey — even if they don’t grind rails in a skatepark.
“Tony Hawk stands out as an entrepreneur who worked hard, rose through the ranks, and achieved great success, which perfectly aligns with the experiences of our distributors,” said Jeff Paul, VIPAR Heavy Duty Vice President of Marketing. “Our attendees are sure to head back to their businesses inspired to catch air and carve their own path to success with renewed energy and vision.”
The IMPACT Conference is a weeklong event that brings together the heavy duty aftermarket industry’s leading distributors, suppliers, industry associates, and aftermarket leaders. In addition to Hawk’s keynote, the conference will feature business and industry updates, annual stockholder and member meetings, interactive panels, educational sessions, a trade show, networking opportunities, and more than 1,500 one-on-one distributor-supplier partner meetings.
Tony Hawk — the man who put skateboarding on the global map — will present his inspiring keynote, “How Did I Get Here? The Ascent of an Unlikely CEO” at the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies' 2025 IMPACT Conference in Orlando, Fla., this October.
VIPAR Heavy Duty Set to Deliver Connection and Opportunity at 2025 IMPACT™ Conference in Orlando
The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies is gearing up for its highly anticipated IMPACTTM Conference, scheduled for Oct. 19-24 at the JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes in Orlando, Fla. Widely recognized as one of the heavy duty aftermarket’s premier networking and business events, the conference brings together VIPAR Heavy Duty and Power Heavy Duty distributors, supplier partners, and industry leaders for an energizing week of connection, education, and collaboration.
The weeklong event will feature business and industry updates, a keynote address, annual stockholder and member meetings, educational sessions, a trade show, networking opportunities, and more than 1,500 one-to-one distributor-supplier partner meetings.
“IMPACT is where strategic decisions are made, new opportunities emerge, partnerships are forged, and our network moves forward together,” said Chris Baer, VIPAR Heavy Duty President and CEO. “Since we last met, we’ve surpassed 1,000 distributor locations, expanded deeper into LATAM and new markets throughout the Americas, and rolled out transformative technology solutions. We are preparing for the 2025 IMPACT Conference with great optimism, momentum, and a shared commitment to shaping the future of the heavy duty aftermarket.”
Each year, VIPAR Heavy Duty honors industry friends and their contributions to the network and aftermarket through the IMPACT Memorial Golf Tournament. This year’s beneficiary is the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF), a 501(c)(3) organization that supports people employed in the heavy duty aftermarket industry and their families during times of hardship. VIPAR Heavy Duty was proud to enter into a new partnership with AACF earlier this year.
Prime opportunities for networking and mentorship further elevate the conference experience, with specialized gatherings designed for professionals with shared interests, including the dynamic GenNext speed mentoring session, the Young Leaders Round Table Lunch, and the Women in Business Networking Reception.
The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies is gearing up for its highly anticipated IMPACTTM Conference, scheduled for Oct. 19-24 at the JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes in Orlando, Fla.
VIPAR Heavy Duty Set to Deliver Connection and Opportunity at 2025 IMPACT™ Conference in Orlando
The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies is gearing up for its highly anticipated IMPACTTM Conference, scheduled for Oct. 19-24 at the JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes in Orlando, Fla. Widely recognized as one of the heavy duty aftermarket’s premier networking and business events, the conference brings together VIPAR Heavy Duty and Power Heavy Duty distributors, supplier partners, and industry leaders for an energizing week of connection, education, and collaboration.
The weeklong event will feature business and industry updates, a keynote address, annual stockholder and member meetings, educational sessions, a trade show, networking opportunities, and more than 1,500 one-to-one distributor-supplier partner meetings.
“IMPACT is where strategic decisions are made, new opportunities emerge, partnerships are forged, and our network moves forward together,” said Chris Baer, VIPAR Heavy Duty President and CEO. “Since we last met, we’ve surpassed 1,000 distributor locations, expanded deeper into LATAM and new markets throughout the Americas, and rolled out transformative technology solutions. We are preparing for the 2025 IMPACT Conference with great optimism, momentum, and a shared commitment to shaping the future of the heavy duty aftermarket.”
Each year, VIPAR Heavy Duty honors industry friends and their contributions to the network and aftermarket through the IMPACT Memorial Golf Tournament. This year’s beneficiary is the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF), a 501(c)(3) organization that supports people employed in the heavy duty aftermarket industry and their families during times of hardship. VIPAR Heavy Duty was proud to enter into a new partnership with AACF earlier this year.
Prime opportunities for networking and mentorship further elevate the conference experience, with specialized gatherings designed for professionals with shared interests, including the dynamic GenNext speed mentoring session, the Young Leaders Round Table Lunch, and the Women in Business Networking Reception.
The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies is gearing up for its highly anticipated IMPACTTM Conference, scheduled for Oct. 19-24 at the JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes in Orlando, Fla.
Resilience and Growth Take Center Stage at the VIPAR Heavy Duty 2025 IMPACT Conference
From the opening remarks by VIPAR Heavy Duty President & CEO Chris Baer to the closing message from keynote speaker Tony Hawk, the 2025 IMPACT Conference delivered a powerful and recurring theme — Resilience.
The independent heavy duty aftermarket has navigated a period of significant challenges since the network last gathered, including uncertainty surrounding tariffs, freight, regulations, and supply chain pressures, as well as the accelerating need to adopt advanced technology tools such as artificial intelligence and enterprise resource planning systems. Despite these headwinds, VIPAR Heavy Duty reports continued growth in both its distributor network and business initiatives.
“The IMPACT Conference is a powerful reminder of the strength and adaptability of our network. Coming together in person allows us to deepen relationships, share insights, and align on strategies that ensure we are all better equipped to face challenges and seize opportunities,” said Baer.
This year’s strong attendance showed that the network is engaged and looking to the future. An impressive combination of attendees, 1:1 Meetings, and trade show booths provided ample opportunity to explore new business channels and plan for the future.
Baer set the stage on opening day with an update on the current state of the VIPAR Heavy Duty network.
Conference Highlights
Expansion Across the Americas:
Distributor growth is apparent in the number of companies and points of sale, and in the success of those distributors who are excelling with just one location. In addition, VIPAR Heavy Duty continues to expand its presence in Central and South America, adding new stockholders in Guatemala, El Salvador, Venezuela, and Colombia. These distributors are helping to build the network in new regions, bringing market expertise and vision to new areas.
Operational Excellence and Innovation:
The conference showcased major initiatives, including the implementation of an Oracle NetSuite ERP system, the launch of PARTSPHERE RMS 2.0, automation in the Global Parts Network reman brake process, and enhancements to PARTSPHERE PIM & DAM product data systems. These innovations are improving efficiency, competitiveness, and service.
Supplier Partnerships:
VIPAR Heavy Duty highlighted collaboration with suppliers, encouraging them to expand and contribute to growth in new markets. Several suppliers were recognized for their engagement and support, aligning with VIPAR across the Americas in both strong existing programs and creative new offerings.
Training and Development:
Through initiatives like the Nucleus Knowledge Center, VIPAR Heavy Duty continues to prioritize training and professional development, addressing critical workforce needs and supporting the next generation of industry leaders.
Strengthening Leadership for the Future:
Baer announced that in a special motion, the VIPAR Heavy Duty Board of Directors voted to appoint current Vice President of Marketing, Jeff Paul, to Executive Vice President as of Jan. 1, 2026. “Jeff sets a high bar for commitment, drive, and integrity, and our organization is fortunate to have him to guide the ship in future years,” said Baer.
Baer also announced that Jim Pennig, who retired from his position as Vice President of Business Development this past summer, will return to the company to redesign its national accounts program.
VIPAR Heavy Duty leadership was joined by guest speakers from the industry to provide a well-rounded agenda.
Shannon O’Brien, Commercial Vehicle Lead for MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers presented “Suppliers Respond: Insight from the Front Lines.” Her research, conducted exclusively for VIPAR Heavy Duty, combined a detailed supplier survey and in-depth interviews to provide meaningful feedback to distributors on shared challenges and opportunities with suppliers.
John Kairys, Executive Director of the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation shared the AACF story with IMPACT Conference attendees at various sessions and a trade show booth. The AACF is a 501(c)(3) organization that supports people employed in the heavy duty aftermarket industry and their families during times of hardship. They were the beneficiary of this year’s IMPACT Memorial Golf Outing. VIPAR Heavy Duty was proud to enter into a new partnership with AACF earlier this year to support their fundraising efforts and raise awareness.
Thierry Mugnier, Founding Partner and CFIO of NEXUS Automotive International SA, spoke to suppliers about the Latin American expansion opportunities available to them through VIPAR Heavy Duty’s partnership with NEXUS. He emphasized NEXUS’ goal to create stronger alignment between its North American and European organizations, noting that collaboration and shared responsibility among distributors and partners are essential to the network’s success. He also highlighted that by the end of 2025, VIPAR Heavy Duty will represent the largest and strongest group of heavy duty distributors within the NEXUS community.
The conference concluded on a high note with a keynote presentation from legendary skateboarder and entrepreneur Tony Hawk. From his first shaky ride on his brother’s skateboard (and a handful of splinters!) to becoming a global icon, Hawk’s story was one of resilience, creativity, and relentless determination. Every fall became fuel to rise higher — on the ramp, in business, and in life. He’s helped make skateboarding a legit cool sport — one kids now choose the same way they choose baseball or soccer.
“Skating is an individual endeavor with a huge sense of community,” Hawk shared. “If I’ve helped make skateboarding more acceptable, that’s my greatest legacy.” His message reminded the heavy duty audience that passion, perseverance, and purpose can build lasting impact — no matter the field.
The 2026 VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies IMPACT Conference is scheduled for Oct. 18-23 at the JW Marriott Marco Island in Marco Island, Fla.
Tony Hawk Announced as Keynote Speaker for VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies’ 2025 IMPACT™ Conference
The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies is pleased to announce that legendary skateboarder and entrepreneur Tony Hawk will deliver the keynote address at the 2025 IMPACTTM Conference, taking place Oct. 19-24 in Orlando, Fla.
Hawk — the man who put skateboarding on the global map — will present his inspiring keynote, “How Did I Get Here? The Ascent of an Unlikely CEO.” With his trademark modesty and humor, Hawk will share the remarkable journey from professional skateboarder to successful CEO, offering lessons on leadership, perseverance, and staying true to one’s values.
In a sport that's especially youth-oriented, Hawk, a 50-something father of four, still connects with his audience by staying true to who he is. Moving easily between the ramp and the boardroom, he founded a skateboard company, Birdhouse, and has a video game series bearing his name that has sold over $1 billion worldwide, making it the best-selling action sports game franchise in gaming history. He founded The Skatepark Project (formerly the Tony Hawk Foundation), which has given away over $13 million to over 700 skatepark projects throughout the United States that serve over nine million visitors a year.
Starting his business out of the trunk of his car, Hawk pledged to maintain authenticity in all he did, and it has served him well. His story of building global brands and giving back to the community, and his lessons of leadership, perseverance, and initiative are sure to resonate with both seasoned leaders and those just beginning their journey — even if they don’t grind rails in a skatepark.
“Tony Hawk stands out as an entrepreneur who worked hard, rose through the ranks, and achieved great success, which perfectly aligns with the experiences of our distributors,” said Jeff Paul, VIPAR Heavy Duty Vice President of Marketing. “Our attendees are sure to head back to their businesses inspired to catch air and carve their own path to success with renewed energy and vision.”
The IMPACT Conference is a weeklong event that brings together the heavy duty aftermarket industry’s leading distributors, suppliers, industry associates, and aftermarket leaders. In addition to Hawk’s keynote, the conference will feature business and industry updates, annual stockholder and member meetings, interactive panels, educational sessions, a trade show, networking opportunities, and more than 1,500 one-on-one distributor-supplier partner meetings.
Tony Hawk — the man who put skateboarding on the global map — will present his inspiring keynote, “How Did I Get Here? The Ascent of an Unlikely CEO” at the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies' 2025 IMPACT Conference in Orlando, Fla., this October.
VIPAR Heavy Duty Set to Deliver Connection and Opportunity at 2025 IMPACT™ Conference in Orlando
The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies is gearing up for its highly anticipated IMPACTTM Conference, scheduled for Oct. 19-24 at the JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes in Orlando, Fla. Widely recognized as one of the heavy duty aftermarket’s premier networking and business events, the conference brings together VIPAR Heavy Duty and Power Heavy Duty distributors, supplier partners, and industry leaders for an energizing week of connection, education, and collaboration.
The weeklong event will feature business and industry updates, a keynote address, annual stockholder and member meetings, educational sessions, a trade show, networking opportunities, and more than 1,500 one-to-one distributor-supplier partner meetings.
“IMPACT is where strategic decisions are made, new opportunities emerge, partnerships are forged, and our network moves forward together,” said Chris Baer, VIPAR Heavy Duty President and CEO. “Since we last met, we’ve surpassed 1,000 distributor locations, expanded deeper into LATAM and new markets throughout the Americas, and rolled out transformative technology solutions. We are preparing for the 2025 IMPACT Conference with great optimism, momentum, and a shared commitment to shaping the future of the heavy duty aftermarket.”
Each year, VIPAR Heavy Duty honors industry friends and their contributions to the network and aftermarket through the IMPACT Memorial Golf Tournament. This year’s beneficiary is the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF), a 501(c)(3) organization that supports people employed in the heavy duty aftermarket industry and their families during times of hardship. VIPAR Heavy Duty was proud to enter into a new partnership with AACF earlier this year.
Prime opportunities for networking and mentorship further elevate the conference experience, with specialized gatherings designed for professionals with shared interests, including the dynamic GenNext speed mentoring session, the Young Leaders Round Table Lunch, and the Women in Business Networking Reception.
The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies is gearing up for its highly anticipated IMPACTTM Conference, scheduled for Oct. 19-24 at the JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes in Orlando, Fla.
Resilience and Growth Take Center Stage at the VIPAR Heavy Duty 2025 IMPACT Conference
From the opening remarks by VIPAR Heavy Duty President & CEO Chris Baer to the closing message from keynote speaker Tony Hawk, the 2025 IMPACT Conference delivered a powerful and recurring theme — Resilience.
The independent heavy duty aftermarket has navigated a period of significant challenges since the network last gathered, including uncertainty surrounding tariffs, freight, regulations, and supply chain pressures, as well as the accelerating need to adopt advanced technology tools such as artificial intelligence and enterprise resource planning systems. Despite these headwinds, VIPAR Heavy Duty reports continued growth in both its distributor network and business initiatives.
“The IMPACT Conference is a powerful reminder of the strength and adaptability of our network. Coming together in person allows us to deepen relationships, share insights, and align on strategies that ensure we are all better equipped to face challenges and seize opportunities,” said Baer.
This year’s strong attendance showed that the network is engaged and looking to the future. An impressive combination of attendees, 1:1 Meetings, and trade show booths provided ample opportunity to explore new business channels and plan for the future.
Baer set the stage on opening day with an update on the current state of the VIPAR Heavy Duty network.
Conference Highlights
Expansion Across the Americas:
Distributor growth is apparent in the number of companies and points of sale, and in the success of those distributors who are excelling with just one location. In addition, VIPAR Heavy Duty continues to expand its presence in Central and South America, adding new stockholders in Guatemala, El Salvador, Venezuela, and Colombia. These distributors are helping to build the network in new regions, bringing market expertise and vision to new areas.
Operational Excellence and Innovation:
The conference showcased major initiatives, including the implementation of an Oracle NetSuite ERP system, the launch of PARTSPHERE RMS 2.0, automation in the Global Parts Network reman brake process, and enhancements to PARTSPHERE PIM & DAM product data systems. These innovations are improving efficiency, competitiveness, and service.
Supplier Partnerships:
VIPAR Heavy Duty highlighted collaboration with suppliers, encouraging them to expand and contribute to growth in new markets. Several suppliers were recognized for their engagement and support, aligning with VIPAR across the Americas in both strong existing programs and creative new offerings.
Training and Development:
Through initiatives like the Nucleus Knowledge Center, VIPAR Heavy Duty continues to prioritize training and professional development, addressing critical workforce needs and supporting the next generation of industry leaders.
Strengthening Leadership for the Future:
Baer announced that in a special motion, the VIPAR Heavy Duty Board of Directors voted to appoint current Vice President of Marketing, Jeff Paul, to Executive Vice President as of Jan. 1, 2026. “Jeff sets a high bar for commitment, drive, and integrity, and our organization is fortunate to have him to guide the ship in future years,” said Baer.
Baer also announced that Jim Pennig, who retired from his position as Vice President of Business Development this past summer, will return to the company to redesign its national accounts program.
VIPAR Heavy Duty leadership was joined by guest speakers from the industry to provide a well-rounded agenda.
Shannon O’Brien, Commercial Vehicle Lead for MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers presented “Suppliers Respond: Insight from the Front Lines.” Her research, conducted exclusively for VIPAR Heavy Duty, combined a detailed supplier survey and in-depth interviews to provide meaningful feedback to distributors on shared challenges and opportunities with suppliers.
John Kairys, Executive Director of the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation shared the AACF story with IMPACT Conference attendees at various sessions and a trade show booth. The AACF is a 501(c)(3) organization that supports people employed in the heavy duty aftermarket industry and their families during times of hardship. They were the beneficiary of this year’s IMPACT Memorial Golf Outing. VIPAR Heavy Duty was proud to enter into a new partnership with AACF earlier this year to support their fundraising efforts and raise awareness.
Thierry Mugnier, Founding Partner and CFIO of NEXUS Automotive International SA, spoke to suppliers about the Latin American expansion opportunities available to them through VIPAR Heavy Duty’s partnership with NEXUS. He emphasized NEXUS’ goal to create stronger alignment between its North American and European organizations, noting that collaboration and shared responsibility among distributors and partners are essential to the network’s success. He also highlighted that by the end of 2025, VIPAR Heavy Duty will represent the largest and strongest group of heavy duty distributors within the NEXUS community.
The conference concluded on a high note with a keynote presentation from legendary skateboarder and entrepreneur Tony Hawk. From his first shaky ride on his brother’s skateboard (and a handful of splinters!) to becoming a global icon, Hawk’s story was one of resilience, creativity, and relentless determination. Every fall became fuel to rise higher — on the ramp, in business, and in life. He’s helped make skateboarding a legit cool sport — one kids now choose the same way they choose baseball or soccer.
“Skating is an individual endeavor with a huge sense of community,” Hawk shared. “If I’ve helped make skateboarding more acceptable, that’s my greatest legacy.” His message reminded the heavy duty audience that passion, perseverance, and purpose can build lasting impact — no matter the field.
The 2026 VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies IMPACT Conference is scheduled for Oct. 18-23 at the JW Marriott Marco Island in Marco Island, Fla.
