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Check out the latest news from North America's Leading Truck Parts Network.
6/25/2025
VIPAR Heavy Duty Announces Retirement of Jim Pennig, Vice President of Business Development
VIPAR Heavy Duty congratulates Jim Pennig, who will retire from his role as Vice President of Business Development for the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies, effective June 30, 2025.
For nearly two decades, Pennig has served as a key member of the executive management and leadership teams, playing a pivotal role in the organization’s strategic growth and success. His tenure has been marked by major milestones, including significant expansion of both the VIPAR Heavy Duty and Power Heavy Duty networks, the development and execution of the company’s expansion strategy in Mexico and Latin America, and the foundational work on its national accounts program.
Widely respected across the heavy duty aftermarket industry, Pennig is known for his calm and measured approach, relentless work ethic, and deep commitment to collaboration and results. His colleagues, distributor members, supplier partners, and peers regard him as a trusted leader who brings integrity and vision to every opportunity.
“Jim’s contributions to our organization and the industry are immeasurable,” said Chris Baer, President and CEO, VIPAR Heavy Duty. “His leadership, strategic insight, and unwavering dedication have helped shape who we are today. We are incredibly grateful for his service and wish him all the best in his well-earned retirement.”
VIPAR Heavy Duty extends its sincere appreciation to Jim Pennig for his years of leadership and lasting impact on the organization and the heavy duty aftermarket.
Joe Meyer, Program Manager for the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies since 2018, will succeed Pennig as Vice President of Business Development. With 35 years of sales and business development experience in the heavy-duty aftermarket, Meyer is well-versed in the dynamics of the market, which will prove highly beneficial in driving value for distributors and managing relationships with supplier partners. Pennig and Meyer have spent significant time collaborating to ensure a successful transition.
VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies Partners with AACF to Bring Support in Times of Need
The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies is proud to announce a new partnership with the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF), extending the foundation’s reach to the heavy duty aftermarket community to provide critical support to industry members and their immediate family during times of personal crisis.
Since 1959, AACF has helped individuals and families facing financial hardship due to unexpected adversity such as natural disasters, catastrophic medical conditions, life-changing accidents, and devastating fatalities. Through this new partnership, AACF’s support will now be available to individuals working in the heavy duty aftermarket and their immediate family members during the hardest moments of their lives.
The process to apply for financial support is simple and can take as little as five to seven days. Once eligibility is established, an application is completed and sent to the AACF Recipient Committee for review. If approved, the funds can be sent to the recipient or directly to a business, such as hospitals, funeral homes, or landlords.
“We pride ourselves in our efficiency because we know that when people need help, time is not always on our side. We can help much faster than most employers and government programs and will do everything possible to expedite the process,” said John Kairys, Executive Director, AACF.
The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies is honored to help promote the foundation's mission by raising awareness of these valuable resources, providing support through charitable giving efforts, and serving as a liaison within the heavy duty aftermarket.
The AACF is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. With the exception of two full-time staff positions, AACF is run entirely by volunteers from the aftermarket industry.
“Our partnership with AACF furthers our commitment to supporting the heavy duty aftermarket community—not only in business, but in life. It reflects the heart of this industry – a community that shows up for one another when it matters most. We encourage everyone in our network to spread the word about this important resource, and when able, support its mission to help those in need in our industry,” said Chris Baer, VIPAR Heavy Duty President and CEO.
For more information, please visit https://hd.aftermarketcharity.org.
VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies Welcomes New Program Manager Tom Ruud
The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies announced Tom Ruud has joined its team as Program Manager. Tom will be working in multiple capacities including Program Management, Global Parts Network (Product Distribution Center and Brake Related Product Management), and Business Systems. He will report to Larry Griffin, Vice President of Program Management.Ruud brings 13 years of heavy-duty industry experience to the team, with a proven track record in product and program management, supply chain management, and production and warehouse operations. He previously served as Director of Supply Chain at Wheelco Truck & Trailer Parts and Service, which was acquired by FleetPride, Inc. last year. Most recently, he was Sr. Manager of FleetPride’s OE Operations. Over the course of his career in the heavy-duty aftermarket, he has gained valuable experience in product pricing and procurement, globally sourced products, rebate management, and ERP software implementation. “We are excited to welcome Tom to the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies. His extensive industry experience brings valuable insight that will support our continued growth. In addition to his role as Program Manager, Tom will be involved in several strategic initiatives that are critical to our long-term success. Having team members on board who understand the complexities of the supply chain and today’s evolving business systems is essential, and Tom’s previous experience positions him well to help navigate those efforts. We look forward to his contributions to the success of the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies for many years to come,” said Griffin.
Ruud will be based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
“What I’ve always loved about the heavy-duty industry is that, while it’s large and complex, it still feels like a small, tight-knit community. It’s a relationship-driven business, full of good, reliable, hardworking people. When I first entered the industry 13 years ago I was amazed at how quickly things were evolving, especially in areas like marketing, supply chain, and technology. I’ve seen firsthand how this industry has not only caught up, but in many ways, has surged ahead,” said Ruud.
“As for VIPAR Heavy Duty, I’ve known the organization and its leadership for many years, and the decision to join their team was easy. It’s the culture that drew me in—VIPAR Heavy Duty is a well-run organization that genuinely cares about its people and its role in the industry. Surrounding yourself with good people makes all the difference.”
VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies Welcomes New Program Manager Tom Ruud
The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies announced Tom Ruud has joined its team as Program Manager. Tom will be working in multiple capacities including Program Management, Global Parts Network (Product Distribution Center and Brake Related Product Management), and Business Systems. He will report to Larry Griffin, Vice President of Program Management.Ruud brings 13 years of heavy-duty industry experience to the team, with a proven track record in product and program management, supply chain management, and production and warehouse operations. He previously served as Director of Supply Chain at Wheelco Truck & Trailer Parts and Service, which was acquired by FleetPride, Inc. last year. Most recently, he was Sr. Manager of FleetPride’s OE Operations. Over the course of his career in the heavy-duty aftermarket, he has gained valuable experience in product pricing and procurement, globally sourced products, rebate management, and ERP software implementation. “We are excited to welcome Tom to the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies. His extensive industry experience brings valuable insight that will support our continued growth. In addition to his role as Program Manager, Tom will be involved in several strategic initiatives that are critical to our long-term success. Having team members on board who understand the complexities of the supply chain and today’s evolving business systems is essential, and Tom’s previous experience positions him well to help navigate those efforts. We look forward to his contributions to the success of the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies for many years to come,” said Griffin.
Ruud will be based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
“What I’ve always loved about the heavy-duty industry is that, while it’s large and complex, it still feels like a small, tight-knit community. It’s a relationship-driven business, full of good, reliable, hardworking people. When I first entered the industry 13 years ago I was amazed at how quickly things were evolving, especially in areas like marketing, supply chain, and technology. I’ve seen firsthand how this industry has not only caught up, but in many ways, has surged ahead,” said Ruud.
“As for VIPAR Heavy Duty, I’ve known the organization and its leadership for many years, and the decision to join their team was easy. It’s the culture that drew me in—VIPAR Heavy Duty is a well-run organization that genuinely cares about its people and its role in the industry. Surrounding yourself with good people makes all the difference.”
VIPAR Heavy Duty Announces Retirement of Jim Pennig, Vice President of Business Development
VIPAR Heavy Duty congratulates Jim Pennig, who will retire from his role as Vice President of Business Development for the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies, effective June 30, 2025.
For nearly two decades, Pennig has served as a key member of the executive management and leadership teams, playing a pivotal role in the organization’s strategic growth and success. His tenure has been marked by major milestones, including significant expansion of both the VIPAR Heavy Duty and Power Heavy Duty networks, the development and execution of the company’s expansion strategy in Mexico and Latin America, and the foundational work on its national accounts program.
Widely respected across the heavy duty aftermarket industry, Pennig is known for his calm and measured approach, relentless work ethic, and deep commitment to collaboration and results. His colleagues, distributor members, supplier partners, and peers regard him as a trusted leader who brings integrity and vision to every opportunity.
“Jim’s contributions to our organization and the industry are immeasurable,” said Chris Baer, President and CEO, VIPAR Heavy Duty. “His leadership, strategic insight, and unwavering dedication have helped shape who we are today. We are incredibly grateful for his service and wish him all the best in his well-earned retirement.”
VIPAR Heavy Duty extends its sincere appreciation to Jim Pennig for his years of leadership and lasting impact on the organization and the heavy duty aftermarket.
Joe Meyer, Program Manager for the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies since 2018, will succeed Pennig as Vice President of Business Development. With 35 years of sales and business development experience in the heavy-duty aftermarket, Meyer is well-versed in the dynamics of the market, which will prove highly beneficial in driving value for distributors and managing relationships with supplier partners. Pennig and Meyer have spent significant time collaborating to ensure a successful transition.
VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies Partners with AACF to Bring Support in Times of Need
The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies is proud to announce a new partnership with the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF), extending the foundation’s reach to the heavy duty aftermarket community to provide critical support to industry members and their immediate family during times of personal crisis.
Since 1959, AACF has helped individuals and families facing financial hardship due to unexpected adversity such as natural disasters, catastrophic medical conditions, life-changing accidents, and devastating fatalities. Through this new partnership, AACF’s support will now be available to individuals working in the heavy duty aftermarket and their immediate family members during the hardest moments of their lives.
The process to apply for financial support is simple and can take as little as five to seven days. Once eligibility is established, an application is completed and sent to the AACF Recipient Committee for review. If approved, the funds can be sent to the recipient or directly to a business, such as hospitals, funeral homes, or landlords.
“We pride ourselves in our efficiency because we know that when people need help, time is not always on our side. We can help much faster than most employers and government programs and will do everything possible to expedite the process,” said John Kairys, Executive Director, AACF.
The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies is honored to help promote the foundation's mission by raising awareness of these valuable resources, providing support through charitable giving efforts, and serving as a liaison within the heavy duty aftermarket.
The AACF is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. With the exception of two full-time staff positions, AACF is run entirely by volunteers from the aftermarket industry.
“Our partnership with AACF furthers our commitment to supporting the heavy duty aftermarket community—not only in business, but in life. It reflects the heart of this industry – a community that shows up for one another when it matters most. We encourage everyone in our network to spread the word about this important resource, and when able, support its mission to help those in need in our industry,” said Chris Baer, VIPAR Heavy Duty President and CEO.
For more information, please visit https://hd.aftermarketcharity.org.
VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies Welcomes New Program Manager Tom Ruud
The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies announced Tom Ruud has joined its team as Program Manager. Tom will be working in multiple capacities including Program Management, Global Parts Network (Product Distribution Center and Brake Related Product Management), and Business Systems. He will report to Larry Griffin, Vice President of Program Management.Ruud brings 13 years of heavy-duty industry experience to the team, with a proven track record in product and program management, supply chain management, and production and warehouse operations. He previously served as Director of Supply Chain at Wheelco Truck & Trailer Parts and Service, which was acquired by FleetPride, Inc. last year. Most recently, he was Sr. Manager of FleetPride’s OE Operations. Over the course of his career in the heavy-duty aftermarket, he has gained valuable experience in product pricing and procurement, globally sourced products, rebate management, and ERP software implementation. “We are excited to welcome Tom to the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies. His extensive industry experience brings valuable insight that will support our continued growth. In addition to his role as Program Manager, Tom will be involved in several strategic initiatives that are critical to our long-term success. Having team members on board who understand the complexities of the supply chain and today’s evolving business systems is essential, and Tom’s previous experience positions him well to help navigate those efforts. We look forward to his contributions to the success of the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies for many years to come,” said Griffin.
Ruud will be based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
“What I’ve always loved about the heavy-duty industry is that, while it’s large and complex, it still feels like a small, tight-knit community. It’s a relationship-driven business, full of good, reliable, hardworking people. When I first entered the industry 13 years ago I was amazed at how quickly things were evolving, especially in areas like marketing, supply chain, and technology. I’ve seen firsthand how this industry has not only caught up, but in many ways, has surged ahead,” said Ruud.
“As for VIPAR Heavy Duty, I’ve known the organization and its leadership for many years, and the decision to join their team was easy. It’s the culture that drew me in—VIPAR Heavy Duty is a well-run organization that genuinely cares about its people and its role in the industry. Surrounding yourself with good people makes all the difference.”
VIPAR Heavy Duty Announces Retirement of Jim Pennig, Vice President of Business Development
VIPAR Heavy Duty congratulates Jim Pennig, who will retire from his role as Vice President of Business Development for the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies, effective June 30, 2025.
For nearly two decades, Pennig has served as a key member of the executive management and leadership teams, playing a pivotal role in the organization’s strategic growth and success. His tenure has been marked by major milestones, including significant expansion of both the VIPAR Heavy Duty and Power Heavy Duty networks, the development and execution of the company’s expansion strategy in Mexico and Latin America, and the foundational work on its national accounts program.
Widely respected across the heavy duty aftermarket industry, Pennig is known for his calm and measured approach, relentless work ethic, and deep commitment to collaboration and results. His colleagues, distributor members, supplier partners, and peers regard him as a trusted leader who brings integrity and vision to every opportunity.
“Jim’s contributions to our organization and the industry are immeasurable,” said Chris Baer, President and CEO, VIPAR Heavy Duty. “His leadership, strategic insight, and unwavering dedication have helped shape who we are today. We are incredibly grateful for his service and wish him all the best in his well-earned retirement.”
VIPAR Heavy Duty extends its sincere appreciation to Jim Pennig for his years of leadership and lasting impact on the organization and the heavy duty aftermarket.
Joe Meyer, Program Manager for the VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies since 2018, will succeed Pennig as Vice President of Business Development. With 35 years of sales and business development experience in the heavy-duty aftermarket, Meyer is well-versed in the dynamics of the market, which will prove highly beneficial in driving value for distributors and managing relationships with supplier partners. Pennig and Meyer have spent significant time collaborating to ensure a successful transition.
