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 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.