The Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA) has appointed William Long as CEO. He replaces Steve Handschuh, who retired in December. Long was previously president of the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association, MEMA’s light vehicle aftermarket division. “Bill brings to bear decades of level-headed experience participating in all market sectors in this industry, and we are fortunate to have his guidance as we address unprecedented levels of change,” said Dan Sceli, MEMA board chairman and CEO of Peterson American Corp. MEMA – which includes reman body MERA - says it “has earned a seat at the table in the Trump administration” and the organisation has been vocal on the need for a sensible renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).
It calls the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA), which replaces NAFTA, a “positive step forward for all three countries”. But it warns of the need for a “strong, functioning North American supply chain” to protect jobs and encourage investment. “In order for USMCA to achieve success, the parties must conclude negotiations to exempt Mexican and Canadian imports from Section 232 tariffs on steel and aluminium,” MEMA says. Tariffs are costing the automotive industry hundreds of millions of dollars, it warns. In other news, Bob Miller, president of MEMA from 1991- 2000, has died. He was 84 years old.
