Truck Parts Distributors To Merge

Two truck parts distribution firms announced plans to merge their operations.

HDA Parts System of Deerfield, Ill., and Quality Distribution Service Partners of Itasca, Ill., each of whom were attempting to put together national networks of aftermarket truck parts distributors, agreed to form a new company called FleetPride.

FleetPride, the brand named used by QDSP, will have more than 150 locations and annual sales exceeding $500 million, officials said.

John Greisch, president of HDA Parts System, will become president, chief executive officer and a director of FleetPride. Bill Wade, president of QDSP, will serve as chairman until Jan. 1, 2000 when he will relinquish the title of chairman to Greisch. Wade will remain a director.

"The local market position of the two companies will be significantly strengthened by this combination," Wade said in a statement released June 11.

Greisch said the merger will provide the opportunity for further cost reductions, new customer alliances and additional marketing and purchasing efficiencies.

HDA Parts System and QDSP were both formed in 1998 by two different Los Angeles-based venture capital firms. Brentwood Associates and Aurora Capital Group, respectively, which will be equal shareholders in FleetPride.

The merger is expected to be completed by the end of September.

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