Tracks: January/February 2024

TRACKS CO V E R S TO R Y

IN THIS ISSUE

Calling All Trailer Manufacturers: Join the Ultimate Industry Event in Las Vegas!

Page 14 CO N V E N T I O N

Elevate Your Trailer Industry Expertise at 2024 Convention Page 16 E D U C AT I O N

Smooth Sailing: NATM, NMMA's Joint Program Optimizes Boat Trailer Manufacturing Page 31 DEALERS

NATM Launches New Dealer Affiliate Program Benefit: NATM Connect Page 40

The Official Publication of the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers

January/February 2024 Volume 37 • Issue 1

Thank You 2024 Convention Sponsors › › › › 26

President’s Report › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 4

Statistically Speaking › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 27

Headquarters Report › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 6 Safety Continues to be DOT Priority › › › › › › › 10

Smooth Sailing: How NATM, NMMA's Joint Compliance Consultation Program Benefits Boat Trailer Manufacturers › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 31

Update your Files for 2024 NATM Political Action Committee › › › › › › › › › 11

From Likes to Leads: Unleashing the Power of Social Media for the Trailer Industry › › › › 35

Elevate Your Trailer Industry Expertise at Convention & Trade Show › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 16

UKG Webinar Addresses Labor Shortage Solutions › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 38

Tee Off Convention at Topgolf › › › › › › › › › › › › 18

NATM Launches New Dealer Affiliate Program Benefit: NATM Connect › › › › › › › › › 40

2024 NATM Convention & Trade Show Developing Schedule › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 19 South Point Hotel Offers Unbeatable Value as Host Hotel for 2024 Convention › › › › › › › › 23

National Trailer Safety Week: Improving Safety One Trailer at a Time › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 43

TRACKS CO V E R S TO R Y

UE IN THIS ISS

Advertising Index › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 2

ON THE COVER

Contents Table of

r Calling All Traile Join Manufacturers: try the Ultimate Indus s!

Event in Las Vega Page 14

CO N V E N T I O N

Industry Elevate Your Trailer Convention Expertise at 2024 Page 16 E D U C AT I O N

NATM, NMMA's Smooth Sailing: s Boat Joint Program Optimize turing Trailer Manufac Page 31 DEALERS

New NATM Launches Program Dealer Affiliate Connect Benefit: NATM Page 40

The Official Publication

of the National Association

rers

of Trailer Manufactu

2024 January/February 1 Volume 37 • Issue

Calling All Trailer Manufacturers: Join the Ultimate Industry Event in Las Vegas! Page 14 Cover photo provided.

Join NATM for the 2024 Convention & Trade Show in Las Vegas.

Renewing NATM Membership for 2024: A Symbol of Dedication to Trailer Safety › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 47 1st Year Anniversaries › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 51 Welcome New Members › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 52 Submit Your NATM Member News › › › › › › › › 54

NATM Hires New Compliance Consultant Todd Stallbaumer › › › › › › › › › › › › 46

Press Releases › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 55

Unlocking Success: Shawn Rhodes Takes the Stage at NATM Convention › › › › › › › › › › › 25

STAFF Tracks Editor Samantha Darling LaCount • Samantha.Darling@natm.com Executive Director Alex Stowe • Alex.Stowe@natm.com Assistant Director Meghan Ryan • Meghan.Ryan@natm.com Marketing Director Savana Morrison • Savana.Morrison@natm.com Technical Director Scott Crimmins • Scott.Crimmins@natm.com Education Director Ginger Baker-Sanhueza • Ginger.BakerSanhueza@natm.com Events Director Alieen Valido • Aileen.Valido@natm.com Quality Director Abby Wiebler • Abby.Wiebler@natm.com Compliance Manager Sean Sloan • Sean.Sloan@natm.com Dealer Programming Specialist Andrea Boetticher • Andrea.Boetticher@natm.com

Compliance Consultant Todd Stallbaumer • Todd.Stallbaumer@natm.com Membership & Events Coordinator Catie Rutkowski • Catie.Rutkowski@natm.com Marketing Coordinator Mary Klaire Perez • Mary.KlairePerez@natm.com Bookkeeper Sherry Palmeroni • Sherry.Palmeroni@natm.com OFFICERS President Marco Garcia • U-Haul International, Inc.

DIRECTORS FEB. 2021 - FEB. 2024 Leo Akins • Forest River, Inc. Andy Derr • M.H. Eby, Inc. Rick Huddleston • White River Marine Group John Kerr • Marsh & McLennan Agency DIRECTORS FEB. 2022 - FEB. 2025 Charles Daugherty • Red Fern Dynamics Andy Gehman • MGS Incorporated Daniel Luby • BoatMate Trailers, Inc.

Vice President Andy Derr • M.H. Eby, Inc.

Nathan Uphus • Felling Trailers

Treasurer Nathan Uphus • Felling Trailers

DIRECTORS FEB. 2023 - FEB. 2026

Associate Member Representative John Kerr • Marsh & McLennan Past President Marty Lorick • Triple Crown Trailers Inc.

Senior Compliance Consultant Aaron Langer • Aaron.Langer@natm.com

Bill O'Hara • Dexter Jon Devitt • Midwest Industries, Inc. Jeff Jones • Statistical Surveys, Inc. Dustin Miller • Cross Trailers, Inc. Mike Story • LOOK Trailers Michael Etheridge • Wylie & Son, Inc. Steve Courreges • Taskmaster Components

About this publication: Tracks Volume 37, Issue 1 January/February 2024 is published six times a year (bi-monthly) for $50 per year by the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers, 2420 SW 17th St, Topeka, KS 66604. Periodicals postage paid at Topeka, KS. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to NATM 2420 SW 17th St, Topeka, KS 66604.

DISCLAIMER: The inclusion in this magazine of advertising, logos, or website links, or reference to any products, services, trade names, or manufacturers is not an endorsement by NATM of any such advertisers, links, entities, products, services, or names. NATM through this magazine provides news and opinion articles as a service to its members and readers. Often these articles come from sources outside of its organization. Statements and opinions expressed in these articles are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers, its staff or management, or the official policies of NATM. Nor does NATM accept responsibility for any errors or omissions made in publishing or reproducing articles or advertising appearing in Tracks or for the return of unsolicited manuscripts sent to NATM. USPS Number: 022438

ISSN Number: 1552-2415

NATM Headquarters • 2420 SW 17th St. • Topeka, KS 66604 • (785) 272-4433 • Fax: (785) 272-4455

TRACKS

Advertising Index 5 Star Trailers › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › Inside Front Cover

East Penn Manufacturing Co., Inc. › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 34

A.L. Hansen Mfg. Co. › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 8

ElkRiver Trailers › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 5

Affiliated Resources, Inc. › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 33

EQ Systems › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 28-29

Bostail › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › Inside Back Cover

H.E. Parmer Company, Inc. › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 22

Canadian Load Divider Dollies Inc › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 27

Heskins, LLC › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 3

Clicklease › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 41

Hutchens Industries, Inc. › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 42

DealersCircle, Inc › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 13

IDC Spring › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 34

Demco › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 36

LaVanture Products Company › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 24

Dexter › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 9, 50

Lippert › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 2

EAGLE Hydraulic Inc. › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › Back Cover

Napoleon/Lynx › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 48

NINGBO JINGYI MACHINERY MANUFACTURING CO., LTD › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 20 Nordec Incorporated › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 44 Optronics International › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 21 PPG › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 12 Ridewell Suspensions › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 39 The Raynor Company › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 7 TecNiq › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 22 Tie Down Engineering, Inc. › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 53 Wire Works Technologies, Inc. › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › › 30

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TRACKS

PRESIDENT'S REPORT

President’s Report

By Marco Garcia, U-Haul International, Inc. As we begin a new year in 2024, companies across the globe are renewing their membership and affiliation with the National Association Of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM).

To those of you who have recommitted to NATM’s efforts, thank you. NATM would not be able to achieve its growth and positive influence on this industry without dedicated suppliers, service providers, dealers, OEMS, and trailer manufacturers supporting the Association’s mission to "promote trailer safety and the success of the trailer manufacturing industry through education and advocacy."

Renewing NATM Members also understand the multifaceted benefits of being a member of the only not-for-profit Association for the light- and medium-duty trailer industry.

For our Trailer Manufacturer Members, participation in NATM means agreeing to adhere to the Compliance Verification Program. Choosing to renew your membership and invest the time and money necessary to ensure your compliance demonstrates your company’s sense of civic responsibility and dedication to safe roadway. The NATM Members who choose to renew membership year after year recognize that building trailers to meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards is not only the right thing to do — It is the law. For more information about renewing your dedication to roadway safety by renewing membership for 2024, turn to Page 47.

and day out? NATM looks forward to continuing to expand dealer involvement both in the Association and in its safety efforts, such as the nationally recognized annual Trailer Safety Week held in June. For more information about participating in Trailer Safety Week, turn to Page 43.

Suppliers and service providers are integral to NATM's achievements. These Associate Members contribute significantly to the light- and medium-duty trailer industry.

They do so by actively participating in committees and the Board, as well as making financial investments in the form of advertising, exhibiting, sponsoring, and annual membership dues. Notably, suppliers offer valuable support by sharing their knowledge through educational articles and workshops.

Working closely with various trailer manufacturers, suppliers gain a comprehensive perspective of the industry. This vantage point allows them to recognize industry trends and the challenges faced by trailer manufacturers, drawing from their insight into the collective group. This information aids NATM in gaining a deeper understanding of the membership's requirements, surpassing what a single trailer manufacturing company could convey due to the wealth of additional data.

The Association is the combined effort, expertise, and support of all members, and without your annual recommitment to membership, none of this would have been possible. For more information about renewing your company’s membership with NATM, contact NATM Membership & Events Coordinator Catie Rutkowski at Catie.

Rutkowski@natm.com or by calling (785) 272-4433.

Belonging to NATM offers improved representation of your company’s needs on a federal level when it comes to legislation and regulation. It can be difficult for one small company to be heard above the racket. NATM membership unifies the voice of the light- and medium-duty trailer industry by bringing together over 1,100 companies. The Association advocates on behalf of our priorities so that we do not individually have to invest our already scarce resources.

One of the most prominent benefits of continuing your NATM membership is attending the NATM Convention & Trade Show in February. This is the premier event for the light- and medium-duty trailer industry. Last year’s event brought together 1,500 of us, and we hope to up the ante this year for the 2024 Convention & Trade Show in Las Vegas. Registration is currently open. For more information on registration, turn to Page 14.

Renewing NATM membership offers another significant advantage: access to valuable information. NATM serves as a resource hub, providing solutions for businesses across the industry spectrum, including trailer manufacturers, suppliers, and dealers. By pooling together the collective expertise of leaders in companies in all facets of this industry, NATM helps problem solve. Many of the challenges confronted by NATM Member companies are often shared throughout the industry. For example, many companies from manufacturers to dealers can find it difficult to adapt to fast-paced social media strategies. NATM Education Director Ginger Baker-Sanhueza planned the three-part webinar series, “From Likes to Leads: Harnessing Social Media for Trailer Industry Success,” which brought together industry experts in marketing and social media use to bring the most current information to Members and allow them to ask questions specific to their businesses.

Turn to Page 35 to read how the webinar series wrapped up.

Thank you again to those who have re-enlisted to support the light- and medium-duty trailer industry. I look forward to another great year and to seeing you all in Las Vegas! ■

There has been a renewed focus in the previous year on dealer involvement within the Association. Up until this point, they have been an underutilized resource in NATM’s mission of trailer safety. Who better to reach end-users than our Dealer Affiliates who meet with the public day in 4

January/February 2024

Marco Garcia

www.NATM.com

ElkRiver Trailers 1400 W Bristol Street Elkhart, IN 46514

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TRACKS

H E A D Q UA R T E R S R E P O R T

Headquarters J A N U A R Y/ F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 4

REPORT

By Alex Stowe, NATM Executive Director

I hope you have all had an excellent start to 2024! This year marks another year of great growth and incredible opportunities for the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM). Coming off of the success and growth we experienced as an association in 2023, I am very excited to see what this new year has in store.

NATM’s 36th Annual Convention & Trade Show is just around the corner. With cold weather and snow here at headquarters, the heat of Las Vegas will be a nice reprieve from the cold.

With over 1,100 members, the Convention is an incredible opportunity to meet with peer companies, suppliers, trailer dealers, NATM Staff, and other attendees all in one place. We will be hosting another Topgolf event this year, taking place on Monday, February 12. Although much has changed over the past year, my golf swing is still not fit for public consumption – but I enjoy having the opportunity to meet with members and staff in a more casual setting. The Convention itself will feature multiple great speakers bringing their expertise and knowledge to attendees. I look forward to seeing you all in Las Vegas! For more information about registering for Topgolf and taking your chances at the $10,000 hole-in-one competition, turn to Page 18.

2024 will mark the second year of NATM’s newly adopted strategic plan, and with the assistance of our board, committees, staff, and outside advisors, I think 2024 will see a lot of these goals being achieved or advanced in a meaningful way. The work already completed in the area of advocacy and partnerships cannot be understated. With the assistance of K&L Gates and Regulatory Roundup participants, NATM is working hard to receive funding from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for our Trailer Safety Week initiatives.

Last year, NHTSA even participated in Trailer Safety Week by sharing information on their social media channels about the importance of trailer safety on the roadways. Our strategic education goals also are off to an incredible start as well, with the hiring of Ginger Baker-Sanhueza as education director and the work she is putting into the NATM Academy. NATM has also seen an uptick in educational webinar programming and I hope that you are able to take advantage of learning from your peers about best practices and other educational items of note shared during our Association webinar series. Our Dealer Programming Specialist, Andrea Boetticher, is building new content and educational documents for our trailer Dealer Affiliates, with 6

January/February 2024

the ultimate goal of creating a more cohesive industry.

NATM’s overall vision and mission have not changed from advancing trailer safety and promoting the success of the light- and medium-duty trailer manufacturing industry.

As an association, we will be looking to deliver more value to all of our members via educational benefits, our Compliance Verification Program, and consumer education through Trailer Safety Week. This is an exciting time to be a part of NATM, and I am proud of the work completed in the past year towards advancing the overall industry.

In addition to work on the strategic plan, 2024 will also be filled with new faces as board elections and new committees get set to start their work following Convention.

I look forward to our new board members and committees bringing fresh perspectives and industry expertise and know NATM is poised to generate more value for members in 2024. Being the only not-for-profit member-based trade association serving the light- and medium-duty trailer industry, NATM is uniquely poised to receive programming feedback and suggestions from our members. I hope that you derive value from your membership and look forward to finding new ways to engage with our members and ensure that this Association continues to advance trailer safety initiatives and the overall success of the industry.

The NATM Staff has grown over the course of 2023 and we now have more full-time staff than at any point in our history. With 15 total employees, I believe NATM is ready to continue to generate value for our members and continue to advance the overall mission of the Association.

As always — I hope you have an excellent year that is filled with success! ■

Alex Stowe NATM Executive Director

www.NATM.com

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TRACKS

G O V E R N M E N T A F FA I R S

Safety Continues to be DOT Priority

By Brody Garland, K&L Gates

Two years ago, President Joe Biden signed the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) into law, authorizing $1.2 trillion dollars for transportation and infrastructure spending around the country. Two years later, the bill, also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), continues to fund projects in every state to strengthen and modernize the U.S. transportation system. To make significant and lasting changes to our transportation infrastructure, the BIL directs the Department of Transportation (DOT) and its administrations to advance national safety priorities by more than “doubling funding for surface transportation programs that improve the safety of people and vehicles in the U.S. transportation system, including highways, trucks, rail, and pipeline and hazardous materials transport.”

A major focus for the DOT has been reducing roadway crashes and fatalities in the U.S. In September 2023, the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA) released its estimates for traffic fatalities in the first half of 2023, which showed they had declined for the fifth quarter in a row. Specifically, NHTSA estimated that 19,515 people have died in motor vehicle crashes in the first half of 2023 – a 3.3% decrease compared to 20,190 fatalities in the first half of 2022.

While this number continues to decline, the DOT’s work cannot – and will not – stop until the number of roadway crashes and fatalities in the U.S. is at zero. To reach this goal, the DOT implemented its National Roadway Safety Strategy 10

January/February 2024

in 2022 which outlines the agency’s approach to reducing crashes and fatalities on U.S. highways, roads, and streets.

As part of this strategy, the DOT has announced several initiatives, including proposed rulemakings and funding opportunities, such as the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Grant Program. The SS4A Grant Program, established by the BIL, will distribute over $5 billion in appropriated funds through 2026 to “regional, local, and Tribal initiatives … to prevent roadway deaths and serious injuries.”

In October 2023, the DOT announced $82 million in SS4A grants to help 35 communities “develop safety action plans, inform improvements along corridors with safety issues, [and] use ‘quick-build’ strategies to test out safety features, such as separated bicycle lanes or curb extensions at intersections.” The second round of grants, announced in December 2023, includes additional planning and demonstration funding but is focused on implementing and developing the strategies and projects identified in applicants’ safety action plans. The next SS4A funding opportunity is expected to open in February 2024.

As the DOT continues to prioritize safety across the U.S. transportation system, it is imperative that the trailer manufacturing industry has a seat at the table, and takes full advantage of the opportunities to leverage IIJA funding to help advance the safety priorities of the industry. ■ www.NATM.com

G O V E R N M E N T A F FA I R S

TRACKS

Update Your Files for 2024 NATM Political Action Committee

By Meghan Ryan, NATM Assistant Director

The National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM) established a Political Action Committee, the NATM PAC, in 2010. The NATM PAC serves to support members of Congress who support the light- and medium-duty trailer industry and its positions on matters of public policy.

Campaign finance law requires NATM to secure “prior approval” from member companies before soliciting member companies’ executive and administrative personnel, stockholders, and the families of both groups. Member companies may not approve solicitations by more than one trade association in any calendar year. If, on behalf of the company you are authorized to represent, you would like to grant prior approval for the administrative personnel, stockholders, and the families of both groups of your company to be solicited

www.NATM.com

by NATM in calendar year 2024, please complete the prior approval agreement online using the QR code on this page.

Since its inception, 60 individuals have contributed to the PAC raising more than $151,000 and those dollars have contributed to over 80 incumbent campaign committees on both sides of the aisle. The PAC is governed by a Board of Directors composed entirely of NATM Members. The PAC Board is responsible for developing both an annual budget and confirming candidates to whom the PAC will contribute based on specific, established criteria. Having the PAC Board composed of industry members is a key feature of assuring PAC goals align with industry needs.

To learn more about the PAC, contact NATM PAC Treasurer Alex Stowe at Alex.Stowe@natm.com. ■

January/February 2024

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Calling All Trailer Manufacturers: Join the Ultimate Industry Event in Las Vegas!

By Meghan Ryan, NATM Assistant Director

Attention, all light- and medium-duty trailer manufacturers!

The National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM) invites you to the event of the year. The NATM Convention & Trade Show is back and better than ever, scheduled for February 13-15, 2024, at the South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa in Las Vegas. This is your exclusive opportunity to immerse yourself in a world of trailer manufacturing excellence, education, and networking! Registration is open now at www.

NATM.com or simply scan the QR Code. Register early to save – all ticket prices increase $50 onsite in Las Vegas.

The heart of the NATM Convention & Trade Show lies in its expansive exhibit floor which features over 300 booth spaces from hundreds of exhibitor companies. Here, you'll find companies that can address all of your company’s manufacturing needs in one convenient location. With suppliers and service providers gathered under one roof, it's never been easier to discover the latest products, technologies, and services that can enhance your trailer manufacturing processes and end-product.

Promotion! Once you attend the first time, NATM is confident that you’ll want to return year after year. The New Attendee Promotion includes two complimentary full registrations and two spouse/partner registrations per company. Those interested in participating should contact NATM Membership & Events Coordinator Catie Rutkowski at Catie.Rutkowski@ natm.com soon. Please note, the deadline to apply for the complimentary hotel offer closed in December.

To sign up for NATM Convention & Trade Show emails, visit www.NATM.com/convention.

NATM is thrilled to be once again returning to the South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa for the 2024 Convention! The discounted NATM rate for the South Point Hotel is $80 per night including resort fees (Feb. 12-16) and $135 per night including resort fees (Feb. 16-17). Located in the heart of the Las Vegas valley, the South Point provides dual views of the surrounding valley and the serenity of the mountains that border it. Hotel accommodations can be made by visiting www.NATM.com or calling (866) 791-7627 and mentioning the NATM room block. For more information about the host hotel, turn to Page 23.

The NATM Convention isn't just about products; it's about people. The trailer manufacturing industry is known for its friendly and welcoming community, and the NATM Convention & Trade Show reflects those values. This event provides the perfect setting to meet prospective new partners, engage with fellow manufacturers, and rekindle relationships with those you already do business with. Whether you're a seasoned industry veteran or a fresh face in the field, this event promises invaluable networking opportunities to bolster your connections.

Please remember, the only way to guarantee a room at the special NATM rate is to book directly from the NATM website. Please note, NATM has not authorized any group hotel room services to call you or to solicit your business! These third parties also use the NATM logo in their communications, so please ensure to book with those with emails ending in @natm.com.

Are you a new member trailer manufacturer? Are you a trailer manufacturer whose company has not attended in the last five years? You may qualify for NATM’s New Attendee

Questions about the New Attendee Promotion or registration?

Contact NATM Membership & Events Coordinator Catie Rutkowski at Catie.Rutkowski@natm.com or call 785-272-4433. ■

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January/February 2024

www.NATM.com

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Attendees gain valuable knowledge at the 2023 NATM Convention & Trade Show Workshops. Photo by Samantha Darling LaCount.

Elevate Your Trailer Industry Expertise at 2024 Convention

By Ginger Baker-Sanhueza, NATM Education Director

The National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM) is gearing up for its much-anticipated 2024 Convention & Trade Show, and the lineup of educational workshops and technical forums promises to be an exceptional highlight of the event. With a focus on empowering industry professionals with valuable insights, expert knowledge, and cutting-edge skills, these sessions are designed to cater to the diverse needs of all participants in the trailer industry. Here's a sneak peek at what you can expect during the event.

Tuesday, February 13: ›

Government Affairs Panel Presenter: Brody Garland, K&L Gates 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Kickstart the 2024 Convention by joining the Government Affairs discussion, led by Brody Garland of K&L Gates. Gain insights into NATM's work on Capitol Hill and a comprehensive overview of congressional activities. Discover what to expect in 2024 and how it can impact the trailer industry.

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January/February 2024

›

The Power of Innovation: Powder Coating Technologies Unveiled Presenters: Stephen Houston, Vitracoat 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

In this Technical Forum, Vitracoat shares insights into powder coating, including strategies to avoid failures and effective troubleshooting techniques. ›

Bulletproof Selling Keynote Presenter: Shawn Rhodes, Bulletproof Selling 12:15 p.m. – 1:30 p.m., Awards Lunch

Sales is a high-stakes battlefield, and the path to success is treacherous. It’s full of relentless stress with unknown threats lurking around every corner. Salespeople are learning the hard way that hope is not a sales strategy. Through gripping stories from his experiences on battlefields and the front lines of sales, Shawn Rhodes unveils the secret to selling more ­— and serving more. Learn how to rapidly adapt and thrive in the face of uncertainty and never lose a sale for the same reason again. This session will show how to rewrite the rules, defy the odds, and www.NATM.com

CO N V E N T I O N

unleash your full potential on the battlefield of business. ›

Beyond Compliance: Turbocharge Your Sales with the NATM Decal Advantage Presenter: Shawn Rhodes (Part 1); Scott Crimmins (Part 2) 2:00 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.

Rhodes returns for this two-part workshop series, starting with a Q&A session. Discover NATM's exclusive Compliance Verification Program with NATM Technical Director Scott Crimmins and how to maximize its potential to boost your business's profitability. In part two, engage in role-playing scenarios and enhance your sales game to capitalize on the NATM Decal advantage. ›

Welding and Cutting Automation Presenter: Bill Pharmer, Airgas 2:00 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.

Stay ahead of the curve with insights into the latest welding and cutting automation trends. Explore cobots, additive manufacturing, laser technology, conventional robotics, and plasma cutting. Learn how to calculate the return on investment and effectively deploy advanced automation solutions to optimize processes and increase productivity.

Wednesday, February 14: ›

HR Insights Unveiled: Elevating the Employee Experience Presenter: Stephanie Hand, Lutz 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

In the ever-evolving business landscape, HR professionals and business owners face numerous challenges. This workshop provides strategies to tackle talent shortages, adapt to new technology, and address turnover effectively. Stay informed about the latest HR trends and acquire actionable solutions to attract and retain talent successfully.

www.NATM.com

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A Comparison of Cargo Trailer Assembly Methods Presenters: Ryan Faber and Julia Poppe, 3M Company 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

Intrigued by the latest advancements in cargo trailer assembly? Don't miss this technical forum led by experts from 3M Company. The session offers a comprehensive comparison and live demonstrations of various assembly methods, including mechanical fasteners, liquid adhesives, acrylic foam tape, and liquid/tape combinations. Learn about design, assembly, and performance considerations, and discover how to sell different assembly types effectively. ›

Financial Resolutions for a New Year: Investing for the Future Presenter: Tom Mahler and Pat Roberson, Raymond James 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Staying informed about market trends and long-term opportunities is crucial for financial success. Join this workshop to gain valuable knowledge and guidance to make informed decisions and navigate today's financial landscapes successfully. ›

VIN Calculations Made Easy Presenter: Whitney Kovalenko, Dec-O-Art 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Streamline your VIN calculations and labeling procedures with this informative workshop.

Gain a comprehensive understanding of VIN-related processes and ensure seamless federal compliance for smooth operations in the automotive industry.

The 2024 NATM Convention & Trade Show is an unparalleled opportunity to enhance your expertise, network with industry leaders, and stay at the forefront of the light- and medium-duty trailer industry's latest trends and innovations. Make the most of these educational workshops and technical forums to elevate your career and your business.

Register today at www.NATM.com/convention or by scanning the QR Code on this page. ■

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Attendees tee off at the 2023 Topgolf event. Photo by Savana Morrison.

Tee Off Convention at Topgolf

By Meghan Ryan, NATM Assistant Director

Get ready to tee off an unforgettable week at the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM) Convention & Trade Show in February with a swing and a smile! NATM is thrilled to once again invite attendees to the Tee Off Convention Topgolf Event, sponsored by PPG, taking place on Monday, February 12, 2024, at the Las Vegas Topgolf location.

It's an evening packed with camaraderie, competition, and the chance to win big in the Hole-In-One contest with a whopping $10,000 jackpot up for grabs.

Event Details: Date: Monday, February 12, 2024 Time: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Location: Topgolf Las Vegas 4627 Koval Ln, Las Vegas, NV 89109 Transportation: Buses will be provided to and from the South Point Hotel and Topgolf.

Price: $85 per person (Includes two drink tickets, dinner, and Topgolf fun, including the Hole-In-One competition) 18

January/February 2024

Event Schedule: 4:15 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.: Check-in for buses at the South Point Hotel Entrance 5:30 p.m.: Buses depart for Topgolf 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.: Tee Off Convention Topgolf Event Our Tee Off Convention Topgolf Event promises an evening of fantastic networking opportunities for the trailer industry to kickstart your week at the convention. It's the perfect chance to connect with fellow NATM members, make new industry contacts, and enjoy some competitive golfing fun.

To Register: Tickets are $85 per person and registration is a breeze!

Simply visit our website at www.natm.com to secure your spot. Don't wait too long, as spaces are limited, and this event is always a popular hit! Questions? Contact NATM Membership & Events Coordinator Catie Rutkowski at (785) 272-4433 or Catie.Rutkowski@natm.com. ■ www.NATM.com

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2024 NATM Convention & Trade Show Developing Schedule South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa, Las Vegas

Monday, February 12 4:15 p.m. - 5:15 p.m.

South Point Hotel Entrance Tee-Off Convention Topgolf Check-In 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Tee-Off Convention Topgolf

3:50 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Room: Napa C NATM PAC Reception** 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Room: Sonoma C Newcomer Orientation & Reception

Tuesday, February 13

6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Room: Grand Ballroom B President’s Reception

8:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Registration

Wednesday, February 14

9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Room: Napa AB Workshop Session 1: Government Affairs Panel 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Room: Sonoma AB Technical Forum Session 1: The Power of Innovation: Powder Coating Technologies Unveiled 11:15 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Room: Grand Ballroom B Awards Lunch & Keynote Speaker Noon – 6:00 p.m.

Exhibit Hall Exhibitor Move In 2:00 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.

Room: Napa AB Workshop Session 2: Beyond Compliance: Turbocharge Your Sales with the NATM Decal Advantage 2:00 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.

Room: Sonoma AB Technical Forum Session 2: Welding and Cutting Automation

7:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Registration 7:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Exhibit Hall Exhibitor Move In 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

Room: Napa AB Workshop Session 3: HR Insights Unveiled: Elevating the Employee Experience 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

Room: Sonoma AB Technical Forum Session 3: A Comparison of Cargo Trailer Assembly Methods 9:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Coffee Break 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Room: Napa AB Workshop Session 4: Financial Resolutions for a New Year: Investing for the Future

10:00 a.m. – 11:00 am Room: Sonoma AB Technical Forum Session 4: VIN Calculations Made Easy 11:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Exhibit Hall Trade Show Open 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Exhibit Hall Lunch with Exhibitors 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Exhibit Hall Trade Show Reception

Thursday, February 15 9:00 a.m. – Noon Registration 9:00 a.m. – Noon Exhibit Hall Trade Show Open 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Exhibit Hall Coffee with Exhibitors 10 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Exhibit Hall New Product Display Awards 11:00 a.m. - 11:15 a.m.

Exhibit Hall New Product Display Raffle Noon – 5:00 p.m.

Exhibit Hall Exhibitor Move Out

**The PAC Reception may only be attended by NATM's "Restricted Class," which includes certain NATM employees, individual and other noncorporate NATM Members, and certain employees of corporate members with pre-approval.

www.NATM.com

January/February 2024

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On time deliveries shouldn’t be a

Roll of the Dice

Better Product. Better service.

H.E. PARMER COMPANY Quality OEM Tr ailer Parts

Steel 22

January/February 2024

NATM BOOTH 801 LAS VEGAS 2024 Aluminum Diamond plate floor plate

stainless www.NATM.com

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The South Point Hotel in Las Vegas offers several dining options. Photo provided by South Point Hotel.

South Point Hotel Offers Unbeatable Value as Host Hotel for 2024 Convention

By Meghan Ryan, NATM Assistant Director

The National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM) is returning to the South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa, and the room block reservation link is now live! The discounted NATM rate for the South Point Hotel is $80 per night including resort fees (Feb. 12-16) and $135 per night including resort fees (Feb. 16-17). Located in the heart of the Las Vegas valley, the South Point provides dual views of the surrounding valley and the serenity of the mountains that border it. Hotel accommodations can be made by visiting www.NATM.com or calling (866) 791-7627 and mentioning the NATM room block.

NOTE: Rooms are unavailable in NATM’s room block before Feb. 12, 2024. Contact the South Point directly for questions regarding booking a room outside of the block at (702) 797-8901.

Standard rooms measure among the largest in town and boast all the amenities expected from a first-class Las Vegas property including complimentary Wi-Fi, coffee makers, safes, plush sleeper beds, and plasma televisions. Eleven dining options are offered on site ranging from 24/7 room service to a traditional deli, 24-hour coffee shop, fine-dining steak house, and Italian, Mexican, Sushi, buffet, and gourmet restaurants. Spend time by the sprawling lagoon style pool, enjoy a 16-screen movie theater, 64-lane bowling center, spa and fitness center, and casino complete with the full spectrum of Las Vegas attractions.

Planning to stay in Vegas following the NATM Convention? www.NATM.com

The South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa will serve as the host hotel for the 2024 Convention & Trade Show. Photo provided by the South Point Hotel.

Spend some extra time with your valentine while taking advantage of the affordable NATM room rates at the South Point! Enjoy all that Vegas has to offer over the weekend!

Please remember, the only way to guarantee a room at the special NATM rate is to book directly from the NATM website. Please note, NATM has not authorized any group hotel room services to call you or to solicit your business! These third parties also use the NATM logo in their communications, so please ensure to book with those with emails ending in @natm.com. ■ January/February 2024

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Unlocking Success: Shawn Rhodes Takes the Stage at NATM Convention

By Ginger Baker-Sanhueza, NATM Education Director In the world of sales, success is no less than navigating a high-stakes battlefield. It's an arena where hope is not a strategy, and every move you make could be a gamechanger. This year, at the 2024 NATM Convention & Trade Show, we are excited to present a keynote speaker who knows this battlefield all too well – Shawn Rhodes.

Shawn Rhodes: The Chief Sales Sergeant Rhodes, often referred to as the "Chief Sales Sergeant," is an international keynote speaker and the author of four books.

He brings a wealth of unique experiences to the forefront, having served as a Marine Corps war correspondent tasked with accompanying troops into combat. This frontline experience allowed him to witness firsthand how individuals became "Bulletproof" on the battlefield. His insights and wisdom have been featured in prestigious publications such as TIME magazine, The Wall Street Journal, CNN, Forbes, and many others.

Bulletproof Selling: The Keynote Presentation Rhodes is renowned for his "Bulletproof Selling" presentation, a transformative experience that transcends the boundaries of traditional sales strategies. In this year's convention, he's set to unveil the secrets of selling more — and serving more.

Through gripping stories and insights from his time on battlefields and the front lines of sales, Rhodes will demonstrate how to rapidly adapt and thrive in the face of uncertainty.

Attendees of the 2024 NATM Convention & Trade Show will learn how to rewrite the rules, defy the odds, and unlock their full potential on the battlefield of business. With Rhodes at the helm, hope will no longer be the strategy; data-driven, practical solutions will take its place.

Educational Workshops: Beyond Compliance But that's not all! Rhodes' contribution to the NATM Convention & Trade Show goes beyond the keynote address. He's taking a deep dive into the strategies that drive sales excellence with his workshop series, "Beyond Compliance: Turbocharge Your Sales with the NATM Decal Advantage."

In the first part of this workshop, attendees will discover how to supercharge their sales strategies by harnessing the NATM www.NATM.com

Shawn Rhodes will serve as the 2024 Convention & Trade Show keynote speaker. Photo provided by Shawn Rhodes.

Decal as a powerful sales differential. By leveraging NATM’s exclusive Compliance Verification Program, businesses can unlock increased profitability.

Part two is an immersive experience, guided by Rhodes himself. Participants will engage in role-playing scenarios that equip them with real-world tools and techniques to leverage the Compliance Verification Program as a sales differentiator. This hands-on session is a unique opportunity to elevate your sales game and capitalize on the NATM Decal advantage for unprecedented growth and success.

Don't Miss the Opportunity The 2024 NATM Convention & Trade Show is shaping up to be an event you don't want to miss. With Rhodes as our keynote speaker and a workshop leader, attendees can look forward to unlocking new dimensions of success in the ever-competitive world of sales.

Get ready to be inspired, enlightened, and equipped for success! Whether you're a seasoned industry professional or just starting out, Rhodes' insights promise to provide valuable takeaways for everyone. For more information about registering for the event to see Rhodes in Las Vegas, scan the QR code or visit www.NATM.com. ■ January/February 2024

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2024 Convention & Trade Show Sponsors

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www.NATM.com

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Statistically Speaking

By Jeff Jones, Statistical Surveys, Inc. Registration for the light- and medium-duty trailer industry was down 2.7% in August 2023. Below are the details of the market’s performance for the five trailer segments as reported by Statistical Surveys:

The following are the top five states in sales growth for all trailer segments in the first five months of 2023.

Ranking

State

Percent of Growth

Trailer Type

Aug. 2023

Jan. - Aug. 2023

1

Tennessee

24.0%

Industry

-2.7%

-7.5%

2

Kentucky

16.4%

Open

-4.2%

-10.7%

3

New York

11.7%

Enclosed

-2.5%

-5.9%

4

South Carolina

11.4%

Livestock

0.6%

3.1%

5

North Dakota

7.8%

Horse

1.6%

-8.0%

Boat

1.7%

1.4%

Industry registrations for the first eight months of 2023 are down 7.5% over 2022.

If there are any questions, or if Statistical Surveys, Inc. can help, please contact Jeff Jones at (254) 715-1314 or jjones@statisticalsurveys.com. ■

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www.NATM.com

January/February 2024

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The NATM and NMMA partnership offers time and cost savings for participating boat trailer manufacturers. Photo submitted..

Smooth Sailing: NATM, NMMA's Joint Program Optimizes Boat Trailer Manufacturing

By Scott Crimmins, NATM Technical Director

The National Association for Trailer Manufacturers (NATM) and the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) maintain a joint program to streamline certification for boat trailer manufacturers to receive both NMMA and NATM Certification during a single visit by a NATM Compliance Consultant. By merging the NMMA Certification Program with NATM's Compliance Verification Program, the industry is taking a significant step toward ensuring our roads are safe. In addition to safety, this partnership demonstrates a shared commitment to education in the trailer/boat trailer manufacturing industry and offers time and cost savings for participating boat trailer manufacturers.

“For more than a decade, the NMMA and NATM have partnered to support trailer manufacturers and streamline the NMMA certification process for boat trailers,” said Scott Berry, senior director of engineering standards for NMMA. “Together, we have a shared commitment to safety and education. Collaboration between our two industry organizations ensures the boating consumer receives a highquality, compliant, and, most importantly, (a) safe trailer.” www.NATM.com

“I appreciate the efficiency of certifying for both NMMA and NATM with a single annual inspection by NATM,” added Owen Shelton, President of Boatmate Trailers, LLC, located in Maryville, Tennessee.

In addition to Boatmate, 21 other NATM boat trailer manufacturing members also belonged to NMMA in 2023.

Each association individually operates its compliance program and governs it with slightly different requirements. The most notable difference is that NMMA requires an annual consultation, whereas NATM does it's inspections every two years. In the case of an off year for the NATM consultation, the consultant will still do the yearly NMMA consultation as a stand-alone. With boat trailers submerged underwater more regularly than non-boat trailers, their wiring has to withstand the problems an increased exposure to water can cause over

Continued on Page 32

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Boat trailer manufacturers can benefit from a combined NATM/NMMA compliance consultation. Photo provided.

Continued from Page 31 time. NMMA has specific questions about wiring and lighting they require for their certification. NATM has many of the same but will call them recommended best practices versus actual requirements. When setting the GVWR for a trailer, NMMA requires that it "equals (the) weight of (the) trailer plus (the) maximum load carrying capacity." The GAWR rating on the VIN label must also match the GVWR rating under the NMMA requirement. While many NATM Members do the same, others will set their GVWR based on some increased percentage over the tire/wheel/axle rating since no standard method exists specified by National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or any other agency for establishing those values.

In terms of similarities, both hold their members accountable to the tire record-keeping requirements set forth by NHTSA for having a reliable means within their records to track the tire identification numbers (TINs) to the

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January/February 2024

corresponding VIN of the trailer the tires installed on. A fiveyear retention of these records is mandatory. The partially completed tire registration cards given to the purchaser also are verified. NATM has been actively educating members on these requirements over the last several years through forums and workshops at the annual NATM Convention & Trade Show as well as with webinars, which lends itself to the shared commitment to education within the industry. What was a problem a couple of years ago with the placement of the VIN label in the correct location (forward half of the left side of the trailer) rarely occurs today and is an excellent example of education in action. ■

If you would like to hear more about NMMA and its certification program, please contact Scott Berry at sberry@nmma.org. Questions about the NATM program? Contact NATM Technical Director Scott Crimmins at Scott.Crimmins@natm.com or call (785) 272-4433.

www.NATM.com

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From Likes to Leads: Unleashing the Power of Social Media for the Trailer Industry

By Ginger Baker-Sanhueza, NATM Education Director

In a digital age where the world is at everyone’s fingertips, it's no secret that the power of social media reigns supreme.

For the trailer industry, mastering this realm has become not just a choice but a necessity. The National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM) has recognized this need and embarked on a journey to equip its members with the knowledge and tools to harness the full potential of social media. The "From Likes to Leads" NATM’s fall webinar series, a three-part education initiative, had a mission to equip members with the knowledge and strategies to transform their online presence into a powerful tool for business growth.

Webinar 1: Establishing a Digital Foundation The first installment of the "From Likes to Leads" series took the stage with the mission to underline the importance of a robust digital foundation. This critical foundation lays the groundwork for the subsequent steps in harnessing social media's power. The following is a recap of the insights shared by the expert panelists: Savana Morrison – Marketing Director at NATM: Morrison set the stage by emphasizing the significance of selecting the right social media platforms. With over six years of experience at NATM, she's been a driving force behind the success of the association's online campaigns. Morrison walked the audience through what key elements are essential in creating a profile. She also talked about branding, logos, and the importance of having a cohesive look.

Rebecca Gerads – Senior Marketing Coordinator for Felling Trailers, Inc.: Gerads walked attendees through the process of optimizing social media profiles as well as showcasing your business’s authenticity. Her rich experience, spanning nearly two decades, has been instrumental in Felling Trailers' marketing success.

Heather Gonzales – Marketing Director for Triple Crown Trailers and Down 2 Earth Trailers: Gonzales shared what types of content tend to perform better on certain platforms. Her unique combination of people skills and creativity has been pivotal in maintaining the relevance of the brands she represents. She offered engagement strategies to meet the needs of your audience.

Wes Kowal – Marketing Guru from inTech: Kowal, with his expertise in content creation and web development, shed light on the strategies for creating content that stands out. He mentioned how to navigate platforms www.NATM.com

like LinkedIn and discussed features like polling and Facebook groups and how to leverage them for your business. His role in aligning inTech's digital presence with its objectives was clearly reflected in his insights.

Jacob Crabb – "The Trailer Nerd" from Diamond C Trailers: Crabb was the hidden gem in the first webinar. Even though he wasn’t live during the webinar, he provided valuable insights through a one-on-one interview. He highlighted the importance of telling the story behind the creation of your company and what makes you unique. He mentioned that diving into details about your company’s mission and values can help bring an authentic presence to your audience.

The first webinar answered important questions such as how to optimize your social media profile depending on the platform, crafting engaging content, and effective engagement techniques. It laid the groundwork for the second installment.

Webinar 2: Crafting Compelling Content The second webinar continued the journey of social media mastery, focusing on the creation of compelling content. It tackled the four topics of content creation: ›

1) Developing a Content Strategy

›

2) Exploring Content Formats

›

3) Storytelling and Different Storytelling Techniques

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4) Visual Elements and Design

Crabb, from Diamond C Trailers, started the webinar off by discussing how to define your content objectives effectively and how to use these objectives to drive a content creation strategy.

Kowal shared his tips on identifying a target audience and tailoring content accordingly. He shared how understanding your audience can help you know what type of content to post.

Gonzales from Down 2 Earth added her perspective, emphasizing authenticity through posts about company culture or engaging behind-the-scenes footage to help you connect with your audience.

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Webinar panelists answer questions submitted by NATM Members during the webinar. Photo is a screen grab of webinar.

Continued from Page 35 Gerads added to the conversation by discussing how companies can track communications from their website and generate custom content based on those results. She also provided some examples of storytelling as a tool to convey a message effectively.

The second webinar brought the discussion on content to a higher level, exploring themes like storytelling, different storytelling techniques, and visual elements and design. Panelists collectively paved the way for mastering the art of engaging through content.

Webinar 3: Nurturing a Thriving Online Community The third and final installment of the "From Likes to Leads" webinar series concluded with a powerful exploration of the strategies and tactics necessary to cultivate a vibrant online community in the trailer industry.

The panelists started by navigating the audience through the nuances of identifying and targeting the ideal audience within the trailer industry. Strategies for creating content that not only sparks conversations but also encourages active audience participation were unraveled. Techniques for fostering meaningful connections and building relationships with followers were unveiled. The panel also shed light on tips for effectively utilizing chatbots, automated responses, and dedicated customer support channels. The segment culminated with a journey into understanding your follower demographic, including their preferences and online habits. www.NATM.com

Panelists then dove into the value of having brand ambassadors, advocates, and partnerships and how they can amplify your online presence. They discussed the benefits of user-generated content, along with tactics for encouraging customers to share their experiences.

What stood out most was the power of analytics. As analytics remain a cornerstone in modern social media success, this segment provided a comprehensive overview of social media campaign analytics. It included insights on A/B testing, reviewing data on different platforms, studying patterns and trends, and understanding the signs of underperforming content. This segment prepared the audience with the tools to make data-driven decisions and provide excellent customer support.

As you look back on the "From Likes to Leads'' webinar series, you’re reminded that mastering social media is not an option but a necessity in the trailer industry. The journey has been enlightening, filled with insights from experts who have successfully harnessed social media to their advantage.

These webinars, part of NATM's educational programming, are accessible to all NATM Members, reinforcing the Association's commitment to arming its members with the knowledge and tools to thrive in today's digital landscape.

With the knowledge shared by the expert panelists, trailer businesses are well on their way to transforming “likes” into valuable “leads'' and into a new era of growth and success.

To access our webinar recordings on-demand, visit www.

NATM.com/natm-educational-webinars. This is on the members-only section of the NATM site, so you will need to be logged in to your Member Compass account to access it. If you need assistance with your Member Compass account, or with accessing these membersonly pages, please email NATMHQ@natm.com. ■ January/February 2024

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UKG Webinar Addresses Labor Shortage

By Samantha Darling LaCount, NATM Tracks Editor

The webinar “Elevate the Frontline Manufacturing Employee Experience” was presented on October 3, 2023, by UKG, a multinational technology company that provides workforce management and human resource management services. The webinar presenters were Kylene Zenk, industry fellow focused on the manufacturing sector with UKG; Kayla Cisco, workforce solution consultant in the manufacturing sector with UKG; and Reid Paquin, research director with IDC manufacturing insights.

The webinar focused on current challenges in the industry and how those are influencing manufacturers’ priorities. One major challenge UKG reports seeing across the manufacturing industry is workforce shortage. Zenk says about 40% of manufacturers say that they are currently understaffed.

“I think that issue of having a proper amount of staff for your operation is something that we’re seeing,” Zenk said. “For a long time, understaffing was prevalent. We’re starting to see a little improvement in terms of having a proper staff load.

The workforce institute at UKG had done a research study just a few months ago targeting HR leaders in manufacturing and 76% of manufacturers are really struggling to bring talent in and find talent. That is a pretty significant number.”

“From IDC’s most recent talent survey that we did, the disruption brought on by COVID-19 caused a noticeable drop,” Paquin added. “It’s about a 5% decrease in the workforce on average. There’s an example of this that has come up in recent discussions that I’ve had with a large industrial manufacturer — at the onset of COVID, they had a furlough of about 1,500 employees. Later in the year, when they wanted to ramp back up production, only about 1,200 of those employees returned, so that’s a sizable gap for any manufacturer to have to face.

It all points to the overall key message here that the industry really needs to rethink how they're approaching things when it comes to talent and the workforce.”

One way to combat labor shortage is to find and attract new talent. This includes diversifying your pipelines. Zenk said one way companies can do this is to prioritize education and outreach. People who don’t know what careers in manufacturing are really like aren’t likely to apply. Getting involved in local schools is a great place to start, Zenk says.

There also is an ongoing conversation about low female participation in the industry. Women make up about 50% of the population but the manufacturing workforce is only 29% women. Finding and fostering women to bring into the 38

January/February 2024

industry is a way to tap into one under-utilized talent pool.

It’s important for manufacturers to get and keep new talent in a shortage. One glaring issue with a labor shortage is burnout of the current workforce.

“If you don’t have enough people in general, you’re asking your current employees to do more,” Zenk said. “They’re working longer shifts, longer hours, multiple days in a row, so there’s this kind of vicious cycle of employees being exhausted and feeling burnout. That can have potential safety implications in addition to quality implications.”

Once you’ve gotten new talent in the door, it’s just as important to develop and retain them. UKG found the industry is facing record turnover. Most companies are seeing significant annual turnover and Zenk says this is interfering with their ability to meet their production and financial goals. Even if a company is not experiencing this yet, Paquin notes that they likely will as more and more baby boomers start retiring.

You can only prevent retirements for so long, Paquin says.

Part of this exodus includes all of the knowledge that will be leaving the workforce in the next 5, 6, 7 years, Zenk says in regard to the mass of retiring baby boomers in manufacturing. Companies need to be thinking about how to transfer that knowledge from legacy employees to newer employees. Data from the research institute shows that about two-thirds of turnover is happening in the first 90 days.

“The discussion becomes: how can you focus on making those new employees feel more empowered and welcome within the 90 days?” Zenk said. “One way to do that is to connect them. Have them mentor with an existing person who knows the job really well. They can build that connection, and collaboration, and that relationship, which will make that new employee feel like they’re a part of the organization but also transfer that knowledge to a new person.”

UKG also says flexible scheduling is a key tool for helping companies keep employees. Their research has shown that having alternative shift patterns is something manufacturing frontline employees are looking for. It allows them to have more autonomy and control over their work-life balance.

What do you want to learn about next? Educational content ideas can be sent to NATM Education Director Ginger Baker-Sanhueza at Ginger.BakerSanhueza@natm.com. ■

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NATM Launches New Dealer Affiliate Program Benefit: NATM Connect

By Andrea Boetticher, NATM Dealer Programming Specialist

An important part of any affiliation is the opportunity to connect with those who understand your interests and challenges best. One of the new benefits included in the NATM Dealer Affiliate Program provides exactly those opportunities.

NATM Connect is an online community forum where Dealer Affiliates can engage in discussion and receive feedback and resources from other professional peers around the trailer industry. The community forum is private and provides a space for authentic discussion that doesn’t include pushy sales pitches or outsiders with unclear motives.

NATM Dealer Affiliates are encouraged to share successes and challenges, bring questions, give constructive feedback, and provide perspective in all manners related to operating and working at a trailer dealership.

The community forum is structured like any other discussion board. Users can post topics and pose questions under industry specific and relevant categories.

This includes categories that align with other dealer program benefits, such as sales, parts, and service department operations, leadership development, financial management, office management, and talent and HR management. In addition, users can create categories to really make the forum their own.

Why should you and your dealership staff use NATM Connect? ›

Support and Collaboration — If you operate with a small team, NATM Connect allows staff to gain support and opportunities to collaborate that potentially they are unable to do with just their coworkers, which could aid in improving their job functions and help them succeed.

›

Access to Knowledge and Expertise — NATM Dealer Affiliates represent the core knowledge base of the industry and decades of crucial experience. NATM Connect allows you to instantly tap into that expertise.

›

Opportunities for Networking — NATM Connect allows you and your staff the opportunity to build your network, forming bonds and relationships for both professional and personal growth and development.

›

Increased Staff Motivation and Engagement — Sharing experience and commonality of interest can lead to greater staff motivation and engagement as it helps your staff learn and grow in their jobs. ■

Visit NATM Connect at www.Forum.NATM.com to start your discussion today! Do you have dealers that would benefit from NATM Dealer Affiliate programming, or are you a dealer interested in joining? Visit www.NATM. com/dealers to join today for only $150. For more information, contact us at Dealers@natm.com or by calling (785) 272-4433.

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January/February 2024

www.NATM.com

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C ATMEEGM OBREYRTSI H T LI PE

T TR RA A CC K KS S

NATM Compliance Manager Sean Sloan performs a compliance inspection. Photo by Ginger Baker-Sanhueza.

National Trailer Safety Week: Improving Safety One Trailer at a Time

By Savana Morrison, NATM Marketing Director

The National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM) prides itself on its continuous commitment to advancing trailer safety. However, Trailer Safety Week (TSW), which is held annually during the first week of June, provides a unique opportunity for the trailer industry to join forces and make the nation’s roadways safer. The goal of TSW is to increase awareness of safe trailering practices and educate end-users, dealers, and manufacturers on trailer safety. Reaching hundreds of thousands annually and even earning recognition at the federal level in 2023, TSW is the

www.NATM.com

first nationwide traffic safety initiative that targets safe towing practices for light- and medium-duty trailers. NATM has developed a range of resources and content to support this mission, all of which are available on the Trailer Safety Week website.

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Continued from Page 43

5 Reasons to Celebrate Trailer Safety Week:

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customize the content to include information about their specific products and services that promote trailer safety.

Becoming a Trailer Safety Week Ally demonstrates to potential customers that your company prioritizes safety.

Trailer Safety Champion Program:

2) NATM Members are industry leaders in safe products and practices

The Trailer Safety Week Champion program recognizes companies that go above and beyond to support TSW and provides them with greater promotional opportunities. While Trailer Safety Week includes Allies across the country, Trailer Safety Week Champions are companies that meet specific requirements and receive benefits listed on the TSW website.

3) Provides an opportunity to partner with local government agencies

Trailer Safety Partnership Program:

1) Participation shows customers your company’s commitment to safety

4) Allows companies to play a role in unifying the trailer industry 5) Creates media placement opportunities for participating companies Are you convinced that your company should participate in Trailer Safety Week? NATM encourages its members to get involved by becoming Trailer Safety Allies, Champions, or Partners.

Trailer Safety Ally Program: The Trailer Safety Ally program is an excellent opportunity for companies that want to be involved in the safety campaign but have limited time to invest. As an official Trailer Safety Week Ally, NATM provides a Trailer Safety Communications Kit that promotes the company's involvement in Trailer Safety Week and shares information on safe trailering practices. The kit includes pre-made social media posts, downloadable Trailer Safety Week graphics, a blog post, and more. Companies can even

www.NATM.com

The Trailer Safety Week Partnership program is designed to recognize companies, groups, and agencies that support the TSW mission through content development and resource sharing. Partnerships require a more significant commitment in terms of educational content creation and sharing and must conform to specific standards and requirements. For more information on becoming a TSW Partner, please contact NATM Education Director Ginger Baker-Sanhueza.

Joining NATM and its TSW Allies in improving trailer safety is essential for expanding the campaign's reach and effectively improving roadway safety. Visit www.TrailerSafetyWeek.com for more information on becoming a Trailer Safety Ally, Champion, or Partner.

NATM is excited to work with its members to advance the safety of the light- and medium-duty trailer industry. ■

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NATM Hires New Compliance Consultant Meet Todd Stallbaumer

The National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM) is pleased to announce that Todd Stallbaumer joined the staff as a Compliance Consultant in October. As the newest NATM Compliance Consultant, Stallbaumer conducts compliance verification consultations for trailer manufacturers to verify members have the manufacturing processes in place to manufacture trailers in compliance with NATM. This position also has the responsibility of assisting members in correcting any compliance deficiencies.

Stallbaumer is a graduate of Kansas State University with a degree in Agriculture.

He began working in law enforcement in Shawnee County Kansas in 1997 where he worked in corrections, patrol, community services, and administration. He retired as a Lieutenant in the fall of 2023. Todd and his wife, Tonya, embrace the business of raising their four teenagers and enjoy outdoor activities in their spare time.

“One of the most rewarding aspects of my career in public service was the opportunity to interact with people and build positive contacts in the community,” said Stallbaumer. “My goal is to utilize my experience in roadway safety to assist NATM in achieving their mission of improving the safety of the trailer industry.”

Stallbaumer is excited to learn more about the needs of the light- and medium-duty trailer industry and continue to meet more NATM Members as he travels to trailer manufacturing facilities with NATM Technical Director Scott Crimmins, Compliance Manager Sean Sloan, and Senior Compliance Consultant Aaron Langer.

Welcome Todd to the Association by phone at (785) 2724433 or by email, Todd.Stallbaumer@natm.com. ■

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Renewing NATM Membership for 2024: A Symbol of Dedication to Trailer Safety

By Meghan Ryan, NATM Assistant Director

As the only not-for-profit 501(c)(6) association serving the light- and medium-duty trailer industry, the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM) stands firmly in its commitment to advancing and unifying the light- and medium-duty trailer industry. For nearly 40 years, NATM has improved the safety of the roadways through its Compliance Verification Program and has facilitated invaluable connections among its members. As we approach a new year, NATM invites you to renew your membership and continue this journey with us. Renewing your NATM membership is a symbol of your ongoing dedication to the betterment of the industry and the improvement of trailer safety and performance.

NATM has evolved into an association that unites trailer manufacturers, trailer dealers, suppliers, service providers, OEM automotive manufacturers, industry leaders, and key stakeholders from across the nation and abroad.

Annual membership dues directly contribute to NATM’s robust portfolio of programming and initiatives to improve trailer safety at multiple levels. This includes the NATM Compliance Verification Program, the newly launching NATM Academy, Trailer Safety Week, publications, and educational programming for the membership.

The 2024 membership renewals are sent to main contacts in mid-November, which makes this the perfect time for the Association to reflect on how membership dues are critical in supporting the actions, services, and educational programming that NATM provides for its members and the light- and medium-duty trailer industry. NATM is constantly evaluating costs and benefits to ensure your annual membership investment is being met with valuable returns.

In 2023, membership dues allowed NATM to: ›

Host the highly successful 2023 NATM Convention & Trade Show in Fort Worth, Texas, that featured over 1,500 attendees and a record number of exhibitors.

›

Expand the NATM Staff with five new staffers to address educational programming, marketing, the compliance program, dealer programming, and events.

www.NATM.com

›

Continue the Association’s Strategic Plan focusing on industry growth, increasing brand awareness, and continuously improving the NATM Compliance Verification Program.

›

Grow the reach of the annual Trailer Safety Week, including the expansion of strategic partnerships and access to additional resources.

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Devote resources to marketing the NATM Compliance Verification Program and benefits of the Association to the industry as well as end-users to grow the value of the NATM Compliance Decal.

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Educate members of Congress during the annual Regulatory Roundup and Capitol Hill Visits.

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Update the 2023 Guidelines for Recommended Minimum Manufacturing Practices for Light- and-Medium Duty Trailers, also known as the Guidelines.

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Host the 2023 webinar series “From Likes to Leads: Harnessing Social Media for Trailer Industry Success” to empower members to revolutionize their online presence and achieve remarkable growth through strategic social media marketing.

›

Continue offering the NATM Association Retirement Plan for member companies to offer their employees.

NATM’s commitment is to its members and ultimately to trailer safety. Supporting NATM Members’ ability to grow and prosper, while also contributing to the safety of the nation’s roadways, is what drives the Association’s work. Your support of this mission and your integral feedback along the way is vital to NATM’s success. NATM looks forward to continuing this important work in the coming year!

Continued on Page 48

January/February 2024

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›

Continued from Page 47

2024 NATM Membership Dues

You have the option to renew your membership online at www.NATM.com. Log into the NATM Member Compass to view and pay the invoice. Should you decide to pay online, please advise accounts payable to disregard the notice.

Your 2024 NATM membership renewal notice was emailed to the attention of your accounts payable department in November. Dues will stay the same once again for 2024 as NATM understands the economic difficulties many companies are facing.

Membership dues must be paid no later than Jan. 31, 2024. Any dues not received by Jan. 31, 2024, will be considered delinquent, and all membership benefits will be terminated until paid per the NATM Bylaws.

For 2024, Membership Dues are: ›

Regular Members (Trailer Manufacturers): $995

›

Branch Regular Members (Trailer Manufacturers): $325

›

Associate Membership (Suppliers/Service Providers): $860

›

Branch Associate Membership (Suppliers/ Service Providers): $150

›

Trailer Dealer Affiliates: $150

›

Branch Trailer Dealer Affiliates: $150

Tow Vehicle OEM Membership (Automotive Manufacturers): $150

For Trade Show Exhibitors, it is important to note that NATM DUES MUST BE PAID BY DEC. 31, 2023, to maintain the member rate for booths at the February 2024 Convention & Trade Show.

NATM greatly values your membership, and 2024 promises to be another fantastic year to be a NATM Member. You can pay by check, over the phone, or online at www.NATM.com using the NATM Member Compass section at any time.

If you have questions, contact NATM Membership & Events Coordinator Catie Rutkowski at (785) 2724433 or Catie.Rutkowski@natm.com. ■

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Kiva Ventures LLC Kraftsman Trailers Krayden M.B. Bowen Company LLC M&M Trailer LLC Machitech Automation Mid South Aluminum Mirsberger Sales & Service Inc. NINGBO JINGYI MACHINERY MANUFACTURING CO., LTD Nomad Custom Trailers Inc Offsitek, LLC Pinecliffe Printers of Tecumseh, Inc. Precision Laser & Manufacturing Inc. Premier Trailer Solutions LLC Rainman Digital Raskull Supply Co RD Trailers LLC Rockin' S Trailer Snyder Welding Technologies, LLC Southern Grace Steel Fabrication LLC Southern Utility Trailers Stryker Dealership Group SURETRAC INC. T-Rex Trailers Trail Maxx Trailers LLC Trailers and More LLC TREVOR ROBERTS AUTO REPAIR INC. Triumph Trailers USA Valley Trailer Parts Distributor LLC Vo Holdings, LLC January/February 2024

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MEMBERSHIP

Welcome New Members Supplier/Service Provider ABTEK 5841 Andersonville Rd Waterford, MI 48329 Alamo Axel 20920 N US Hwy 281 Morgan Mill, TX 76465 Asquare Parts Inc 3403 West T C Jester Blvd #473 Houston, TX 77018 • Axles/Hubs/Springs, Brakes, Cargo Control, Castings, Chains, Doors/ Ramps, Fabricated Parts, Fasteners, Fenders, Flooring, Hardware, Hitches, Jacks/Landing Gear Bexsteel 759 SW Federal Hwy Ste 304 Stuart, FL 34994 • Steel-Sheet, SteelStructural, Steel-Tube DLL 1111 Old Eagle School Road Wayne, PA 19087 • Financing, Flooring Dream Lighting Inc 2111 Industrial Pkwy Elkhart, IN 46516 DURGA ENGINEERS 202 Indra Complex Industrial Area, Tigaon Rd, Sector 87 Faridabad, Haryana 121002, India www.durgaengineers.in • Hydraulics, Rubber Products Go Power!

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January/February 2024

Intradin (Shanghai) Machinery, Co., Ltd 118 Duhui Rd Minhang District, Shang Hai 201109, China www.intradin.com • Hydraulics, Tools/Equipment Portfolio 25541 Commercentre Dr 100 Lake Forest, CA 92630 • Service Contracts Richmond International Forest Products 4050 Innslake Dr Glen Allen, VA 23060 • Composite Panels, Lumber Sherwin-Williams 1101 S Third St Minneapolis, MN 55415 www.oem.sherwin.com • Paints/Coatings/Galvanizing Tie 4 Safe 14925 Paramount Blvd Unit F Paramount, CA 90723 www.tie4safe.com • Cargo Control, Hardware, Metal Stamping, Towing Accessories Tire Partners of Texas 4900 Langdon Rd Ste 300 Dallas, TX 75241 www.tirepartnersoftexas.com • Tires, Wheels/Rims Top Metalwork Ltd. South Section of Rd #17 New Material Industrial Zone Xingyang, Henan 450100, China • Axles/Hubs/Springs, Brakes, Castings, Couplers, Jacks/Landing Gear, Metal Production Machinery TrailerDecking.com 3821 24th Ave Forest Grove, OR 97116 • Fasteners, Flooring, Lumber, Sealants

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www.NATM.com

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January/February 2024

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M EM C AT EB GEORRSYHTI IPT L E

Have News You Want To Share with the Entire Industry?

NATM Has Just the Place for You!

By Savana Morrison, NATM Marketing Director

The National Association of Trailer Manufacturers (NATM) is dedicated to providing its members with various opportunities to elevate their trailer businesses. One such opportunity is the NATM Member News section which can be found at www.NATM. com/news/natm-member-news. This online platform serves as an avenue for members to share their company news with the rest of the trailer industry. Whether it's the latest press release, a product announcement, or other exciting company happenings, the NATM Member News section is the perfect place to feature them.

Please note that only NATM Members and Dealer Affiliates are allowed to submit entries to the Member News section.

Furthermore, submissions must adhere to the guidelines set by the Association. This ensures that the news being shared is of high quality and relevant to the industry. If you're a NATM Member and have some exciting news to share, be sure to submit it to the NATM Member News section and let the rest of the trailer industry know what's new with your company!

Submissions may also be included in the Member News section of Tracks magazine.

Submission Ideas Include: ›

Product launch

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Announcing a new partnership

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Highlighting your company culture

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Introducing your newest employee

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Receiving an award

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Promoting trailer safety

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Hosting educational events

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Publishing informational industry content

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›

Celebrating a promotion

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Reaching a company milestone

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And more!

Submit your content by visiting www.NATM. com/natm-member-news-guidelines.

Submission Guidelines: All submissions accepted are subject to the policies and approval of NATM. NATM reserves the right to withdraw or reject any submission at any time without prior notice to the content owner when, in the sole judgment of NATM, it conflicts with board policy.

Submissions containing pictures, illustrations or graphics deemed obscene, vulgar, racist or discriminatory, or otherwise offensive or inappropriate with the character of the publication are prohibited.

All submissions featuring trailers must demonstrate compliance with the National Association of Trailer Manufacturers’ Compliance Verification Program. NATM reserves the right to reject any submission that does not meet applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, regulations and/or industry best practices outlined in the NATM Compliance Verification Program. Further, any non-compliances alleged or discovered on a NATM member trailer shall be subject to investigation and if necessary, corrective action, as outlined in the NATM Compliance Verification Program Policy and Procedures.

Submissions heavily featuring non-member trailer industry businesses will not be accepted.

Approved submissions will be uploaded to www.NATM.com within five business days of receiving approved content. ■ www.NATM.com

P R E SS R E L E A S E S

TRACKS

Pacific Trailer Products/RAM Trailer Products Announces Hydraulic Line Expansion Pacific Trailer Products/RAM Trailer Products a leading manufacturer of trailer jacks, couplers, accessories and hydraulic products is pleased to announce the following additions to our hydraulic line. ›

15K capacity hydraulic jacks that include a patent pending integrated counter balance valve. This integrated system eliminates any opportunity for drifting/retracting of the hydraulic jack when the trailer is not in use. For more information visit: www.ramtrailerproducts.com/products/.

›

7K capacity round tube hydraulic jack. This 7,000lb support and lift capacity jack is ideal for those medium duty trailer applications. For more

www.NATM.com

information please see the following link to our website: www.ramtrailerproducts.com/product/7khydraulic-round-tube-bolt-on-jack-copy/. ›

In addition to the dual acting power up/power down hydraulic power units, we now have power up/power down/gravity down, power up/power down/gravity down/ manual down, a 2 to 4 selector unit and single acting units. For more information please see the following link to our website: www.ramtrailerproducts.com/productcategory/trailer-hydraulics/hydraulic-power-units/.

If you have additional questions, please email us at info@ramtrailerproducts.com. ■

January/February 2024

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P R E SS R E L E A S E S

Austin Hardware & Supply, Inc. Launches 4TH GEN Line of Eco-Friendly Professional Industrial Cleaners 4TH GEN is a new line of professional-grade, eco-friendly cleaners from Austin Hardware and Supply, Inc. (Lee's Summit, MO). Austin Hardware is committed to providing innovative solutions to our customers, and this new line of uniquely formulated professional cleaning products is the latest example.

The made-in-America 4TH GEN cleaning products comprise a multi-surface all-purpose cleaner, glass cleaner, adhesive remover, and industrial strength degreaser. Each of these four new cleaners is made with natural or plant-based ingredients to be an eco-friendly, safe, and highly effective alternative to current market offerings used throughout the industrial workshop, extend into the office, and even into the home.

The all-purpose cleaner, glass cleaner, and degreaser are available in concentrated and ready-to-use formulations, while the adhesive remover is formulated to be used at full strength. A dilution control dispenser system is also available from Austin Hardware to ensure a precise concentrate-to-water ratio, reduce waste, and save time.

All of these professional-grade 4TH GEN cleaning

products, in both formulations, are now available for purchase in various sizes by calling one of Austin's nine nationwide locations at 800.821.3520, and online at www.info.austinhardware.com/cleaners.

4TH GEN is an exclusive Austin Hardware brand featuring industrial cleaners, tapes, and other MRO products used by OEMs, job shops, repair service facilities, and more across diverse industries.

For more information, please visit www.austinhardware. com or contact your nearest Austin Hardware location. ■ About Austin Hardware & Supply, Inc. Austin Hardware & Supply, Inc. is a wholesale distributor of specialty industrial and vehicular hardware. The company has nine locations throughout the U.S.. Serving industry since 1960, Austin Hardware provides innovative hardware solutions with an extensive inventory of top-quality parts, shipped quickly, accurately, and at competitive prices. All supported by experienced, professional customer service dedicated to each customer's success.

Austin Hardware & Supply, Inc. Names Allen White Regional Key Account Manager Austin Hardware & Supply, Inc. has announced that Allen White has accepted the position of Regional Key Account Manager for the states of Alabama, Florida, and Georgia.

Allen will be responsible for sales and account growth in his southeastern territory for the company’s full product line. He has over 10 years of experience in a similar role with Fastenal.

Allen, who resides in Florida, served 3.5 years of active duty in the U.S. Army with one deployment to Iraq and the remainder of his enlisted 7 years with the Florida National Guard. ■ About Austin Hardware & Supply, Inc. Austin Hardware & Supply, Inc. is a wholesale distributor of

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specialty industrial and vehicular hardware. The company has nine locations throughout the U.S. Serving industry since 1960, Austin Hardware provides innovative hardware solutions with an extensive inventory of topquality parts, shipped quickly, accurately, and at competitive prices. All supported by experienced, professional customer service dedicated to each customer’s success.

www.NATM.com

BUILT FOR THE LONG HAUL Apex is now Bostail Apex Trailer Parts has a strong and secure history. But as our dominance and accomplishments continue to stack up, competitors have taken it as an opportunity to reeect our every move — inspiring a need for installing a new, unique brand name that is as powerful as it is ownable.

We are excited to roll out a new name that better positions the company and our teams for the continued growth we expect.

Rooted in the strength and reliability of our trailers and parts, from now on we are Bostail. Bos being the scientiic term for “ox”, combined with “tail”, creates a conndent name that evokes toughness and trust to withstand the hard work and keep working.

We invite you to help introduce and champion Bostail to the trailer world.

The Bostail Connection As your dedicated partner, we´re commited to keeping you stocked with workapproved parts that keep your customers on the job.

Come Visit us at Booth 720 at the 2024 NATM Show in Las Vegas!

(972) 637-7324 sales@bostail.com bostail.com 57

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