After serving for 25 years, the decision was made in light of diminished affiliate numbers, though seven will remain at the regional level
Nutley, N.J.—The Alliance of Automotive Service Providers (AASP) Board of Directors has announced it has decided come “to wind down the operations” of the national association at year’s end.
At its May meeting, the board enlisted the expertise of a professional association management facilitator in hopes of identifying potential opportunities for future initiatives and strategic focus. However, in light of its diminished affiliate numbers and recognizing the challenges of having a meaningful impact at the national level, the board concluded that dissolving the national association was the best path forward.
Dan Sjolseth, AASP president, stated, “We are proud to have served the industry for the past 25 years, acting as a networking hub for associations and facilitating the exchange of information and best practices. AASP National has run its course, but its spirit will live on through the continued work of our seven affiliate groups to positively impact the industry at a local level.”
The AASP National Board expressed its commitment to guiding the organization through its final phase with diligence and care, including the responsible and equitable distribution of its remaining assets.
Proud of its legacy of co-founding and funding the Database Enhancement Gateway, the association is contributing $100,000 (equivalent to 5 years of its current financial support) to ensure that that valuable industry resource continues to thrive and benefit the industry.
Affirming its core mission to support and strengthen its affiliates, the remaining assets will be distributed equally among current affiliates in good standing who, in turn, can utilize those funds to enhance their work serving the industry at the local level. Those affiliates include AASP Illinois, AASP Massachusetts, AASP Minnesota, AASP New Jersey, AASP Pennsylvania, Automotive Service & Tire Alliance North Carolina and New York State Association of Service Stations and Repair Shops.
Further, the group plans to maintain an informal communication network for state affiliate representatives, preserving the connections and support that have been the cornerstone of AASP National.
The AASP National Board’s dedication to stewarding the association through its dissolution reflects its commitment to the organization’s legacy and its members. These efforts will ensure that the values and relationships cultivated by AASP National endure, even as the organization formally concludes its operations.
The group’s final meeting will take place in November, in conjunction with the SEMA and AAPEX shows.
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