Quality Parts Coalition announces new executive director

The Quality Parts Coalition (QPC) has appointed Ed Salamy as the Coalition’s new executive director, effective immediately. In addition to serving as an active member of the QPC, Salamy is the president of ETS Management Group Inc. and the executive director of the Automotive Body Parts Association (ABPA). Salamy brings 15 years of experience in the alternative parts supply channel, particularly when it comes to understanding how policy decisions can impact the broader collision repair parts industry.
 
“This is a momentous time for the QPC, and it is essential that the Coalition continue to have dedicated leadership,” said outgoing interim Executive Director Dan Morrissey. “I am confident that with Ed’s experience and enthusiasm, the QPC will remain well-positioned to achieve its goal of finding a legislative solution to the design patent challenge.”
The QPC overwhelmingly supports the Promoting Automotive Repair, Trade, and Sales (PARTS) Act (S. 780 and H.R. 1663), bipartisan and bicameral federal legislation that was introduced in April 2013. This legislation is designed to ensure American drivers continue to enjoy the benefits of quality and lower-cost collision repair parts following an accident.
 
The PARTS Act would amend title 35 of current U.S. design patent law, reducing the period during which car companies can enforce their design patents on collision repair parts against alternative suppliers from 14 years to 2.5 years.
 
“I would like to thank Dan for his efforts and commitment on behalf of the QPC,” said Salamy. “I look forward to working with him and our members to fight for the consumers’ right to access more affordable auto repair options when the need arises, especially when every dollar counts these days.”
 
ABOUT THE QPC
The Quality Parts Coalition represents the interests of the independent automotive parts industry, repairers, insurers, consumers and seniors. The goal of the Quality Parts Coalition is to develop and secure a permanent legislative change to U.S. design patent law to protect the consumer’s right to benefit from quality, lower-cost alternative replacement parts and to preserve competition. For more information, visit www.KeepAutoPartsAffordable.org.