United States. MEMA, the Association of Vehicle Suppliers, announced its 120th anniversary, which "underscores the association's enduring legacy and its critical role in advancing the future of mobility and the interests of vehicle suppliers."
MEMA was founded on March 2, 1904, in Cleveland, Ohio, to represent the burgeoning auto parts manufacturing industry. For the past 120 years, MEMA and its members have been at the forefront of advocacy, innovation and collaboration, the association said.
Today, MEMA said it represents the largest sector of manufacturing jobs in the United States. Throughout its history, MEMA has helped suppliers navigate the automotive and commercial vehicle industry through times of significant change, from the early days of motor vehicles to today's advanced era of electrification and autonomous technology.
"As we celebrate 120 years of MEMA, we honor our past and those who have laid the foundation for continued success," said Bill Long, president and CEO of MEMA.
"We also look ahead to the opportunities and challenges ahead, reaffirming our commitment to championing the interests of vehicle suppliers and our vision of a growing, profitable, innovative and influential vehicle supplier industry. MEMA is more than a vendor association – it's a community of leaders driving mobility," he added.
MEMA said its history is littered with important achievements that it said have propelled the vehicle supplier industry forward. The partnership has been instrumental in advancing industry standards, fostering technological innovation, and improving vehicle safety and efficiency.
Key moments include advocating for fundamental laws and regulations, such as the Motor Vehicle Safety Act, the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act and the USMCA, which have shaped the business landscape for its members and advocating for the industry during critical economic turns and global challenges, according to MEMA.
As MEMA embarks on its next century, the association said it is poised to lead the industry through the advent of new technologies, sustainability practices and global market dynamics.
