IN THEIR WORDS…ANSWERS BY TOM STEWART, PRESIDENT
WHY DID YOU START THE BUSINESS?
Carolina Rim & Wheel was started in 1926 by Edward MacClements and Raymond Glaser with the support of manufacturers who saw the need for distribution of their products in a growing marketplace. The economy of the Carolinas was beginning to boom, especially in textiles, furniture and as a distribution hub, prompting the need for local distribution of truck and automotive parts.
WHAT’S BEEN YOUR TOUGHEST BUSINESS DECISION?
Making necessary changes in personnel and product lines both compete for being the toughest decisions to make, especially if it’s been a long-term relationship. Moving from one supplier to another, even though you know in your heart that it is the right move, can strain long-lasting friendships. The same holds true when dealing with personnel issues. If John (factitious name) is a really nice guy who everyone likes, but no matter how much effort was tried, you know the only answer is to part company. To me those are the decisions you lose sleep over.
WHAT WAS YOUR BEST BUSINESS DECISION?
That one is fairly simple to answer: Carolina Rim & Wheel was one of the original members of Vipar Heavy Duty. The decision to join has benefited our company far beyond what we initially envisioned. It introduced us to new products, customers and ways to grow our business. Without Vipar, I do not feel we would be as successful as we are today, as they offer us the expertise and resources that, in many cases, are only available to the largest companies.
WHAT WAS YOUR WORST BUSINESS DECISION?
After 81 years there is certainly a list of bad, or at least questionable, decisions. And in hindsight, they always are easy to see. Trying to pin it down to one is not that simple. In my case it probably was being too cautious, leading to missed opportunities to grow our business.
WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO KEEP A COMPETITIVE EDGE?
Stay ahead of the curve in every aspect of our business. We do this by emphasizing continuous improvement through training in product knowledge, selling skills, time management, etc. We also take full advantage of outside resources such as Vipar Heavy Duty and CVSN to keep informed of changes in the industry.
WHAT IS YOUR FIVE-YEAR VISION?
There will be many challenges ahead as we look to continue growing our business and staying profitable in a market shrinking through consolidation at the manufacturing, fleet and distribution levels. There will be changes, as that is inevitable, but my hope is to still be hanging around and servicing our customers with the quality parts that they trust us for.
