GM SPO Recognizes Partnering Efforts At Local Celebration

Reno, NV - General Motors Service and Parts Operations, along with Senator Harry Reid, the state of Nevada, the city of Reno, the Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada (EDAWN) and the UAW celebrated successful partnerships at the new GM SPO Parts Distribution Center (PDC) in Reno, NV today.

"We're honored to celebrate the cooperative working relationship among all of the parties involved with building a competitive business case to secure the future of the new parts distribution center in Reno," stated Ray Culbert, manager of GM SPO Parts Engineering and Facilities Operations. "We recognize it is the people behind the scenes, their experience, their dedication and their hard work that are responsible for the success of this endeavor."

During the ceremony, special recognition was paid to Reid for his support of the overall project, but more importantly for securing a $1 million dollar grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation to run rail through the back of the PDC's property.

"A great quality of life starts with a good job," said Reid. " I am grateful to General Motors and United Auto Workers, Local 2162 for all they contribute to northern Nevada. GM's impact on our community isn't only a matter of dollars and cents. The people who work here are neighbors and friends who are involved in many charities and community organizations and by all of us working together, we are here today to celebrate a great success story."

Bob Shriver, executive director of the Nevada Commission on Economic Development, accepted the award on behalf of the state; Vice Mayor Dwight Dortch accepted the plaque for the city of Reno; and Director of EDAWN Chuck Alvey participated in the awards presentation. Both local and state officials played key roles in supporting the overall project.

The new 404,000 square-foot facility handles automotive replacement part shipments to more than 500GM North Central Region dealerships in seven states. Since its inception, the new Reno PDC has made great strides in quality, productivity and customer satisfaction measures.

In January 2005, the Reno PDC tied with the Chicago PDC for best overall-performing facility in GM SPO in 2004.

Reno PDC leadership conducted a brief tour of the facility after the press conference and awards ceremony to allow elected officials to meet with employees and see the fruits of their labor.