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International Association Formed to Promote and Increase The Use of Bright Automotive Products

20 March 1998

International Association Formed to Promote and Increase The Use of Bright Automotive Products

    TROY, Mich., March 20 -- Hoping to combine the nostalgia of
the 1950s with the luxury of the 1990s, automotive suppliers of chrome and
bright trim from the United States and Canada have joined to form the
Automotive Bright Products Association (ABPA).
    The ABPA was formed by 1O companies heavily involved with supplying chrome
products including wheels, bumpers and trim to automakers around the world.
Founding companies include:
     *   A.G. Simpson                        *   Enthone-OMI
     *   American Bumper                     *   Flat Rock Metal
     *   A-Mold                              *   INCO Ltd.
     *   Atotech                             *   Kuntz Electroplating Inc.
     *   Dura-Chrome Ltd.                    *   RustShield Plating

    The ABPA elected a five-member executive committee to direct the affairs
of the association and appointed John Bailey of John Bailey & Associates
(JB&A) as executive director and JB&A as its marketing/public relations
representatives.
    "We felt as members of the chrome/bright trim industry that it was
necessary for us to combine our efforts to continue this positive trend," said
J. Patrick Billinge, ABPA executive committee spokesperson.  "This association
complements all facets of our industry from manufacturers to platers to
suppliers and we feel that by working together, we will be able to increase
business for everyone."
    Research conducted by JB&A and Lansing, Mich.-based EPIC/MRA showed that
56 percent of consumers surveyed said that chrome enhances a vehicle's
appearance and 53 percent of those surveyed said that they owned a vehicle
with chrome components.
    "Today's cars and trucks are featuring chrome to add style, luxury and
value," said John Bailey, executive director of the ABPA.  "Walking around the
1998 North American International Auto Show in Detroit emphasized this trend.
Drivers are looking for more 'luxury' items in their cars and chrome is one of
the items they request."
    The association plans to attend several industry trade shows and events
throughout 1998-1999, including the SAE Bright Trim Conference, North American
International Auto Show and the SAE International Congress & Exposition.
    In addition to the 10 founding companies, more than 20 companies have
expressed interest in joining the ABPA.  Companies interested in obtaining
additional information should contact John Bailey & Associates at
248-641-3880 or visit our Web Site at http://www.baileypr.com.

SOURCE  Automotive Bright Products Association