AASDN TO LAUNCH EAST COAST CHAPTER

It is a busy time for the Australian Automotive Service Dealers Network

The Australian Automotive Service Dealers Network (AASDN) is a cooperative association of workshops which was formed ten years ago to provide support, training and mentoring to leading workshops in Australia.
It is currently gearing up to launch its East Coast chapter with a special November launch event at the AAAA’s Auto Innovation Centre (AIC) at
7 Bastow Place, Mulgrave, at 6.00pm on Wednesday the 15th of November.
The information evening on the AASDN will host like-minded workshops from across Victoria, with AASDN Vice Chairman, Mike Carnemolla, reporting that the Association expects to host around 30 businesses at the event.
Also in the works is a launch into Queensland, which is currently expected to occur in the
New Year.
“I have been a member of AASDN for four years now and have found it a great way to meet like-minded workshop owners and to share experiences. I would like to see other great workshops join AASDN and benefit from the networking the same way I have,” Mike said.
“AASDN’s association with the AAAA has spanned more than 10 years, and we thought if we were to hold a launch in Melbourne, the Automotive Innovation Centre is an amazing venue to showcase what AASDN is all about.
“Following from our launch into Melbourne we will be looking to host a similar event in Queensland in the New Year, but if you want to get involved, you don’t need to wait to join at an event – you can apply online through the AASDN website now.”
It has been a busy time for the AASDN of late, with its Annual General Meeting and Gala Dinner held across September 22 and 23.
Sixty-four attendees joined AASDN management for the weekend at the Hunter Valley, enjoying two great days featuring the AGM followed by a golf tournament, wine tasting, day spa and happy hour drinks.
“Across two big days, we were so pleased to host AASDN members for not only our AGM but also plenty of fun activities and networking opportunities with our preferred partners, who spent quality time discussing problems and working out solutions,” Mike said.
AASDN is also looking forward to attending the 2024 Bathurst 12 Hour event, with this three day event previously attended by 40 AASDN members.
“This is a fantastic opportunity to network while watching the race from the AASDN corporate suite. In 2024, we will be bringing a number of key speakers and tickets are subsidised for AASDN members,” Mike said.
Also in the works are several PICO scope training events to be held in Huskisson and Kariong in New South Wales.
“From the beginner to expert, these are hands-on courses with something for everyone and are a great way to enhance your skills. Tickets to these events are also subsidised for our members,”
Mike said.

10 years of service  
The AASDN is a network of leading, independent automotive workshops around Australia assisting each other with advanced technical and business training, networking with like-minded progressive business owners, access to shared, specialised tools, and advice on solving technical and business problems.
“Running any type of business is tough, especially in the automotive industry where members have the added problems of staff shortages, high ongoing requirements for technical training, high business tooling expenses, and low levels of customer trust to deal with,” Mike said.
“Recognising this, a group of workshops in New South Wales and the ACT got together to collaborate and share technical training, advice, and to network with like-minded business owners so that we can collectively better look after our customers, run a better business, and provide a premium level of care. AASDN members don’t have to do it alone.
“Over the last 10 years, membership has grown to more than 50 leading workshops in New South Wales, the ACT and Queensland, with an objective to grow our membership base further, especially into Queensland and Victoria. AASDN WA also has 50 members, with our national network covering more than 100 members.
“Member benefits include annual membership to the AAAA including access to the HR and legal hotline, annual reports and discounted tickets to the Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo; annual membership to The Automotive Technician (TAT); and group technical training for technicians to skill them on the latest automotive technologies.
“Also included is business training including topics on marketing, product offering, time management, profitability, recruitment and culture; networking opportunities with like-minded business owners; social activities such as Christmas parties, attendance to the Bathurst 12 Hour and Gala nights; and access to a shared tool library for quality, specialised tools and diagnostic equipment.
“Our trusted preferred suppliers provide members with the quality products and technical knowledge needed to service and repair today’s modern cars. 
“AASDN members don’t have to do it alone.  Together we’re all stronger.”

For more information about the AASDN, visit www.aasdneastcoast.com.au