Changing Gear: Updates from Kenworth, Peterbilt, Minimizer

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Updated Mar 9, 2015

If you’re a card-carrying member of the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association, Kenworth Truck Co. has a deal for you. The truck maker is offering a $1,000 rebate on qualifying purchases of new sleeper trucks to OOIDA members during 2015.

KenworthEligible trucks include the T660, T800, T880, W900 and the aerodynamic T680 with a 52-inch or larger factory-installed sleeper. Also eligible are T660, T800 or W900 gliders with a 72-inch or 86-inch factory-installed sleeper. Buyers must show their OOIDA membership card to the dealer when purchasing. The limit for a single customer is three qualifying trucks per year.

Peterbilt Motors Co. also has some good news for all drivers. The truck maker announced a new quick assessment service program that is being introduced throughout the company’s North American truck dealer network of more than 300 locations.

PeterbiltCalled Rapid Check, the new program provides customers with diagnostics and an estimate of needed repairs in two hours or less. The Rapid Check program provides basic vehicle diagnostics; evaluation of needed repairs or, if necessary, more complex diagnostics; regular communication with customers updating the status of their vehicles; and estimate of needed repair time

Finally, Minimizer – a manufacturer and vendor of poly truck fenders, toolboxes, custom floor mats, mudflaps, truck maintenance products and other truck accessories – long has been known within the industry for its innovative offerings. Now the U.S. Chamber of Commerce is making awareness of the company’s accomplishments more widespread by naming Minimizer a winner in its annual Blue Ribbon Small Business Awards, a program that recognizes companies for their success and innovation and for their contributions to economic growth and free enterprise.

Minimizer Blue RibbonThe Chamber said it selected Minimizer from a record number of applicants nationwide for demonstrating exceptional business practices in areas including strategic planning, employee development, community involvement and customer service. The Chamber will announce seven regional finalists from among this year’s winners on March 18. This year’s winners will be honored at the 11th annual America’s Small Business Summit taking place June 8-10 in Washington, D.C. During the summit, one regional finalist will receive the Dream Big Small Business of the Year Award, sponsored by Sam’s Club, and a $10,000 cash prize courtesy of the U.S. Chamber.