Leading multiple parts distributor First Line has taken the runner-up position in the 'Supplier of the Year' category during GROUPAUTO's recent awards ceremony. The awards, which are voted for by GROUPAUTO members themselves, are highly prized, as they are a true reflection of just how highly the award winners are regarded by the members.

Commenting on the award First Line's managing director, Dan Joyner said: "I'm sure every approved GROUPAUTO supplier is keen to be recognised by the members as a valued partner that supports them and their businesses. So to be voted the runner-up is a great accolade for First Line and we'll endeavour to go one better next year!

"Our goal is to provide our customers with a broad range of service and repair products, backed-up with excellent availability, competitive pricing and crucially, matching original equipment (OE) quality. Clearly these objectives appeal to GROUPAUTO members and show that the First Line/GROUPAUTO team is a winning formula.

"To back up this fact, the level of business we do with GROUPAUTO continues to increase year-on-year and the latest figures indicate a 28% jump in sales between 2010 and 2011, which is further testament to the relationship between the two organisations.

"Another facet of the First Line philosophy is to consistently bring new products into the range. This is important for members, and the independent sector generally, as it helps them to maintain their competitiveness as they face mounting pressure from the franchised dealers. Therefore we have introduced almost 1,000 new-to-range additions during the January '11 to September '11 period."

For GROUPAUTO supplier manager, Ian Grünewald added: "Members will only vote for the suppliers that really deliver service and quality to their businesses, so First Line's achievement is not to be underestimated. We have many excellent suppliers, which means that the whole First Line team should be justifiably proud to be this year's runner-up."