MEMA Celebrates 120 Years Advancing the Vehicle Supplier Industry

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. – MEMA, The Vehicle Suppliers Association, is proud to announce its 120th anniversary, a milestone that underscores the association's enduring legacy and its pivotal role in advancing the future of mobility and the interests of vehicle suppliers.

 MEMA was founded on March 2, 1904, in Cleveland, Ohio to represent the burgeoning automotive parts manufacturing industry. For the last 120 years, MEMA and its members have been at the forefront of advocacy, innovation, and collaboration. Today, MEMA represents the largest sector of manufacturing jobs in the United States. Throughout its history, MEMA has helped suppliers navigate the automotive and commercial vehicle industry through times of significant change, from the early days of motorized vehicles to today's advanced era of electrification and autonomous technology.

A Legacy of Milestones

MEMA's history is dotted with significant achievements that have propelled the vehicle supplier sector forward. The association has been instrumental in advancing industry standards, fostering technological innovation, and enhancing vehicle safety and efficiency. Key moments include championing pivotal legislation and regulations – such as the Motor Vehicle Safety Act, Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, and USMCA – that have shaped the business landscape for its members and advocating for the industry during critical economic turns and global challenges.

Celebrating a Legacy, Looking to the Future

Bill Long, President and CEO of MEMA, stated, "As we celebrate 120 years of MEMA, we honor our past and those who have laid the foundation for continued success. We also look ahead to the opportunities and challenges of the future, reaffirming our commitment to championing the interests of vehicle suppliers and to our vision of a growing, profitable, innovative, and influential vehicle supplier industry.  MEMA is more than an association of suppliers—it is a community of leaders driving mobility forward."

The Road Ahead

As MEMA embarks on its next century, the association is poised to lead the industry through the advent of new technologies, sustainability practices, and global market dynamics. MEMA remains dedicated to advancing the business interests of its members, fostering a thriving automotive ecosystem, and contributing to a safer, cleaner, and more efficient future for mobility.

About MEMA. The Vehicle Suppliers Association

MEMA, The Vehicle Suppliers Association, is the leading trade association in North America for vehicle suppliers, parts manufacturers, and remanufacturers. It has been the voice of the vehicle supplier industry since 1904. Its more than 1,000 members are Strong by Association.

Companies join MEMA via two membership groups: MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers and MEMA Original Equipment Suppliers. Automotive and commercial vehicle suppliers are the largest manufacturing sector in the United States and lead the way in new vehicle innovations.

Members conceive, design, and manufacture the OE systems and technologies that make up two-thirds of the value of every vehicle and supply the aftermarket with the parts that keep millions of vehicles on the road, fueling international commerce and meeting society’s transportation needs. MEMA members are committed to safety and sustainability.

MEMA has offices in Southfield, Mich.; Research Triangle Park, N.C.; and Washington, D.C. Learn more at MEMA.org.