Ford Recognizes IAC Group as ABF Supplier and for Consumer Satisfaction Performance

SOUTHFIELD, Mich., June 15, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Ford Motor Company has added International Automotive Components (IAC) Group to its prestigious Aligned Business Framework (ABF), a collection of suppliers selected with the long-term objective of developing business relationships based on partnership and close collaboration.  In addition, IAC received the 2010 Recognition of Achievement Award for consumer-driven, Six Sigma performance.

IAC supplies vehicle interior and exterior components and systems to customers around the world, with a strong focus on instrument panels and cockpits, door panels, overhead systems and complimentary interior and exterior resin-based products. IAC works closely with Ford to provide innovative solutions that reduce weight, enhance interior aesthetics, increase passenger comfort and convenience, optimize acoustical performance and improve overall consumer satisfaction.

"Through its legacy companies, IAC's business with Ford began in 1922 supplying interior products for the Ford Model T," said Jim Kamsickas, Global Co-CEO and President of North America and Asia, IAC Group.  "We are honored to be named a Ford ABF supplier, and we look forward to continuing our long-standing partnership with Ford."

IAC currently supplies an array of interior components and systems across multiple Ford product lines.  Ford selects ABF suppliers based on a mutual interest in strengthening collaboration, improving profitability and technology development. 

IAC also received the 2010 Recognition of Achievement Award for "Consumer-Driven 6 Sigma" performance. IAC completed projects, with statistically significant results, which provided direct and sustained improvement on Ford vehicles. IAC achieved these results through the use of the Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control 6 Sigma methodologies able to demonstrate significant performance improvement directly linked to customer satisfaction.

Tony Brown, group vice president, Global Purchasing, thanked Ford's supplier partners for their commitment to helping Ford deliver high-quality products to customers. "The One Ford transformation would not be possible without the hard work and dedication of our suppliers. Our 2010 World Excellence Award winners have shown an unwavering commitment to excellence in technology, quality and cost efficiency. Congratulations, and thank you for helping Ford serve customers with the best vehicles in the world," said Brown.

ABOUT INTERNATIONAL AUTOMOTIVE COMPONENTS (IAC) GROUP

IAC Group is a leading global supplier of automotive components and systems, including interior and exterior trim.  IAC Group's 2010 sales were $3.7 billion. The global supplier operates 75 manufacturing facilities in 16 countries.  IAC Group employs approximately 22,000 people around the world.  The company is headquartered in Luxembourg.  For more information, visit www.iacgroup.com.

SOURCE International Automotive Components (IAC) Group