The summer has flown by and here we are again heading into fall. The kids are going back to school, off to college, and we're stepping in to what is traditionally a very busy time for the auto industry.

But when was it ever not busy? A few of us were talking the other day and it seems like everyone agrees that, lately, summer is just a continuation of the busy spring, winter and fall periods in both our personal and work lives.

We all remembered when summer was a time when things slowed down a little… a time to take it easy, do a little planning. A time to relax, adjust the attitude... enjoy the lake, the golf course, and the Northern woods as we're directed to do in Tim Allen's "Pure Michigan" commercials.

And, while, most of us have taken some extended time off to relax and be with family, it's still been full steam ahead around AWA.

The economy is doing fairly well. The auto industry is doing very well with a current SAAR rate of 15.2 vehicles sold in July (highest since 2006). And our customers are once again healthy and profitable. This means we're busy making and selling auto components, and our sales figures are reaching record levels.

Profitability, however, is another story, and we need to continue to do all things possible to lower costs and expenses. I appreciate all of your efforts to help reduce inefficiencies and look forward to working together with you to find new ways to improve our profit margin and effectiveness.

This heightened level of business activity we're experiencing also means growth opportunities. As I write this,we have just closed on our new home, the current Maxion Building on Five Mile Road in Northville. This new 172,000 square-foot building will provide a more suitable location for all AWA (Plymouth) and ATC-A team members under one roof. And, with more physical space, we'll have plenty of room for future expansion. I know you'll be pleased with our new headquarters, and I look forward to joining with Presidents Saito and Aoyama in welcoming you there. (More details about the actual move to come soon.)

So there you have it. Business is good, and we're doing well. And, of course none of this would be possible without the continued dedication and talent that all of you bring to the office each and every day. I am proud of what we've accomplished together; and proud to be on your team.

One Team, Best Future.

John D. Koenig