Grapevine, TX — 10/27/25 — The Pronto Network Cooperative, Inc., the largest and most diverse automotive distribution group in North America, today announced a strategic partnership with PDM Automotive, a leading cloud-based product data management platform. The partnership underscores the group’s commitment to industry-standard PIES data adoption for all non-application products—including tools, equipment, and shop supplies—and makes it easier and more affordable than ever for suppliers to participate through a new tiered pricing model negotiated exclusively for Parts Plus and Pronto members, and their manufacturing partners.
In the automotive aftermarket, replacement parts are cataloged using the Auto Care ACES and PIES standards, which define how product and application data are structured. While ACES governs vehicle-specific (application) data, PIES is used for both application and non-application products such as hydraulic lifts, diagnostic tools, and other essential shop equipment. These products are critical to service center success but often excluded from traditional catalogs because they aren’t vehicle-specific.
Recognizing this gap, The Pronto Network has committed to using PIES for cataloging and merchandising its Tools and Equipment and Shop Supplies programs. To support this effort, they selected PDM Automotive for its cloud-based simplicity, flexibility, and proven expertise in supporting both suppliers and retailers who have adopted the Auto Care standards. Many manufacturers in the tools and equipment segment have yet to adopt PIES or understand how warehouse distributors and retailers use it to power their eCommerce systems—despite online sales now representing at least 50% of total volume in this category.
“With PDM, we found a partner that brings true innovation to the automotive aftermarket,” said Michael Birnholz, Director of Digital Transformation at The Pronto Network. “This partnership allows us to standardize how data is aggregated and distributed across our supply chain, while removing cost barriers for suppliers who are new to the process. We’re making it clear that PIES compliance is no longer optional—it’s the foundation for doing business in the digital aftermarket and The Pronto Network.”
Under the new agreement, PDM Automotive will offer a simplified, tiered pricing model developed in collaboration with The Pronto Network, making it easy for suppliers of all sizes to get started. The negotiated pricing, supported by Pronto, allows vendors to begin creating and maintaining PIES-compliant data with minimal upfront investment.
This initiative will:
• Streamline onboarding for hundreds of suppliers
• Improve accuracy and speed of product data delivery
• Eliminate manual spreadsheets and legacy data transfers
• Enhance product visibility across Pronto’s eCommerce platforms
• Create a scalable foundation for future supplier integrations
“We are thrilled to partner with The Pronto Network to help manufacturers and suppliers deliver clean, standardized product data,” said Johannes Crepon, CEO of PDM Automotive. “Together, we’re helping the industry bridge the data gap for non-application products and empowering suppliers to grow smarter.”
About The Pronto Network
Formed through the merger of National Pronto Association and Automotive Distribution Network, Pronto Network Cooperative, Inc. — known as The Pronto Network — is the largest and most diverse automotive distribution group in North America. The member-owned organization serves over 250 wholesale distributors, operating over 600 distribution centers and 1600 auto stores under the trusted brands Pronto and Parts Plus.
Our mission is simple: to help our members grow their businesses profitably. We offer a wide range of programs designed to build customer loyalty, increase sales, and reduce the cost of goods sold. In addition, we provide solutions that lower the cost of doing business. By focusing on delivering best-in-class value and support within the auto care industry, The Pronto Network serves its members, service provider customers, and supply chain partners with excellence.
The Pronto Network is a proud member of the Automotive Parts Services Group (APSG), in partnership with Federated Alliance and Nexus North America. Learn more at https://theprontonetwork.com.
About PDM Automotive
PDM Automotive is the leading SaaS and AI platform in the automotive parts aftermarket, helping suppliers, distributors, and retailers grow smarter with frictionless cataloging, sales, and category management. Learn more at https://pdmautomotive.com/
