John Hanighen Receives MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers Advocacy Champion Award at AAPEX 2025
RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. — MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers presented the 2025 Advocacy Champion Award to John Hanighen, president and CEO of Cloyes and Rotomaster, on November 5 during AAPEX 2025 in Las Vegas. The award honors a member leader who demonstrates exceptional commitment to advancing public policy positions that protect market competition, promote consumer choice and strengthen the automotive aftermarket.
"John Hanighen was selected as this year's recipient for his leadership and active engagement on the REPAIR Act," said Paul McCarthy, president of MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers. "He played a central role in educating lawmakers and helping build legislative momentum throughout the year. His powerful op-ed shifted congressional perspectives, turning his Senator into a co-sponsor of the bill."
Hanighen participated in MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers' fly-in meetings, sharing his deep experience and the real-world implications of repair restrictions from both a manufacturing and shop-level viewpoint. He also hosted elected officials at his company's facilities, giving them a firsthand look at how aftermarket suppliers support safe and affordable mobility for American families. These visits strengthened policymaker support for both the REPAIR Act and key trade issues that affect suppliers and consumers.
"Whenever our industry needs someone to step up and support the cause, John is the first to raise his hand," said Ana Meuwissen, senior vice president, government affairs, MEMA. "His leadership, his credibility and his willingness to engage directly with lawmakers made a real difference this year. He has served as a true ambassador for the industry. We are grateful for his commitment to the future of the aftermarket."
The Advocacy Champion Award is presented annually to recognize outstanding leadership in policy engagement, coalition building and public advocacy on behalf of the supplier community. Hanighen's work exemplifies the critical role that member leaders play in shaping a competitive and consumer-focused marketplace.
Also recognized during the award program were MotoRad, recipient of the Workplace Excellence Award; Ryan Kooiman of Standard Motor Products, recipient of the Member of the Year Award; and Ed Edwards of Circuit Board Medics, recipient of the Michael Cardone Leadership Award.
About MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers
MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers exclusively serves manufacturers of aftermarket components, tools and equipment and related products, an important part of the automotive parts manufacturing industry which supports over 900,000 American jobs in all 50 states. MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers is a recognized industry change agent—promoting a collaborative industry environment, providing a forum to address issues and serving as a valued resource for member companies. Members represent all areas of the aftermarket including light vehicle, commercial vehicle and remanufacturing. MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers is a membership group within MEMA, The Vehicle Suppliers Association.
MEMA is the leading North American trade association for vehicle suppliers, parts manufacturers and remanufacturers. Automotive and commercial vehicle suppliers are the largest manufacturing sector in the United States and lead the way in new vehicle innovations. MEMA has been the voice of the vehicle supplier industry since 1904. Its more than 1,000 members are Strong by Association.
Members 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/aftermarket-suppliers.