Stone Truck Parts, a heavy-duty truck parts distributor based in Raleigh, N.C., selected global lighting and safety systems manufacturer Grote as its 2014 Vendor of the Year.

Jim Stone Jr., purchasing manager for Stone Truck Parts, presented the award at Stone’s annual sales meeting in January. He credits Grote’s win on its ongoing partnership with Stone Truck Parts and their many efforts to help Stone provide new products and solutions to their customers in 2014.

“Grote has always been a great partner with Stone Truck Parts, providing quality products along with excellent customer service and field support. Last year more than ever, they brought us new lighting technology to present to our customers, and they made it easy with inventory programs, sales training, and field support,” said Stone. “The combination of excellent support from Grote management, quality and innovative products and enthusiasm from Grote’s sales reps are why we chose Grote as our Vendor of the Year for 2014.”

Grote’s Willie Engram, along with Jack Ison and Chris Cammack, were on-hand to receive the award. Engram said the entire Grote team was honored by the recognition. “I know how hard I and all the staff at Grote work to provide world-class service to our customers. When that effort is acknowledged by people you genuinely respect, that relationship changes to a true partnership and that’s when the magic can happen,” said Engram.