About IDA

The Industry
General expansion and rebuilding following World War II brought a tremendous influx of heavy equipment machinery to the market. Large manufacturers were so busy building new equipment they inadvertently created a new market which we call the heavy equipment replacements parts market. Heavy equipment operators asked the question: "Is there an alternative source to service my equipment, sell me parts, and take an interest in my problems?" Independents sprang up to answer that with a resounding "YES". Shortly thereafter IDA was formed to help those "pioneers" exchange important information and tips on this exciting and profitable new market...the heavy equipment aftermarket.

Beginning
This new alliance of rebuilders and parts suppliers at first called their trade association the "Associated Independent Rebuilders and Parts Suppliers". As more and more manufacturers and importers saw the importance and growth of the aftermarket, the key words became DISTRIBUTION and INDEPENDENT. In 1963 the association incorporated those key words and became the "Associated Independent Distributors".

In 1986, to more clearly emphasize the development of the aftermarket industry, the name was changed to "INDEPENDENT DISTRIBUTORS ASSOCIATION".

Today
Over half (52%) of IDA Regular Members employ less than 10 employees, yet 8% of them employ over fifty people. Whether large or small they all retail parts. A whopping 97% of the Regular Members are parts retailers. Many of them also enjoy a wholesale business (some 57%), and 73% of the association's Regular Members have service shops. On the manufacturing side of the roster, the average manufacturer has been in business for over fifty years and employs 337 people. IDA is diverse and experienced, and its members are well informed.

Aims
The goal is very simple, to continue offering end users a viable alternative for parts and service. To accomplish this simple goal, members need technical expertise, pricing information, management aids, sales help and basic market knowledge. They get it from their association.