CHICAGO -

ServNet owners traveled in full force to Chicago this week for the National Auto Auction Association convention. And in just two more weeks, the group will welcome its new president Charles Nichols, president of BSCAmerica, which operates two ServNet auctions.

Jeff Brasher, owner of Brasher’s Reno Auto Auction and Tallahassee Auto Auction, will be assuming responsibilities as the group’s chairman.

“Jeff Brasher’s leadership was instrumental in guiding ServNet through the uncertainties of the market over the past two years,” said Pierre Pons, ServNet chief executive officer. “We look forward to continued strength and growth during Charles Nichols’ term as president. His experience, his understanding of the industry and his enthusiasm for the business will be of great benefit to the ServNet Auction group.

“We also want to express our appreciation to Bob McConkey, who concludes his role as chairman of the board after a double term. His leadership and strategic direction, particularly with regard to issues concerning the impact of technology on our business model, have had a tremendous impact on keeping ServNet on the leading edge of the remarketing industry,” he continued.

In looking back on his term as president, Brasher applauded ServNet’s strength and resiliency.

“I am happy to report that ServNet auctions are defying the overall industry malaise,” said Brasher. “We are well aware of the national statistics, but downturn and disappointment are not descriptive of the business environment at ServNet auctions. Our auctions continue to meet the challenges faced by the auction industry, bucking the trends of a sagging national market.”

During Brasher’s term, ServNet added six new auctions, including Auto Auction of New England, DAA of Alaska, Plaza Auto Auction, Sparkling City of San Antonio, El Paso Independent Auto Auction and Brasher’s San Jose Auto Auction.

Moreover, several construction and expansion projects were implemented at the group’s auctions throughout the country.

“Careful planning, strong capitalization and personal commitment to long-term growth have made ServNet auctions resilient and able to weather the storm,” Brasher said. “In fact, ServNet auctions are expanding, hiring, maintaining service levels, gaining market share in all segments of the business, and are looking at the future as we train our sons and daughters to be industry leaders for the future.”

The ServNet Meet the Owners event, which will welcome in the group’s new president, will be held two weeks after the NAAA convention in Detroit. The group will meet with remarketers from Chrysler, Ford, General Motors, Ally Bank, Black Book and others.