Chattanooga: Business executives line up to supply VW

Businesspeople aspiring to work with Volkswagen vendors had a chance Wednesday to talk with executives from the automaker and learn how to apply as a vendor.

The “Doing Business with Volkswagen” seminar informed business executives on how to become vendors. The seminar was part of the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce’s Business Expo at the Chattanooga Convention Center.

Linwood Sullivan, a senior buyer for Volkswagen, said that his division, which is over engine control and other electronic components, is in the development phase of looking for suppliers. Volkswagen is looking locally first for suppliers, but will look around the world to make sure it finds experienced suppliers to meet its needs, he said.

While Volkswagen officials focused their talks on construction and parts suppliers, business executives from a variety of industries attended.

Chickamauga, Ga., native Teresa G. Thomas was there to learn about becoming a trainer. She said that her company, Gate Marketing Co., already operates a training center similar to the one that Volkswagen will be building.

“I do entry-level training to upper-level courses,” Ms. Thomas said.

Vinod Bena, general manager of Country Hearth Inn in East Ridge, said he was hoping to find out how his hotel could provide lodging for the car plant’s construction and for visiting Volkswagen officials. The 213-room hotel is undergoing a renovation and has sent photos of its new rooms to Volkswagen officials, he said.

Aspiring suppliers can find more information at www.vwgroupsupply.com.