Automotive industry supplier ArvinMeritor Inc. saluted six contributors to its success at the company's annual supplier awards, presented Jan. 29. The 2004 Supplier of the Year awards were presented to: Buckeye Container, a division of Buckeye Corrugated Inc.; Genco Stamping & Manufacturing Co. Inc.; Heckethorn Manufacturing Co.; Industrial Distribution Group Inc.; MultiTech Industries and Trayer Products Inc. Troy, Mich.-based ArvinMeritor presented the awards during its North American supplier conference. "OEM expectations of supply-chain performance in all areas have never been greater, says Jeff Stoner, ArvinMeritor vice president of worldwide procurement. "So it is critical for Tier One suppliers to create a lean, effective team of suppliers. Our suppliers must embrace continuous improvement, as well as develop innovative, high-quality products to meet customer demand --on time and at the lowest possible cost." ArvinMeritor holds supplier conferences each year in Europe, Mexico, North America and South America.