Counterman

PRT, brand of the ADD Group, announced an expansion of Complete Strut Assemblies in the North American Aftermarket. The new applications cover light vehicles, SUVs and pickups. The launch includes models like Honda Pilot, Acura MDX, Jeep Compass, Audi Q5 and BMW X3, among others, according to PRT. “Our highly automated factories support both OE and Aftermarket production, providing the latest in innovation and technology,” explains Bruno Bello, director of global marketing at PRT. “PRT is continually developing new products, bringing the best solutions to the aftermarket. These new additions expand our range and strengthen our presence in the North American market. The new items are in stock and ready to ship!” The new items represent nearly 9 million vehicles in coverage. The post PRT Introduces 34 Complete Struts to North America appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

BBB Industries announced it has completed its acquisition of All Star Auto Parts. In a news release announcing the acquisition, BBB said All Star primarily focuses on the U.S. collision repair channel, which it serves through its nationwide distribution network. All Star is headquartered in Orlando, Florida, and provides automotive replacement parts including both remanufactured OEM and aftermarket lights and wheels. BBB first announced the agreement to acquire All Star back in July. “All Star will strengthen our electronics offering and will allow us to provide additional product and service options to our customers. We are thrilled to welcome the All Star team to BBB,” said Duncan Gillis, BBB’s CEO. “Our goal is to continue to spread the power of sustainable manufacturing at scale to deliver even greater value to the markets we serve, and we are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.” “We are excited to join forces with BBB, a company that shares our commitment to quality and innovation in the automotive space. Together, we’ll be able to expand our reach and enhance our ability to provide top-tier, sustainably manufactured products to our customers. This partnership marks an important milestone in All Star’s growth, and my team and I look forward to the advantages it will bring moving forward,” said Andrew Sexton, CEO of All Star Auto Parts. The post BBB Completes Acquisition of All Star Auto Parts appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Anchor Industries announced more late-model GM coverage as part of its latest product release. The 10 part numbers represent a small sampling of the many late-model part numbers that are in stock and available for immediate delivery, the company said. These numbers cover 2,583,000 applications and model years 2016-2024. The new part numbers represent “excellent sales opportunities,” Anchor said. For more information, contact your sales representative, or call the Anchor customer service department at 888-444-4616. The post Anchor Industries Releases New GM Part Numbers appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Grote Industries announced its new line of warning lights, Grote WorkShield. The company said the new lamps are powered by HINVII technology and use minimally visible, low-wavelength light to illuminate high visibility material, significantly raising its conspicuousness without distracting personnel or disturbing traffic. Grote said its WorkShield lights are versatile enough for any application and can be strategically mounted on a wide variety of equipment like refuse trucks, utility trucks, tow trucks, and emergency response vehicles. This allows them to illuminate the high-visibility clothing and material on a worksite without directing visible light into traffic or other surroundings. “Our team is excited to bring this innovative product to market,” said Matt Forner, Grote’s Director of Aftermarket Sales. “The HINVII technology built into our quality lamps brings a new layer of safety to work sites, further building on our commitment to make the world a safer place.” Grote said the WorkShield product line currently features two flat-mount options. The first uses six LED diodes producing low-wavelength HINVII light, while the second supplements the base model with four amber light diodes for added versatility. Both versions mount easily to nearly any solid, flat surface and are available through Grote distributors now. The post Grote Industries Launches New WorkShield Product Line appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Hunter Engineering recently launched a completely redesigned website, combining what the company said is a modern look and feel with a streamlined user experience. The new site is the most prominent component of a comprehensive design update, focused on enhancing brand visuals across Hunter sales and marketing materials. “For Hunter, the goal was a modern and consistent visual identity everywhere we interact with our customers and future customers,” said Tommy Maitz, director of marketing. “More importantly for existing and future Hunter customers, the new site provides a better user experience for exploring all of Hunter’s products.” The company said the months-long process has resulted in more than 30 new or redesigned components, a new and easy-to-digest product page layout, an increased emphasis on human-centric, real-shop photography and revised site navigation. The overall redesign project included updating Hunter brand guidelines, social media guidelines, brochures, direct mail, email and press release templates, video thumbnails and content, and print and digital advertising. The post Hunter Engineering Launches Redesigned Website appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Delphi, a brand of PHINIA Inc., reveals 109 parts in its third quarter announcement, covering nearly 900,000 vehicles in operation (VIO) across the United States and Canada. “Delphi remains committed to delivering the parts that fit the needs of the market environment,” said Russ Stebbins, vice president and general manager (VPGM) of North America Aftermarket. “Our team is already hard at work for our next parts launch later this year. We’ll have plenty of new parts to showcase in the coming months.” Delphi’s Fuel Management line adds one new fuel pump module assembly, covering more than 500,000 VIO. Sparta, Delphi’s specialty fuel line for earlier model and high-mileage vehicles, introduced five new part numbers. These parts include two electric fuel pumps and three fuel pump module assemblies fitting a variety of applications, the company said. The Steering and Suspension line introduced 72 new part numbers, mostly consisting of various alignment parts, tie rod ends, and control arm and ball joint assemblies. The 72 part numbers announced, which consist of 14 unique part types, represent more than 163 million VIO. Thirty-one part numbers debuted for the Vehicle Electronics line, mainly made up of ABS wheel speed sensors, ignition knock (detonation) sensors, and vehicle speed sensors. The eight part types announced cover more than 58.7 million VIO, according to Delphi. The post Delphi Adds Over 100 Parts in Q3 2024 appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Delphi, a brand of PHINIA Inc., reveals 109 parts in its third quarter announcement, covering nearly 900,000 vehicles in operation (VIO) across the United States and Canada. “Delphi remains committed to delivering the parts that fit the needs of the market environment,” said Russ Stebbins, vice president and general manager (VPGM) of North America Aftermarket. “Our team is already hard at work for our next parts launch later this year. We’ll have plenty of new parts to showcase in the coming months.” Delphi’s Fuel Management line adds one new fuel pump module assembly, covering more than 500,000 VIO. Sparta, Delphi’s specialty fuel line for earlier model and high-mileage vehicles, introduced five new part numbers. These parts include two electric fuel pumps and three fuel pump module assemblies fitting a variety of applications, the company said. The Steering and Suspension line introduced 72 new part numbers, mostly consisting of various alignment parts, tie rod ends, and control arm and ball joint assemblies. The 72 part numbers announced, which consist of 14 unique part types, represent more than 163 million VIO. Thirty-one part numbers debuted for the Vehicle Electronics line, mainly made up of ABS wheel speed sensors, ignition knock (detonation) sensors, and vehicle speed sensors. The eight part types announced cover more than 58.7 million VIO, according to Delphi. The post Delphi Adds Over 100 Parts in Q3 2024 appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Genuine Parts Company (GPC) announced that Jenn Hulett joined GPC as executive vice president and chief people officer, effective August 19, 2024. Jim Neill, who previously announced his retirement from GPC, will continue to serve in an advisory role through September 30, 2024, to support Hulett during the transition. In her new role, Hulett will be responsible for GPC’s global human resources operations and will play a key role in advancing the company’s talent and culture initiatives, GPC said. She will report to Will Stengel, president and chief executive officer. “We are pleased to welcome Jenn Hulett as GPC’s next global people leader,” said Stengel. “Jenn is a seasoned executive with a proven track record of success. Her passion for developing people and culture, driving positive change and delivering results will strengthen our One GPC approach and make her a valuable addition to our global executive leadership team. We look forward to Jenn’s contributions to GPC’s continued evolution.” Hulett most recently served as executive vice president and chief people officer for Dollar Tree. Her career also includes executive leadership roles at Core-Mark, Ericsson and General Electric. The post Genuine Parts Company Announces Officer Change appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Thirteen outstanding students and leaders have been awarded the Art Fisher Memorial scholarships for the 2024-25 academic year. Administered by the University of the Aftermarket Foundation, the scholarships are presented in memory of the late founder of Federated Auto Parts, Art Fisher. The Art Fisher Memorial scholarship winners are: -Alexander Barrett (Lafayette, Indiana) -Leonardo Bautista (New Braunfels, Texas) -Connor Clinevell (Salem, Virginia) -Jayven Espinosa (Lancaster, Pennsylvania) -Rocco Hepokoski (Edinburg, North Dakota) -Kathryn McCrosson (Medford, New Jersey) -Elliott Rahman (Ferdinand, Indiana) -Benjamin Ramirez (Whittier, California) -Marissa Reever (Bison, Kansas) -Cody Rose (Quarryville, Pennsylvania) -David Rose (Beverly Hills, Florida) -Jennifer Stamboulian (Robbinsville, New Jersey) -Gabrie Suarez (Caldwell, Idaho) “Every year, we are privileged to receive many exceptional applications for the Art Fisher Memorial scholarships,” said Bo Fisher, chairman of Federated Auto Parts. “The entire Federated and APSG team applauds these outstanding students for their remarkable achievements and looks forward to what they accomplish academically in the future.” The post Art Fisher Memorial Scholarships Awarded appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

This week, the University of the Aftermarket is pleased to present Session I of Leadership 2.0 from the campus of Northwood University. Today, we hear a first-person perspective of our Tuesday sessions from Missy Stephens, community engagement manager, Auto Care Association. “Today was another insightful day, starting with an introduction to the newest automotive aftermarket acronym, PBJS- the dynamic team of Marc Pappas, MAAP, ACP; Brooks Cochrum; Jonathan Larsen AAP, ACP, DTM; and Luke Smith. PBJS delivered a compelling presentation on Data in the Aftermarket. They skillfully guided us through the complexities of ACES & PIES, Pitfalls of PIES, Business Intelligence, and the Single Source of Truth. Larsen then took center stage with an interactive and highly entertaining session on Public Speaking. Several classmates practiced their newfound skills where Logan Stoeffler gave an impromptu explanation of how having a tail could be a superpower? After a refreshing lunch, networking guru Michael Rukov, MAAP, MBA shared his expertise in the art of networking. We honed our skills with practical and engaging networking exercises, learning how to build meaningful connections. Cheryl Scaglione then inspired us with her session on Supercharged Team Performance. We explored how to foster connections in a multi-generational workforce, lead effectively through communication and master difficult conversations. We ended the day with the news we were all eagerly awaiting—learning who our teammates for the group project are! Our team project will tackle an industry-relevant topic that holds personal significance for each of us and will be presented in the second session of #UofALeadership 2.0. We’re excited to get started!” The post What They’re Learning at Leadership 2.0 appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

NexaMotion Group (NMG) announced it continues to expand its footprint with general repair products now available at the Transtar Aftermarket Solutions location in Orlando, Florida. Transtar has been in the Orlando market over 30 years offering transmission and driveline parts to automotive repair shops. Customers can now expect to see an extensive product line with over 11,000 new parts being added to inventory and ready to serve current and new partners, NMG said. NMG added it “began executing massive expansion plans in 2023 through acquisitions, new product lines for existing Transtar locations and opening new stores in new markets.” The Orlando store is the seventh expansion for NexaMotion Group in 2024. Earlier this year, the company announced new or expanded product lines in the following markets: -Tampa, Florida -Edison, New Jersey -Plainview, New York -Levittown, Pennsylvania -Fort Worth, Texas -Dallas, Texas With access to both general repair and transmission parts, Transtar Aftermarket Solutions is “providing customers a truly unique product offering that simplifies complex vehicle repair to keep the world moving,” NexaMotion Group said in a news release announcing the recent expansion. Neil Sethi, CEO of NexaMotion Group, says to expect more locations to be announced. “This has been an exciting time for NMG as we continue to grow and expand our store locations, and we are just getting started. There is more to come as we integrate general repair and transmission parts into one location to better serve our customers and keep the world moving. We want to reinforce NexaMotion’s strategic position in the automotive aftermarket industry, consistently embracing new opportunities and customer partnerships.” The post NexaMotion Group Announces Product Expansion in Florida appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The University of the Aftermarket, through Northwood University, is holding Session I of its Leadership 2.0 course. The first five-day session continues through August 15. Northwood calls the class in tactical leadership for the aftermarket “a tremendous learning experience, with excellent presenters and supporters.” Leadership 2.0 includes a blend of industry research and market analysis, discussion and debate on the challenges confronting the light vehicle and heavy-duty aftermarket. Also discussed are competitive strategies, interpersonal communication skills, contract negotiations, conflict resolution, organizational culture, cyber-security best practices, insight into supply chain solutions, and other industry topics and trends. Jennifer Cothran, the director of content at The Pronto Network, provided her account of the first day of the session: “I am beyond excited to see what this week has in store for us. We kicked off today’s event with meeting our colleagues and opened with an exciting and inspiring conversation with two of Northwood’s best – Dr. Thomas Litzinger who encouraged us to be open this week, and from James O’Dell and what we could look forward on having an engaged class – on our own or with his help. They saved the best for last as we heard from Lisa Foshee from the Auto Care Association. Her unique take on leadership and relating them to the game of basketball – Show up and BE present, DO bold things, and DO what you say you’re going to DO – were some of the takeaways. I can’t say I’ve talked about basketball that much before and based on her stories I’m glad I’m not a fan of her team’s rival! Hearing from other colleagues also sharing their perspectives from making all interactions personal, to a good/bad “Dad” joke, a coloring book to a just simple “hi, how are you?” can be bold moves to show presence and create those important relations and moments. Not all of us can show up for their family to build a kitchen before we left for Leadership 2.0 as one of our attendees did, but taking time away from family and work to attend this “life changing” event is definitely a bold adventure for all of us. I’m looking forward to learning other unique experiences from the lineup of amazing speakers and from my fellow colleagues in attendance. Thank you to AWDA for this amazing opportunity as a scholarship recipient and to The Pronto Network and the team left at home to take care of business. And, lastly, to my family who I’ve left at home – Thank you for taking on additional responsibilities for me to take advantage of this opportunity as learning never stops! Session II of Leadership 2.0 will be held March 11-16, 2025. The post University of the Aftermarket Leadership 2.0 Session Underway appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Automotive Parts Associates (APA) is excited to introduce Technology Auto Parts, a new startup based in Plano, TX, as the newest TruStar member. Mohamad-Hadi Saeed, the owner and CEO, shared his enthusiasm for joining TruStar, stating, “After researching the organization and speaking with various APA shareholders like Edward Harake from Value Plus Auto Parts, it became apparent that joining will really help us and give us a good head start. I’ve got a lot of great, knowledgeable people helping me get started and 20 to 30 commercial customers on day one. TruStar will be the last piece of the puzzle.” The official opening of Technology Auto Parts is scheduled for early October. Steve Tucker, president of APA, expressed his satisfaction with Mohamad and Technology Auto Parts joining TruStar, saying, “We are delighted to welcome Mohamad and Technology Auto Parts to TruStar. We enjoy collaborating with startups and new ventures. It’s inspiring to witness someone like Mohamad, who previously handled accounting at another auto parts store, venture out on his own. We are eager to support his growth.” The post TruStar Welcomes Technology Auto Parts appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Standard Motor Products, Inc. (SMP) announced an expansion of its industry-leading Electronic Throttle Body (ETB) program. The program includes nearly 250 part numbers with coverage for import and domestic vehicles. All Standard ETBs include the required gaskets for installation, and applications with high OE failure rates feature multiple design improvements. Standard said its engineers evaluate the original part, identify the OE issues, and correct those problems to deliver more durable ETBs. For instance, the ETBs on Chrysler/Pentastar 2.0L and 2.4L engines are widely known to fail prematurely. Standard engineers increased the face width on the gear to reduce stress on the gear teeth, improved the geometry of the gear teeth to make them stronger, and upgraded the actual gear to a higher-strength, heat-resistant material. Standard recently released ETBs for popular Volvo cars and SUVs through the 2022 model-year, as well as Jeep vehicles like the 2024-22 Grand Cherokee and 2024-18 Wrangler. Additional new coverage includes vehicles like the 2024-21 Ford F-150, 2019-15 Hyundai Sonata, and 2022-20 General Motors heavy-duty trucks. New related components include Accelerator Pedal Sensors for the 2023-21 Hyundai Elantra, 2023-22 Hyundai Tucson and 2023 Kia Sportage. In addition to the Electronic Throttle Body program, Standard said it also offers a wide array of related components, such as Accelerator Pedal Sensors, Throttle Position Sensors, Variable Intake Manifold Actuators, ETB Connectors and more. The post SMP Expands Electronic Throttle Body Program appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers has announced a donation to the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF) in loving memory of Jerome Hundley. Hundley, a revered figure in the automotive sector, was known for his compassionate leadership and dedication to his colleagues and community. In honoring his legacy, MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers said it aims to perpetuate his spirit of generosity and care through this donation. “It is an honor to contribute to AACF, a foundation that has done so much for our aftermarket community,” said John Chalifoux, chief operating officer of MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers and a member of the AACF Board of Trustees. “This donation in memory of Jerome Hundley is a reflection of our collective respect and remembrance for a man who gave so much to our industry.” MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers added that its commitment to AACF will help ensure that the foundation continues to provide indispensable aid to those in need within the industry. The post MEMA Commits Donation to AACF in Honor of Jerome Hundley appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Mevotech announced the addition of 158 new part numbers, “expanding its coverage with more engineering solutions,” according to the latest press information. A key spotlight in this release are the TTX front lower control arms for the 2023-2021 Ford F-150 pick-up truck. These control arms feature patented technology to help significantly extend part service life and improve overall durability, Mevotech said. The engineered Integri-Boot dust boot keeps out contaminants, while the entire part is protected with the Repel-TEK anti-corrosion formula. Additionally, a full replacement hardware kit, including frame bolts, allows for complete and fast installation. This new release also broadens Mevotech’s steering repair catalogue, with the introduction of TTX inner tie rod ends and additional TTX idler and pitman arm part numbers. Vehicle alignment can now be restored for popular fleet vehicles such as the 2023-2014 Ford Transit Connect using an engineered alternative to the original component with TTX inner tie rod ends. With the TTX program, working and fleet vehicles have the advantages of engineered parts designed with patented technology for improved uptime and part service life, according to Mevotech. The post Mevotech Releases 158 New Part Numbers appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

AISIN introduced six additions to its Coolant/Antifreeze lineup for North American and European passenger and light-duty vehicles. AISIN’s Extended-Life, prediluted antifreeze/coolants are “meticulously designed to meet the rigorous demands of North American vehicles,” the company said. They are available in color-coded formulations – such as purple specifically engineered for Stellantis and Chrysler vehicles; yellow for Ford Motor Co.; and orange for Chrysler, Ford, and General Motors vehicles – and including any internal combustion engines as well as electric and hybrid vehicles equipped with indirect cooling battery systems. In addition to North American applications, AISIN has also introduced three European antifreeze/coolants. Available in color-coded formulations, including pink for European applications that include, Alfa Romeo, Audi, Ferrari, Fiat, Jaguar, Land Rover, Mini, Porsche, Saab, Volvo, and Volkswagen; blue that includes several of the applications mentioned above with the addition of BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Sprinter; and a third color, violet, for newer European vehicles. AISIN coolants are tested to meet and exceed industry standards and eliminate the need for supplemental coolant additives and chemically charged filters, making them the ideal choice for internal combustion engines, electric, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid technologies, according to Larrow Kaufman, senior sales manager, Aftermarket Division, AISIN World Corp. of America. “While the market continues to benefit from use of our current line of coolants, many have asked when we’ll offer full coverage for all makes and models,” says Kaufman. “We listen carefully to our customers and, as a result, have greatly expanded our coverage to meet their needs. We also provide our customers with convenience and a simpler decision-making process by offering the right product for the right application, with exceptional corrosion protection, compatibility, and shelf life. Bottom line: AISIN coolants are trusted by automotive professionals.” The post AISIN Expands Applications for Coolant/Antifreeze Lineup appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Although hybrids have been around for more than 20 years, many shops are not familiar with the risks of high-voltage vehicles or are not comfortable working on or around them. To address this concern, the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) said it is offering a testing and certification program for electrified propulsion vehicle (xEV) high-voltage safety, including light-duty and medium-/heavy-duty hybrid and electric vehicles. This industry-developed program provides two options to certify shop personnel based on their involvement with xEVs. Industry standards accompany both certifications and are intended to be used in conjunction with high-voltage vehicle safety training. Training managers have found that technicians who have attained xEV certification have increased confidence and lower anxiety while working on hybrid and electric vehicles. The test can be completed online, ASE said. Once the test is passed, the test-taker receives an electronic credential and a certificate that can be downloaded and printed for display. The xEV Electrical Safety Awareness Certification (Level One) certification is designed for anyone who may encounter xEV in the workplace, including individuals who perform tasks near electric-powered vehicles, such as sales, service, repair and support, ASE said. Level One individuals require high-voltage electrical safety awareness to identify the hazards and reduce the associated risks when working on or near xEVs or near high-voltage components of electrified propulsion vehicles. Skills performed by Level One individuals may include: operating (driving) a hybrid or electric propulsion vehicle; performing maintenance and repairs not related to high-voltage systems or their components; handling non-high-voltage components of electrified propulsion vehicles and working near electric-powered vehicles or high-voltage components of electrified propulsion vehicles. The xEV Technician Electrical Safety Certification (Level Two) certification is for those service professionals, technicians or specialists who have received high-voltage electrical training; have demonstrated skills and knowledge related to the construction, operation and repair of electrically powered high-voltage vehicles; maintain an electrically safe working area and use required personal protective equipment. They have also received safety training to identify the hazards and reduce the associated risk. Skills performed by Level Two repair professionals may include: evaluating and classifying the condition of the high-voltage battery and high-voltage electrical system; isolating the voltage from the high-voltage systems and checking the isolation from the supply; securing the high-voltage system against being activated; re-starting the high voltage system; performing general work on de-energized high-voltage systems and components and assessing the risk of high-voltage vehicles that were involved in an accident. “Today, shops must consider the exposure and liability related to servicing hybrid and electric vehicles,” Dave Johnson, ASE president and CEO, said. “The ASE xEV certifications should be a critical component of a shop’s high voltage safety training. The standards were developed to keep shop personnel safe and earning the credentials is a great way for shops to showcase the ability of their knowledgeable staff to work on high voltage vehicles.” The post ASE to Provide Program for xEV High-Voltage Safety appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Litens Aftermarket N.A has introduced a new line of hybrid tensioners, the Alpha Hybrid Tensioner and Hybrid V-Tensioner, which are now available to customers as Litens new hybrid tensioner kits. Specifically designed for mild hybrid applications, each kit will include the new tensioner along with its corresponding belt. Currently, Litens’ new hybrid tensioners are only available as hybrid kits, due to the pairing of the belt with the tensioner. These kits are designed for mild hybrid applications, often referred to as “P0” hybrids. In these systems, the alternator also acts as a generator, connecting the electric motor and internal combustion engine with a specially sized and designed belt in the front-end accessory drive, which ensures the correct tensioner geometry for optimal performance the company said. This setup allows the front-end accessory drive to perform various functions such as starting the vehicle, adding power and smoothing torque. “Litens is dedicated to expanding its product line to support the latest vehicle engine technologies – especially the hybrid market – which is seeing more-and-more vehicles reach the point of needing maintenance,” said Ana Marie Lopez, Product Application Manager at Litens Aftermarket N.A. “As this trend continues, Litens will continue to expand our coverage to meet the increasing demand.” A properly matched tensioner and belt, along with a well-maintained belt drive system, can meet the unique demands of a hybrid vehicle’s accessory drive, ensuring efficient power distribution and optimal vehicle performance the company said. The post Litens Announces New Line of Hybrid Tensioner Kits appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation announces the appointment of John Kairys as its new Executive Director. Kairys was most recently Vice President, Parts and Service Group for TBC Corporation, a recognized leader in the replacement tire and automotive service industry. During his 9 years at TBC Corporation, he also served as Vice President and General Manager of their Big O Tires franchise organization and as Vice President and General Manager of one of TBC’s wholesale business units, Carroll/NTW Tire. His career in the Automotive Aftermarket spans nearly four decades and included executive roles at Cooper Tire, Pirelli and NAPA. John has served on multiple executive committees and has been highly engaged in many philanthropic efforts, particularly those that make a difference by giving back to local communities in support of youth education and well-being. Additionally, he has served on the AACF’s Board of Trustees for the past 3 years. “We are thrilled to welcome John Kairys as the new Executive Director of AACF,” said Jon Owens, President of AACF. “John’s extensive experience and deep commitment to the automotive aftermarket industry make him the ideal leader to guide our foundation into the future. His passion for helping others aligns perfectly with our mission to support individuals and families during their most challenging times.” Kairys expressed his excitement about his new role, saying, “I am honored to become the Foundation’s Executive Director and look forward to leading this incredible organization. The AACF’s mission of providing assistance to those in need resonates deeply with me, and I am eager to contribute to its continued success and growth.” Simultaneously, the AACF is also pleased to announce that longtime administrative assistant Misty Walker, who has supported the Foundation in a part time role for over 9 years, will be transitioning to a full-time role as Operations Manager. “Misty has been tremendous in managing the administrative tasks of the Foundation. Her continued commitment and expertise will be invaluable not only to the Foundation, but to me personally as we expand our efforts to support those in need within the automotive aftermarket community,” said Kairys. The post AACF Welcomes New Executive Director, John Kairys appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Anchor Industries announced late model Ford and Lincoln coverage as part of its latest product release. The eight new part numbers are in stock and available for immediate delivery. The new products cover more than 3.8 million applications and model years 2013-2024. For more information, contact your sales representative, or call the Anchor customer service department at 888-444-4616. The post Anchor Adds More Ford and Lincoln Coverage appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Advance Auto Parts announced that its premier service and repair animations tool, MotoVisuals, is now available to use within Steer’s customer relationship management solution and Tekmetric’s shop management system. MotoVisuals’ database includes more than 500 service and repair animations, covering everything from ADAS technologies, to engine management, suspension, brake systems, hybrid and EV systems, and more, according to Advance. Shop owners who subscribe to MotoVisuals within their Steer or Tekmetric platforms can integrate MotoVisuals to send repair animations along with automated communications and reminders through Steer, or attach animations into their digital vehicle inspection (DVI) workflow within Tekmetric to send to customers. “For 15 years, MotoVisuals has been an invaluable resource for repair shops,” said Todd Sanders, Advance’s senior vice president, professional. “The integration of MotoVisuals into Steer and Tekmetric gives greater transparency for the motorist during the repair experience, which helps consumers build trust in repair shops. Our Advance team is pleased to provide shops, service writers and technicians with the best parts and solutions, and we’re excited about how this industry-changing technology can help our customers succeed.” With MotoVisuals integration into Steer, shops can add the corresponding service or repair video to the maintenance reminders they email or text to customers. This provides customers a clear-cut visual of why repair work is being recommended. “At Steer, we are dedicated to helping auto repair shops strengthen their relationships with customers,” said Parker Swift, CEO and founder of Steer. “Our integration with MotoVisuals offers a powerful tool that simplifies complex repairs through clear and engaging video explanations. This allows customers to better understand the services being performed, empowering them to make informed decisions. This leads to higher customer satisfaction and increased revenue for the shops. We are excited to continue our collaboration with Advance Professional and Tekmetric to develop innovative solutions that benefit the entire automotive aftermarket.” MotoVisuals animations can also be used through Tekmetric’s shop management system. When technicians complete DVIs, they can seamlessly integrate the corresponding MotoVisuals repair animation into the DVI, which is then sent to customers to explain recommended service and repair work. “At Tekmetric, our commitment lies in fostering an inclusive environment that empowers repair shops with adaptable solutions,” said Sunil Patel, CEO and founder of Tekmetric. “The Aftermarket Technology Connection represents a unified effort towards enhancing the automotive aftermarket industry and allows us to bring innovative new enhancements like MotoVisuals to the aftermarket. Together, we’re empowering auto repair shops to transform their customer experience through transparency and education. This isn’t just about fixing cars, it’s about creating loyal customers who choose your shop time and again. By providing customers with clear, easy-to-understand information about their vehicle’s health, we’re helping shops foster transparency and build lasting relationships, ultimately driving long-term business growth.” The brands will exhibit at the Shop Hackers 2024 conference, hosted by Shop Fix Academy and taking place in Murfreesboro, Tenn., from Aug. 3-4. Learn more about the brands and their newly formed Aftermarket Technology Connection at atconnect.org. The post Advance Announces Integration of Programs into Steer appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Moog Louisville Warehouse of Louisville, Kentucky, has officially joined forces with Auto-Wares Group of Companies. The transaction was finalized on August 1, 2024. Doug Washbish, president & CEO of Moog Louisville Warehouse, will join the Auto-Wares Board of Directors and Executive Leadership team. In a news release announcing the transaction, Auto-Wares called the partnership “a significant milestone for both organizations, aiming to capitalize on their combined strengths for future growth and innovation.” “I am most excited to announce that Moog Louisville Warehouse and its Bumper to Bumper stores have joined forces with Auto-Wares Group of Companies,” said Washbish. “I’ve had the benefit of working with and sharing ideas with the team at Auto-Wares for some 25+ years, as a member of the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance. There is no group of stores in the country that better shares the same ‘go to market strategy’ that has defined our company for 60+ years, other than Auto-Wares! Their honesty and integrity in everything they do is a perfect blend for our WORK HARD and BE NICE philosophy we practice. I am pleased to say I will continue to maintain a meaningful equity position of the overall company and will continue to run Moog Louisville with our current management and personnel that have made our company the leader in our region!” “We are thrilled to welcome the Moog Louisville Warehouse, Doug Washbish and his excellent team to the Auto-Wares family,” said Todd Leimenstoll, president & CEO of Auto-Wares Group of Companies. “This partnership aligns perfectly with Auto-Wares’ strategic goal of expanding our geographic footprint and market density. Doug’s leadership and expertise will be invaluable as we move forward.” The post Auto-Wares, Moog Louisville Warehouse Join Forces appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) said more than 8,400 automotive service professionals participated in its gasoline engine survey. ASE has been commissioned to conduct a series of studies to identify and understand which repair tasks automotive service technicians perform most frequently. The initial survey focused on gasoline engine repair tasks and showed that 57% of those who completed the survey are currently A1 certified or were in the past, and 76% hold one or more ASE A2-A8 automotive certifications. A majority of those respondents hold each of those respective certifications. Regarding training, technicians receive training from a variety of sources including on the job (79%), OEM training (69%), college (57%), high school (53%) and aftermarket (47%). Among those who completed the survey, 82% said they have 10 or more years of experience and 57 percent said ASE certifications factored into their pay plans. As a thank you to those who participated in the survey, five automotive service professionals were randomly selected to be awarded Snap-on gift cards. The winners are Andrew Cronin Sr., David Kaplanis, Jeramy Peterson, David Phillips and Calen Sober-Throop. The post 8,400 Auto Service Pros Take ASE Engine Survey appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The 2024 Federated Suite-Stakes is underway with more chances to win and hundreds of prizes. Those prizes include 12 ocean cruises to Alaska, eight trips to the Federated Auto Parts DIRTcar Nationals in Florida, gift cards, Federated diecast collectibles, Lisle tools, World of Outlaws shirts, hats, gloves and other items. “Our Federated Suite-Stakes gets better every year, and this year will be no exception,” said Phil Moore, senior vice president for Federated. “Since the inception of the Federated Suite-Stakes program, nearly 15,000 prizes have been awarded. This year, we have added extra opportunities for our loyal customers to earn more chances to win one of 1,700 prizes. With arctic chills and racing thrills, be sure to sign up right away so you don’t miss out on the most unique and fun promotion in the industry.” The Federated Suite-Stakes contest is now open for enrollment and runs until October 31, 2024. To be eligible, participants must be a Federated customer in good standing and enrolled in the contest before the October 31 deadline. For more information, contact a Federated representative or visit www.FederatedSuiteStakes.com. The post Federated Suite-Stakes Promises Epic Adventures appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article