Counterman

AirSept announced that it now offers two of the company’s A/C service products at O’Reilly Auto Parts as part of a new distribution agreement. AirSept’s Dual Recycle Guard and Pro Grade Oil and Dye Injector can now be sourced through more than 6,000 O’Reilly locations across the U.S. AirSept said its Dual Recycle Guard removes all sealants and contaminants before they enter A/C service equipment. The product is sold with all hoses, adapters and couplers included. The company said its Pro Grade Oil and Dye Injector protects technicians from both over- and under-charging a vehicle’s A/C system while allowing them to inject oil back into the A/C system either after the vacuum stage or after the recharge stage. “We couldn’t be more thrilled with our new distribution partnership with O’Reilly Auto Parts,” said AirSept President Aaron Becker. “This agreement with O’Reilly’s makes AirSept’s unique and innovative service tools and solutions available from one of America’s largest automotive retailers.” The post AirSept Announces O’Reilly Auto Parts as New Distributor appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Automotive Parts Associates (APA) announced the addition of Bob’s Speed & Auto Parts as its latest shareholder. Established in 1967 by Bob Pacino, Bob’s Speed & Auto Parts, located in Quincy, MA, serves the Greater Boston and South Shore areas with quality parts and machine shop services such as turning drums, rotors, and flywheels, according to APA. Bob’s Speed & Auto Parts is a family-owned and operated business, with Robert Pacino, the current president and son of Bob, “bringing a lifetime of experience in the automotive industry,” APA said. Reflecting on their family-oriented history, Pacino mentioned, “We’ve probably had half a dozen family members work here at some point. My mother used to work here until she retired. Now my son is working here, so this place has seen three generations of Pacinos.” When asked about the decision to join APA, Pacino explained, “After speaking with several APA shareholders, it just felt like the right move to make. Due to challenges like Covid-19, we have lost some suppliers over time. Partnering with APA will enhance our purchasing capabilities.” In sharing his enthusiasm about the new partnership, Steve Tucker, president of APA, said, “We are delighted to welcome Bob’s Speed & Auto Parts as a new shareholder and are excited to work with them and help them buy better.” The post APA Welcomes New Shareholder Bob’s Speed & Auto Parts appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

NexaMotion Group announced that C&M Auto Parts opened a new location in Levittown, Pennsylvania. The new location marks the fourth new store since the acquisition of C&M Auto Parts and the sixth new location for NexaMotion Group in 2024. C&M Auto Parts offers a range of general repair products, “catering comprehensively to the diverse needs of the local market,” the company said. The combined location with Transtar Aftermarket Solutions provides customers with a truly unique product offering that simplifies complex vehicle repair to keep the world moving with access to both general repair and transmission parts, according to NexaMotion. Neil Sethi, CEO of NexaMotion Group, reiterated the significance of this combined offering. “This expanded location reflects NexaMotion’s strategic vision to proactively grow our markets and deliver unmatched value to our customers,” he said. The combined location reinforces NexaMotion’s strategic position in the automotive aftermarket industry, consistently embracing new opportunities and partnerships, the company said. The post NexaMotion Group Continues Expansion Efforts in Pennsylvania appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Plews & Edelmann announced expanded coverage in both the Edelmann and Edelmann Elite line of products. The company released 61 new parts in the first half of 2024 covering 32 million vehicles in operation. “We’re expanding coverage and adding key parts to our industry leading power steering product portfolio,” said Anthony Holguin, Plews & Edelmann director of category management. “In the first half of this year alone, Plews has introduced 61 new power steering hoses, hard parts, fluid, and innovative repair kits and tools for electric power steering components. Many of these products are exclusive offerings to the aftermarket.” The new releases include: 42 power steering hoses with coverage for over 16 million registered vehicles with applications from GM, Ford, Acura, and Toyota, including GM crossovers and fleet-oriented Ford Super Duty applications. 6 power steering hard parts have been added to the Edelmann Elite line of new racks, pumps and gears, bringing the total number of NEW hard parts SKUs in the program to 374. These 6 SKUs have added coverage beyond 90% of sales demand in the aftermarket, according to the company. The newly introduced SKUs include 5 pumps, and 1 rack exclusive to Plews & Edelmann. The addition of a fully synthetic Honda/Acura power steering fluid that provides coverage to over 13 million vehicles in operation. The expansion of Plews & Edelmann’s EPS category with 12 additional SKUs, offering alternatives to replacing expensive and often unavailable electronically assisted steering components. The post Plews & Edelmann Releases 61 New Parts appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper have declared Avery Breneman of Blackfoot, ID, the 2024 Technician of the Year. Breneman is the owner of Avery’s Auto Repair, a Bumper to Bumper Certified Service Center and customer of NPW Companies. Breneman was named the winner during Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper’s Technician of the Year program in Detroit, Michigan, this July. “This recognition is humbling. I deeply appreciate the experience and I am proud to be the 2024 Technician of the Year Champion. The support from Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper has been incredible. I want to thank NPW and our sales rep, Hoss Prestwich, for encouraging me to compete,” said Breneman. Sixteen top technicians from across the United States and Canada traveled to Detroit to participate in the 2024 Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper Technician of the Year finalist competition. Sponsored by DRiV and Garage Gurus, the annual competition included a custom Automotive Service Excellence examination as well as a series of Garage Gurus’ hands-on skills tests. “With over 3,700 Certified Service Centers within the Auto Value & Bumper to Bumper network, becoming a technician of the year finalist is no easy task,” said JC Washbish, president at the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance, Inc. “The goal of this program is to recognize top technician talent within the industry, bring honor to the trades, and highlight the skills required to be a top tech. This year’s competition did not disappoint. We had a wonderful group of Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper technicians! We’d like to thank DRiV and Garage Gurus for their continued support of this fantastic event.” The technician finalists were treated to a variety of entertainment and experiences in Metro Detroit including a day at the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village, a tour of the Ford Rouge Factory, racing at the Champion® Motor Speedway in the M1 Concourse and the luxury of a suite at Comerica Park for a Detroit Tigers’ game. “For Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper to once again partner with Garage Gurus on the technician of the year event is fantastic. The opportunity for our team to interact with top technicians from the certified service center network while representing our Champion, Fel-Pro, Moog, Monroe, Walker, Wagner and Garage Gurus brands is special,” said Mike Hinderer, technical product specialist field manager with Garage Gurus. “To the professional technicians in the industry, we are here, we see you and we support you.” DRiV and Garage Gurus have been the host sponsor of the Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper Technician of the Year event since 2019. “Our team at DRiV is very proud of our continued sponsorship and support of the Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper Technician of the Year program,” says Tony Genna, vice president North America sales at DRiV. “Hosting these extremely talented technicians from across North America is really something special and we are always appreciative of our time together. A program like this is important for our industry and no one does it better than the team at Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper.” The 2024 Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper Technician of the Year Finalists include: Scott Anderson; Canyon Meadows Auto Repair; Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Central Auto Parts Sean Blakeley; First Choice Automotive Repair; Killeen, TX; 4M Parts Warehouse Rafael Borja; Robertson Automotive; Tyler, TX; ABC Auto Parts Avery Breneman; Avery Auto; Blackfoot, ID; National Performance Warehouse Jeremiah Clark; Clarks Auto Repair and Service; Pleasureville, KY; Moog Louisville Warehouse Bim Gill; Gills Service Center; Harpersville, AL; National Performance Warehouse Michael Golda; Kerners Auto Service; Shelby Township, MI; Auto-Wares Group of Companies Jake Fehr; Chad’s Auto Repair Shop; Winkler, Manitoba, Canada; Piston Ring Service John Kincaid; Grainger Automotive; Bean Station, TN; Hahn Automotive Warehouse Brandon Osman; Square Deal Garage; Pinole, CA; Trimon, Inc. Mike Powers; Joe’s Garage; North Little Rock, AR; Parts Warehouse, Inc. Ryan Radtke; Village Mobil; Waunakee, WI; Automotive Parts Headquarters Inc. Matthew Reitmeier; Travel Care Regina Ltd; Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada; Auto Electric Service Rob Richardson; Maclane’s Automotive; Downingtown, PA; Eastern Warehouse Distributor, LLC Stephen “Chris” Scott; Accelerated Auto Service; Bennington, NE; The Merrill Company Doug Smith; Telle Tire and Automotive; St. Louis, MO; All Car Automotive Warehouse, Inc. The post Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper Name Technician of the Year appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

CarParts.com, Inc. announced the opening of its new state-of-the-art fulfillment center in Las Vegas, Nevada. This company said the move doubles its footprint in the Las Vegas metro area. The new facility replaces the previous Las Vegas Distribution Center, which had been in operation since 2019. The company said the fully automated center has integrated AI capabilities designed to optimize operations, improve safety, and expand product availability. The integration allows for streamlined processes, reduced operational costs, and enhanced accuracy in order fulfillment. “This building will serve as our West Coast flagship, housing between 80% to 90% of our product assortment,” said Michael Huffaker, CarParts.com Chief Operating Officer. “With its advanced technology, it efficiently handles both conveyable and non-conveyable items, enabling faster order fulfillment and shipping.” The new facility is located at 6271 E Azure Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89115. The post CarParts.com Opens New Las Vegas Fulfillment Center appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Brown & Sons Auto Parts, a shareholder of Automotive Parts Associates (APA), announced the opening of a second location later this summer in Fenton, Michigan, approximately 25 minutes away from the original Flint, Michigan site. According to APA, the new site will cater to both wholesale and retail customers. In addition, there will be a new warehouse that houses the renown brands that Brown & Sons is known for carrying. “2024 is our 75th anniversary, so what better way to celebrate than by opening a second location?” asked Brown & Sons CEO Nick Branoff. “This is just the beginning of a three-store expansion planned over the next few years. Our growth strategy represents more than just expansion; it reflects a strong dedication to serving our community and the industry as a whole.” “We are excited to see Brown & Sons growth,” said Steve Tucker, President of APA. “Here at APA, we foster a community of shareholders and members that demonstrate remarkable potential and dedication to quality. Brown & Sons has consistently shown their capability to not only meet but exceed expectations, and we are confident that their upward trajectory will only continue.” Established in 1949, Brown & Sons is a family-owned business offering auto parts and industrial supplies globally. In addition, Brown & Sons provides a full inventory management system for companies that stock parts. The post Brown & Sons Auto Parts to Open Second Location appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Standard Motor Products, Inc. (SMP) announced that it released 335 new part numbers in July. This most recent release provides new coverage in 115 distinct product categories and 182 part numbers for 2023 and 2024 model-year vehicles. The expansion includes seven New Fuel Injectors, adding coverage for applications like the 2020-14 Mitsubishi Outlander and 2023-21 Hyundai Santa Fe, as well as Direct Injection High-Pressure Fuel Pumps for BMW and Hyundai vehicles. Also included in SMP‘s release are 25 new ABS Sensors and eight Park Assist Cameras for import and domestic vehicles. Meanwhile, Four Seasons has introduced new numbers in categories like Hose Assemblies, Reman Compressors and Air Door Actuators. All new categories are listed in the catalogs at Standard’s and Four Seasons’s websites. The post Standard Motor Products Introduces 335 New Numbers appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

MacKay & Company has updated its annual DataMac Canadian Distribution report. With 119 Canadian businesses serving the medium- and heavy-duty commercial vehicle industry (dealers, distributors, HDDs, independent garages, auto parts stores and others) providing data and information, a number of relevant business areas are highlighted in the report. Parts and service labor sales, inventory changes and parts sourcing practices are included as well as many other business insights. “Balancing the need of having parts available to meet customer demand against other external factors has been challenging to say the least, but it appears parts availability issues are ironing out for most channels, while some shifts in the overall sourcing are still apparent,” said Molly MacKay Zacker. At 78% of the total revenue, parts sales and service labor account for the primary sources of truck and trailer business revenue in 2023. Similarly, parts sales and service labor also represent the largest portions of profit across all channels, combined they total 85%. Additionally, parts sales revenues hold a higher share of the revenue than one year ago — 56% compared to 47%. The largest year-over-year shift in profits is seen in service labor; with 2023 totaling 29% and 2024 coming in at 31%. The post MacKay & Company releases 2024 Canadian Distribution Study appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Motorcar Parts of America Inc. announced the company has expanded product coverage for its starter and alternator, brake caliper, brake pad, power brake booster, brake rotor and wheel hub programs, with more than 150 new part numbers covering an additional 49 million vehicles in operation. The new part numbers are offered through QB, Quality-Built and Quality-Built Black Series, Pure Energy brands powered by MPA, which serve the professional installer market. A select list of late model part number introductions is available here. A complete list is available by contacting a Motorcar Parts of America sales representative. “Our Quality-Built and Pure Energy products continue to gain traction in the professional market and the new part number introductions highlight our ongoing commitment to proactively develop, catalog, and distribute products to meet the demand,” said Jamie Cook, senior vice president of sales and marketing for Motorcar Parts of America. The post MPA Expands Coverage With 150 New Part Numbers appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Repairify and NAPA, have entered a preferred partnership to release asTech Mechanical, a single device capable of accessing the majority of original equipment (OE) tools for shop owners. A recent study from Hanover Research and Babcox Media suggests that over 20% of repairs required an OE diagnostic tool to properly complete the repair job. However, many OE tools require a large upfront investment, costly upkeep, and specialized knowledge, creating barriers for many shop owners. Repairify and NAPA said asTech® Mechanical solves this issue by enabling shops to remotely connect to an OE tool, operated by a certified technician, to perform programming, calibrations, and vehicle health checks on a pay-per-use basis. “As a leader in the aftermarket repair industry, we’re dedicated to improving technician and shop efficiency,” said John Molidor, product category director – tools and equipment; paint, body, and equipment at NAPA. “Our partnership with Repairify to launch asTech Mechanical will bring much needed resources to shop owners as we look to the future of vehicle technology.” “For almost a decade, we’ve been the global leader in remote OEM solutions for collision repair,” said Craig Edmonds, president of asTech. “We’ve long understood that our same patented technology could also serve the needs of mechanical shops, and a partnership with NAPA helps us scale our solution to introduce the asTech® Mechanical solution suite to the industry.” asTech® Mechanical is now available on compatible Launch and Autel devices. The post Repairify, NAPA Partner to Launch asTech Mechanical appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

MANN+HUMMEL brought together its global network of suppliers for the bi-annual Global Supplier Event, held earlier this month in Ludwigsburg. Guided by the motto “Transform to Perform – Perform to Transform”, MANN+HUMMEL highlighted the pivotal role of suppliers in the company’s ongoing journey of transformation and performance excellence, the company said. Over 50 companies from 17 different countries got the opportunity to network and discuss topics around procurement, filtration technologies and execution management. “In this uncertain environment, is more important than ever to stay innovative, competitive, and fast when it comes to strategy execution,” said Hanno Höhn, Chief Procurement Officer at the MANN+HUMMEL Group. “Because only together, we can transform successfully”. “Our goal is to be at the forefront of advancements, ensuring that we not only keep pace with industry changes but also drive them,” said Kurk Wilks, CEO and President of the MANN+HUMMEL Group. “We thank our suppliers for their commitment to help us meeting our strategic objectives and market demands. Together, we can capitalize on emerging opportunities and drive sustainable growth,” Supplier Awards 2024 MANN+HUMMEL recognized its top suppliers for their exceptional contributions in various categories: Partnership: Anhui Zhongding Sealing Group, Atlantic Packaging, Gaubb Industries Corporate Social Responsibility: Envalior Risk Management: Zhejiang Yinlun Machinery Quality: LADESA Logistics: ZALESI Technology: TK Group Commercial Excellence: Hollingsworth & Vose, Wallner Expac, Zhenhan Jiangxi Science and Technology The post MANN+HUMMEL Celebrates Partners at Global Supplier Event appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Federated Auto Parts announced the return of its “Fuel Your Summer Fun” contest, which can be found on both the Federated Auto Parts and Federated Car Care Facebook pages. “Every summer, we try to provide a little fun for our Facebook friends with a chance to win in our Federated ‘Fuel Your Summer Fun’ contest,” said Phil Moore, senior vice president, Federated Auto Parts. “We will announce four lucky winners of a $50 gift card on the last two Fridays in July and the first two Fridays in August. Plus, one grand prize winner of a $500 gift card will be announced on Aug. 16.” To enter, visit Federated on Facebook, click on the special Fuel Your Summer Fun contest link and complete the entry form. Each Friday through Aug. 9, Federated will announce four randomly selected winners of a $50 gift card on its Federated Auto Parts and Federated Car Care Facebook platforms. On Friday, Aug. 16, one grand-prize winner of a $500 gift card will be announced. The post Federated Renews Summer Fun Tradition appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Bosch Mobility Aftermarket announced a new software update for the ADS/ADSX scan tool lineup. The Version 5.19 update boasts 5,000 new special tests and system applications, expands model year 2024 vehicle coverage and offers additional ADAS calibration capabilities, the company said. In a news release, Bosch explained that ADS 525X and 625X users are now able to unlock secure gateway-equipped Hyundai/Kia/Genesis vehicles. Certain functions, like ADAS calibrations, are protected by OEM secure-gateways and require unlocking. The update allows users to seamlessly and securely unlock functionality to Hyundai/Kia/Genesis SGW-equipped vehicles. Version 5.19 expands 2024 model coverage with DTC, data support and bi-directional functions including: Genesis* – Electrified G80, Electrified GV70, G70, G90, GV60 GMC – Savana 4500 Hyundai* – Ionic 5, Ionic 6, Kona, Kona Electric, Palisade, Sante Fe, Sonata, Tucson Kia* – Carnival, EV6, EV9, Niro, Niro EV, Seltos, Sorento, Soul, Sportage Lexus – GX550, LS500, RZ450e, TX350, TX500h, TX550+ Mitsubishi – Outlander PHEV Toyota – Grand Highlander, Tacoma *ADS 525X/625X only for bi-directional functions for Hyn/Kia/Gen The new update additionally offers new ADAS calibration coverage for the following models: 2016 Coverage: Volkswagen – Golf R 2022 Coverage: Porsche – Cayenne 2023 Coverage: Lexus – LX600 Porsche – Cayenne, Macon 2024 Coverage: Chevrolet – Silverado 2500HD, Silverado 3500HD Ford – F-150, Mustang, Mustang Mach-E, Police Interceptor Genesis* – Electrified G80, Electrified G80, GV70, G70, GV60 GMC – Savanna 4500 Hyundai* – Ionic 5, Tucson Kia* – Carnival, EV6, Niro, Niro EV, Soul, Sportage Lexus – LX600 *ADS 525X/625X only for bi-directional functions for Hyn/Kia/Gen **All Dynamic ADAS calibrations are included in standard ADS Tool Subscription. Static calibrations that require ADAS targets and fixtures require additional ADAS Subscription used with ADS 625/625X. The post Bosch Expands Scan Tool Software Coverage appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Snap-on announced its Pass Thru Assistant (PTA) has been enhanced by the addition of a repair guidance feature. Not only does the Pass Thru Assistant provide J2534 programming support, but it now also allows automotive repair and collision technicians to access a repair guidance specialist to get help with fixing complex problems to complete the repair in house, the company explained in a news release. “If you’re an automotive repair or collision shop looking for programming and repair guidance help, the Snap-on Pass Thru Assistant is making it easier than ever to keep vehicles in the shop, finish the job correctly, and increase profits and customer satisfaction,” said Helen Cox, marketing and client services director, Snap-on Diagnostics. Snap-on said by selecting the request repair guidance menu option and completing the on-screen fields, technicians will receive a confirmation text and then a call from a repair guidance specialist to walk them through the repair process on vehicles, including Acura, Alfa Romeo, Audi, BMW, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, GMC, Honda, Hyundai, Infiniti, Jaguar, Jeep, Kia, Land Rover, Lexus, Lincoln, Mercedes-Benz, Mercury, Mini, Nissan, Plymouth, Porsche, RAM, Scion, Smart, Sprinter, Subaru, Toyota, Volkswagen and Volvo. According to the company, the PTA kit contains a Windows tablet PC, J2534 device, 4G modem and a 90-amp battery maintainer capable of handling European amperage requirements. The post Snap-on Adds New Feature to Pass Thru Assistant appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Gabriel announced the launch of its all-new website on Gabriel.com., which the company said, “offers a modern user-friendly experience with fresh SEO-enriched content, vivid product images, a vast video library, online & retail dealer locators, mobile friendly interface and easy to navigate structure.” In a news release, Gabriel also announced the launch of its new centralized Part Finder. In addition to traditional search capabilities by vehicle year/make/ model, Gabriel’s new website part finder also offers extensive search capabilities based on OEM, competitors or Gabriel part numbers, and now includes part position on the vehicle such as front, rear, or cab shock positions, the company said. “Our new website reflects Gabriel’s customer focus and commitment to providing the best ride control products, quality content, and premium service available in today’s market,” says Jennifer McKheen, Gabriel’s vice president and general manager. “As the ride control industry experts, Gabriel is excited to launch this website as the foundation for exceptional service and our successful journey in digital growth.” The company added that quick links are easily available for each of Gabriel’s social media accounts, encouraging customers to easily keep up with Gabriel’s social posts and events in the digital landscape. The post Gabriel Announces Launch of New Website appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Standard Motor Products, Inc. (SMP) announced it has reached a definitive agreement to acquire AX V Nissens III APS (Nissens), a European manufacturer and distributor of aftermarket engine cooling and air conditioning products with a growing array of vehicle control technologies. The transaction values Nissens at approximately $388 million and is expected to be completed in the second half of 2024. “We are delighted to announce this acquisition, which will make our combined business the aftermarket leader in North America and Europe in thermal management products,” said Eric Sills, Standard Motor Products’ chairman and CEO. “It will also expand SMP’s portfolio of powertrain-neutral product categories. We plan to continue operating Nissens as a stand-alone unit, while leveraging the combined strength of the two companies to realize both cost and revenue synergies.” In a news release announcing the acquisition, Sills added, “We believe the combination with SMP is a powerful one. Both companies have a similar go-to-market strategy of supplying full-line professional grade product offerings, and enjoy complementary product portfolios. Meanwhile, the two companies largely operate in different geographic markets. As such, we believe that we are stronger together, capitalizing on synergies in both markets and strengthening our position in each. Together, we can accelerate growth through cross-selling our product offerings, realize cost reduction through combined resources, and achieve enhanced operational excellence though collaboration and best practices.” “We are very excited to have SMP as our new owner”, said Klavs Pedersen, Nissens’ chief executive officer. “We have been following SMP’s activities in the US, and we see a lot of similarities in the way SMP and Nissens operate in their respective focus regions. I have personally known the SMP management team for several years, and I believe there is a very strong cultural fit that will support and accelerate the positive development of both companies. We look forward to becoming part of the SMP family.” The transaction is subject to certain closing conditions, including receipt of applicable antitrust and other regulatory approvals. The post SMP to Acquire European Supplier Nissens Automotive appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The Aftermarket Warehouse Distributors Association (AWDA), a community of the Auto Care Association, announced registration is now open for the 77th annual AWDA Business Conference, sponsored by Dayco, which will take place Nov. 3-7, 2024, in Las Vegas, Nev. The AWDA Conference is an annual business event that brings together the premier companies of the industry for high-level, private, one-on-one business meetings, the Association said. Founded in 1947, AWDA is the oldest organized group of warehouse distributors and their respective suppliers of parts, accessories, and other supplies for the motor vehicle aftermarket. Celebrating the 77th AWDA Conference is a monumental event and the Auto Care Association expressed it is proud and honored to continue to bring this tradition to the industry. “With the addition of the APSG National Conference added to Industry Week this year, the AWDA conference is going to be bigger than ever,” said Ted Hughes, executive director, AWDA. “Attendees at this year’s conference can expect more representation from the industry’s leading independent distributors and additional meeting times added to the schedule, including availability on the show floor during the AAPEX Show on Nov. 5-7. Every measure is being taken to make sure this is the most successful and productive AWDA Business Conference in history.” All companies must register by Aug. 15, 2024, to participate in the AWDA one-on-one meetings. More details, including company eligibility, hotel and registration information, are available here. The post Registration Open for 2024 AWDA Business Conference appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

In the summer of 1974, KYB introduced a limited line of MacPherson Strut replacement cartridges, Gas-a-Just and Premium Heavy Duty shock absorbers to North America. Celebrating the Past, Looking to the Future Surviving the turbulent ‘70s, KYB took full advantage of the economically booming ‘80’s, building a new 500,000-square-foot North American manufacturing plant in Franklin, Indiana just outside Indianapolis. The Franklin plant has been building OE and aftermarket shocks and struts since 1986. It continues to grow with the addition of a research and development lab, “clean” room for assembling shock valving, and most recently, being honored as the 2019 Industrial Plant of the Year for Wastewater Quality for reducing wastewater discharge 40% to the City of Franklin, KYB said. The next few decades saw growth, with a new office being opened in Addison, Illinois, in 1999, and the launch of highly popular MonoMax truck shock just after the Millenium, according to KYB. In 2008, the company debuted the Strut-Plus complete assembly, which it said helped to set the standard in aftermarket ride control. 2011 saw the opening of a 275,000-square-foot distribution center in Greenwood, Indiana, just up the road from the Franklin manufacturing plant. The close proximity of these two locations allowed for quicker development and manufacturing of new applications and product lines, as well as faster distribution to customers throughout North America. The Addison, Illinois, office was moved to the Greenwood facility in 2014, completing the consolidation of administration, distribution, and manufacturing. As it celebrates the past and looks to the future, KYB said it continues to grow, with monthly announcements of additional applications and fitments, new product releases, such as KYB JAOS lift kit applications, and a new product line scheduled for release in 2025. The post KYB Celebrates 50 Years in North America appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Hot Shot’s Secret announced the launch of a new passenger car motor oil – Red Diamond Ultimate. The company said the oil is formulated to fully meet the General Motors dexos1 Gen 3 specification among others but is also formulated to keep the oil cleaner for longer periods of time while improving performance, engine system protection, mileage and horsepower. In a news release announcing the new product, the company said Red Diamond Ultimate passenger car motor oil uses 100% Group III base oils and is infused with Hot Shot’s Secret’s proprietary FR3 Nano Technology. It is suited for both hybrid and internal combustion engines, especially small displacement, turbocharged GDI engines where it can protect against low-speed pre-ignition. The company added that Red Diamond protects against timing chain and valve wearing that often occurs and fights the formation of high temperature deposits that drain horsepower and fuel economy. “We’re thrilled to offer passenger car motor oil and exclusively to our dealer network,” said Hot Shot’s Secret Brand Manager, Josh Steinmetz. “With three viscosities, we expect a lot of demand for this product given the compatibility for any vehicle where Dexos1 Gen 3 is specified. Also, it also exceeds API SM, SN and SN Plus and many of the Ford and Chrysler motor oil specs. Adding this oil to our lineup allows service centers to offer an outstanding oil to protect their customer’s vehicles.” Red Diamond Ultimate Motor Oil is available in three viscosity weights — 0W-20, 5W-20 and 5W-30 now and in three sizes — 5-gallon, 55-gallon and 330-gallon. The post Hot Shot’s Secret Introduces Red Diamond Motor Oil appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Lubrizol announced the launch of its new passenger car engine oil additive technology Lubrizol PV1710 that the company said will enable oil marketers to meet the performance requirements of ILSAC GF-7, the new passenger car engine oil specification that will go into effect on March 31, 2025. The company added that Lubrizol PV1710 offers customers a solution formulated to meet ILSAC GF-7 credentials and with a capability to reach dexos 1 specification. Core technology testing is complete and additional testing is underway to cover industry requirements. Lubrizol PV1710 will be available well in advance of the first-license timeline, enabling oil marketers to fully prepare to go to market, the company said. “In developing Lubrizol PV1710, our goal was to simplify the process for our customers,” said Padu Sreenivas, product manager for Lubrizol. “This product is designed for coverage in a broad range of base stocks and viscosity grades, enabling customers to address of GF-7 market needs in a streamlined timeframe.” In a news release, the company said its Lubrizol’s Specification Readiness Program grants customers access to technical expertise, testing capacity, portfolio management, and marketing support, enabling oil marketers to meet requirements with ease and confidence. The post Lubrizol Announces New Oil Additive Solution appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

NEXUS Automotive International’s Executive Committee announced it welcoming Robert Roos, effective July 1, 2024, in a show of its focus on North America. Roos is the president & CEO of The Pronto Network – APSG and president of NEXUS North America. “With a robust career of over 40 years in the automotive industry, Robert has held key positions that underscore his expertise and leadership,” NEXUS said in a recent press announcement. According to NEXUS, the appointment “aligns with the company’s increased ambitions in North America, aiming to accelerate the growth plans of N!’s OEM partners and gradually integrate a growing number of North American partners.” This objective will be supported by a more active presence of the NEXUS team in Grapevine, Texas, at APSG’s headquarters. Besides its “growth accelerator” prime goal, this presence will enable the proactive deployment of NEXUS initiatives such as Mobilion, Marketparts and Smartparts, the company said. Roos actively participates in multiple industry committees including the Education Committee within The Auto Care Association, The AWDA Board of Governors, and the University of the Aftermarket Foundation, demonstrating his commitment to advancing the automotive sector through collaborative efforts and industry-wide initiatives, NEXUS added. “I am honored to take on this role at such a significant time for NEXUS. Together, we will continue to drive innovation and growth, ensuring that NEXUS remains at the forefront of the automotive aftermarket industry,” Roos said. Gaël Escribe, NEXUS Automotive International CEO, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Robert to N!’s Executive Committee. Our focus on growth in this region is encapsulated by our new motto ‘Brightening our future’, which perfectly reflects our vision for growth and innovation in the coming decades.” The post Robert Roos Joins NEXUS International Executive Committee appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Positrak announced the 12-year anniversary of its Jobber Management System, the Positrak Pro. Since 2012, the company said it has sold and installed more than 430 systems for independent jobbers across the country. “Positrak has a 40-year legacy of happy, healthy jobbers,” said Positrak Vice President Jay Douglas. “Our commitment to customer service and doing the job right the first time is what has brought us to this point, and that will further our success in the coming years.” According to a news release from the company, Positrak’s Jobber Management Systems include point of sale and inventory solutions, integrated cataloging, integrated credit card processing, and B2B connectivity. The post Positrak Celebrates 12-Year Anniversary of Flagship Product appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Purolator Filters announced a national rebate promotion to help retailers and service shops across North America propel filter sales in time for the summer vacation travel season. Consumers can receive up to $15* on qualifying oil, air and cabin air filters under the Purolator, PurolatorTECHTM, PurolatorBOSS® and PurolatorONETM brands for purchases made between July 1 and August 31, 2024. To help promote the campaign, Purolator said it’s offering free point-of-sale marketing materials to all participants, including posters, window clings, tear-pad rebate forms and shelf talkers. “This rebate comes at the perfect time for budget-conscious families looking to prepare their vehicles for road trips while making their vacation travel even more affordable,” said Daryl Benton, vice president of sales and marketing for the automotive aftermarket with MANN+HUMMEL. Rebate forms and additional information on the promotion are available here. *Consumers may mix and match up to three items. Maximum rebate payout is $15. Limit one rebate payout per customer, per household. The post Purolator Rebate Campaign Promotes Summer Maintenance appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Highline Warren announced the company will open a new distribution center in Vacaville, California, later this year and is actively hiring to prepare. The company will be hiring throughout the remainder of the year and into early 2025. Currently, Highline Warren is accepting applications for equipment operators and an administrative/clerical assistant the following roles at its distribution center in Vacaville, California: Later this year, the company said it expects to promote job postings for operations supervisors, merchandise processors and clerical positions. The distribution center sits at 415,000 square feet – equivalent to 9.5 acres under roof or about seven football fields. It will also have: 87 dock doors, including three drive-in doors 36 feet clear ceiling height 31,000 pallet locations The post Highline Warren Expanding with New Distribution Center appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article