Counterman

The University of the Aftermarket, through Northwood University, is accepting registration for online courses for automotive-industry professionals to earn continuing-education units to obtain special industry designations. “Our Distance Education program offers in-depth, semester-long business skills classes taught by Northwood University faculty,” said Thomas Litzinger, executive director of the University of the Aftermarket. “We collaborate with companies, associations, and groups throughout the motor vehicle aftermarket to create custom industry-specific educational programs.” The CEUs can be used toward AAP, ACP and MAAP designations, and translate into college credits toward an associate, bachelor’s and master’s degree. “Northwood University and the University of the Aftermarket recently enhanced our ACP, AAP and MAAP designations, and we are introducing a SPAAP designation,” Litzinger stated. “Our industry designations are designed to promote continuous education within the automotive industry and to recognize professionals who are committed to personal and professional growth.” SPAAP is designed for industry executives who want to take the next step in their educational journey by participating in rigorous master’s-level coursework. “Our SPAAP will set the new standard for excellence in education for our industry and will be highly sought after by leading executives,” Litzinger added. “The development of our SPAAP designation indicates the University of the Aftermarket’s dedication to the Automotive Aftermarket, to continuous education and to the empowerment of the human condition.” The University of Aftermarket, through Northwood University, provides a number of online classes for industry professionals, including: Strategic sales and marketing Heavy-duty parts and service marketing Aftermarket field sales management Business law Principles of management Organizational behavior Business productivity software Principals of marketing Selling & sales management Consumer behavior World culture and customs The culture of leadership For more information, visit https://admissions.northwood.edu/corporate/uofa. The post UofA Accepting Registration for Online Summer Courses appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Penzoil recently introduced the “Long May We Drive” campaign, celebrating the thrill of driving and carving your own path on the open road. “Every person has a unique story to tell when it comes to driving, and every vehicle can tell a thousand tales,” Penzoil explained in a news release. “No matter where and what someone drives, or whether cars are used for hugging curves in the road, commuting to work or packing up kids and heading for the mountains, Pennzoil wants to celebrate the pursuit of the next mile with this campaign.” Featuring real drivers with a passion for car culture, “Long May We Drive” focuses on the stories of those who are passionate about taking care of their engine, those who relish the open road or those racing into the record books track by track. One of those real drivers, who not only owns the road but also moves the industry forward, is Larry Chen, an automotive content creator. Chen and his daughter are featured in the campaign, tinkering in the garage like a normal weekend, alongside a real cast of drivers including offroad enthusiasts and a five-star-rated rideshare driver. Joey Logano, driver of the No. 22 Pennzoil Ford Mustang and two-time NASCAR Cup Series (NCS) champion, is a key driver in this campaign, highlighting his dedication to pushing his engine to the limits. Pennzoil also is proud to spotlight a budding relationship with motorsports enthusiast Torsten Gross. In the campaign, Gross demonstrates his drive to celebrate mobility and challenge the norm. As a racecar driver and a C6 quadriplegic who uses hand controls, Gross created the Just Hands Foundation to allow others in similar conditions to experience the thrill of driving at racecar speeds. “Pennzoil is proud to champion his mission of equalizing mobility in motorsports, supporting the Just Hands Racing team’s development of more cars modified with hand controls to hit the racetracks nationwide so people with disabilities can experience the thrill of racing,” the company said. Cars provide an irreplicable source of freedom and self-expression, and the love of the drive is a common thread that connects us all. “Wherever your car is going to take you, Pennzoil will be there,” the company said in a news release. “The ‘Long May We Drive’ campaign serves as a reminder that each person’s path of driving is unique, and Pennzoil invites you to join in this exciting ride!” The post Penzoil Celebrates the Next Mile With New Marketing Campaign appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Advance Auto Parts recently announced that Tom Greco has informed the company of his plan to retire as president and chief executive officer of the company at the end of the year. Following Greco’s retirement, he plans to serve in an advisory capacity through a transition period, the company noted. In connection with Greco’s planned retirement and the company’s succession-planning process, the Advance Auto Parts board has formed a succession committee, composed of independent directors. The board intends to retain a leading executive search firm to assist in a thorough and comprehensive search that considers both internal and external candidates, Advance said in a news release. “It has been a privilege to lead Advance and I am extremely proud of the talented team we have built as well as the accomplishments we have delivered together,” Greco said. “Since my appointment as CEO, we have successfully integrated a transformative acquisition while scaling the business and enhancing our operational efficiency, inventory and distribution capabilities to better serve our customers. “I believe now is the right time to begin to transition leadership for two primary reasons. First, we are in the final year of our three-year strategic business plan and are in the process of updating our next multi-year strategy. This transition will enable my successor to play a role in developing the next chapter of Advance’s strategy and help ensure the long-term success of Advance. Secondly, by planning for retirement in advance, I will be able to work with the board’s succession committee to identify my successor and facilitate a smooth transition. In the meantime, I’m committed to the execution of our 2023 plan to continue delivering for customers and driving long-term shareholder value.” Eugene Lee Jr., chair of the board of directors, asserted that Greco “has constructed a strong foundation that will enable success in Advance’s next chapters.” “Under his leadership, Advance has transformed its talent base and culture, delivered nearly $2 billion of revenue growth and more than doubled its adjusted earnings per share over the last five years,” Lee Jr. said. “Advance is now better-positioned to meet the challenges of today’s dynamic environment and as we undertake our search for the next CEO, we are focused on ensuring that the company continues to unlock its enormous potential and deliver long-term shareholder value.” The post Advance Auto Parts CEO Tom Greco to Retire appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Car-shopping marketplace Cars.com has revealed its 2023 Top Picks for electric vehicles in conjunction with the company’s 2023 EV Buying Guide. Cars.com experts examined the price, range, comfort and features of 40-plus EV models on sale in 2023 to determine the Top Picks for Value, Family, Luxury and Commuters. Cars.com’s 2023 Top EV Picks, which can be found in the Cars.com EV Buying Guide, are: Family EV 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5 – The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a compact SUV with much more space inside than meets the eye – there’s room to carry a family and haul all the stuff that comes with them. Inside, parents will appreciate the storage nooks, perfect for stashing snacks or devices. For those with kids in car seats, the Ioniq 5’s backseat easily accommodates two car seats thanks to its abundant legroom and no-nonsense Latch anchors for easy connection. With a competitive EPA-estimated maximum range of 220-303 miles, depending on configuration, this family vehicle is ready for short and long road trips. Value EV 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV – The Chevy Bolt EV hatchback is a well-equipped all-electric vehicle with an EPA-estimated maximum range of 259 miles that starts at less than $30,000 before any applicable tax incentives. Featuring a 10.2-inch touchscreen multimedia system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity, automatic climate control, automatic emergency braking and lane departure steering assist, this hatch delivers more than enough to satisfy budget-conscious car shoppers. Luxury EV 2023 Genesis Electrified G80 – The Genesis Electrified G80 is a gorgeous, electrified luxury sedan with an opulent interior that outshines the competition. The multimedia system is simple to use, easy to decipher and elegant. In addition, this luxury EV elevates the driving experience to one where there is practically no powertrain noise at all – unless you want there to be. Commuter EV 2023 Kia Niro EV – The Kia Niro EV is a fun and dynamic four-door compact hatchback with a comfortable ride and pleasant cabin – perfect for long commutes or traffic jams. With an estimated maximum range of 253 miles, owners shouldn’t need to plug in every night, plus the hatchback body packs a respectable amount of cargo and passenger space within a tidy, easy-to-park exterior dimension. For more, visit Cars.com’s 2023 EV Buying Guide. The post Cars.Com Reveals Top EV Picks for 2023 appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Idemitsu Lubricants America and O’Reilly Auto Parts have jointly announced a nationwide expansion of their partnership. As a result of this new affiliation, all Idemitsu transmission fluids now are available through O’Reilly’s national network of Auto Parts Stores. Idemitsu Lubricants America is the largest supplier of Japanese OEM lubricants in North America. Idemitsu’s Japanese OEM-specific transmission fluids are developed explicitly for each OE vehicle’s transmission application. This way, vehicle owners benefit from the same OE-quality product that their vehicle’s transmissions were designed to use for optimal functionality, according to the company. “Developed to meet the most stringent requirements of Japanese automakers, Idemitsu’s application-specific formulas guarantee no shift shocks, less clutch wear and reduced fuel and oil consumption,” the company added. Founded in 1911, Idemitsu a leading supplier of OE-specific automatic (ATF) and continuously variable (CVTF) transmission fluids to Japanese automakers, such as Toyota, Lexus, Honda, Acura, Nissan, Mitsubishi, Subaru and Mazda. “We’re so very pleased to be partnering with O’Reilly Auto Parts on such a large scale,” said Frank Lam, Idemitsu senior division manager for the aftermarket. “This new distribution relationship will allow more O’Reilly locations across the country and, more importantly, their automotive service and Japanese-branded vehicle-owner customers, access to Idemitsu’s OE-quality lineup of transmission fluids developed specifically for their vehicles.” The post Idemitsu, O’Reilly Auto Parts Expand Partnership appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Carter has expanded its popular line of Rapid Fit water pumps and now is offering 33 part numbers covering 80.8 million vehicles in operation. Carter Rapid Fit water pumps are engineered with pre-mounted components to deliver time-saving installation for the professional technician. Designed to be installed directly out of the box, Rapid Fit water pumps help save an average of 15 to 25 minutes in the bay, according to the company. “Expanding the coverage of our Rapid Fit pumps gives our customers more options to help get the job done and save time.” said Ryan Gernheuser, repair group director, product management/aftermarket engineering at First Brands Group. Also now available is the release of a new Carter online water-pump catalog. Gernheuser added that the new catalog “is another valuable resource for automotive technicians providing vehicle-specific information for engine cooling applications on the road today.” For more information, visit carterengineered.com. The post Carter Adds Rapid Fit Water Pumps, Publishes Catalog appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Northwood University announced that it has hired an industry veteran to serve in a new role supporting automotive aftermarket education. “We are thrilled to welcome James O’Dell as our new assistant director of aftermarket education,” said Kristin Stehouwer, academic vice president and provost of Northwood University. “His professional experiences and network, along with that of our new University of Aftermarket executive director, will usher in an age of growth for our aftermarket programs, which will benefit the entire automotive industry.” O’Dell has served as the business development manager for Fisher Auto Parts in Ann Arbor, Michigan, since 2019. The automotive aftermarket includes vehicle parts, equipment, replacement tires, service repair, collision repair and accessories sold after the sale of the original vehicle. The Auto Care Association, which represents the entire automotive aftermarket, estimates the auto care industry is a $400 billion industry with more than 4.5 million workers. “As our vehicle parc continues to increase in age, and our miles driven have reached a new record high, opportunities in the automotive aftermarket continue to grow at a rapid pace,” O’Dell said. “I am proud to join Northwood. Its aftermarket program, and the Northwood Idea, are truly unique in the country. It inspires human potential through education and opportunity which uniquely prepares its students to make a difference and be successful. This is evident in that nearly one hundred percent of Northwood aftermarket graduates are employed – and their average salary is nearly $63,000.” In October, Northwood named Thomas Litzinger as the executive director of the University of the Aftermarket. Litzinger is an accomplished high-performing executive with more than 30 years of leadership experience. “Dr. Litzinger and James O’Dell are industry professionals with diverse experience and skills to lead aftermarket education,” Stehouwer stated. “Their strong associations and ability to form new relationships across the industry will allow Northwood to collaborate with all segments to produce even more career-ready students.” O’Dell noted Litzinger is not just an industry expert; he has the academic achievement to lead and inspire students in Northwood’s undergraduate programs and those in the University of Aftermarket, which provides industry-specific professional development to those working in the industry. He also is proficient in researching and publishing new studies relevant to the industry. Litzinger will lead an effort to develop a new curriculum for the University of the Aftermarket just as Northwood is reinvigorating its aftermarket education through these new hires and a new curriculum. “The investments Northwood is making in aftermarket education shows the university is responsive to the industry’s feedback, and it is stewarding its resources well for the good of the industry,” O’Dell stated. The post Northwood Names New Assistant Director of Aftermarket appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The Consumer Access to Repair (CAR) Coalition is commending a bipartisan letter from 28 state attorneys general urging lawmakers to approve bipartisan legislation protecting consumer rights in the post-collision auto repair market. Specifically, the attorneys general are urging key members of Congress to advance the SMART and REPAIR Acts, which have recently been reintroduced in the 118th Congress. “We applaud the bipartisan group of attorneys general for urging Congress to pass commonsense right to repair legislation, like the recently reintroduced SMART and REPAIR Acts,” CAR Coalition Executive Director Justin Rzepka said. “These attorneys general, as chief consumer protection and antitrust enforcers, are well aware of the pressure of rising prices on the people in their states. Swift federal legislation is critical to protecting consumers’ right to repair the products they purchase – restoring choice to the repair process, increasing competition and lowering costs.” The letter states in part: “The Right-to-Repair is a bipartisan issue that impacts every consumer, household and farm in a time of increasing inflation. It is about ensuring that consumers have choices as to who, where, when and at what cost their vehicles can be repaired. It is about ensuring small automobile businesses and ‘mom-and-pop’ auto shops can remain competitive against a closed system favored by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).” The letter can be read in full HERE. The Save Money on Auto Repair Transportation SMART Act (H.R. 1707) would put an end to automakers’ unfair use of patents by reducing from 15 years to 2.5 years the time that automakers can enforce design patents against alternative parts manufacturers on collision repair parts, including common parts like side mirrors, quarter panels, and bumpers. The Right to Equitable and Professional Auto Industry Repair (REPAIR) Act (H.R. 906), would ensure consumers have access to their vehicle’s data and the repair tools needed to maintain modern vehicles. The introduction of the SMART and REPAIR Acts builds on growing momentum for the consumer protections in the post-collision repair market, including endorsements from The White House and Federal Trade Commission, along with an unprecedented show of support from federal lawmakers in the FY2023 government funding package and spotlights at two congressional hearings. According to recent research from the CAR Coalition and DePaul University College of Law, anti-competitive practices from automakers cost American consumers more than $1.5 billion per year in higher auto repairs. The post State AGs Urge Congress to Pass SMART, REPAIR Acts appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Standard Motor Products (SMP) has introduced 110 new part numbers in its March new-number announcement. Included in the release is new coverage for 56 product categories, and 29 part numbers for 2022 and 2023 model-year vehicles. Standard continues its strategic expansion of collision repair and ADAS programs. Active grille shutter actuators now are available for the 2022-2021 Ford F-150. New park-assist cameras offer additional coverage for 2.9 million vehicles, including the 2022-2021 Ford Bronco Sport, while park-assist sensors now are available for the 2022-2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee. SMP is continuing to increase coverage for hybrid vehicles across multiple categories. A vacuum pump for Lexus Hybrids is available, as is an ambient light sensor for Lexus and Toyota Hybrids. Temperature-control products for popular hybrid vehicles also are available, including a cooling-fan assembly for the 2022-2017 Nissan Rogue Hybrid and hose assemblies for the 2022-2017 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid. This latest announcement also sees expansion in several key powertrain-neutral categories. Power-window switches are available for 1.2 million vehicles including the 2022-2018 Ford Ranger. Another 2 million vehicles will be covered with the latest release of power door look actuators. Other new powertrain-neutral releases include ABS speed sensors, TPMS sensors, neutral safety switches and vehicle-speed sensors. “We are pleased to release these new numbers to our trusted distribution partners,” said Jack Ramsey, senior vice president of sales and marketing, SMP. “This release covers import and domestic vehicles with ICE and hybrid powertrains, and also includes many aftermarket-exclusive parts, helping our distribution partners to capture additional business.” Standard also is adding to its line of new oil-filter housing assemblies. The latest application fits 2022-2019 Chrysler, Dodge, RAM and Jeep vehicles. Standard oil-filter housings come preassembled from the factory and include a new oil cooler, oil-temperature sensor, oil pressure sensor, gaskets and new mounting hardware. Four Seasons, SMP’s temperature-control division, has added 40 new part numbers to its product line, with 26 hose assemblies adding coverage for 3.8 million import and domestic vehicles. New compressors have been added for popular vehicles such as the 2022-2020 Ford F-250 and 2022-2021 Ford F-150. Four Seasons also has introduced cooling-fan assemblies, blower motors and heater cores. All new applications are listed in the catalogs found at StandardBrand.com and 4S.com, and in electronic catalog providers. The post SMP Introduces 110 New Part Numbers in March appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Metallurgy is the study of the physical and chemical properties of metal, and when comparing different metals, the question becomes whether one wants to pursue a complicated degree in science, or whether you’re OK with accepting the basic facts around it. The science is cool stuff, but I’ll leave it for my next life. I’m OK with the basic facts, and it’s the knowledge of these facts that makes it much easier to understand the basic types of crankshafts, or “cranks” for short. In this industry, whether you’re interested in performance or not, you can’t escape the conversation of it, and one of the first things that always comes up is the term “forged” crank. Everyone knows the term and knows they’re better, but why? Back up to the era of muscle cars and the exploding popularity of hot-rodding and aftermarket performance parts. As the horsepower wars accelerated throughout the ‘60s, the high-performance variants of any engine had one thing in common: a forged crank. When you think about what a crank does, it harnesses all the power created by combustion and transfers that power to the transmission. Visualize what they go through: The power of combustion transfers through the piston and rod and into the rod journal to drive the crank into rotation. Meanwhile, the next cylinder in the firing order is compressing an air/fuel mixture in preparation for firing and driving the piston downward. Add to this engine speed and the momentum of pistons and rods that are holding on for dear life – not to mention the shock to the system by dumping a clutch to launch – and you can paint an easy picture of the immense forces pulling and twisting on the crank, just waiting to expose a weakness. The bottom line is the crankshaft needs to handle the abuse it gets, and everything from compression to rpm to how hard the vehicle will be driven are factors that must be considered. This is why during the heyday of muscle cars the top performers had forged cranks. It was more than just handling the horsepower; it was the fact that these cars were going to be run hard over and over again, and many of them on the track. Iron vs. Steel Iron is a natural element that comes from the earth. Steel is a man-made alloy that’s a result of mixing iron with carbon, and it’s ultimately a stronger material. Those are some of the basic facts I was talking about. Metallurgy 101. Done. Casting For years, the traditional or “standard” crank was made of cast iron by pouring molten metal into a mold. When the casting is removed, it’s very close to the finished dimensions and comparatively requires minimal finishing. The entire process has a considerably lower cost than any other. As a result, this has been the standard crank of choice for automakers for many years. Now, cast iron certainly is no wimpy material – think frying pan – and cast-iron cranks are very functional, but they have a limit to the amount of power they can handle in an engine. Generally, they’ll perform well up to the range of 450 to 500 horsepower, but when you reach that level (especially when driven hard on a regular basis), it’s time to move to something more durable, and the forged crank enters the picture. Forging A forged crank starts as a large cylinder of steel, heated to the molten state. It’s then pressed and/or twisted into shape by large dies. The ultimate difference between a casting and a forging is the resulting grain structure of the metal. A casting produces a sand-like grain versus the uniform flowing-grain structure of a forging. This grain structure is the reason for the difference between the strength of a cast and forged crank. Billet A billet crank starts as a large cylinder of steel, which then is machined into a crankshaft. Since a billet crank isn’t pressed or twisted in a forging process, the resulting grain structure runs parallel throughout the entire piece. Is a billet crank stronger than forged? Arguments go both ways, but billet seems to get the nod most of the time. Just a Little More Metal Cast cranks can be made of iron, nodular iron or steel. Add a small amount of carbon to iron and you have nodular iron. Steel has the greatest amount of carbon, and by definition is an alloy. There are thousands of different types of steels. Forged cranks, as well as billet, are made of multiple grades of these steel alloys. The difference in all – from least expensive to most – is tensile strength. Tensile strength is another term related to metallurgy. It refers to the amount of force that a metal will withstand before it begins to stretch. So, the two underlying factors in crank strength are material and manufacturing process. Ultimately, you can go from bottom to top, aligning tensile strength, price and how much horsepower a crank will handle. Less costs less, more costs more. It’s that simple! The post A Closer Look at Crankshafts appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Springtime is a season of change and renewal. The weather turns warmer, plants and flowers bloom into life and the days get longer. Like the local wildlife, DIY customers also are emerging from hibernation, eager to take advantage of the warmer weather so they can tackle projects in the driveway again. If your store is in snow country like ours, spring also is a season of surprises. Anything that careless customers or the wind has “deposited” in your parking lot over the past few months will reappear as the snow melts. Now is the time to address these (and other) items, before your customers notice! A literal clean sweep of the parking lot also will reveal any weather-related damage like broken and heaved concrete, or cracked asphalt. Potholes might help drive sales of steering and suspension parts this time of year, but your parking lot shouldn’t be the place your customers encounter them! Standing in the parking lot, you also can get a customer’s-eye view of your store’s exterior. Do faded signage and dirty windows make it look like you closed during the pandemic and maybe never re-opened? Speaking of opening and closing, if you have seasonal differences in business hours, verify that those posted hours are correct. (Your online presence also should accurately reflect these changes.) And even though the days are getting longer, interior and exterior lighting still are important safety and security concerns, especially if you keep extended hours. That dimly lit look isn’t doing you or your business any favors! Once inside, your customers also should find fresh new merchandise on relevant seasonal displays. The idea of spring cleaning is often “out with the old, and in with the new,” so changing up the front of the house is in order this time of year. Refreshing your spring line doesn’t just mean dragging out last year’s old stock and hanging it out for sale. Mixing this year’s new-to-market products into the displays along with the “tried-and-true” items is a good way to showcase your refreshed new look. There’s no place for faded, worn or damaged goods in your seasonal displays, but saleable merchandise left over from the previous season should be rotated forward and sold as soon as possible (especially chemicals and wiper blades). Those lingering unsold winter goods sometimes can present storage issues. On occasion, I’ve been guilty of “storing” off-season parts by tossing everything into totes or empty boxes to get them out of the way. There are two issues with this “method,” each of which I discovered the hard way. The first issue is that these items still are in inventory, so if someone needs one of the parts, we waste a lot of time sifting through totes in search of a needle in a haystack. The second issue is that when these parts are brought out again the following season, all of that sifting, sorting and shuffling makes the merchandise look pretty shopworn. Unless seasonal items are returned to your warehouse, a dedicated “off-season” shelving unit will help ensure that these parts stay organized and available and don’t suffer in storage. Last but not least, our delivery vehicles likely are due for a thorough cleaning … inside AND out! Washing away the winter salt and road grime not only makes our fleet look professional, but it also increases the service life of our vehicles and bolsters our image in the community. National Spring Car Care Month begins in April, so before the public comes calling for their cleanup needs, this is the perfect time to take care of our own! The post Spring Cleaning and Seasonal Stocking appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

KBS MAXX single-stage paint provides a beautiful, durable, UV-stable finish with excellent gloss retention, according to KBS Coatings. The two-component polyurethane top coat performs like an all-in-one base coat and clear coat, according to the company. “KBS MAXX has superior impact, weather and UV resistance, while providing fast-drying characteristics,” KBS Coatings explained in a news release. “The long-lasting, high-solids coating offers outstanding adhesion and superb opacity. KBS Advanced Cross-Linked Coatings Technology makes it both flexible and durable.” Chemical-resistant KBS MAXX has low VOC and HAPs and withstands continuous temperatures of up to 400 F. The paint can be applied by brush, roller or sprayer and features excellent flow-out for a smooth finish with no brush marks. KBS MAXX and the KBS MAXX Activator Medium are easy to mix and yield a pre-thinned paint that is ready to spray or brush. KBS MAXX currently is offered in 19 colors, and in clear. For more information, visit the KBS Coatings website. The post KBS Coatings Introduces KBS MAXX Single-Stage Paint appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The Tire Industry Association has joined other association leaders to support the critical global Right to Repair movement by signing the new Right to Repair position statement. The statement enumerates the core beliefs of the movement and the objectives and intended outcomes of right to repair legislation. The document also sets forth 10 best-practice principles to developing a framework for Right to Repair legislation that any supporting country can use and adapt them to their needs. Globally, the automotive aftermarket keeps 1.5 billion vehicles on the road while contributing $1.8 trillion to the global economy. After vehicles exit their warranty period, independent repair shops perform 70% of repairs. This vibrant industry and the consumer choice that it creates is being threatened by automotive manufacturers that block access to wirelessly transmitted vehicle repair and maintenance data, according to TIA. Without the convenience and choice of independent parts and repair, especially in suburban and rural communities, consumers will have limited access to affordable vehicle service and repair. These restrictions can have catastrophic effects on local economies and the well-being and safety of millions that rely on vehicle transportation daily, TIA says. In the United States, the automotive aftermarket is a $492 billion industry employing 4.5 million professionals, according to the Auto Care Association. “Right to Repair is a top priority for TIA members and for the global automotive aftermarket,” said Richard “Dick” Gust, TIA CEO. “Without safeguards, independent automotive repairers and vehicle owners will have fewer repair options, face longer wait times and pay higher prices when they repair their vehicles. It is crucial for independent auto repair locations to have access to the equipment and data needed to repair today’s highly technological vehicles and that consumers have a choice in where they get their vehicles repaired.” Both Australia and South Africa have successfully retained their drivers’ right to repair their vehicles. These countries are a model for similar legislation in the United States that levels the playing field and keeps the consumer at the heart of decision-making across the transportation ecosystem. Read the full position statement here. The post Tire Industry Association Joins Right to Repair Movement appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

MEMA, The Vehicle Suppliers Association, announced the members of the steering committee of the Center for Sustainability, launched in January. Committee members were selected to represent the diverse membership of the organization, covering automotive and commercial vehicle, original equipment and aftermarket, large and small companies, and the remanufacturing community. Members of the steering committee will provide guidance and oversight for the center’s leadership. In addition, they will support the programming that will be developed for the benefit of all member companies in the organization. “We are thrilled to have the commitment of these outstanding industry executives as we take the Center for Sustainability from concept to reality,” said John Chalifoux, chief sustainability officer, MEMA, following the inaugural meeting of the steering committee. “I look forward to working with the committee members who will continue to provide their expertise and a balanced perspective for all MEMA members.” The 10 executives serving on the MEMA Center for Sustainability steering committee are: Marc Blackman, president and CEO, Gold Eagle, and MEMA chairman Ed Edwards, president and CEO, Circuit Board Medics Maureen Klein, vice president, public affairs and sustainability, Pirelli Tire North America Jill Kupcak, corporate office of sustainability and EHS, North America Region, Robert Bosch LLC Brian Lewallen, president, aftermarket solutions, Daimler Truck North America Santosh Singh, senior vice president, human resources, legal, government relations and corporate communications, North America, DENSOe Volker Weng, president and general manager, drivetrain and battery systems, BorgWarner Shawn Zwicker, global recon general manager, Cummins Bill Long, president and CEO, MEMA John Chalifoux, chief sustainability officer, MEMA, and COO, MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers Learn more about the Center for Sustainability here. The post MEMA Announces Steering Committee for Sustainability Center appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Arch Auto Parts, one of New York’s fastest-growing auto parts retailers with 20 convenient locations, has doubled the footprint of its main distribution center from 30,000 to over 60,000 rentable square feet (RSF). The new lease is both an extension and expansion for Arch Auto Parts at the Ideal Queens industrial building, located at 184-10 & 184-60 Jamaica Avenue in Jamaica, Queens, according to owners KABR Group and Monocle Group. “Doubling the size of our Queens center is critical to our growing regional footprint,” said Chris Bodh, owner and CEO of Arch Auto Parts. “We are excited to be working with the new ownership group on our company’s expansion in this great location.” Ideal Queens, purchased by KABR and Monocle in February 2022, consists of more than 620,000 RSF, which is conveniently located with access to Manhattan, Long Island City, Long Island, JFK International Airport, LaGuardia Airport and Brooklyn. The warehouse and logistics buildings are equipped with 15 loading docks, multiple drive-in doors, 24/7 secured access, ceiling heights of up to 20 feet clear and onsite surface parking. Ideal Queens is situated on a major thoroughfare with accessibility to local routes as well as interstate highways. For a convenient commute, employees enjoy proximity to Jamaica Station, serviced by the E, J, M and Z subway lines and the Long Island Railroad. “Arch Auto Parts is a perfect fit for Ideal Queens,” said Adam Altman, Founder and Managing Partner of KABR. “We are excited to be a part of their continued growth.” The new owners have commenced a comprehensive renovation. This modernization project will transform the building into a Class A industrial center by improving the buildings infrastructure and tenant experience. The improvements include a complete exterior restoration of the building façade, including replacing original windows, installation of brand-new automatic freight and passenger elevators, complete bathroom remodeling and upgrading of loading docks with full dock packages. “The ongoing project will continue to transform the asset into a best-in-class multi-story light industrial, manufacturing, warehouse and distribution facility in a highly supply-constrained New York City consumer market,” Arch Auto Parts added in a news release. Leasing opportunities are available with the ability to accommodate a variety of industries looking for 1,000 to 200,000 RSF within minutes of Manhattan. For more information, visit www.IdealQueens.com. The post Arch Auto Parts Double Footprint of Main Distribution Center appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The winter registration deadline for the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) testing and recertification is March 31. Those service professionals registering by the deadline will have 90 days to schedule an appointment to take their selected ASE tests. ASE now offers three options for taking certification or recertification tests: In-person testing is available throughout the year and is conducted days, nights and weekends at more than 450 secured, proctored Prometric test centers. Those with unexpired automobile certifications (A1-A9) can use the ASE renewal app for recertification. ASE also offers ProProctor remote testing as an online recertification solution for all ASE recertifications tests, excluding L1 and L2 tests. To register and select an available option to take selected ASE certification tests, visit ASE.com by March 31, click on register and sign-in. Once logged in, users can next click on “orders” and then “store” where they can find the tests they want to take, add those tests to the cart, check out and registration is complete. For assistance from ASE customer service, call 800-390-6789. The post ASE Winter Registration Deadline March 31 appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Walker Products announced the release of more than 200 new SKUs for the automotive aftermarket. The SKUs cover a wide range of automotive applications, including engine-management sensors, oxygen sensors, ignition coils and more. “Walker Products has been a trusted name in the automotive industry for over 75 years, and the launch of these new SKUs further solidifies their commitment to providing high-quality products and exceptional customer service,” the company said in a news release. Designed to provide superior performance, reliability and durability, the new SKUs are manufactured to the highest quality standards using the latest technology and materials, according to the company. “The release of these new SKUs demonstrates Walker Products’ commitment to meeting the evolving needs of their customers in the automotive industry,” the company added. To learn more about the new SKUs and other products offered by Walker Products, visit the Walker Products website. The post Walker Products Releases 200 New SKUs appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Worldpac, a wholly owned subsidiary of Advance Auto Parts, celebrated the grand opening of its newest warehouse on Feb. 22 in Hatillo, Puerto Rico. Members of the local community, including Hatillo Mayor Carlos Román Román, attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Located at H-1 Metro Plaza Hatillo, Carr No. 2 KM 87.5 Marginal, Worldpac’s Hatillo warehouse measures more than 30,000 square feet and has the capacity to house more than 400,000 original-equipment and premium-brand automotive parts, serving most vehicle makes and models on the road in Puerto Rico. The warehouse will support the businesses of local independently owned auto parts stores throughout the western region, with parts deliveries for most customers taking place multiple times per day, six days a week. “We are very proud to open our second Worldpac warehouse in Hatillo, bringing independent businesses in the western region greater access to original equipment and leading name brand auto parts,” said David Heine, Worldpac executive vice president of sales. “With two locations in Puerto Rico, we can now offer far greater inventory coverage across the island to better serve our customers. We’re also very pleased to employ members of the community at our new facility and we look forward to continued investment in Puerto Rico for years to come.” Worldpac employs 10 team members at its new facility, with many living locally in Hatillo and surrounding communities. The company also supports independent auto parts stores through its warehouse in Bayamon, which opened in 2010. Visit Worldpac’s website for more information about its parts, accessories and employment opportunities. The post Worldpac Celebrates Opening of New Warehouse in Puerto Rico appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Repairify and Autel U.S. announced an exclusive long-term collaboration agreement for the delivery of Repairify’s patented global OEM remote solutions for diagnostics, calibrations and programming through Autel’s remote-capable products across North America. As part of the agreement, Repairify will integrate its patented global remote diagnostic, calibration and programming solutions as a new service offering into a revised version of Autel’s Remote Expert platform. Repairify and Autel will jointly manage the platform that now will offer customers the choice of using the certified and warrantied OEM remote solutions from Repairify, along with the independent Remote Experts (vetted for their experience) who already are serving the platform. Launched in 2022, Autel’s Remote Expert provides customers onsite aftermarket scanning and access to remote OEM tools supported by experienced professionals. Remote Expert is available through the Autel MaxiSYS Ultra, Ultra EV, MS919, MS909 and MS909 EV diagnostics tablets. Remote Expert also will be expanded into Autel’s ADAS calibration systems. “We are excited to enter into this collaboration with Repairify,” Autel U.S. CEO Chloe Hung said. “Autel developed the Remote Expert platform to provide our users remote access to specialized and experienced module programmers and diagnosticians. We are very proud that its success drew the attention of a company of such quality and industry success as Repairify. We are confident that this partnership will benefit both companies and, most importantly, be of immense value to our users.” According to the companies, combining the Repairify remote services solutions program with the Autel Remote Expert Platform delivers what automotive repair professionals have requested for years: a seamless experience that delivers fast, accurate, certified and safe vehicle repairs with the choice of aftermarket or OEM tool support. “Since its launch into the North American market in 2005, Autel has been known for their consistent delivery of leading innovative solutions across the mechanical and collision markets,” said Cris Hollingsworth, president of Repairify Global Holdings. “Repairify is honored to embark on this partnership and to broaden the reach of our solutions through the new and existing Autel network of customers.” For additional information, visit the Repairify website. The post Autel, Repairify Announce Agreement for Remote Diagnostics appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The CAR Coalition has reported that Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell is prepared to move forward with the Massachusetts Right to Repair law. Ballot Question 1, which updated the state’s landmark 2013 Right to Repair law, passed with 75% of the vote in November 2020. Since then, automakers have kept the law tied in up federal court in an effort to block its implementation. While a federal judge has delayed ruling on the automakers’ lawsuit on six occasions, the attorney general recently issued notice that she intends to enforce the law effective June 1: “The people of Massachusetts deserve the benefit of the law they approved more than two years ago. Consumers and independent repair shops deserve to know whether they will receive access to vehicle repair data in the manner provided by the law. Auto manufacturers (“OEMs”) and dealers need to understand their obligations under the law and take action to achieve compliance.” – Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell On the national stage, U.S. Rep. Neal Dunn recently re-introduced federal Right to Repair legislation. HR 906, as introduced in Congress, aims to “ensure consumers have access to data relating to their motor vehicles, critical repair information and tools, and to provide them choices for the maintenance, service and repair of their motor vehicles, and for other purposes.” “When it comes to repairing their automobiles, consumers deserve options,” said Dunn, a Florida Republican. “The REPAIR Act would give owners, including the rural communities in my district, secure access to critical data so their chosen service center can replace parts and repair their vehicles. I am proud to support competition in the vehicle repair industry.” Dunn is a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, which has responsibility for consumer protection, among several other topics. The bill was referred to the committee on Feb. 9. The post Massachusetts Attorney General to Enforce Right to Repair Law appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Standard Motor Products (SMP) continues to expand its line of parts for hybrid and electric vehicles. The hybrid and EV market is growing larger every day, and SMP is committed to continually adding to its product offering for these vehicles, as well as expanding its powertrain-neutral coverage, the company said. Approximately 7 million hybrid vehicles are currently on the road, and many of them are more than 10 years old. With two distinctly different powertrains – a conventional internal combustion engine and an electric motor – these vehicles feature more components when compared to gas and diesel vehicles. Hybrid repair opportunities continue to grow thanks to a growing vehicle population, an aging fleet and multiple drivetrain components. Standard and Four Seasons are prepared to meet the demand, with more than 4,000 parts available for 150 models, according to the company. Electric vehicles use the same sensors, switches and climate-control systems as ICE vehicles, while adding new opportunities around the thermal management of high-voltage battery and drive motor components. Currently, SMP offers more than 1,900 parts for 40 models, with more parts being introduced on a consistent basis. Additionally, SMP offers more than 50,000 powertrain-neutral parts through its Standard and Four Seasons brands. These parts fit vehicles regardless of powertrain and include categories like advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) components, collision repair parts, A/C compressors and thousands of other switches, sensors, actuators and connectors. “As hybrid and electric vehicle sales increase, SMP is prepared to meet the growing demand for high-quality replacement parts,” said Jack Ramsey, senior vice president of sales and marketing, SMP. “Standard and Four Seasons are dedicated to staying ahead of the curve, engineering and manufacturing superior products that last.” From 2022 through February of this year, SMP has added substantial coverage for hybrid and electric vehicles through its Standard and Four Seasons brands. In total, SMP added 258 SKUs for hybrid vehicles, 60 SKUs for electric vehicles and 1,530 SKUs in the powertrain-neutral category. Recent additions include a universal battery pack charging cord for electric vehicles and stoplight switches and brake-pedal travel sensors for hybrid models like the Toyota Prius and Lexus ES300h. The array of powertrain-neutral parts added include park-assist cameras, dome-light switches, rocker switches, power sunroof motors, taillight connectors and much more. All new Standard EV and hybrid products are listed in the e-catalog found at StandardBrand.com, and in electronic-catalog providers. The post Standard Motor Products Expands Hybrid, EV Portfolio appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

When ball joints are on the counter, what’s the No. 1 upsell? Shop rags, latex gloves and floor cleaner, because it’s going to be a messy job! Seriously, though, it depends on the suspension. For light cars and trucks with strut-type suspension, most ball joints aren’t greaseable, and most of them only have one lower control arm on each side, resulting in only one lower ball joint on each side (multi-link suspensions are another story). Most of these are a cakewalk to replace, and you barely get your hands dirty. But, heavier trucks and older cars with upper-lower A-arm suspension and greaseable joints are a different story. That’s when it gets real. But before we start wiping up grease, let’s look at two of the stickier aspects of ball joints: inspection and installation. Ball joints have wear specifications, and the maximum allowable play as well as proper inspection procedures can vary considerably between different applications. When checking a ball joint for wear, technically speaking, not only should we confirm the recommended procedure and specifications, but we also are always supposed to check them using a dial indicator. In the real world, that rarely happens. Most technicians understand that a little bit of play in a ball joint is normal and acceptable. But at the same time, there’s a common misconception that any play in a ball joint means it’s wearing out. The root of the problem goes deeper than this article can cover, but let’s face it: Time is money, and taking the time to look up specs, set up a dial indicator (if you have one) and recording the readings just isn’t realistic, especially when a shop manager is breathing down your neck for a diagnosis. Another part of the problem is when you check a ball joint for wear, you always can feel even the slightest amount of play – so again, rather than performing the correct procedure, it’s easier to estimate the free play in your mind based on your familiarity with these types of measurements. You can’t always see the movement when it’s minimal, but the worse it gets, the easier it is to see. Experienced technicians are good at recognizing when the amount of play is still “acceptable,” or when a ball joint is – as we like to call them when the vehicle isn’t safe to drive – “wasted.” When a ball joint exhibits wear but still is acceptable and safe for use, that’s how we represent it to the customer, and we’ll just recommend checking them again at the next service. “Let’s keep an eye on those ball joints,” we might say. This all might sound like I’m criticizing technicians, but that’s far from the case. I’ve been a tech my whole life and it can be tough to wear our shoes. There’s a lot we need to know – we’re all human – and we do make mistakes. When it comes to parts, we rely on the knowledge of a counterperson more often than you realize. One of the strongest traits of a good technician is understanding that you don’t know everything, and not being afraid to ask questions or accept advice. In the case of ball joints, they usually don’t come with specifications, and there’s rarely any information with them aside from installing the grease fitting. And when they do come with information, does it always get read? You probably can guess the answer. This is the real world of automotive repair. As crazy as it sounds, when you’re deep into a suspension repair with parts and tools all over the place, it can seem like it takes an eternity to unbox a bunch of parts and remove them from their plastic bags, etc. – so again, it’s no surprise that details are missed should they happen to be included. It’s worth its weight in gold when we learn something we don’t know about any particular part, and we’re always eager to learn. If the line between misconception and mistake isn’t blurry enough, there’s an extra kicker with ball joints. Some vehicles utilize telescoping ball joints. What this means is that the ball-joint stud telescopes a small amount to compensate for manufacturing tolerances, primarily related to the ears of a steering knuckle. When you install one of these joints, it may appear as if the stud is too long or too short, potentially causing a technician to think it’s the incorrect joint. Also, since the stud is engineered to slide in and out of the housing, they can exhibit as much as .060” (sixty-thousandths of an inch) of free play. For comparison, .060” is about the thickness of a penny, and while this amount of play rarely would be represented as unsafe, it could easily be misdiagnosed as a worn joint. This may turn out to be more important in the case of a warranty concern. I’m sure it wouldn’t be the first time you had a part returned as defective and you were surprised by it. This is when your knowledge can save time and money for your company as well as for a technician, shop and the end customer. Information like this often doesn’t make it to a technician level, and it’s a great opportunity for you to educate and build rapport with your customers at the same time. Replacing Control Arms Where do control arms come into the picture? Independent suspension, be it front or rear, has been around for a long time. There are many different types, of which upper-lower A-arm, MacPherson strut and multi-link are the most common variations we deal with today. One thing they all have in common is some type of control arm. To put a simple spin on it, any control arm is nothing more than a link between the fixed frame of a vehicle and the steering knuckle – the component that in turn provides a mounting point for the brakes, wheel bearings and wheels. Control arms move freely up and down in response to suspension movement and not only offer mounting points for springs and sway bars, but they also are integral to suspension design, affecting the alignment angles and suspension travel. The control arm also carries another distinction: It offers a provision for mounting a ball joint to provide articulation between the arm and steering knuckle. Ball joints are either bolt-on or press-in, and in many cases on newer vehicles, the ball joint is an integral part of the control arm. If you have to replace the ball joint, you have to replace the entire arm. Control arms are either steel, cast-iron or aluminum, and the most important factor when replacing a press-in style of ball joint is making sure the hole in the control arm isn’t worn. Generally, if there’s no visible damage or corrosion to the control arm and the old ball joint requires considerable force to remove, as long as the new joint requires a similar force to install, the control arm will be OK. However, since we don’t have the technology (in our shops) to measure the roundness and integrity of the hole, many manufacturers recommend to only replace a press-in style ball joint one time. The next time, the whole arm should be replaced, and this is good advice to pass along to your customer. As with any type of suspension work, any torque-to-yield fasteners should be replaced, torque specifications always should be utilized, and in the case of control-arm replacement, fasteners should be torqued with the vehicle at ride height. The post Ball Joints: How Much Play Is Too Much? appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Lafayette Warehouse has joined forces with Auto-Wares Group of Companies. Like Auto-Wares, Lafayette Warehouse, Inc. (LWI) is built on long-lasting relationships with customers, employees and suppliers that have grown their businesses. Mike Brown will lead Lafayette Warehouse as general manager. Pat James and the current location managers will continue to lead the Lafayette Warehouse location teams going into the future. The Lafayette Warehouse customers will be introduced to the Alliance exclusive brands and the Auto Value Parts Store and Certified Service Center programs. In addition to increased inventory and improved Indiana logistics, this acquisition will make full-line AC Delco and Mopar Original Equipment lines available to all Auto-Wares customers in the coming months. Lafayette Warehouse has four large locations that will improve Auto-Wares logistics in Northwest and Central Indiana: Lafayette Auto Supply Distribution Center, 1501 Kepner Dr., Lafayette Lafayette Auto Supply, 118 S. 4th Street, Lafayette Kokomo Auto Supply, 1299 Home Ave., Kokomo NWI Auto Supply, 755 E. 82nd Ave., Merrillville “First and foremost we want to thank our employees and customers for the success we have had over the past 96 years,” said Pat James, president of Lafayette Warehouse. “We could not have done it without all their support. Auto-Wares presented an opportunity for our legacy to continue by offering great opportunities for our current employees and customers. We also would like to thank Auto-Wares for choosing us to be their next partner.” Auto-Wares CEO Todd Leimenstoll added: “All of us at Auto-Wares are excited to have Lafayette Warehouse team join the Auto-Wares Group of Companies. Lafayette Warehouse has a very successful history and tremendous reputation. I am thankful for the trust that Pat James and the James family have placed in us. We look forward to the next chapter in growing the company.” The post Lafayette Warehouse Joins Auto-Wares appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Being a somewhat evolved primate, I appreciate tools. I have a LOT of tools – maybe more than strictly necessary for a guy who spends most of the day behind a parts counter rather than in a shop bay. To be completely honest, I even own a few tools that I’ve never actually used, simply because at the time of purchase, I thought they were pretty darn cool, and I might need them some day. Better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it, right? Historically, tool selections were pretty basic: an open stock display of wrenches, sockets and drive tools, and a small display of specific-use tools from one of the major jobber distributor brands. These days, in-store tool selection reflects the diversity of manufacturers in today’s aftermarket and the vehicle-specific engineering that goes into servicing a wide range of global nameplates. Given the tight confines of the modern engine bay and the variety of service opportunities, the “underhood” tool category is spread across several vehicle systems, and includes a number of specialty tools. Underhood services can include belt-drive and cooling-system service; electrical diagnosis and repair; fuel and emissions; LOF (lube, oil, filter) and other fluid-exchange services; and internal engine repairs. Considering that performing one repair often requires disassembly or removal of multiple components just to access the affected part, underhood repairs often will require multiple specialty tools as you dig deeper into the engine bay. While a complete review of each and every specialty underhood tool is nearly impossible, there are a few types that are universally required for servicing many different vehicles. Quick-disconnect (QD) tools are one of the most universally requested tools in this category, and also the most diverse. Fuel and emissions lines, transmission and coolant connections and A/C lines all routinely feature a QD fitting of some variety. From scissor-type tools to pliers and spring-lock tools, each is designed for a particular type of fitting. Master-disconnect kits cover the majority of styles in one convenient case, and many QD tools can be purchased individually. For OEM clamped-hose connections, flat-band clamps have mostly replaced worm-drive clamps, and the “go-to” tool for this type of clamp is the cable-operated plier, which can reach remotely into the engine bay where your hands won’t fit. Another popular OEM clamping method is the “Clic” and “Clic-R” clamp, a reusable clamp similar to the Oetiker ear-type clamps found on CV boots. Clic-R-style pliers make removal and re-use of these clamps possible without damage. Blunt flat-bladed hose-removal tools then can be used to separate stubborn hoses without puncturing or gouging the rubber – a common problem when improvising with a screwdriver or pick tool. Screwdrivers also can damage stretch-to-fit serpentine belts, so using the proper removal and installation tool increases the chances of reusing a good belt! Belt-tension release tools make accessing buried tensioner assemblies much easier, especially when clearance issues prevent the use of a breaker bar or ratchet. LOF service – once the most basic of maintenance tasks – has become increasingly complex in recent years. The resurgence of cartridge-type filters has resulted in a variety of specialty sockets for opening engine-oil and diesel-fuel filter housings. GM, Ford and some European OEMs now feature uniquely shaped plastic oil-drain plugs that require specialty sockets to remove and replace without damaging the plug. Some tools (for example, a particular-size specialty socket or bit) are “required” in the sense that you cannot use any other tool to perform a specific task, while others have been developed to make a job easier or beat the published flat-rate schedule. For professional technicians, time is money, and specialty tools are an investment that help them save time and earn more money. For DIYers, specialty tools reduce the frustration of fighting with an unfamiliar component, and reduce the potential for damaging new or existing parts when using improvised tools and methods. Tool rentals allow the DIYer (and even some professionals) access to more expensive tools that they otherwise wouldn’t purchase. As add-on sales, specialty tools can earn the parts store additional income, encourage sales of parts that may be more difficult to install without the proper tools and reduce “defective” returns resulting from installation errors. Having a diverse selection of relevant specialty tools in stock is easier than ever before, and is another way to differentiate yourself in an increasingly competitive market. The post Selling Tools for Underhood Repairs appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Advance Auto Parts reported net sales of $11.2 billion for 2022, up 1.4% from 2021, while comparable-store sales were flat. Fourth-quarter net sales increased 3.2% to $2.5 billion, while comparable-store sales were up 2.1%. “In 2022, our team members once again worked to serve our customers with relentless focus and dedication,” said Tom Greco, president and chief executive officer. “Despite challenges throughout 2022, we made progress on our strategic initiatives, including the expansion of our footprint, further strengthening of our DieHard brand and improved customer loyalty. However, we are not satisfied with our results in 2022 and are taking decisive actions to improve performance in 2023. Importantly, the disciplined inventory and pricing actions we discussed last quarter to adapt to an evolving competitive landscape contributed to stronger results in Q4 and we ended the year with positive momentum. “We expect to see further improvements in inventory availability throughout 2023, which we view as the single most important driver to accelerate topline growth. After several years of significant investments in complex transformation initiatives and the majority of the integration behind us, we’re now able to focus more time and resources on leveraging our differentiated asset base and improving execution to drive long-term shareholder value.” Advance’s 2023 guidance is for net sales between $11.4 billion and $11.6 billion, and year-over-year growth in comparable-store sales between 1% and 3%. “In 2023 we are shifting to GAAP as our reporting method for annual guidance,” said Jeff Shepherd, executive vice president and chief financial officer. “As the GPI integration nears completion, we expect transformation costs to be less impactful, which reduces the need for non-GAAP adjustments. In addition, we believe that focusing on GAAP results will improve the understanding and comparability with our closest peers. In 2023 we are elevating our performance to improve topline growth and share gains while delivering operating income margin expansion.” The post Advance Reports 2022 Sales of $11.2 Billion appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article