Counterman

In this latest episode of “AMN Drivetime” with Babcox Media CEO Bill Babcox, we hear from Paul McCarthy, president and CEO of the Automotive Suppliers Association (AASA). A well-known figure on the aftermarket stage, we get to know a little more about Paul’s career path, from helping his grandfather work on cars as a kid to now leading one of the aftermarket’s leading trade associations, and the interesting career choices in between. In the interview, Bill and Paul discuss a range of topics from Paul’s natural affable speaking presence to his thoughts on EVs, Right to Repair, Biden-administration policies affecting the aftermarket and more. When asked what the secret is to being such a natural and authentic public speaker, McCarthy’s response only illustrates what a passionate and humble industry servant he is. McCarthy shares that it’s easy to talk about something you care about. “My great blessing is that I get to work on behalf of the industry. I get to work on behalf of all of you, and this is an industry I’m passionate about. It’s a role I take very seriously,” he said. “The downside of course, is that I have thousands of bosses. The upside is that I have real purpose in my work and your listeners are that purpose. And it’s very motivating for us to try as a team here at AASA to champion the aftermarket industry, to support the aftermarket supplier community. So, I know I’m very blessed to get to serve in this role.” In this episode, Bill and Paul dive into: How Paul got his start in the automotive industry (00:48)What was Paul’s very unique first real, paying job? We’ll give you a hint … can you say, “a hoy matey!” (02:45)The secret to being a natural and authentic public speaker (04:08)The value of strong relationships in the aftermarket and the mentors he’s worked with (05:44)What’s on the horizon for AASA in 2022 and beyond (08:49)Paul’s thoughts on the current administration and what policies will impact AASA members (13:25) The “million-dollar question: Paul’s take on EV’s and the aftermarket’s level of preparedness for them (16:00)Thoughts on Right to Repair (19:14) Impressions from the return to AAPEX in 2020 (22:34)One hobby Paul has that surprises his team members (24:52) “AMN Drivetime” is sponsored by Litens. Watch the episode Listen to the podcast The post AASA President Paul McCarthy On ‘AMN Drivetime’ (VIDEO) appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

In our 2022 Distribution Preview in the January issue of AMN/Counterman, aftermarket leaders talk about some of the key issues affecting the industry, and discuss their plans, goals and expectations for the year ahead. This year, we added several fun “Lightning Round” questions that you won’t want to miss. Here’s our Q&A with Junior Word, president of Carquest North America. CM: What are some of the biggest trends that could have an impact on your business in 2022? JW: Our Carquest team and family of independent owners are prepared for some of last year’s biggest trends to carry into 2022. Those trends include supply chain demands, vehicle ownership and the sustained need for parts. While supply chain challenges have been a major point of interest across our industry, our store partners have continued to go above and beyond in providing quality parts and service to their DIY and Professional customers. We also know that more people than ever are owning and operating vehicles. With the increase in both miles driven and average age of vehicles on the road, there’s going to be a continued need for parts to keep these older vehicles functioning at their best. CM: What are your thoughts about the business environment for the automotive aftermarket in 2022? JW: We are seeing increased demand for parts, and this is converging with the labor shortage across the aftermarket. Despite this, we’ve been laser-focused on supporting our store partners. Our primary objective is to position our owners to drive as much business as possible while doing our part to make their lives easier as small-business owners. Our support team is leveraging technology, specifically MyCQStore, to provide valuable analytics and sales data to our store partners to help grow their businesses and operate more efficiently. Carquest’s core business is tied to professional repair shops, but we’re also working to develop growth opportunities to increase the DIY business for our store partners. We’ll continue to make additional investments in our team and the necessary resources to strengthen the Carquest brand, while reinforcing our support to store partners to ensure their longevity in the communities they serve. CM: What do you feel is the greatest opportunity in the automotive aftermarket right now? JW: Our industry is in a healthy place. I mentioned the number of vehicles on the road, the increased age of vehicles and miles driven. People feel comfortable in their cars. It’s an environment that feels safe and familiar. With that said, our team is focused on what we can control. We’re doing everything in our power to help store partners provide the right part at the right time for their customers. We want to drive more traffic to our existing Carquest locations while expanding our footprint across the U.S. We’ll accomplish this by opening Carquest retail locations as well as Carquest by Advance stores, a new concept we recently announced at AAPEX. This store model targets the growing DIY customer channel, and as a brand, we’ll be providing independent owners with operational and merchandising support to further establish their local presence. There is a lot for us to be excited about at Carquest. The bottom line is, we’re here to take care of our owners while they take care of the needs of their customers. CM: What phrase describes your “words to live by?” JW: Don’t ever forget where you came from. CM: What is your best icebreaker at a networking reception? JW: I honestly don’t have any “go-to” icebreakers, but I enjoy meeting new people and hearing about their backgrounds. CM: What is your dream car, or favorite vehicle you’ve owned? JW: My dream car is a Chevrolet Corvette Z06. The post Carquest’s Junior Word: ‘Our Industry Is In A Healthy Place’ appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Motorcar Parts of America (MPA) has launched a live, web-based Part Smart educational program providing OE-level training for the professional technician. Developed and taught by MPA’s ASE-certified master technicians, the Part Smart training program addresses real-world troubleshooting and diagnostic procedures, product information and manufacturer-specific systems information. The latest training event in the series continues Thursday, Feb. 24, at 12 p.m. CST, with an overview of troubleshooting and diagnosing LIN-controlled charging systems. Full class schedule and signup information will be available soon for 2022. Register now for this free one-hour Part Smart training. Seats are filling up fast! The post Get Part Smart LIN Alternator Overview Training From MPA appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Mevotech announced the appointment of Eric Schillinger as its sales director, East Coast, US. Dedicated to training and selling Mevotech’s products to current and prospective accounts, Schillinger will serve as a key member of Mevotech’s Business Development team. With more than 12 years of experience in retail sales management, Schillinger brings his knowledge from outside the industry to the team. “We are delighted to have Eric join the US sales team,” said Russ Eggert, vice president, US Sales of Mevotech. “He has a proven track record driving business with his tremendous focus on relationship management and customer experience.” Prior to joining Mevotech, Schillinger was the vice president of member engagement at MTC Federal Credit Union. To learn more about Mevotech, watch the overview video here. Sign up to receive monthly Mevotech updates, including new product releases, webinars, videos and animations, tech tips and more here. The post Mevotech Appoints Eric Schillinger Sales Director, East Coast appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Applications are now being accepted for the Federated Car Care Scholarship program at AutomotiveScholarships.com. The scholarships are funded by Fisher Auto Parts in memory of Art Fisher, founder of Federated Auto Parts and the Federated Car Care program, and the deadline to apply is March 31. Qualified candidates should specify “Federated” on their application when applying online. Administered by the University of the Aftermarket Foundation (UAF), the scholarships will be awarded to employees and children of active Federated Car Care Center members attending a two- or four-year accredited college, an ASE/NATEF-certified post-secondary automotive, heavy-duty or collision technician training program, or any licensed and accredited vocational school. Students graduating from high school in 2022 and heading to any of these post-secondary programs are also eligible. “One of the many benefits of becoming a Federated Car Care Center is the annual scholarship program that helps children and employees of Car Care members advance their education,” said Bo Fisher, chairman and CEO of Fisher Auto Parts. “We encourage all eligible candidates to submit their applications as soon as possible so they can be considered for one of the many Federated Car Care scholarships that will be awarded for the 2022-23 academic year.” Federated is one of more than 30 other organizations awarding scholarships on the UAF Automotive Aftermarket Scholarship Central website. As an added benefit for students who apply at this site, each completed application will be considered by every scholarship where the candidate meets the qualifications. The post Federated Car Care Scholarships Available appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

In our 2022 Distribution Preview in the January issue of AMN/Counterman, aftermarket leaders talk about some of the key issues affecting the industry, and discuss their plans, goals and expectations for the year ahead. This year, we added several fun “Lightning Round” questions that you won’t want to miss. Here’s our Q&A with Larry Pavey, CEO of the Automotive Parts Services Group. CM: What are your thoughts about the business environment for the automotive aftermarket in 2022? LP: We believe that the business environment will be outstanding in 2022. As the overall economy continues to improve, we expect driven miles to grow and an increased focus on vehicle safety and repair. With personal-vehicle use increasing, inspection programs being reinstated and fleet miles growing, there will be many positive influences that provide continued growth for the aftermarket. In addition, the price of new and used cars creates incentive to invest and repair current vehicles. While aftermarket prices may have increased, we still provide tremendous value to consumers on repair versus a vehicle purchase. CM: Our industry’s technical skills gap (and tech shortage) has been labeled as a huge challenge. But there are some great long-term opportunities for young people in the automotive aftermarket right now, especially in the area of emerging technology, which is going to require that “next-level” tech. How can we better put our industry in the spotlight, and get young students excited about automotive? LP: Our industry has an identity crisis. Today’s vehicles have more cool technology than any other product I can think of, and our industry should be a magnet for young people who love tech. Every aftermarket company, large and small, should alter their communication strategy to promote the technical aspects and potential that the aftermarket offers. As an industry, we need to focus on rebranding, from maintenance and repair to diagnostics and calibration, and share the opportunities we have for the best and the brightest. To communicate this effectively, we need to work together and embrace the future, where tech companies like Google, Apple and Amazon will be mobility companies offering career opportunities in many areas. Positioning the vehicle as the largest and most important technology in everyone’s life will be key. CM: What do you feel is the greatest threat facing the automotive aftermarket right now? LP: The greatest future threat to the aftermarket is having the competency to repair vehicles and satisfy customers. The two biggest obstacles are adequate information and technician competency, and they are interrelated. Winning the battle for data access is key to be able to repair vehicles regardless of technician proficiency. Without access to repair data, the aftermarket will not be able to meet consumers’ needs for parts and repair, especially as the electrification and complexity of vehicles increases. The shortage of technicians and changes in required competencies will be challenging, even if all the data for diagnostic and repair procedures is available. Evolving technology also will impact the ability of shops to afford the variety of equipment required to perform repairs. Fortunately, we are seeing some shared services in remote diagnostics, but there are still tremendous challenges to deliver the outstanding service that consumers are accustomed to. CM: What phrase describes your “words to live by?” LP: When you don’t know what to do, do what is right. CM: What is your best icebreaker at a networking reception? LP: At my age, it has become, “How are your parents?” CM: What is your dream car, or favorite vehicle you’ve owned? LP: When I was young, I had a ‘67 Mustang that is still my favorite car ever. The post The Group’s Larry Pavey: ‘Our Industry Has An Identity Crisis’ appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

U.S. Rep. Bobby Rush on Feb. 3 introduced the Right to Equitable and Professional Auto Industry Repair (REPAIR) Act. HR 6570 would preserve consumer access to high-quality, affordable vehicle repair by ensuring that vehicle owners and independent repair shops have equal access to repair and maintenance tools and data as car companies and licensed dealerships, the Illinois Congressman explained in a news release. Consumers prefer independent auto repair shops over licensed dealerships by a wide margin – 70% of the 288 million registered vehicles in the United States are maintained by independent repair facilities. However, inadequate and outdated laws and regulations have made it increasingly difficult for independent repair shops to access critical vehicle data needed for repairs, benefiting car companies and licensed dealerships at the expense of consumers and mom and pop repair shops. “Americans should not be forced to bring their cars to more costly and inconvenient dealerships for repairs when independent auto repair shops are often cheaper and far more accessible,” Rush said in a news release. “But as cars become more advanced, manufacturers are getting sole access to important vehicle data while independent repair shops are increasingly locked out. The status quo for auto repair is not tenable, and it is getting worse. If the monopoly on vehicle repair data continues, it would affect nearly 860,000 blue-collar workers and 274,000 service facilities. “The lack of meaningful consumer choice in the repair market harms low-income Americans and those in underserved communities most. A single mother who relies on her vehicle to go to work and get her kids to school can’t afford to wait days or weeks to have her car repaired at a dealership that is hours away and more expensive than the auto shop around the corner. That is why I am proud to be introducing the first federal Right to Repair legislation for the auto sector. The REPAIR Act is commonsense, necessary legislation that will end manufacturers’ monopoly on vehicle repair and maintenance and allow Americans the freedom to choose where to repair their vehicles.” The REPAIR Act will update existing laws to reflect the modernization of automobiles and the importance of consumer choice in auto repair, according to Rush. The legislation is written to foster a competitive environment for vehicle repair while prioritizing cybersecurity and safety for vehicle systems. Specifically, the REPAIR Act would: Preserve consumer access to high-quality and affordable vehicle repair by ensuring that vehicle owners and their repairers of choice have access to necessary repair and maintenance tools and data as vehicles continue to become more advanced.Ensure access to critical repair tools and information. All tools and equipment, wireless transmission of repair and diagnostic data, and access to on-board diagnostic and telematic systems needed to repair a vehicle must be made available to the independent repair industry.Ensure cybersecurity by allowing vehicle manufacturers to secure vehicle-generated data and requiring the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to develop standards for how vehicle generated data necessary for repair can be accessed securely.Provide transparency for consumers by requiring vehicle owners be informed that they can choose where and how to get their vehicle repaired.Create a stakeholder advisory committee and provide them with the statutory authority to provide recommendations to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) on how to address emerging barriers to vehicle repair and maintenance.Provide ongoing enforcement by establishing a process for consumers and independent repair facilities to file complaints with the FTC regarding alleged violations of the requirements in the bill and a requirement that the FTC act within five months of a claim. The Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA), Auto Care Association, CAR (Consumer Access to Repair) Coalition and Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) applauded Rush for introducing the legislation. “Today is one of the most memorable and important days in the history of the aftermarket. The REPAIR Act will help guarantee consumers’ rights and the ability of the industry to ensure their vehicles operate safely,” said Paul McCarthy, president and CEO of AASA. “From the repair shop to the board room, this effort has been fueled by the people of the aftermarket, and we couldn’t be prouder of that alignment behind this important legislation. This effort supports principles of competition, consumer choice and safety that we believe will benefit the whole automotive industry in the long run. We look forward to working with Representative Rush and our industry colleagues towards passage of this critical legislation.” By way of a 2014 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), vehicle owners and technicians are supposed to have the same access to information, tools and software that automakers make available to their franchised dealers. However, as vehicles become more technologically advanced, vehicle data is increasingly being transmitted wirelessly and sent only to vehicle manufacturers, who then have the ability to determine who can access the data and at what cost. Independent repair shops – which are cheaper than dealerships and preferred by the vast majority of car owners – are effectively locked out. The resulting landscape has reduced choice and raised costs for consumers, who spend an average of 36% more on vehicle repair at dealerships than at independent repair shops. Limited access to data has already impacted repairs for 37% of vehicles in the United States, and this number is set to increase dramatically in the coming years – by 2030, 95% of new vehicles sold around the world by 2030 will have wireless data-transmission capabilities. In May 2021, the FTC released a report highlighting the barriers auto manufacturers have instituted to block consumers’ Right to Repair. In the report, the FTC supported expanding consumer repair options and found “scant evidence” for the repair restrictions imposed by original equipment manufacturers. In a subsequent policy statement on the report, the FTC noted that these repair restrictions create hardships for families and businesses and that the commission was “concerned that this this burden is borne more heavily by underserved communities, including communities of color and lower-income Americans.” In July, President Biden issued an executive order encouraging the FTC to address anti-competitive repair restrictions. “Ensuring consumer choice while retaining a free and competitive market across the vehicle lifecycle is at the heart of this legislation,” said Bill Hanvey, president and CEO of the Auto Care Association. “As personal transportation has become more essential than ever, we need to make sure that 288 million American motorists have access to affordable, safe and secure repairs for their vehicles. The tenets of this bill are principles-based, balanced and address concerns shared across the automotive industry. Passage of this bill will keep consumers at the wheel while preserving an industry that contributes 4.4 million U.S. jobs and 2% GDP.” The full text of the REPAIR Act is available HERE. The post Illinois Congressman Introduces REPAIR Act appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

In our 2022 Distribution Preview in the January issue of AMN/Counterman, aftermarket leaders talk about some of the key issues affecting the industry, and discuss their plans, goals and expectations for the year ahead. This year, we added several fun “Lightning Round” questions that you won’t want to miss. Here’s our Q&A with Steve Tucker, president of Automotive Parts Associates. AMN/CM: What did your organization accomplish in 2021 that you are most proud of? ST: That is a long list! In addition to bringing on several new team members to our headquarters, I guess I am most proud of the fact that we have been able to grow the group both in volume and in membership. The independent-aftermarket WD is alive and well, and we are proud to be able to capitalize on that point. AMN/CM: What are your thoughts about the business environment for the automotive aftermarket in 2022? ST: We see demand continuing to be strong. Despite fuel prices being up, miles driven is still doing well, the car parc continues to grow, and while used-car prices may be softening somewhat, consumers are still investing in their cars and having needed repairs done to keep them on the road. We are all suffering on the supply side and I sincerely hope we can overcome all the issues related to those issues. These supply shortages have forced us to become more creative in finding what we need to service our customers, and, in doing so, we have started relationships with suppliers that we might not have previously known or considered. Vendors are also looking at alternatives to the status quo, and we expect that by mid-year the worst of the supply chain issues will be behind us. AMN/CM: Our industry’s technical skills gap (and tech shortage) has been labeled as a huge challenge. But there are some great long-term opportunities for young people in the automotive aftermarket right now, especially in the area of emerging technology, which is going to require that “next-level” tech. How can we better put our industry in the spotlight, and get young students excited about automotive? ST: Wow, this is my “hot-button” issue for sure. The aftermarket has proven again and again that we can source the parts to fix any technology the OEMs choose to throw at us. Getting access to the information needed to use those parts is something that is mission-critical to our industry, and this goes hand-in-hand with getting the next generation of techs on board and able to service these “high-tech” vehicles going forward. The OEMs have done a great job of partnering with trade schools and creating a great breeding ground for their technician needs. We, as an aftermarket, need to undertake similar initiatives. Additionally, we need to do more to educate independent repair shops not only from a technical perspective but also from a business standpoint. Too many shops undercharge for their services in my opinion and that, in turn, limits what they can offer to “A”-level technicians in terms of salary and benefits, and even working conditions. We all need to join forces and focus on this issue. I truly believe it is the make-or-break topic for our industry. AMN/CM: What phrase describes your “words to live by?” ST: Share the credit and take the blame! AMN/CM: What is your dream car, or favorite vehicle you’ve owned? ST: 1968 Cadillac Coupe DeVille Convertible The post APA’s Steve Tucker: ‘We See Demand Continuing To Be Strong’ appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Counterman’s “Guess the Car” contest challenges our readers to solve an automotive riddle, for a chance to win $100. And each month, we receive hundreds of responses from aftermarket professionals trying to guess the model of the vehicle depicted. The correct answer for the December/January contest is the Ford Focus. The winner is Michael Edwards, a former counterman (now semi-retired) at Bumper to Bumper in Bloomington, Illinois. Now, let’s get to know the “Guess the Car” champion. CM: How long have you been working in the auto parts business? ME: I was in the business for almost 16 years. Before that, I was a mechanic for over 30 years. CM: What did you like most about your job? ME: I think what I liked best about it was working with a bunch of good people, and helping people find what they needed to get their job done. I took pride in that – taking time to figure out what they need and locating it to get it to them. CM: What’s the strangest question a customer has asked you? ME: There are so many of them that it’s hard to narrow it down. I remember years ago a guy came in to buy Freon and I asked if he needed a charging kit. He said he didn’t have one but he didn’t want one. I said, “Well, how are you gonna put it into the system?” He said, “Pour it in, I guess.” … We finally convinced him that he needed some kind of gauge set or some kind of charging adapter. I think he ended up taking it to a shop. CM: What’s the coolest car you’ve ever owned or worked on? ME: Well, my favorite, when I was young and crazy, was a ’65 Pontiac LeMans. It was just a step below a GTO; it didn’t have all the GTO trim, but it ran like one. I got myself into a lot of trouble with that car. CM: Do you have any interesting hobbies? What do you do for fun? ME: I used to try and play golf. I bowled for many years, but I haven’t done that in a long time. I do a lot of reading and TV, that’s about it. CM: What’s your dream car? ME: I’d have to say the car I’ve been fascinated with since I was a kid is a Studebaker Avanti. I was in grade school when that car came out. I just fell in love with it immediately. I don’t think I’ve ever even had a chance to drive one. They’re kind of weird-looking cars now, but they were so far ahead of their time. The post Meet The ‘Guess The Car’ Champ: Michael Edwards appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Lucas Oil Products recently announced the rollout of customer-centric QR codes across the entire lineup of racing, everyday car care, motorcycle, marine and industrial products. Lucas Oil’s new QR-code smart packaging provides a simple and effective improvement to the customer experience, allowing the company to offer customers instant access to relevant product details, including: Performance informationComplementary productsEnvironmental and ecological informationDisposal considerationsFormulation and chemical propertiesHandling, transport and storage information “We are excited for Lucas Oil to be among the first in our industry to include QR codes on packaging across our entire product lineup,” said Morgan Lucas, president of Lucas Oil. “In addition to providing instant access to practical product information, we’re excited to expand the available information to include rich media and videos featuring our in-house experts and the many professional mechanics, race teams, detailers and everyday automotive enthusiasts who rely on our products every day.” The post Lucas Oil Rolls Out Updated Packaging With QR Codes appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Philips MasterDuty headlight bulbs, from Lumileds, are the latest innovation in forward lighting for commercial vehicles. “Built to deliver exceptional and long-lasting lighting performance on Class 2 through 8 commercial vehicles, Philips MasterDuty lamps are designed to provide the ultimate protection against mechanical shock and easily handle the extreme stress and vibration of rough terrain and damaged roadways,” the company said in a news release. “Philips MasterDuty lamps are the toughest available for the medium- and heavy-duty truck market.” Built to resist up to 13G, the bulbs’ key benefit is their exceptional vibration resistance, according to the company. Philips MasterDuty bulbs have been engineered to withstand a wide range of vibration frequencies and feature a high-performance glass construction that easily handles extreme temperature and pressure changes. “Our MasterDuty line gives commercial-fleet operations an excellent advantage with extremely durable and long-lasting bulbs that not only helps save on maintenance costs, but also helps protect drivers by keep them in compliance,” said Aubry Baugh, Lumileds product marketing manager. The Philips MasterDuty headlight range includes seven new SKUs for exceptional coverage on medium- and heavy-duty applications: H1MDC1, H7MDC1, H11MDC1, 9003MDC1, 9005MDC1, 9006MDC1 and 9008MDC1 forward lighting applications. For more information, contact [email protected] or call 866-254-6989. The post Lumileds Headlight Bulbs For Class 2-8 Commercial Vehicles appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Continental has named Peter Dobrowolski as the new product manager for diagnostics and services – North America. In his new role, Dobrowolski will be responsible for managing the portfolio of diagnostics products that include the Autodiagnos Pro automotive diagnostic system, Autodiagnos TPMS tools and the Autodiagnos Drive connected-vehicle-data solution. Dobrowolski is a long-time employee of Continental, serving in several capacities during the past 10 years. He was a senior product manager for the Tachographs, Telematics and Services group, where he managed a startup compliance product for the heavy-duty trucking industry and oversaw the entire product lifecycle from concept through to market deployment in both the United States and Canada. Dobrowolski also was the health, safety and facilities manager for Continental’s Allentown, Pennsylvania, facility. “We are thrilled to add Peter to our Diagnostics and Services team,” said Christopher Bahlman, head of diagnostics and services for Continental. “He has great expertise in product development and understands the unique challenges of launching products in emerging markets. His experience and know-how will help us to identify potential market opportunities and expand Continental’s diagnostics business.” Prior to joining Continental, Dobrowolski was employed by Saab Automotive AB as assistant manager – parts technical services and worked on the operations support staff for Logistics Services at Caterpillar Inc. He holds an MBA in Marketing from Strayer University, a BSBA in Management from Kutztown University, and an AAS in Logistics Technologies from Lehigh Carbon Community College. Continental Diagnostics & Services (D&S) was founded nearly 10 years ago to address the needs of service providers for advanced diagnostics, service information, connected services and specialty solutions, such as PTI (periodic technical inspection). D&S has developed diagnostics and service solutions for North America under the Autodiagnos brand. Key product offerings include professional aftermarket scan tools, TPMS diagnostic and service tools, and a connected-vehicle-data platform. The post Continental Names Product Manager For Diagnostics And Services appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

AASA and Epicor have extended the deadline to apply for the 2022 Channel Excellence Award. The award was established in 2019 to celebrate innovation and collaboration between suppliers and channel partners that drive aftermarket growth. The new deadline is Tuesday, Feb. 8. The Selection Committee includes well-known leaders, analysts and educators from the aftermarket who will review applications and select the winner. Committee members represent all major levels of the aftermarket including repair shops, distributors and suppliers, to ensure a broad perspective. The 2022 Channel Excellence Award winners will be announced during the AASA Vision Conference on April 6 in Dearborn, Michigan. The 2022 AASA Channel Excellence Award Selection Committee includes: Rod Bayless, EpicorBrian Cruickshank, University of the AftermarketChris Gardner, AASARick Guirlinger, Schwartz Advisors LLCTony Molla, Automotive Service AssociationJoe Pomaranski, Pomaranski Consulting “One thing our industry has proven over the past two years is its resilience and ability to innovate, pivot, and transform regardless of circumstance.” said Paul McCarthy, AASA president. “When collaboration between suppliers and channel partners takes the driver seat, great things happen.” The 2021 Channel Excellence Award winners were Standard Motor Products and National Performance Warehouse Companies. They developed a solution to resolve inventory complications across a nationwide supply chain during a pandemic. The application and additional information on the Channel Excellence Award can be found by clicking here. The post AASA, Epicor Extend Deadline For Channel Excellence Award appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The University of the Aftermarket Foundation (UAF) welcomes Parts Warehouse Inc./Crow-Burlingame as a new lifetime trustee and thanks the company for its generous support. Fletcher Lord III, president of Parts Warehouse Inc./Crow-Burlingame, will serve as the company’s representative on the UAF board of trustees. “We at Parts Warehouse/Crow-Burlingame are honored to help support the University of the Aftermarket Foundation,” said Lord. “As long as we continue to help further educate industry professionals, we will continue to see prosperity within the aftermarket. We are overjoyed to do our part and look forward to a bright future in our industry.” “On behalf of the University of the Aftermarket Foundation, we welcome Parts Warehouse/Crow-Burlingame as a lifetime trustee and thank Fletcher for volunteering his time as a member of the UAF board of trustees,” said Bob Egan, chairman of the University of the Aftermarket Foundation. “The generous support of Parts Warehouse/Crow Burlingame will help UAF offer more scholarships and expand access to aftermarket educational opportunities that, in turn, help attract and retain talent in our great industry. We thank them for recognizing the importance of the UAF mission to the future of the aftermarket.” The University of the Aftermarket Foundation lifetime-trustee designation is reserved for exceptional donors who support the UAF mission of providing scholarships and educational opportunities for the next generation of aftermarket professionals. The foundation is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, and all contributions are tax deductible to the extent provided by law. To learn more about the University of the Aftermarket Foundation, apply for a scholarship or grant, or make a donation, visit www.uofa-foundation.org. The post UAF Welcomes Crow-Burlingame As New Lifetime Trustee appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

In our 2022 Distribution Preview in the January issue of AMN/Counterman, aftermarket leaders talk about some of the key issues affecting the industry, and discuss their plans, goals and expectations for the year ahead. This year, we added several fun “Lightning Round” questions that you won’t want to miss. Here’s our Q&A with JC Washbish, vice president of sales and marketing for the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance. AMN/CM: What did your organization accomplish in 2021 that you are most proud of? JW: 2021 was another fantastic year for Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper! We made a transition from our virtual meetings back to live events. We hosted a Sales & Marketing Forum in September that saw over 150 folks from our warehouse-distributor members and valued channel partners gather in San Antonio. We hosted our Technician of the Year program in October. And, finally, the Alliance Winter Shareholder Meeting in Aventura, Florida, in December was a massive success. Over 450 Alliance personnel and channel partners rounded out the year with a great week’s worth of meetings, networking, activities and an awards banquet. AMN/CM: What do you feel is the greatest threat facing the automotive aftermarket right now? JW: Allow me to answer this by quoting two presidents of the 1900s. First, “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” Why should we fear anything in this industry that we cannot control, change or adapt to that would put us on our heels? The greatest threat we face is our own lack of action. That leads me to the second quote: “Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country.” If we, as individuals, think someone else is going to control, change or adapt for us – then we are blinded by fear. Each individual needs to be active, needs to be an advocate and needs to be a voice for the aftermarket. AMN/CM: What do you feel is the greatest opportunity in the automotive aftermarket right now? JW: America is moving again! Car count and average age are up. Demand is high. New-vehicle manufacturers are facing some headwinds, which will continue to increase our aftermarket business. AMN AMN/CM: What phrase describes your “words to live by?” JW: Life is short; tell a joke. AMN/CM: What is your best icebreaker at a networking reception? JW: Do you know how much a polar bear weighs? Enough to break the ice. AMN/CM: What is your dream car, or favorite vehicle you’ve owned? JW: Fully loaded Ford Transit with all the cool features for the wife and six kids! The post The Alliance’s JC Washbish: ‘America Is Moving Again’ appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

For the first time, Adventry Corp. planned to display its Goodyear Belt heavy-duty line of products at Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week (HDAW) in Grapevine, Texas, this week. Goodyear Belts is a licensee collaboration between Adventry and The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company. “Our team has worked hard to develop a full range of V-belts, serpentine belts, tensioners and pulleys for heavy-duty applications,” said Tara Cevallos, CEO of Adventry. “Heavy-duty aftermarket professionals expect great products and that’s what we deliver, along with our outstanding service.” “We currently have more than 1,800 SKU’s, covering more than 98% of the market,“ said Chad Davis, senior product manager at Adventry. “In addition to our complete line of the highest-quality belts, the new Goodyear tensioner, pulley and FEAD Kit program is ideally suited for the needs of distributors, fleet managers and professional installers. Our customers have found our online catalog is second to none.” Goodyear Belts’ new line of heavy-duty power-transmission products meets or exceeds OEM specifications. Belt materials have been developed and tested to provide dependable and durable service. Goodyear tensioners, pulleys and FEAD kits are designed to restore an engine’s serpentine belt drive to original specifications. For more information, visit booth 1834 at HDAW, www.goodyearbelts.com, email [email protected] or call 855-492-3587. The post Adventry Presents Goodyear Belts At HDAW appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

WIX Filters introduced 286 new parts in 2021, according to the company. These parts include 24 passenger-car, 16 heavy-duty/off-road and 235 industrial additions to the current portfolio of products. This also includes several additions to the ProTec line of filters. “WIX Filters is synonymous with innovation and advanced technology and that is reflected in our 2021 offerings,” said Donald Chilton, director of product management for WIX Filters. “We are committed to providing the right product for the right application and our customers can count on us to be nimble and responsive to evolving market needs in 2022 and beyond.” Chilton added that WIX customers can expect new technologies and products to the ProTec line of filters and advances in cabin air filters in 2022. “Change is constant, and at WIX, that means working to identify what’s next for our customers,” he said. “We are confident that 2022 will build on our company’s proven record of success and ensure our proud history of innovation is unmatched in the industry.” For more information on the complete line of products from WIX Filters, visit www.wixfilters.com. The post WIX Filters Introduced 286 New Parts In 2021 appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

In our 2022 Distribution Preview in the January issue of AMN/Counterman, aftermarket leaders talk about some of the key issues affecting the industry, and discuss their plans, goals and expectations for the year ahead. This year, we added several fun “Lightning Round” questions that you won’t want to miss. Here’s our Q&A with Lauren Beaulieu, vice president, Professional marketing for Advance Auto Parts, Carquest and Worldpac. AMN/CM: Our industry’s technical skills gap (and tech shortage) has been labeled as a huge challenge. But, there are some great long-term opportunities for young people in the automotive aftermarket right now, especially in the area of emerging technology, which is going to require that “next-level” tech. How can we better put our industry in the spotlight, and get young students excited about automotive? LB: First, this is an exciting industry! Technicians are getting to work with complex vehicle systems every day and the technology is constantly evolving. From our perspective as a supplier, we believe it’s our obligation to provide professional customers with the latest tools and resources to stay ahead of the curve on these emerging technologies. For example, our Supplier and Training Expo (STX) led by Worldpac that is taking place in Orlando this March will feature multiple training sessions on EVs and ADAS, as well as opportunities to learn more about the parts and tools needed to support repair of these vehicles. These sessions are among more than 250 technical and management-focused courses led by top OE instructors and leading trainers from Worldpac Training Institute and Carquest Technical Institute. We have prioritized connecting with others across the industry who share our passion for educating aspiring technicians on careers in the aftermarket. We’re proud of our long-term partnership with TechForce Foundation, a nonprofit that champions students and young adults through education and into aftermarket careers. Additionally, we are providing scholarships to Advance team members and several hundred students from local technical schools to attend STX. These individuals are excited about the industry and looking to expand their knowledge, and we are delighted to present them with an opportunity to learn from top instructors. AMN/CM: Does your organization currently participate in any programs to help combat the tech-shortage issue? If so, tell us about it. LB: Since 2016, we have been a strong advocate of TechForce. One program we’re specifically involved in is their peer network, launched this past year. We’re providing MotoVisuals’ database of repair animations so students and other users can gain valuable insight into the tools technicians use to communicate vehicle repairs to customers. We are also launching a TechNet jobs portal, which will connect our partner shops to talented technicians across the country who are looking for work. And, in 2021, we announced a $200,000 commitment to Wake Technical Community College to develop a recruitment initiative to increase student diversity in their automotive systems technology and collision repair programs. With the average age of vehicles increasing, more parts will be needed to keep these vehicles on the road. This will expand the professional business, but shops are also going to need more technicians to support DIFM customers. We believe these programs, along with additional education about the viable careers and opportunities available to technicians, will help address the shortage of technicians in our industry. AMN/CM: As advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and other emerging technology becomes more prevalent on new vehicles, it will require the brightest minds to service and repair them. How can we better position this challenge as an opportunity for the parts and service segments of the aftermarket? LB: As an industry, we need to remain agile. We must be prepared to support EVs and vehicles that are dependent on ADAS, while at the same time, providing parts and service to older vehicles. Our Professional customers should be able to rely on us to keep them abreast of trends, tools and the training necessary as they continue to service a wide range of vehicles. We’ll be making this a top priority, especially as the electrification and ADAS categories continue to become major growth contributors. I would also mention this increases the importance of Right to Repair for our industry. As systems become more complex, we need to ensure that professional shops have access to critical data that helps repair vehicles. We will continue to advocate for Right to Repair with industry partners. AMN/CM: What phrase describes your “words to live by?” LB: Be better tomorrow than you were yesterday. Learn, evolve and grow. I believe that self-reflection and a continued focus on learning new things is important for us to move forward and be our very best selves. AMN/CM: What is your best icebreaker at a networking reception? LB: I like to ask several questions. I’m always curious to learn how someone started in the industry, and what they love most about their role and the industry itself. AMN/CM: What is your dream car, or favorite vehicle you’ve owned? LB: My Jeep Wrangler Willys is incredibly fun to drive, both on and off-road. The post Advance Exec Lauren Beaulieu: ‘We Need To Remain Agile’ appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Hyundai is on a roll. The South Korean automaker has been gaining market share and racking up accolades. In October, J.D. Power designated Hyundai as the highest-ranked mass-market brand in its 2021 U.S. Tech Experience Index Study. However, while Hyundai has been making inroads with vehicle buyers in recent years, it appears that shoppers are struggling to spell it. Hyundai is the most commonly misspelled vehicle brand, according to a study by Confused.com. The automaker’s name is misspelled an average of 2,249,400 times a month globally, according to Confused.com, which analysed global search data monitoring the frequency of incorrect spellings for every brand and model selected for the research. Hyundai is most commonly misinterpreted as “Hundai,” with 799,000 searches a month. Other frequent mistakes are “Hyndai” (454,000), “Hyundia” (202,000) and “Huyndai” (182,000). In comparison, Kia, which is Hyundai’s closest competitor in the South Korean vehicle market, ties for the bottom position on the list. Kia records fewer than 1,000 global misspellings a month. Germany’s Volkswagen is second, amassing 1,156,700 misspellings a month worldwide. “Wolksvagen” is the prevailing misspelling, as 309,000 monthly searches for this error occur worldwide. “Volkswagon” (306,000), “Wolsvagen (142,000)” and “Volkwagen” (104,000) also are common blunders. Porsche ranks third with 1,011,000 misspellings a month, a 12.6% decrease from Volkswagen in second place. “Porche” is the most frequent mistake being made at 735,000 searches a month. Many searchers also misspell it as “Porshe” (244,000), “Porsh” (11,000) or “Porsch” (9,300). Tesla – the most searched car brand on the list (11 million per month) – places sixth overall when it comes to misspellings. Tesla is misspelled 539,000 times a month, most commonly as “Telsa,” which generates 471,000 of these searches. “Tesl,” “Teala” and “Testla” are other popular misinterpretations of the brand’s spelling. Range Rover is the car model most commonly spelled incorrectly. With mistakes such as “Rang Rover,” “Range Rove” and “Range River” being most prominent, the model generates 202,600 incorrect global searches a month. This is 69% more than Land Rover’s misspellings, making it the only model more commonly misspelt than the brand it’s manufactured under. Hyundai Tucson takes second place with 102,100 monthly misspellings – 49.6% less than the Range Rover. Meanwhile, the Porsche Cayenne comes third with 92,100 monthly misspellings. RankBrandMost common misspellingsNumber of misspellings a month1HyundaiHundai, Hyndai2,249,4002VolkswagenWolksvagen, Volkswagon1,156,7003PorschePorche, Porshe1,011,0004ToyotaTotota, Toyata824,6005PeugeotPeugot, Peigeot710,1006TeslaTelsa, Tesl539,6007MercedezMersedes, Mecedes489,5008BentleyBently, Benteley341,9009SuzukiSusuki, Szuki317,90010BugattiBuggati, Bugati205,300 “When you’re in the market for a new car, the internet is usually the first place we turn to, to research the different brands and models,” said Alex Kindred, car insurance expert at Confused.com. “There’s a lot to consider, from performance, reliability and cost, which is why it’s important to know what we’re after when browsing. Luckily, most search engines have auto-correct as some names are trickier than others to nail. “While a particular brand or model might be more desirable, one thing to consider is the affordability of running your chosen car. Before committing to purchase, always do a quick shop around for car insurance quotes to get an understanding of how much you could be paying.” The post Hyundai Is On The Rise, But People Can’t Spell It appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Automotive Parts Headquarters Inc. (APH) recently celebrated the end of its 100th-Anniversary Sweepstakes promotion by announcing the winner of a new Polaris Ranger 1000. Chase Harlow of Lithia Chrysler Jeep Dodge of Grand Forks, North Dakota, won the Polaris Ranger. His name was randomly drawn from more than 25,000 entries. “Chase and the Lithia team are great supporters of Auto Value,” said Mark Larson, Auto Value Grand Forks store manager. “When I found out Chase won the Polaris Ranger, I couldn’t wait to tell him the exciting news.” Originally planned to coincide with APH’s 100th anniversary in 2020, the 100th-Anniversary Sweepstakes promotion was postponed until last year due to the pandemic. The sweepstakes was open to all professional technicians, and entries were earned for every $100 invoice during the months of November and December. Additional entries also were available during APH’s summer tour, when its 1952 International Metro ice cream truck made an appearance at nearly 1,000 shops. “The 100th-Anniversary Sweepstakes promotion and summer tour were huge hits and great ways to thank our loyal customers for playing import roles in APH reaching this incredible milestone,” added Tim Feddema, marketing manager at APH. “We look forward to another exciting year ahead and visiting as many markets as we can with the ’52 Metro. The smiles per gallon we receive while on tour are simply amazing.” The post APH Announces Winner Of 100th-Anniversary Sweepstakes appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Dana Incorporated showcased its newly customized Jeep Gladiator at the recent Winter X Games Aspen 2022. Featuring an Ultimate Dana 60 front axle and an Ultimate Dana 80 prototype rear axle, along with Spicer performance 1350 driveshafts, “this one-of-a-kind vehicle is destined to be the talk of off-road events across the country,” Dana said in a news release. “Our friends at Expedition Vehicle Outfitters did an incredible job building this custom off-road vehicle,” said Bill Nunnery, senior director, sales and marketing, global aftermarket for Dana. “We are calling this adventure rig ‘The Ultimate Bug Out’ because it is loaded with premium-performing Dana and Spicer parts, along with other accessories to explore the wilderness for long durations of time. Having it on display will show off-road enthusiasts how Dana aftermarket performance parts enhance durability and performance, even in extremely rugged conditions.” A unique feature of the Dana-modified Jeep Gladiator truck is that some of the body components – including a majority of the vehicle’s bed – were built using the remnants of a 19th-century steel bridge that was located in Sydney, Ohio. To further enhance overlanding excursions, a snowmobile track system from HellTraxx will provide deep-powder winter access when the vehicle is not traversing rugged trails in the summer. Top-of-the-line upgrades such as lights, shocks and suspension are added features, and a water-filtration system, stove and tent are included for extended outdoor adventures. “We know ‘The Ultimate Bug Out’ will be a show-stopper at off-road events,” said Nunnery. “We encourage all serious off-roaders and campers to stop by and check out this incredible vehicle and see how Dana can help them upgrade their own off-road vehicles.” To learn more about performance products from Dana and to sign up for the newsletter, visit www.DanaProParts.com. The post Dana-Customized Jeep Gladiator Truck Hitting The Road appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

FleetPride announced that it has acquired the assets of Nationwide Truck Service of Louisville, Kentucky. Founded in 1989 and owned by Eric Adkins, Nationwide Truck Service offers a wide range of repair services from its 21-bay facility and mobile repair units in addition to 24/7 roadside support. The Service Center at 355 Farmington Ave. will team up with the existing FleetPride parts branch at 4670 Jennings Lane in Louisville, “creating a complete value proposition for customers,” according to FleetPride. Adkins and his son, Jake, will remain involved in the day-to-day operations. “This is an outstanding opportunity for our valued customers and our team,” said Adkins. “Our customers will appreciate the access to a nationwide network of parts and service, and our employees will have the ability to grow and advance in FleetPride’s new service organization.” “We are truly excited to welcome Eric and Jake Adkins and the entire Nationwide Truck Service team to the FleetPride family,” said Cory Anderson, general manager and vice president of service at FleetPride. “Over the past three decades, the Nationwide team has become one of the most trusted independent service providers, which customers have come to depend on, in Louisville.” “Growth through acquisitions remains a focus for our company,” said Mike Harris, senior vice president of sales and operations at FleetPride. “We believe our value proposition resonates with owners of parts and service companies who are seeking a succession plan, or a partner that can provide a long-term foundation for their employees and customers. We look forward to the partnership with the Nationwide Truck Service team to carry on their tradition of service excellence while expanding service capabilities to our existing customers including large regional and national fleets.” FleetPride continues to grow its national parts and service operations. If you are interested in learning more about how to become part of the FleetPride network, visit FleetPride.com/acquisitions for more details. The post FleetPride Acquires Nationwide Truck Service In Kentucky appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

NPW announced a continued expansion of its business with the acquisition of Jim’s Auto Parts. Owned by Jim Arpin and located in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, Jim’s Auto Parts has been in business since 1962 and is the last of the Broward Group of stores that is now under NPW management. The Broward Group was the largest independent group of auto parts stores in South Florida, NPW says. Jim’s Auto will continue to fly the Bumper to Bumper banner. “We are glad to have Jim’s Auto Parts under the NPW umbrella. Our family has known, been friends with and worked closely with Jim for many years. We look forward to working with all the great people Jim has brought along and grow the business he started,” says Chris Pacey, NPW’s COO and executive vice president. “After 60 years in business, you can imagine my concern with handing over my business,” says Jim Arpin. “I have worked with the Pacey’s and NPW for many years and I consider them a well-respected organization and like my company, is family owned and has family values. With their infrastructure and greater buying power, they will make sure that Jim’s Auto Parts will continue to be a part of and expectedly a bigger part of the auto parts business in South Florida.” The post NPW Miami Acquires Jim’s Auto Parts appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

All Star Auto Lights, a specialty distributor of alternative automotive parts and a portfolio company of Atlantic Street Capital, announced the acquisition of Autolights. The company, headquartered in Ferndale, Michigan, within the Detroit metro area, sells refurbished headlights, taillights and fog lights primarily to the collision repair industry and automotive dealers. “The addition of Autolights provides us with new capabilities, expands our customer base and broadens our supply chain with their strong proprietary relationships,” said Matt Immerfall, CEO of All Star. “Autolights’ operations enhance our deep repair capabilities and builds our geographic footprint, especially in the Midwest. We look forward to collaborating with the Autolights’ leadership to enhance our refurbishment processes.” Phil Druce, partner of Atlantic Street Capital, added, “We are excited to welcome the Autolights team to the All Star family and look forward to the combined growth ahead. We continue to target complementary opportunities to position All Star as a leading provider of high quality remanufactured and certified aftermarket lights and build our presence in the remanufactured and OEM replica wheels category.” The post All Star Auto Lights Acquires Autolights appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Epicor announced it has acquired JMO Business Systems Ltd., a provider of warehouse management systems (WMS), enterprise mobility solutions and related services for automotive aftermarket and original-equipment (OE) parts distributors. Financial terms were not disclosed. “The JMO acquisition extends Epicor’s industry-leading portfolio of business-growth solutions to virtually every functional area of the automotive parts and service industry,” Epicor said in a news release. Epicor offers an array of solutions and services for replacement parts manufacturers, program groups, distributors, retailers, jobbers, OE dealership groups and many types of vehicle repair businesses, including service chains, fleet maintenance shops, tire dealerships, oil-and-lube businesses and independent repair facilities. “Automotive is a core business for Epicor, and JMO indago is the gold standard in WMS technology for parts businesses, whether they’re serving the aftermarket or OE service channel,” Epicor CEO Steve Murphy said. “This acquisition is a perfect fit for our automotive solution set and for the customers who depend on Epicor to help drive growth, efficiency and profitability.” JMO indago WMS enhances users’ inventory management by increasing accuracy, reducing order cycle time, improving order fulfilment and providing real-time operational information through leading ERP systems, including the Epicor Vision, Epicor Eagle and Epicor Ultimate platforms, according to Epicor. The solution also helps reduce annual physical-inventory requirements through highly precise inventory control and real-time cycle counting. “We are thrilled to join a company that has the vision, commitment and resources to contribute to the long-term success of businesses at every level of the parts and service industry,” JMO CEO John Oliveira said. “JMO indago is a perfect complement to Epicor’s impressive automotive portfolio, and together we can provide even greater value to growth-focused parts distribution businesses.” Founded in 1988 as a software consultancy, JMO wrote its first WMS in 1996 as a custom project for a large automotive parts distributor. Based on the success of that product, the company developed indago WMS, which quickly became the predominant choice of aftermarket distributors throughout the U.S. and Canada. The post Epicor Acquires WMS Provider JMO Business Systems appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article