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Standard Motor Products, Inc. (SMP) announced it continues to add to its line of kits. Standard and Blue Streak offer Kits and Multipacks in a variety of categories. Among its most popular are Blue Streak GDI High-Pressure Fuel Pump Kits and Ignition Coil Multipacks, the company said. Blue Streak GDI High-Pressure Fuel Pump Kits help technicians solve low-fuel-pressure symptoms by replacing all components at once to ensure a complete repair, SMP said. These kits include an all-new high-pressure fuel pump, cam follower, the required seals, and mounting hardware. Ignition coils can lose spark energy over time, causing poor fuel mileage and reduced performance and if one coil fails, it is likely the others are on track to fail. Blue Streak Ignition Coil Multipacks include a full, matched set of new, better-performing coils, saving time, restoring performance and reducing comebacks. SMP said other popular kits include complete Standard Turbocharger Kits, Oil Filter Housing Kits, and Fuel Injector Multipacks and Blue Streak Blower Motor Resistor Kits, Camshaft and Crankshaft Sensor Kits, Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Service Kits and VVT Solenoid Kits. In the past two years, specific Blue Streak Kits have been awarded the Best New Product of the Year and Best Problem-Solver by the Import Vehicle Community, a community of the Auto Care Association. New coverage has recently been introduced across many of these categories, according to SMP. Blue Streak GDI High-Pressure Fuel Pump Kits have been released for 3.7 million General Motor vehicles, like the 2019-16 Chevrolet Cruze, 2019-18 Chevrolet Equinox, and 2019-18 GMC Terrain. Standard Oil Filter Housing Kits are new for multiple popular makes and models, including the 2024-19 Jeep Grand Cherokee, 2024-19 RAM 1500, 2024-19 Dodge Durango, 2016-11 Volvo S60, and more. Blue Streak Cam and Crank Sensor Kits have been released for a variety of popular Ford vehicles, and Standard Turbocharger Kits are new for Ford, Volvo, and General Motors vehicles like the 2019-16 Chevrolet Cruze and Buick Encore, SMP said. Commenting on the expansion, John Herc, vice president of vehicle control marketing at SMP, said, “Parts professionals are looking for more complete kits and multipacks for a number of reasons. First, it helps technicians perform a complete repair without having to chase parts from multiple places. Additionally, service writers find it easier to explain one line item on an invoice rather than a list of parts. Whatever their reason, they look to Standard and Blue Streak for complete repair solutions.” The post Standard Motor Products Expands Kits and Multipacks Offering appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers announced that Brad Beckham, CEO of O’Reilly Auto Parts, will deliver the customer keynote at the 2025 Vision Conference on April 2, 2025 at the Loews Chicago O’Hare Hotel in Chicago. Beckham will share insights from the customer perspective. Serving as CEO since 2024, Beckham’s journey in the O’Reilly organization began in 1996 at the age of 17 as a parts specialist. From that first role, Beckham progressed through the roles of store manager, district manager, region manager, divisional vice president, vice president of eastern store operations and sales, senior vice president of central store operations and sales, executive vice president of store operations and sales, executive vice president and COO, and, finally to Co-president before becoming CEO. With this breadth of experience, he has a vast knowledge of retail automotive operations and a deeply rooted dedication to the O’Reilly company culture, MEMA said. “We are honored to have Brad as the customer keynote speaker for this year’s Vision Conference,” said Paul McCarthy, president of MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers. “Brad’s long career with O’Reilly has been defined by exceptional leadership, operational expertise, and an unwavering commitment to delivering industry-leading customer service. O’Reilly has set the recent customer standard for success and his insights into what drives that success will offer invaluable lessons to attendees as we navigate the future of the aftermarket together.” Who Should Attend Vision, According to MEMA? Suppliers seeking to connect with peers and key customers. Channel partners looking to collaborate on innovations and growth strategies. Private equity investors eager to explore opportunities in the dynamic aftermarket industry. The MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers Business Technology Council, Modern Industry eXpertise (MiX) and the Aftermarket Suppliers CEO Council will hold meetings immediately before Vision on April 1 at the Loews Chicago O’Hare Hotel. The Marketing Executives Council and Mobility Technology Council will hold a meeting right after the conference on April 3. The post O’Reilly CEO Announced as Customer Keynote at Vision Conference appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

NexaMotion Group (NMG) announced the opening of a new C&M Auto Parts location in the Chicago area. The new store, located at 780 W Belden Avenue, Unit G, in Addison, Illinois, offers customers a full line of general repair and transmission parts. NMG said the new location combines the trusted quality of C&M and Transtar products with unmatched customer support, delivering a comprehensive resource that empowers repair shops to serve the local market. “This is just the start for NMG in 2025,” said Neil Sethi, CEO of NexaMotion Group. “Customers can expect to see additional new locations throughout the year, as well as expanded product lines and additional partnerships to serve them better. We’re continuing with our strategic vision to grow our markets and deliver unmatched value to our customers. The new location gives us a great opportunity to serve our customers in a key market.” C&M Auto Parts provides a complete range of automotive aftermarket parts, expertly catering to the diverse needs of repair shops in the local market. In collaboration with its affiliate NMG Company, Transtar Aftermarket Solutions, this facility offers customers a customized product selection that simplifies complex vehicle repairs to keep the world moving, the company said. The post NexaMotion Group Announces C&M Auto Parts Expansion in Chicago appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Dorman Products, Inc. announced it has named Tayfun Uner president of its light-duty business segment. In this newly created role, Uner will be responsible for driving strategic growth and overseeing all commercial and operational aspects of Dorman’s largest business segment, the company said. “We are pleased to welcome Tayfun to Dorman,” said Kevin Olsen, Dorman president and chief executive officer. “His broad experience and proven ability to drive growth, enhance financial performance and foster a positive culture will be key to driving the continued success of our Light Duty business. This new role completes our segment transition, with a formalized leadership structure for each of our three business segments.” Uner joins Dorman with an extensive global background in consumer goods, most recently serving as SVP of three Newell Brand business units, according to Dorman. Prior to that, he held strategic positions around the world with increasing responsibility at McKinsey & Company, Procter & Gamble and Carlsberg Breweries. He holds an undergraduate degree from Bogazici University (Istanbul, Turkey) and a Master of Business Administration degree from Harvard University. “I feel privileged to join the innovative team at Dorman. I am excited to build on the strong foundation of our brand and trusted solutions like our Dorman OE FIX products and working closely with our channel partners to accelerate the growth of the automotive aftermarket by helping solve people’s repair problems,” Uner said. The post Dorman Appoints President of its Light-Duty Segment appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Robert Bosch, LLC announced the addition of 79 automotive aftermarket part numbers to multiple product categories in December 2024, adding coverage to 52.9 million vehicles in operation. New part numbers were added to Bosch sensors, brakes, spark plugs and other prominent product categories. Bosch Braking Bosch released 18 new part numbers for Bosch Blue brake pads covering 2.4 million vehicles in operation for late model Asian, Domestic and European vehicles. The company said the brake pads feature copper-free friction formulation for improved performance and are towel-wrapped for added protection. Additionally, Bosch released 16 new part numbers for Bosch QuietCast brake pads, covering 2.3 million Asian, Domestic and European vehicles in operation. The Bosch QuietCast brake pads maximize performance while offering quiet operation through a next-generation copper-free friction formulation and an OE-style rubber core multi-layer shim, the company said. Bosch Sensors Bosch also released 13 new part numbers across multiple sensor categories. The new releases include five part numbers for the Bosch pressure sensors, three for Bosch crankshaft sensors, two for the Bosch knock sensors and one new part number each for the Bosch oxygen sensors, temperature sensors and camshaft sensors. The new part numbers added coverage to more than 2.2 million vehicles in operation. Bosch Spark Plugs Bosch released one new part number for the Bosch OE Fine Wire platinum spark plug, adding coverage to more than 569,000 European vehicles in operation including popular Audi and Volkswagen models. Bosch released one new part number for the Bosch Nickel Super 4 spark plugs, adding coverage to more than 701,000 vehicles in operation across the U.S and Canada. Bosch Batteries Bosch also released 15 new part numbers for the Bosch High Performance starter batteries, adding coverage to more than 31.2 million vehicles in the U.S. and Canada. According to the company, the high-performance starter battery offers reliable starting power in extreme hot and cold climates and is 100% maintenance-free under normal working conditions. Bosch Fuel Injectors Bosch released seven new part numbers for the Bosch fuel injectors in the new powersports category and covering more than one million vehicles. Bosch said its fuel injectors are manufactured with the highest quality high-alloy steels and plastic coverings for optimum corrosion resistance and longevity. Bosch Wipers Finally, Bosch added one new part number for the Bosch ICON Extension wiper blade, adding coverage to more than 12.4 million vehicles. The Bosch ICON Extension is equipped with ClearMax 365, an exclusive, patented rubber technology that combines a soft rubber core with a powder-coated shell to provide a clear and clean wipe, the company said. The post Bosch Releases 79 New Aftermarket Part Numbers appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The Auto Care Association announced that an application programming interface (API) was launched in November, 2024 to select users and is now available to the entire auto care industry. With a continued goal to increase speed and efficiencies for users in the acquisition of the ACES, PIES and IPO reference databases, the Auto Care Association announced in May, 2024 that an API would become available to users in November, 2024. The Auto Care Association’s ACES, PIES and IPO reference databases (VCdb, Qdb, PCdb, PAdb, and Brand Table) currently and historically have been available to users for download through a manual download process via autocarevip.com in various formats, including Access2007, ASCII, MySQL, SQLServer2008R2, and JSON. Additionally, these databases were historically published with new content monthly but were increased to a weekly cadence (except for the VCdb) in January 2023, with the goal of delivering updated reference database content to users faster. The API, which is in JSON format, allows users to: Download updated reference database content as often as daily; Download complete database tables and/or updates (changes) to the database tables; and Automate IT processes for smoother, hands-off data exchange, creating workflow efficiencies. “As we move toward the goal of real time exchange of content between partners via API, the logical first step is leveraging that approach with the reference data we all consume from Auto Care,” said Marc Pappas, chair, technology standards committee and CIO, Federated Auto Parts. “This will serve both to proof the concept and also allow us to make any enhancements before moving forward with more functionality.” The Auto Care Association will continue to make the reference databases available for manual download through autocarevip.com in the formats Access2007, ASCII, MySQL, SQLServer2008R2 and JSON. However, the frequency of receiving manual database updates will be reduced from weekly to monthly (except Brand Table, which will remain daily), beginning January 2025. The dates of these publications are posted on the events page on autocarevip.com. API documentation can be found here. Auto Care VIP and Auto Care Data Standards users interested in learning more about the new API can schedule a time to speak with the Auto Care Association’s technology team using this link and selecting the “API Support” option. The post Auto Care Association Releases API for ACES, PIES, IPO Databases appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Valvoline has been recognized for providing excellent customer service and has been ranked by Forbes on its “Best Customer Service 2025” list. Valvoline was the top-ranked instant oil change company and placed 18th among the 300 brands on the list. The Forbes customer service list was based on surveys of 181,000 people in the United States who rated their interactions with more than 3,500 brands. Only the top 300-rated companies were included in the list. “Every year we serve millions of guests, and our goal is to deliver the very best customer service with each oil change and preventive automotive maintenance service,” said Laura Carpenter, Valvoline’s chief customer officer. “Our team members and franchise partners are focused and committed to go above and beyond for our guests each and every day. I’m proud of our franchise partners, teams and our retail service center managers who are delivering for our guests.” A news release from Valvoline explained that customers gave the company a 4.7 out of 5-star rating* for its service. That’s based on a survey of more than 1 million Valvoline Instant Oil Change customers. The post Valvoline Ranked Among Best in Customer Service appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Mitchell 1 announced the winners of its latest “Thank You Thursdays!” Facebook sweepstakes, which it said ran during the holiday season to show appreciation for the automotive service professionals who work hard every day to keep drivers safely on the road. One winner of a $100 gift card was announced on the Mitchell 1 Facebook page every Thursday for five weeks with an additional winner named on the final day. The “Thank You Thursdays!” winners include: Anabil Flores, Diesel Tech Services, Inc. Chris Donovan, O’Donovan’s Maintenance & Repair Christopher Mayo, Lakeview Auto Repair Cristal Hernandez, Diesel Tech Services Kim McDonald, Kim’s Auto Repair Services Larry Conwell, Marytown Garage “Our ‘Thank You Thursdays!’ sweepstakes was a great way to engage with our customers this past holiday season,” said Jen MacDonald, director of marketing for Mitchell 1. “We would like to thank everyone who entered the sweepstakes and congratulate the six lucky winners. Keep an eye on our Facebook page for our next exciting promotion.” The post Mitchell 1 Names ‘Thank You Thursdays!’ Winners appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Milwaukee Tool announced two new Anti-Vibration Gloves to join its existing lineup of safety gear. Designed for carpenters, remodelers, masons, maintenance and mechanical professionals, these gloves can be worn for professional applications while protecting from harmful tool vibrations. The Anti-Vibration High-Dexterity Nitrile Dipped Gloves provide vibration protection while maintaining high dexterity, according to the company. “Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) is a permanent medical condition that causes loss of feeling in the fingers, hands and arms. With 2 million workers exposed to harmful vibrations daily, we set out to address the risks of prolonged exposure to vibrations from tools and machinery by delivering essential proper protection,” said Austin Dorman, senior product manager at Milwaukee Tool. “Designed for primary applications such as concrete drilling, sanding, grinding, cutting, chipping, breaking and demolition work, the Anti-Vibration Cut Level 4 High-Dexterity Nitrile Dipped Gloves and Anti-Vibration Work Gloves meet the critical needs of vibration reduction, dexterity, durability and comfort.” Milwaukee Tool added that the gloves are reinforced in high-wear areas, such as in the fingertips and palms, to withstand everyday use. They include a breathable lining and built-in terry cloth sweat wipe while keeping hands cool and dry throughout the day. The company also said the gloves are equipped with SMARTSWIPE technology, for a touchscreen-compatible fingertip and knuckle. Specifications: Anti-Vibration Cut Level 4 High-Dexterity Nitrile Dipped Gloves – 48-73-8762 (L) – $22.97 •Available in sizes S – XXL Anti-Vibration Work Gloves – 48-73-8772 (L) – $29.97 •Available in sizes S – XXL The post Milwaukee Tool Launches New Anti-Vibration Gloves appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance, Inc. Board of Directors has promoted JC Washbish to Chief Executive Officer, effective January 1, 2025. This appointment follows JC’s promotion to President in early 2024. JC will now serve in his capacity as both President and CEO. “We continue to be impressed with JC’s leadership, passion and drive, and we expect the same as President and CEO of the Alliance,” said Eli N. Futerman, Chairman of the Alliance Board of Directors and co-owner of Hahn Automotive Warehouse, Inc. “JC brings a strong vision and direction to our shareholder membership.” Todd Leimenstoll, Alliance Board Director and Secretary, as well as President & CEO of the Auto-Wares Group of Companies, also expressed confidence in JC’s leadership: “As a group, we continue to look toward the future and strongly believe in our industry partnerships. JC has proven to be a strong leader, facilitating industry collaboration, and is a forward thinker on how we can all work together to support the entire distribution channel.” In his new role as President & CEO, Washbish will continue to collaborate closely with all of the Alliance’s shareholders and channel partners to drive business development and strengthen industry relations. All Alliance executive leadership teams—including those in information technology, sales and marketing, category management, and finance—will continue to report to JC as he leads the Alliance toward achieving its strategic goals. “The Alliance remains the premier independent distribution program group,” said JC Washbish. “We are committed to fostering growth and innovation, expanding our reach, and continuing to provide exceptional value to our shareholders, channel partners and customers. We have a talented, motivated team driven by our motto: ‘Service is the difference, we get it!’” JC Washbish joined the Alliance in 2016 as Sales, Marketing, and Brand Manager, with responsibilities that included advertising, promotions, and sales support. In 2017, he was promoted to Director of Marketing, and in 2019, to Vice President of Sales and Marketing. During this time, he played a key role in expanding the company’s marketing and sales initiatives. In 2024, JC was promoted to President, a role in which he helped shape the company’s strategic direction and growth. His leadership experience spans areas such as business development, strategic planning, and team coordination across sales, marketing, category management, and operations. JC holds a Juris Doctor from Ave Maria School of Law in Naples, Florida, and a Bachelor of Arts in History from Franciscan University of Steubenville, Ohio. He has earned his AAP designation from the University of the Aftermarket and is a graduate of Leadership 2.0, reflecting his commitment to professional development and industry leadership. JC is also the 2024 recipient of the Northwood University Automotive Aftermarket Education Award. “JC continues to provide strong leadership to the Alliance and its shareholders,” said Corey Bartlett, Treasurer of the Alliance Board of Directors and CEO of APH, Inc. “The Board is excited about the Alliance’s future, and we are in great hands with JC as President and CEO.” JC becomes the third CEO in the history of the Alliance, following his father, John R. Washbish, who served from 2010 to 2024, and Richard “Dick” Morgan, who led the Alliance for over 14 years from 1994 to 2009. John R. Washbish will continue to serve the Alliance and its shareholders in an advisory capacity. The post JC Washbish Promoted to President & CEO of the Alliance appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The aftermarket future is bright for AISIN as a trio of company executives noted during a media conversation at AAPEX. Masahiro Shiiya, president, AISIN Global Aftermarket; Scott Turpin, president and CEO, AISIN World Corp. of America; and Dwayne Bates, senior vice president, Aftermarket, AISIN World Corp. of America discussed a range of topics about their plans for the global aftermarket segment, including the formation of AISIN Aftermarket & Service of America Inc., as well as an expanded product lineup. “It’s Mr. Shiiya’s vision—he’s been looking at building a maintenance empire from the top all the way down to the tire. Any maintenance-related issue, he’s going to try to fix it,” Bates said in an interview after the press conference. “He’s been focusing on wiper blades, filters—anything that would be a common maintenance part—and tires are included in that. So we’ve partnered with a tire manufacturer and developed our tires.” AISIN had a range of tires on display in the booth under the AITERRA brand name, including the AIECO EC50 tire for passenger cars, the AICROSS CR60 for SUVs and the AIWAGON WA70 for delivery van applications. The creation of AISIN Aftermarket & Service of America Inc. was another big headline for the company at the show. The new company will be formed through a merger between AWTEC—an AISIN company focused on transmission remanufacturing—and the aftermarket business unit of AISIN World Corp. of America (AWA). With this move, AISIN leadership said it will expand its manufacturing capabilities for service parts, leveraging and uniting the combined expertise of AWTEC and AWA Aftermarket Sales. Operations also will be streamlined and optimized to increase efficiencies and better position the aftermarket team for growth. “Right now, the merger here in the US is just taking place. It’ll be effective April 1,” Bates explained. “With this merger, it’s not a departure from what we normally have done. We sell 80% of AWTEC-branded product through our sales organization already. It’s an alignment and correlation of our departments, making it more streamlined and more effective for the customer.” There also was plenty of talk about the future of the automotive market and the impact of new vehicle technologies. “One of the things that is changing is the parts proliferation from everybody,” said Larrow Kaufman, senior sales manager for the North American Aftermarket at Aisin World Corp. of America. “We’re looking at ICE vehicles and asking, ‘Is that part mix changing in regard to cars being more reliable now than they’ve ever been.’ Then, on the EV vehicle side, we ask, ‘Are some of those parts the same or are they different?’ I think everyone is looking to decide what the next thing is and make sure that they have the product range to cover that.” Then, there was the big question: What’s the outlook for 2025? “One of the nice things about the automotive aftermarket is that, regardless of what we’ve been through—be it COVID, be it pre-pandemic, be it post-pandemic—we’ve been relatively steady,” Kaufman said. “I think the market’s still looking at single-digit growth throughout the year, and we plan to take advantage of that.” The post AISIN Talks Tires, Mergers and Streamlining Operations appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Yokohama Tire Corporation (YTC) announced it has become a lifetime trustee of the University of the Aftermarket Foundation (UAF). YTC President and CEO Jeff Barna, who made the announcement, also has been named to the UAF board of trustees. Since 1986, UAF has provided millions of dollars in scholarships to thousands of students studying for technical and professional industry careers. Among the many benefits UAF provides are: Support for continued education for industry participants, including the AAP and MAAP certification programs. Support of industry educational initiatives. Provide a recognition platform to honor or memorialize individuals. Highlight industry career opportunities to attract the next generation of industry professionals. Engage industry members to work together for the future. “UAF helps pave the way for the next generation of automotive aftermarket leaders,” Barna said. “Yokohama believes in, and is committed to, seeding the industry with future talent. We think it’s important for tire manufacturers, like Yokohama, to consider being involved in this worthy endeavor, and are honored to lay the foundation for others to follow.” “On behalf of the University of the Aftermarket Foundation, we extend our sincere thanks to Yokohama Tire Corporation for their generous support and welcome Jeff Barna to the UAF board of trustees,” said Roger McCollum, MAAP, chairman, University of the Aftermarket Foundation. “By becoming a Lifetime Trustee, Yokohama is demonstrating their commitment to the development of a skilled workforce that can drive industry innovation and service excellence. Their support is not just a contribution, but an investment in the future of the tire industry.” According to McCollum, donations to UAF benefit: Students pursuing technical careers in automotive maintenance and repair, collision, heavy duty/diesel, performance or other segments of the industry. Students planning careers in the industry in such fields as engineering, supply chain, IT/cybersecurity, sales, marketing and finance. Suppliers/vendors and other industry organizations through the education of those who work for them through programs like Leadership 2.0. Employees, customers, colleagues, children and friends of industry participants. All members of the motor vehicle aftermarket as UAF helps attract talent and supports multiple industry education initiatives. The post Yokohama Tire Becomes a Lifetime UAF Trustee appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Yokohama Tire Corporation (YTC) announced it has become a lifetime trustee of the University of the Aftermarket Foundation (UAF). YTC President and CEO Jeff Barna, who made the announcement, also has been named to the UAF board of trustees. Since 1986, UAF has provided millions of dollars in scholarships to thousands of students studying for technical and professional industry careers. Among the many benefits UAF provides are: Support for continued education for industry participants, including the AAP and MAAP certification programs. Support of industry educational initiatives. Provide a recognition platform to honor or memorialize individuals. Highlight industry career opportunities to attract the next generation of industry professionals. Engage industry members to work together for the future. “UAF helps pave the way for the next generation of automotive aftermarket leaders,” Barna said. “Yokohama believes in, and is committed to, seeding the industry with future talent. We think it’s important for tire manufacturers, like Yokohama, to consider being involved in this worthy endeavor, and are honored to lay the foundation for others to follow.” “On behalf of the University of the Aftermarket Foundation, we extend our sincere thanks to Yokohama Tire Corporation for their generous support and welcome Jeff Barna to the UAF board of trustees,” said Roger McCollum, MAAP, chairman, University of the Aftermarket Foundation. “By becoming a Lifetime Trustee, Yokohama is demonstrating their commitment to the development of a skilled workforce that can drive industry innovation and service excellence. Their support is not just a contribution, but an investment in the future of the tire industry.” According to McCollum, donations to UAF benefit: Students pursuing technical careers in automotive maintenance and repair, collision, heavy duty/diesel, performance or other segments of the industry. Students planning careers in the industry in such fields as engineering, supply chain, IT/cybersecurity, sales, marketing and finance. Suppliers/vendors and other industry organizations through the education of those who work for them through programs like Leadership 2.0. Employees, customers, colleagues, children and friends of industry participants. All members of the motor vehicle aftermarket as UAF helps attract talent and supports multiple industry education initiatives. The post Yokohama Tire Becomes a Lifetime UAF Trustee appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

US Motor Works announced its new USMW professional series fuel pump modules are now available. The new fuel pump modules provide application coverage for several Toyota, BMW, RAM and Nissan vehicles. Visit www.usmotorworks.com for detailed applications, or contact customer service for further information. The post US Motor Works Releases New Fuel Pump Modules appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

NPW is celebrating the success of its 34th Annual Charity Golf Tournament, held on Sunday, Dec. 15, at the Miami Shores Country Club. This year’s tournament embraced a scramble format, bringing together more than 100 participants, including channel partners and customers. The day was filled with spirited competition, as golfers tackled challenges such as the longest drive, closest to the pin and top team performance. The atmosphere ensured that players of all skill levels could fully enjoy the event. Chris Pacey, chief executive officer of NPW, expressed his appreciation for the event’s success, stating, “The Annual Charity Golf Tournament is more than just a tradition; it’s a celebration of our industry’s dedication to making a difference. Hosting this year’s event at the beautiful Miami Shores Country Club was a great choice, and the turnout exceeded all expectations.” He continued, “Our partnership with First Tee Miami remains the heart of this initiative. Their impactful work in empowering youth through golf and life skills aligns perfectly with our values, and we’re proud to support their mission.” NPW said it extends its gratitude to all sponsors, participants, and volunteers who played a crucial role in making the tournament a success. Their contributions not only ensure the event’s continued growth but also enhance the ability to support vital community programs for years to come. The post NPW Celebrates 34th Annual Charity Golf Tournament appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

SKF Automotive has announced that the company’s SKF Tech center is now available to the North American aftermarket. The free online resource includes E-learning courses, a video library, and a document library. According to Isabella Nordström, Marketing Manager, SKF Vehicle Aftermarket, “The purpose of the tech center is to both provide technical training resources for the mechanics and parts pros who work with SKF aftermarket products, as well as to allow these professionals to become more familiar with all the products and support resources that SKF has to offer them.” SKF Tech center E-learning courses​ The online learning section of the SKF Tech center employs video-based instruction. It is designed to allow participants to proceed at their own pace, and those who complete the learning modules receive a certificate of course completion after each module’s exam. 19 learning modules are available, covering topics such as bearings, wheel end service, and much more. SKF Tech center video library The Tech center video library includes tips on repair and parts replacement procedures as well as videos on some of SKF’s leading edge technologies and world-wide capabilities. There are currently 596 videos included, with playlists based on language/region. SKF Tech center document library The document library includes downloadable tech tips, catalogs, brochures, and product literature. It offers a wealth of information for service and parts pros alike. The document library requires user registration, but it is free and available to all. The post SKF Offers Free Online Training in North America appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

With the recent announcement that MotorTrendTV has ceased production of its automotive enthusiast programming, including Hot Rod Garage, Roadkill and its affiliated titles, as well as Garage Squad, my social media (and the internet in general) has been filled with doomsday prophecies about the end of automotive programming everywhere. At a time of the year when I normally spend a lazy Sunday flipping channels rather than turning wrenches, the idea of not riding along virtually with Finnegan and Freiburger every week certainly caught me off guard. Fortunately, many reports of MotorTrendTV’s death have been greatly exaggerated, and none of us gearheads will be forced to interact socially with actual people rather than watching car shows in our off-hours. Here’s why… The MotorTrend network is currently part of the Warner Brothers Discovery (WBD) family of media channels. Warner Brothers merged with Discovery back in 2022, and in the spring of 2024, all existing MT streaming content was moved from its own platform to Discovery+ and Max. MotorTrend Studios was a separate division of WBD, responsible for producing content that appeared on MotorTrendTV. In November, content creators Joe Zolper (Garage Squad), David Freiburger (Roadkill), Alex Taylor (Hot Rod Garage) and Ian Rousseau (Full Custom Garage) have all taken to social media, confirming the rumors that production has ceased on those shows formerly produced by MotorTrend Studios. Production had already wrapped on some of these affected shows, so there are still completed episodes that have yet to air. According to motortrend.com, “new content” from the cancelled MotorTrend Studios shows will be released throughout 2025 and into 2026. In the interim, many of the former MT hosts and other on-air talent are migrating back to the YouTube channels that originally spawned many of MotorTrend’s most popular programs. It appears that the majority of MotorTrend programming for the near future will consist of re-runs of MT properties, as well as shows produced by companies not owned by the MotorTrend Group. Brenton Productions, headquartered in Tampa, FL, is currently promoting new episodes of Two Guys Garage, Build for Off-Road and TruckU, although no new information exists officially from Brenton regarding new episodes of All Girls Garage, Car Fix or Four Wheeler. With Ian Johnson scheduled to host Build for Off-Road, as well as his own YouTube channel (Big Tire Garage), it looks as though we’ve seen the last episode of Four Wheeler. In Springfield, OR, Mark Worman and The Division Productions have already dropped Season 20 of Graveyard Carz, and across the pond, UK presenter Mike Brewer has confirmed that his long-running series Wheeler Dealers will return in 2025, although spinoff series Wheeler Dealers Dream Car is officially cancelled. Restoration Garage, a series following David Grainger and his shop in Ontario, Canada, as well as Dan Short’s Norfolk, VA-based show Fantomworks were both cancelled prior to the recent MotorTrend upheaval, but are enjoying new life on their respective YouTube channels. Time will tell how the future of shows like these will play out, but for now, it looks like those of us who can’t get enough of cars and parts during the work week still have something to look forward to on weekends! The post The Future of Car Shows After MotorTrendTV’s Shift appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

There are few (if any) counter professionals who know parts as well as Moe Ali. But at the start of his career at Arch Auto Parts, that wasn’t the case. “My first day at the register a customer asked for a hose clamp,” recalled Ali. “I’m like ‘A hose clamp? I don’t know.’ Then I called one of the professionals over and said ‘Hey, what is a hose clamp?’” Though he faced a laugh from his coworkers, it marked the beginning of his journey to mastering the parts business. Moe Ali helps a customer at Arch Auto Parts. At the time, Ali was only 15, eager to get his driver’s license. He saw a job at an auto parts store as the perfect way to learn. Over the years, the knowledge he gained not only stuck, but grew, shaping his career into what it is today. More than three decades later, Ali has ascended to an executive role at Arch Auto Parts, becoming the Vice President of Sales. It’s all thanks to a relentless work ethic, a steadfast commitment to customer service and a vast knowledge of parts. It’s those same qualities that make Ali the 2024 AMN/Counterman Counter Professional of the Year, sponsored by WIX Filters. For the man who first hired Ali back in the early ’90s, it’s an honor that’s well deserved (and, in Arch Auto’s opinion, long overdue). “Although I’m VP of sales, just being in the office and sitting down… that’s not me, I don’t want to be (in the office). I want to be in the field. I want to be on the floor selling parts.” – Moe Ali “When I heard [that Ali won] I thought, ‘What took so damn long?’” remarked Kish Samaroo, vice president of operations at Arch. “He has just worked his ass off and earned a lot of respect from his colleagues and customers. He is the go-to guy. Customers look for him because he has this personality that’s really cool and calm. He really built himself up and developed really good relationships with customers.” Those relationships were forged through 30-plus years of hard work. After starting as a part-time cashier, Ali tackled various other roles, including stocking parts and working behind the counter. As he refined his skills and added to his knowledge, Ali was ready to become a store manager. While his career was growing, so was his company. When Arch Auto Parts began opening new locations in the New York City area, Ali became a district manager, overseeing multiple stores. Eventually, his career progression led him to his current executive role. ‘WHERE THE ACTION IS’ Being an executive doesn’t mean Ali is content to sit in an office all day. More often than not, you’ll find him out on the sales floor. “Although I’m VP of sales, just being in the office and sitting down… that’s not me,” Ali explained. “I don’t want to be (in the office). I want to be in the field. I want to be on the floor selling parts. I want to be where the action is. Daryl Benton, VP of sales & marketing for WIX North America, speaks at the 2024 Counter Professional of the Year dinner. “I would say within my work week, half of the time I’m on the counter selling parts,” Ali continued. “Not because we’re short-staffed or anything like that. I want to be out there. I want to be on the floor. I want to see what we’re missing. I want to see what brands we need to bring in. I want to see what items that we need to stock.” Having developed an extensive knowledge of those items makes it easy for Ali to execute his simple, yet effective, customer service philosophy: “Get them the right part, the first time.” “Moe has developed excellent parts and sales skills,” said Chris Bodh, group president of general repair businesses at Arch’s parent company, NexaMotion Group. “He’s loved and respected by his staff and customers and has an amazing attitude, even when he is juggling a lot of priorities.” GENERATIONS OF CUSTOMERS Ali’s reputation for friendliness and reliability has won him some die-hard customers. Their loyalty has been passed down to younger generations. “Thirty years ago when he started (with Arch) as a young man, he built relationships with these mechanics and customers,” said Samaroo. “Then their kids started coming to him. And their kids did the same. Moe has built relationships with generations of families.” What keeps these customers, and their families, coming back to him? It all boils down to great customer service. “They trust you to give them the right part,” said Ali. “You need to work with them on the pricing and make sure that’s good. Ultimately, you need to have a good relationship with your customers. If you do that, they’re always going to keep coming back.” GROWING WITH ARCH Ali is the rare employee who has been with only one company in his career. After 33 years at Arch, he’s more than happy to stay put. Moe Ali with his wife of 28 years, Ramona. “It’s a great place to work, but you got to work here to see it,” explained Ali. “And the way we carry ourselves, the way we train our guys, the way we manage our employees, it goes a long way.” Ali has an appreciation for Arch’s culture of promoting from within. He tells us 95% of the store’s managers were trained just like he was. That training is something Ali takes an active role in now. Not only does he hire new employees, he takes them under his wing, providing the training and guidance they’ll need to succeed. Ali explained to us what he looks for in a potential counter professional. “Everyone who gets hired here, we start them as either a stock associate, and then we train them to be a counter professional,” Ali explained. They look like they have the right attitude, they have good attendance, they’re punctual and they keep themselves professional. So those are the guys who I would interview for the counter. (I’d ask) ‘Hey, listen, you want to learn a career? You want to learn something different? You want to make more money? You go to the counter.’” The Pronto Network’s Steven Ng poses with Moe Ali. Both Ali and the company he works for have grown considerably. As Ali went from cashier to VP of sales, Arch Auto Parts grew to 22 stores. In 2023, Arch was acquired by NexaMotion Group (NMG). As the company’s growth continues, Ali says he’s excited to be a part of it. “I’m going to continue to do what I’m doing and help Arch and NMG grow. I’m going to focus on how I can help NMG’s other locations grow like we have.” PERSONAL LIFE Ali is a man who is deeply committed to his career, often working six days a week. The limited time he gets to spend with his family, he cherishes. He and his wife Ramona have been married for 28 years. They have two daughters, both of whom are in their 20’s. Ali describes himself as a casual sports fan who has been to a few Yankees and Mets games. He also enjoys fishing, though he has no fish stories to share because, in his words, “none of the fish were big enough.” And while he admits he’s far from a master technician, he has learned through his work how to do things like change the oil and replace the wiper blades, along with other similar tasks. After more than three decades in the industry, Ali’s passion remains unwavering. “I really love what I do, and I’ll be here till the end until it’s time for me to retire or not.” The post Moe Knows Growth: The Journey of the 2024 Counter Professional of the Year appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

FCS announced the release of 116 new part numbers for December. The new coverage expands FCS’s offerings on complete strut assemblies, suspension struts, shock absorbers, lift supports, shock absorber assembly kits, shock absorber conversion kits and air spring to coil spring conversion kits. The new numbers include: 1 Air Spring to Coil Spring Conversion Kit 2 Shock Absorber Conversion Kits 7 Shock Absorber Assembly Kits 8 Complete Strut Assemblies 3 Hydraulic Suspension Struts 2 Hydraulic Shock Absorbers 35 Shock Absorbers 57 Suspension Struts 1 Trunk Lid Lift Support FCS said all the units are in stock and ready to ship. They cover applications such as the Chevrolet Equinox, Nissan Altima, Chrysler 300 and more. According to the company, the new numbers represent over 23 million vehicles on the U.S. and Canadian roads today. The post FCS Introduces 116 New Part Numbers appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The Alliance announced the promotion of Kris Goldman to the role of vice president & general manager of Alliance Parts Warehouse (APW), effective January 1, 2025. This promotion highlights Kris’s exceptional leadership, unwavering dedication and significant contributions to the company, as he continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of APW, according to the Alliance. Since joining APW in October, 2019 as controller, Goldman has consistently demonstrated remarkable leadership skills and a strong commitment to operational excellence. Prior to joining APW, Goldman served as executive vice president and CFO of Newmark Moses Truck Partners. His diverse experience and strategic vision were key in his promotion to general manager of APW in December, 2021, where he successfully oversaw the direction, logistics, operations, staff and channel partner relationships, navigating challenges such as COVID-19, supply chain disruptions and labor shortages. JC Washbish, president and CEO of the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance, expressed confidence in Kris’s continued ability to drive APW’s success. “We are incredibly proud of Kris’s continued growth and leadership within APW,” said Washbish. “His commitment to our service is the difference value, and his strategic direction has been instrumental in APW’s success. We are confident that, as vice president & general manager, he will continue to lead APW into its next phase of growth with the same dedication and vision.” Goldman will shift from his previous role as general manager only, where he oversaw daily operations and team management, to a more strategic, executive leadership role, the company said. In this capacity, he will lead key strategic initiatives, drive company-wide growth and work closely with senior leadership to shape APW’s long-term vision. His new responsibilities will include overseeing operations, logistics and market expansion, as well as managing high-level shareholder relationships and collaborating with executive leadership on strategic decisions. Additionally, he will collaborate closely with shareholders and manufacturing channel partners to align on a shared vision for success, ensuring mutual growth and continued value creation. “I am honored to step into this new role and continue working with such a talented and dedicated team,” said Goldman. “APW has seen tremendous success over the past few years, even amidst significant challenges. As we look to the future, I’m excited about the growth opportunities ahead and the potential to deepen our relationships with our channel partners to ensure that our shareholders continue to benefit from our commitment to excellence and service.” APW said its continued success is a testament to the strategic vision and leadership of Goldman, and it looks forward to the positive impact he will have in his new role. The post Kris Goldman Promoted to VP & GM of Alliance Parts Warehouse appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

AutoZone announced the promotions of two company vice presidents to senior vice presidents. Bailey Childress, vice president, merchandising, has been promoted to senior vice president, omnichannel and merchandising support, and Luke Rauch, vice president, merchandising, has been promoted to senior vice president, merchandising and global sourcing. Childress and Rauch will join the company’s Executive Committee and report to Bill Hackney, executive vice president, merchandising, marketing and supply chain. “We are very pleased to announce these promotions,” said Phil Daniele, president and CEO. “Bailey is a proven leader who has delivered outstanding results throughout his career at AutoZone. Luke is an experienced lead merchant who brings a remarkable track record of results across multiple industries to the role. Both are well-positioned to help AutoZone continue serving customers and driving accelerated growth for many years to come.” The post AutoZone Announces Organizational Changes appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Anchor Industries announced it achieved another milestone in 2024 with the launch of 107 high-VIO part numbers, covering more than 30,211,120 applications through model year 2025. The launch of 107 new vehicle mounts includes: 57 part numbers for domestic applications; 22 for European applications; 21 for Japanese applications and 7 for Korean applications. For more information, contact your local sales representative, or call the Anchor Industries customer service department at 888-444-4616. Visit anchor-online.com for more information. The post Anchor Industries Recaps 2024 Product Releases appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

A major change is underway for the bottles of engine oils that line the shelves of American auto shops and supply factory and service fill stations. ILSAC GF-7—the next specification for passenger car engine oils—will see its first license on March 31, 2025. That means all factory and service fill engine oils must deliver new levels of performance across a range of criteria, most particularly fuel economy. For auto service professionals, it’s worth staying educated on developments like these to best satisfy the wants and needs of your customers. In this article, we’ll explore the new performance requirements of GF-7 in more detail, as well as the science that goes into delivering next-generation performance. A Focus on Fuel Economy: GF-7 Performance Requirements The new GF-7 specification requires that next-generation lubricants contribute to enhanced fuel consumption rates, as well as enhanced fuel economy retention over the course of the oil drain. To the average driver, these fuel economy gains will likely go unnoticed. But taken across all cars on the road, they will have a major impact on emissions reduction for the American auto population. But those aren’t the only new requirements. GF-7 will require lubricants to deliver heightened levels of overall engine protection and will measure the lubricant’s ability to prevent low-speed pre-ignition (LSPI), piston deposit control, and premature timing chain wear over extended periods. These are important attributes. For example, LSPI is a potentially catastrophic problem unique to modern gasoline direct injection (GDI) and turbocharged GDI (TGDI) engines. The specification calls for advanced performance in several other areas, including deposit control, seal compatibility, wear and corrosion protection, oil pumpability, and catalyst compatibility. Taken comprehensively, the requirements of GF-7 will help to better protect cars on the road while enabling new-model engines to meet their full potential. Elsewhere, it’s important to note that GF-7 will in fact be split into two separate categories: GF-7A, which covers legacy viscosity grades 0W-20, 5W-20, 0W-30, 5W-30, and 10W-30, and GF-7B, which covers 0W-16, a lower viscosity that some OEMs have specified in new-model vehicles to drive even higher fuel economy benefits than the GF-7A category. For auto service professionals, it’s worth knowing how and when to recommend GF-7B products to customers in conjunction with automaker recommendations. The Science Behind Performance To understand the technology that goes into GF-7 performance or other OEM specifications, it’s helpful to understand the anatomy of an engine oil. Formulations are composed of three primary component parts: Base oil. The base oil is the carrier fluid and delivers basic performance. It makes up the majority of the formulation and is a critical building block for formulating a high-quality lubricant. Additive. This is the key performance enabler, allowing the finished product to meet operational requirements when in use. Viscosity modifier and pour point depressant. This component ensures the final product will deliver consistent flow across a broad range of operational temperatures and climates. These components complement each other to create optimized performance that will need new performance specifications. Generally, engine oil producers will utilize high-quality base stocks blended with additives and viscosity modifiers to deliver the required performance. There can be some complexities here. Base oil availability and pricing can be inconsistent, and access to the highest-quality options is not always a guarantee for formulators. But by taking advantage of advanced additive technology, engine oil producers can typically meet the required performance standards with a range of available base stocks. Additionally, elevated additive performance can enable the use of viscosity modifiers (VMs) that help maximize engine durability while achieving the necessary fuel economy requirements of new specifications. Typically, passenger car engine oils are formulated with VMs that maintain a shear-stability index (SSI) of 35. The higher the SSI, the more easily the finished product will shear, contributing to fuel economy gains. Lower SSI VMs, by contrast, may hinder some of those fuel economy gains, but will deliver higher levels of durability. For example, heavy-duty engine oils for commercial trucks are typically formulated using VMs with an SSI of 25. Higher-performance additives, however, can change those considerations. Top-tier additives enable finished engine oils to achieve higher fuel economy gains in combination with lower-shear (25 SSI) VMs. This means no compromises when it comes to protection and durability while delivering meaningful fuel economy contributions. GF-7 is nearly here, and it raises the bar for what modern lubricants can contribute to today’s and tomorrow’s vehicles. Ultimately, today’s additive science is the reason engine oils are reaching those loftier performance standards—and that is a positive thing for every car on the road today. Padu Sreenivas is Product Manager at The Lubrizol Corporation and manages Lubrizol’s North American passenger car motor oil business. He has over 25 years of industry experience and has held numerous positions in technology, testing and commercial roles globally. The post The Science Behind Next-Generation Engine Oils appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Dana Incorporated announced the new AdvanTEK 40 Pro axle system, the next evolution of its 40,000-lb. 6×4 tandem axle system. Designed to meet evolving commercial vehicle fleet requirements with increased efficiency and enhanced overall productivity, the AdvanTEK 40 Pro axle system includes the fastest axle ratio at 2.05 for advanced engine downspeeding, the company said. “The new AdvanTEK 40 Pro axle system is a testament to our focus on developing high-performance solutions that deliver tangible benefits for today’s professional fleets,” said Brian Pour, senior vice president and president of commercial vehicle drive and motion systems at Dana. “Advanced design features ensure the ideal balance of efficiency and durability with package flexibility to adapt to unique operational demands.” Engineered with innovative component technologies, according to Dana, the AdvanTEK 40 Pro axle system includes a range of design features that offer a marked progression in tandem axle design, providing fleets with a 6×4 system that enhances vehicle longevity and performance. Key features and benefits of the new system include: Broad ratio range with 18 total axle ratios, including the fastest at 2.05, enhances compatibility with downsped powertrains for more efficient performance; High-capacity bearing system enabling fast ratios and increased torque throughout the system; Higher weight-capacity design enables fleets to haul more payload for improved productivity; Inter-axle differential (IAD) equipped with advanced coatings to better retain lubricant, offering superior protection and extending the life of the drivetrain; Driver-controlled differential locking in either forward or rear axle allows the driver to enable locking based on the traction requirements, providing added flexibility; and Optional lubrication pump circulates lube in critical areas of the IAD during extreme conditions. The AdvanTEK 40 Pro axle system will be available for ordering in select original equipment manufacturer (OEM) 2025 data books, Dana said. The post Dana Launches Spicer AdvanTEK 40 Pro Axle System appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF), a 501c3 supporting people in the automotive aftermarket industry and their families during the hardest moments of their lives, announced that nominations for the first-ever AACF Humanitarian Award, generously sponsored by NEXUS North America is fast approaching. The deadline to submit nominations is January 31, 2025. Nominees for this award should exemplify compassion, selflessness and a strong sense of social responsibility. Their actions should have made a significant and positive impact on communities locally, nationally, or globally, according to the AACF. Nominations will be reviewed by a committee consisting of AACF Board and Executive Committee Members as well as a NEXUS executive. “This prestigious award aims to recognize and honor outstanding individuals, companies, associations or groups within the automotive aftermarket industry who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to improving the lives of others through humanitarian efforts,” the AACF said. “Since first introducing the AACF Humanitarian Award in partnership with NEXUS North America in May earlier this year our team has been purposefully planning,” said John Kairys, executive director of AACF. “We’re excited to officially open the nomination process to provide an opportunity for individuals and companies who give back with grace and intention to be recognized for their efforts in the community.” The selection process for the AACF Humanitarian Award will be rigorous, with nominees evaluated based on their demonstrated impact and commitment to humanitarian causes. The award recipient will be announced at a special ceremony during Auto Care Association Connect 2025, bringing well-deserved recognition to their exceptional contributions, the AACF said. “On behalf of NEXUS North America and NEXUS Automotive International, I want to share our excitement to have this opportunity to support the AACF organization for this new, outstanding Humanitarian Award. We are honored to play a role in this initiative,” said Robert Roos, president Pronto Network & NEXUS North America. The post AACF Humanitarian Award Nomination Deadline Approaching appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article