Volkswagen Scout U.S. plant receives approximately $1.3 billion incentives
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By APF
The automotive aftermarket industry could be on the verge of one of its biggest shakeups in years.
According to a Bloomberg report, O'Reilly Automotive has submitted a cash offer for the automotive parts division of Genuine Parts Company, a business that analysts believe could be valued at more than $10 billion. While neither company has confirmed the negotiations, the report suggests a decision on the future of the business could come before the end of the summer. Genuine Parts could ultimately sell the division, pursue a spinoff, or retain the business if it determines that is the better long-term strategy.
For the automotive aftermarket, the implications could be significant. Genuine Parts is best known as the parent company of NAPA Auto Parts, one of North America's largest distributors of replacement parts for professional repair facilities, fleets, and do-it-yourself customers. Combining that network with O'Reilly's extensive retail and commercial operations would create an even larger player in an already competitive industry.
A transaction of this size could influence everything from supplier relationships and distribution networks to pricing, inventory availability, and competition with other major retailers such as AutoZone and Advance Auto Parts. Independent repair shops may also be watching closely to see whether any ownership changes affect commercial programs, delivery networks, or parts availability.
At this stage, the report remains based on anonymous sources familiar with the discussions, and there is no guarantee a deal will ultimately be completed. Additional bidders could emerge, or Genuine Parts could decide to pursue a different strategic direction.
What do you think?
Should O'Reilly acquire Genuine Parts' automotive business? Would this strengthen competition or reduce consumer choice? How could this affect NAPA stores, independent repair shops, and DIY enthusiasts? If you're in the automotive industry, what impact would you expect on pricing and parts availability? Join the discussion below and share your thoughts on what could become one of the largest automotive aftermarket deals in recent history.
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By Counterman
The Aftermarket Warehouse Distributors Association (AWDA), a community of the Auto Care Association, presented its 2025 Pursuit of Excellence Award to Fletcher Lord III, President and CEO of Parts Warehouse Inc. (PWI) based in Little Rock, Arkansas. The award was presented by AWDA Secretary Cliff Hovis at the association’s 2025 Annual Conference on November 2nd in Las Vegas.
Established in 1983, the Pursuit of Excellence Award is presented exclusively to an AWDA member for special achievement and for the setting of high standards as an example for others to follow, in business and in volunteer or advocacy efforts.
Fletcher Lord III demonstrates the high standards of leadership, innovation, and business performance that define the Pursuit of Excellence Award. Through his strategic direction, industry engagement, and unwavering commitment to workforce development, he has significantly advanced both his organization and the broader automotive aftermarket. His approach reflects the very essence of this award — exemplary achievement that sets a powerful example for others in the industry to follow.
As a fourth-generation leader of the Crow-Burlingame legacy, Fletcher has continued to build upon a strong foundation while steering PWI into a new era of innovation and growth. Since assuming the role of President in 2019, he has elevated the organization through a people-centric, education-first approach that has set a new standard in the industry.
Under his leadership, PWI has become widely recognized for its exceptional commitment to training and workforce development. Fletcher has ensured that continuous learning is embedded into the fabric of the organization, expanding the use of platforms like the Group Training Academy and developing tailored programs in sales, leadership, and customer engagement. Notably, his team built a custom curriculum to demonstrate the value and functionality of the MyPlace4Parts B2B eCommerce platform, improving both internal adoption and customer experience—an innovative strategy that reflects Fletcher’s forward-thinking leadership.
Fletcher’s impact is not limited to his company. As Vice Chair of AWDA and a Board Member of the Alliance, he has played an instrumental role in guiding strategic initiatives that advance the entire industry. His work with the University of the Aftermarket Foundation (UAF)—where he serves as a trustee—further underscores his commitment to building a robust future for the aftermarket workforce. Under his leadership, PWI doesn’t just support UAF—they actively promote it as a powerful development tool for both their employees and customers. By encouraging scholarship participation and engagement with UAF’s educational programs, Fletcher has made it a cornerstone of PWI’s people-first culture. This approach not only strengthens internal teams but also builds deeper, trust-based relationships with customers and industry partners who benefit from shared learning and growth. It’s a strategic investment in people that echoes throughout the organization and the broader aftermarket community.
These efforts have not gone unnoticed. In 2019, Crow-Burlingame was honored with the Auto Care Association’s Career and Education (ACE) Award, and PWI received the inaugural AASA Channel Excellence Award in partnership with Tenneco—both acknowledgments of Fletcher’s focus on collaboration, education, and operational excellence.
Fletcher leads with integrity, humility, and a genuine passion for people. His emphasis on relationships, community involvement, and lifelong learning has cultivated a culture of excellence that extends beyond PWI and into the broader aftermarket landscape.
In every respect, Fletcher Lord III embodies the spirit of the Pursuit of Excellence Award. His visionary leadership, innovative practices, and steadfast dedication to industry progress make him a highly deserving award winner.
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By Counterman
The Aftermarket Warehouse Distributors Association (AWDA), a community of the Auto Care Association, presented its 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award in Honor of Martin Fromm to Bill Long, President and CEO of MEMA. The award was presented by AWDA Chairperson Ashlee Arnold on November 2nd at AWDA’s 2025 Annual Conference in Las Vegas.
AWDA’s Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes individuals who have, over the course of many years, distinguished themselves through their unselfish commitment to, and high level of performance within, the motor vehicle aftermarket industry. The award is named in honor of former AWDA President Martin Fromm.
Few individuals in the motor vehicle aftermarket have left a mark as deep, enduring, and far-reaching as Bill Long. Over the course of a career spanning more than 40 years, Bill has not only led respected organizations and industry initiatives—he has helped shape the direction, reputation, and long-term health of the aftermarket itself. From his earliest days delivering parts in high school to his current role as President and CEO of MEMA, Bill Long has exemplified what this award was created to honor: a life’s work defined by integrity, leadership, service, and impact.
Bill’s leadership journey began with a foundational understanding of the aftermarket’s front lines and evolved into senior executive roles across every corner of the supply chain. At Echlin/DANA, where he spent over two decades, Bill built his reputation as a principled leader with an operational mindset and a strategic vision. He would go on to lead North American Operations at Proliance International and later serve as a consultant and advisor through Long Strategies LLC—always staying close to the people and companies that define this industry.
In 2012, Bill joined MEMA, where he first led the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA) division before rising to lead the entire organization. Today, MEMA represents one of the most critical sectors of the American economy—vehicle suppliers—through four divisions: AASA, the Heavy-Duty Manufacturers Association (HDMA), the Association for Sustainable Manufacturing (MERA), and the Original Equipment Suppliers Association (OESA). Under Bill’s leadership, MEMA has strengthened its voice in Washington, D.C., expanded its impact across all vehicle segments, and become a more unified force for progress across the supply base.
A hallmark of Bill’s career has been his deep commitment to advocacy. He has helped elevate the aftermarket in national conversations, building strong relationships with lawmakers and regulators to ensure industry perspectives are heard on issues ranging from vehicle data access and diagnostics to sustainability and workforce development. He has played a visible and consistent role in advancing Right to Repair, including vocal support for the REPAIR Act. He also served on the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Association Committee of 100, offering guidance and strategic insight on behalf of one of the largest manufacturing sectors in the nation.
Bill’s belief in people and education has also been a defining thread. He has supported professional development across every level of the industry, and his leadership helped bring about “Leadership 3.0: The Global Aftermarket,” a pioneering education program developed in partnership with Northwood University and the University of the Aftermarket. His efforts have helped build future leaders, prepare companies for change, and ensure that learning and mentorship remain central to the aftermarket’s success. For these contributions, he has been recognized with both the MEMA Triangle Award—bestowed only when an individual’s service is deemed truly extraordinary—and Northwood’s Automotive Aftermarket Management Education Award.
Outside of the boardroom, Bill’s passion for motorsports has mirrored his professional values: community, innovation, and a love of the industry. He has held executive positions with NASCAR, the IndyCar Series, and Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and continues to support grassroots racing today. His work in this space earned him the Jack Arute Sr. Excellence in Motorsports Award.
Bill Long is, in every sense of the word, a backbone of the motor vehicle aftermarket. He has built organizations, led people, driven advocacy, and left an indelible legacy. He has done so with humility, consistency, and a tireless commitment to making the industry stronger, smarter, and more united.
For his decades of distinguished service, his contributions to business, education, and advocacy, and his enduring impact on the people and progress of our industry, Bill Long is a truly deserving recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award in Honor of Martin Fromm.
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By Counterman
Schaeffler has announced that its Wooster plant has reached a significant milestone, producing 40 million torque converters since 1997. This facility has been central to
link hidden, please login to view‘s torque converter operations, manufacturing over 63 million units globally, with nearly two-thirds produced in Wooster. Advanced Manufacturing and Production Process
The production process at Wooster begins with imported steel, which enters stamping presses and proceeds through blade assembly, brazing, machining, bonding and final assembly. The plant’s emphasis on integrating advanced technology has enhanced manufacturing efficiency and product quality, particularly through automated blade loading.
Automation and Efficiency Focus
The plant’s strategic focus on automation has yielded improved efficiency and quality. Blade automation, essential for torque transfer and multiplication between the engine and transmission, has been a key area of innovation. Automating the design process aids in reducing design cycle time, minimizing hardware iterations, and optimizing metrics such as torque output and flow efficiency.
Brian Zaugg, president of the Business Unit Torque Converters, said, “The 40 millionth torque converter from the Wooster facility is a testament to the commitment of our team and the continuous pursuit of pioneering the best product on the market.”
link hidden, please login to view said it continues to innovate in torque converter design and manufacturing processes, focusing on upcoming generations, including torque converter-based P2 hybrid systems. Zaugg acknowledged the ongoing contributions of the Wooster plant’s dedicated employees in achieving this production milestone. The post
link hidden, please login to view appeared first on link hidden, please login to view.
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By Counterman
Schaeffler has announced that its Wooster plant has reached a significant milestone, producing 40 million torque converters since 1997. This facility has been central to
link hidden, please login to view‘s torque converter operations, manufacturing over 63 million units globally, with nearly two-thirds produced in Wooster. Advanced Manufacturing and Production Process
The production process at Wooster begins with imported steel, which enters stamping presses and proceeds through blade assembly, brazing, machining, bonding and final assembly. The plant’s emphasis on integrating advanced technology has enhanced manufacturing efficiency and product quality, particularly through automated blade loading.
Automation and Efficiency Focus
The plant’s strategic focus on automation has yielded improved efficiency and quality. Blade automation, essential for torque transfer and multiplication between the engine and transmission, has been a key area of innovation. Automating the design process aids in reducing design cycle time, minimizing hardware iterations, and optimizing metrics such as torque output and flow efficiency.
Brian Zaugg, president of the Business Unit Torque Converters, said, “The 40 millionth torque converter from the Wooster facility is a testament to the commitment of our team and the continuous pursuit of pioneering the best product on the market.”
link hidden, please login to view said it continues to innovate in torque converter design and manufacturing processes, focusing on upcoming generations, including torque converter-based P2 hybrid systems. Zaugg acknowledged the ongoing contributions of the Wooster plant’s dedicated employees in achieving this production milestone. The post
link hidden, please login to view appeared first on link hidden, please login to view.
link hidden, please login to view
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