Purolator To Kick Off 100-Year Anniversary At AAPEX
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By Counterman
The University of the Aftermarket Foundation (UAF) is celebrating 40 years of funding scholarships, grants and ongoing educational programs to help develop a strong, knowledgeable industry work force.
To commemorate the special occasion, UAF is conducting a 40th Ruby Anniversary fundraising campaign that will run throughout the year, culminating with a celebration on Oct. 31 in Las Vegas. Roger McCollum, MAAP, UAF chairman and Rick Schwartz, UAF marketing committee chair announced the campaign at last week’s MEMA Vision Conference and encouraged support from industry members.
“Over the past 40 years, the University of the Aftermarket Foundation has made an indelible mark on our industry by annually funding hundreds of scholarships for deserving young people who have gone on to successful careers in the aftermarket,” said Schwartz. “We thank everyone who has championed the UAF mission since 1986 and ask all industry members to support the Ruby Anniversary Campaign so that UAF and its work can continue for the next 40 years and beyond.”
To support the
link hidden, please login to view 40th Ruby Anniversary campaign and attend the special reception held on Oct. 31, 2026 at The Venetian Las Vegas, visit link hidden, please login to view. “Reaching this major milestone would not have been possible without all those who volunteer their time and resources to ensure a bright future for the aftermarket,” said McCollum. “By supporting the Ruby Anniversary Campaign today, you can make a lasting impact by helping young people who aspire to enter our industry or continue their professional development.”
Contributions to the UAF 40th Ruby Anniversary
link hidden, please login to view are tax-deductible to the extent provided by law and count toward UAF lifetime status. UAF is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization. To learn more, apply for a scholarship or grant, or make a donation, visit link hidden, please login to view. The post
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By Counterman
Six in 10 automotive businesses expect demand for aftermarket parts and services to grow this year. That’s according to
link hidden, please login to view by the Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo ( link hidden, please login to view). Open-ended commentary points to higher new vehicle prices, which are causing consumers to hang onto their existing vehicles longer, as the driving force for rising demand in the aftermarket. “The price of new cars is high, so people are purchasing, repairing and maintaining older vehicles,” wrote one respondent. “People are keeping their cars for longer periods of time,” noted another. “Price of new cars justifies repairs on older vehicles,” noted a third.
One caveat to that finding is that price sensitivity shows up in the aftermarket, too. The majority (53%) have observed more interest in lower-cost parts and services. However, customer motivation appears to be focused on value, rather than pure cost savings. Respondents said quality (34%) was the top influence of buying preference, followed by price (25%) and availability (20%).
Perhaps as a consequence, respondents said their business’s sales expectations for this year are flat, compared to sales performance the year prior. This reinforces the aftermarket’s reputation for stability no matter what’s happening with the economy.
Uncertainty is the Top Challenge
Respondents identified the top challenge as “uncertainty” (45%), which was a recurring theme throughout the findings. Many aftermarket businesses are engrossed in supply chain diversification initiatives, carrying higher inventory levels, and struggling to find skilled labor.
Among the other key findings are the following:
Customer service is the top AI initiative. About one-fifth (21%) of respondents have implemented enterprise-grade AI tools and another 20% are in the planning stages. Of those implementing enterprise AI, the top areas of AI investment are customer service (60%), inventory management (42%) and product development (36%). Supply chain diversification. 70% of respondents have completed diversifying their suppliers (6%), are in the planning stages (18%), or have plans in progress (46%). Inventories are on the rise. 38% of respondents are managing higher inventories of parts, compared to 20% who say they are managing fewer parts. Electric vehicle (EV) investments. More respondents (26%) said they will invest less in the EV segment, compared to 17% who will invest more. Another 27% said they will invest about the same as last year. Notably, the largest share of respondents (29%) remains uncertain about EV investments. Solving the Skilled Labor Shortage
Attracting skilled talent ranked second on the list of the top three challenges. Repair shops struggle with this because automotive technicians are retiring faster than the industry can replace them. The problem is compounded by the fact that demand for repair and maintenance services is rising.
When asked about the steps their business is taking to address the shortage, respondents pointed to an array of enticements. These include offering more training (30%), boosting compensation (27%) and improving benefits (22%), among other steps.
However, 25% of respondents aren’t taking any of those actions. In open-ended comments, respondents offered a variety of answers ranging from hiring retired people part-time to employing temporary help. One respondent commented [that we] “just stopped looking for help.”
It’s important to note that it’s not just repair shops that need skilled labor in the aftermarket. Respondents who work in manufacturing comprised the second largest demographic in this survey, following repair shops.
One manufacturing respondent wrote in to offer a solution, calling for “a national apprenticeship program that is deeply integrated into the manufacturing sector.” That person later added that technical institutes should synchronize their curricula with the “real-time needs of the factory floor.”
The full report is freely available for download (no registration required) on the AAPEX blog:
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By Counterman
link hidden, please login to view announces its 80th anniversary, marking what it said has been eight decades of “innovation, quality and trusted performance” in the automotive industry. Founded in 1946 as a company specializing in carburetion components, Walker Products began with a commitment to precision manufacturing and dependable service. As the automotive industry evolved, so did Walker – expanding into ignition, engine management and emission control solutions to meet the growing demands of modern vehicles.
Product Solutions and Markets Served
Today, Walker Products provides Genuine OE and OE-engineered solutions, serving Tier 1 partners, professional technicians, fleets and DIYers worldwide. The company said its dedication to engineering and manufacturing quality has earned it a reputation with professionals and drivers.
“Reaching 80 years is an incredible milestone for our company,” said Grant Kitching, president and CEO. “Our longevity is a true testament to the dedication of our 400 employees, the loyalty of our customers, our partnerships with our vendors and our unwavering commitment to innovation and quality. We are proud of our family-owned heritage and excited for what the future holds.”
Throughout its history, Walker Products has remained focused on advancing automotive technology while maintaining the core values that defined its founding: quality, coverage and support.
As the industry continues to move toward increasingly advanced powertrain, emission and engine management systems, Walker Products said it remains committed to developing solutions that support performance, reliability and environmental responsibility.
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By Counterman
This March and April,
link hidden, please login to view and link hidden, please login to view are turning up the excitement with the launch of their 2026 spring promotion, The Ultimate Outdoor Adventure Sweepstakes. The experience will send 40 lucky grand-prize guests to the breathtaking Table Rock Lake of the Ozarks in Ridgedale, MO, for an unforgettable luxury outdoor escape. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Ozark mountains, winners will enjoy a five-night, six-day stay from September 15-20, 2026, at the award-winning Big Cedar Lodge, known for its world-class accommodations and scenic beauty. This all-inclusive grand prize package features luxury accommodations, travel, exclusive meals and receptions, VIP experiences, and curated outdoor activities designed to showcase the very best of the region.
Beginning March 1, 2026, and running through April 30, 2026, The Ultimate Outdoor Adventure Sweepstakes gives professional technicians the opportunity to win more than just the grand prize getaway. In addition to the grand prize winners, Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper will award at total of $25,000 in gift cards to 150 lucky winners.
Entries are simple and automatic: all qualifying invoices of $150 on MyPlace4Parts earn professional technicians one entry. In addition, bonus entries are awarded at the end of each day for every additional $150 increment, increasing participants’ chances to win.
“Once again, we’re thrilled to bring another unforgettable experience to our customers,” said Jim Holik, director of marketing at the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance, Inc. “These promotions are made possible through the incredible support of our manufacturing channel partners. Our goal is to provide customers with an experience they’ll never forget, and The Ultimate Outdoor Adventure delivers exactly that — luxury, excitement, and the very best of the outdoors.”
For complete details on how to enter and to view the official sweepstakes rules, visit
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By Counterman
link hidden, please login to view, in collaboration with AAA, celebrates the first anniversary of its link hidden, please login to view. The program aims to educate and cultivate the next generation of automotive repair professionals, providing a broad learning experience that combines online and classroom training. Currently, 103 individuals are enrolled in the program, demonstrating its success and appeal in the industry. Congratulations to those who have started their journey!” said Ryan Ouellette, director of strategic accounts at NAPA. “We are committed to developing future professionals at AAA and NAPA, and we look forward to continuing to educate and support the talent in the industry.”
The Apprentice Program curriculum is competency-based, allowing apprentices to progress through each stage at their own pace. Throughout the program, apprentices can earn four ASE certifications. Participants can expect even more enhancements to the program in the coming years, with updated training modules that reflect the latest industry standards and technologies. Additionally, the program introduces specialized certification options that cater to emerging fields and enable broader career advancement.
Program Structure:
Apprentices will earn three
link hidden, please login to view certifications as they advance through the program, specifically G1, A4, A5, and the EPA 609 certificate. These certifications provide industry validation for the skills they acquire. The curriculum consists of 9 stages designed to give apprentices a comprehensive understanding of the component systems in modern vehicles.
The program spans 2 years, and participants can move at a pace that suits them best.
Key Highlights
The apprenticeship program includes hands-on experience, expert mentorship and a clear pathway to employment. Apprentices work directly in
link hidden, please login to view’s Approved Auto Repair facilities, gaining practical knowledge and skills under the supervision of experienced technicians. Industry leaders actively participate in training, sharing their expertise and insights to help shape the future of automotive repair. The classes are delivered by experienced ASE Master Certified Instructors, and are 100% technical . Visit
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