Counterman

WIX Filters has announced it will be partnering with World Racing Group as the Preferred Filter of the World of Outlaws NOS Energy Drink Sprint Car Series. WIX said the series has a national following and is the most viewed dirt track race series in the U.S., with more than one million fans across its 90-race schedule that spans the country. “Racers everywhere depend on the reliability of WIX Filters to ensure their high-performance cars remain competitive on the racetrack,” said Tina Davis, senior marketing manager for WIX Filters. “World of Outlaws fans will have the opportunity to see the protection and reliability our filters provide in one of the most demanding racing series in the world.” WIX said it will highlight its long legacy in racing by sponsoring the WIX Filters Heat Race #3, which is one of the ways racers can make it to the Feature race and a chance at Victory Lane. In addition, WIX Filters will sponsor a Competitor Contingency Award Program, in which winners will receive a cash prize for displaying the WIX Filters decal. “WIX Filters is an iconic automotive brand, and we’re excited to welcome them to the World of Outlaws and dirt racing community,” said Brian Carter, World of Outlaws CEO. “Many of their customers are already race fans and we look forward to entertaining them at every event and welcoming those who experience the World of Outlaws for the first time.” In addition to the series sponsorship, WIX is a technical partner of the championship winning World of Outlaws team Tony Stewart/Curb-Agajanian Racing (TSR). TSR fields a Sprint Car for 10-time Series champion Donny Schatz, who holds over 300 wins in the Series and is ranked 3rd all-time. TSR has been a longtime partner with WIX, counting on WIX Filters’ advanced filtration to keep their 900-HP cars protected under the grueling conditions of dirt track racing, WIX said. The post WIX is Preferred Filter for World of Outlaws Sprint Car Series appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Applications for the Art Fisher Memorial Scholarships are now being accepted at AutomotiveScholarships.com. Thirteen scholarships for the 2025-26 academic year, in memory of the late founder of Federated Auto Parts, will be awarded to students preparing for automotive aftermarket careers. The deadline to enter is March 31, 2025. The Art Fisher Memorial Scholarships are administered by the University of the Aftermarket Foundation (UAF) and are awarded to students attending a two- or four-year accredited college, an ASE certified post-secondary automotive, heavy-duty or collision technician training program or any licensed and accredited vocational school. Students graduating from high school in 2024 and heading to any of these post-secondary programs are also eligible. “It brings immense pride to everyone at Federated to provide these scholarships to exceptional applicants each year,” said Bo Fisher, chairman of Federated Auto Parts. “Awarding the Art Fisher Memorial Scholarships is a way to give back, help deserving young students and honor my father’s memory.” Federated is one of more than 30 organizations that award scholarships on the UAF Automotive Aftermarket Scholarship Central website. As an added benefit for students who apply at AutomotiveScholarships.com, each completed application will be considered for every scholarship opportunity where the candidate meets the qualifications. The post Art Fisher Memorial Scholarship Applications Now Being Accepted appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Automotive Parts Headquarters Inc. (APH) recently held its annual conference, convening 500 store owners, managers, sales representatives, suppliers and support staff under the theme “Say Yes.” The event featured an awards banquet that recognized outstanding achievements in supplier performance for 2024, among which was Gates Corporation being named Supplier of the Year. APH said its annual conference reinforced the collaborative spirit that drives APH’s continued growth and success. Corey Bartlett, CEO of APH, along with key leaders including Kevin Mack, vice president of merchandising; Jim Becker, merchandising manager; Jim Gruber, general manager of BENCO Equipment; Lonnie Kocmick, president of Refinish Supply Co.; and Jason Vogel, president of APH Stores, presented the awards based on evaluations from APH’s store teams and support center staff. “We are delighted to recognize our top suppliers who exemplify the spirit of ‘Say Yes’ through their exceptional support of APH,” Bartlett said. “Strong partnerships with companies such as Gates, BBB, PICO, East Penn, Bosch, the Alliance, Standard, Reelcraft, and SATA are essential to our continued growth.” Supplier Awards Presented: Supplier of the Year: Gates Corporation Spirit of APH: BBB Industries Rising Star: PICO Outstanding Sales Support: East Penn Manufacturing Outstanding Marketing Support: Bosch Outstanding Technology Support: Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance Outstanding Training Support: Standard Motor Products In addition, the BENCO Equipment Supplier of the Year award was presented to Reelcraft, and SATA was honored with the Refinish Supply Co. Supplier of the Year award, according to APH. Photo (from left): John Bartlett, chairman emeritus of APH; Colby Florea, vice president of sales at Gates; Colin Foster, zone sales manager at Gates; Angela Raney, director of sales at Gates; Kevin Mack, vice president of merchandising at APH; Mike Brage, territory sales manager at Gates; and Corey Bartlett, CEO of APH. The post Automotive Parts Headquarters Announces Supplier Award Winners appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

FCS Automotive announced the release of 181 new numbers for January/February 2025. The company said all units are in stock and ready to ship. The new parts include: 30 Complete Strut Assemblies 11 Shock Absorber Assembly Kits 3 Heavy Duty Shock Absorbers 72 Suspension Struts 40 Shock Absorbers 25 Lift Supports FCS said these new part numbers cover over 30 million vehicles currently on the road in the U.S. and Canada. They include models like the Audi A4, Chevrolet Cruze, Chevrolet Silverado, Dodge Charger, Ford Explorer, Nissan Pathfinder, Toyota Tacoma and more. The post FCS Introduces 181 New Numbers appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

PHINIA has been awarded the 2024 Supplier Partnership Award by NEXUS Automotive International at the Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week (HDAW) show in Grapevine, Texas. Established three years ago, this award recognizes suppliers that excel in program support, growth acceleration, professionalism, and partnership. Eligible suppliers must meet high standards in cooperation and innovation at both the NEXUS and local distributor levels. “We’re pleased to present this award to PHINIA,” said Joe Stephan, vice president of sales and business development for NEXUS North America. “Over the past year, PHINIA has strengthened its aftermarket commercial organization with talented, well-respected professionals and has demonstrated the high standards our members expect from global supplier partners. We look forward to building upon this valued partnership for years to come.” “This recognition is a testament to our team’s hard work and commitment to delivering exceptional experiences for our partners,” said Dave Illes, senior director of aftermarket sales, marketing, and training for PHINIA North America. “We sincerely thank NEXUS for this honor and look forward to further strengthening our partnership.” The post PHINIA Receives 2024 Supplier Partnership Award from NEXUS Automotive appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

German lighting specialist HELLA announced it has partnered with Brian Deegan in an agreement that will run into 2026. Deegan has equipped his 2025 Can-Am Maverick R side-by-side with a number of the latest HELLA LED lighting technology to help him both see and be seen, the company said. “A new addition this year – and a brand I’m stoked to be with because it has so much heritage and has been around for over 125 years – is HELLA lights,” said Deegan, when he introduced the Maverick R to his fans. “They’re big in rally, too, which is cool for me!” “When a legend like Brian Deegan chooses HELLA lighting, it’s a big deal,” said Rob Tinson, vice president of sales and marketing for HELLA. “He knows performance, reliability and visibility win races, and we’re proud to provide the lighting technology that’ll keep him at the front of the pack!” Built for King of the Hammers and competing in other events, the Maverick is fully equipped for desert racing. The team added a full-length HELLA Black Magic 40” single row LED lightbar above the front roll bar, providing powerful illumination. Additionally, 3.2” HELLA Black Magic LED Cube lights were added to the front winch bar to spotlight obstacles and hazards. HELLA explained it joined an impressive motorsports roll call on the Deegan Maverick R, which also included Bilstein shocks, Evo tune, Obor RocScraper tires, Method Beadlock wheels and PRP seats, giving Brian the best chance of finishing the race and reaching the podium. In qualifying for the 2025 Can-Am UTV Hammers Championship, #38 qualified 24th of 100 drivers, which equated to third in the 4900 Pro Stock Turbo UTV class. In the race, a technical issue resulted in a DNF, although Deegan was classified 49th, HELLA said. In addition to his Can-Am Maverick R racer, HELLA also provides lighting for Brian’s personal Ford Raptor R and the water truck he uses to take care of his beautiful dirt track compound where the family The post HELLA Partners with Deegan for King of Hammers Desert Race appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Judge Denise Casper dismissed the entirety of the Alliance for Automotive Innovation’s suit challenging the 2020 Massachusetts Data Access Law. The automakers’ bid to block the Massachusetts Right to Repair law has failed and the law remains in effect. The judge’s written decision is still under seal but should be made available to the public soon. “Today’s ruling is a significant victory for the people of Massachusetts—and all Americans,” said Bill Hanvey, president and CEO, Auto Care Association. “This decision by Judge Casper ensures that car owners have the right to access their vehicle’s repair and diagnostic data, empowering them to make informed choices about maintenance and repairs. It levels the playing field, allowing independent repair shops to compete fairly, which in turn drives down costs for consumers. As car owners, we all deserve the freedom to control and manage the data that’s generated by our own vehicles. This ruling is a crucial step toward fostering greater transparency, affordability, and innovation in the automotive industry for the benefit of all Americans.” The Auto Care Association said it will update its members with additional information as it becomes available. The post Auto Care Applauds Massachusetts Right to Repair Verdict appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Auto-Wares Group of Companies announced its 2024 Supplier Award winners. This year, six companies were recognized for their collaboration, contributions and success throughout the year. The awards were voted on by the Auto-Wares store, sales and leadership teams and presented at the Auto-Wares Group of Companies’ Tech Expo in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Feb. 7-8, 2025, with an attendance of over 2,500 service technicians, parts store owners and other automotive aftermarket professionals. Auto-Wares Group of Companies announced Gates as its Supplier of the Year for 2024. Gates has consistently provided Auto-Wares with high-quality products and exceptional customer support and service, Auto-Wares said. “We are honored to receive this prestigious award from one of our key partners,” said Colby Florea, vice president of sales at Gates. “This recognition is a testament to the hard work put in daily by everyone at Gates to ensure our partners like Auto-Wares have the support needed to enable us to win together.” “Gates has been and will continue to be a tremendous partner with Auto-Wares. They have an excellent team and a strong desire to help our company grow,” said Todd Leimenstoll, president and CEO of Auto-Wares Group of Companies. “Together, we’ve accomplished great things in 2024 and look forward to what the future brings together.” Auto-Wares 2024 Supplier Award Winners 2024 Supplier of the Year: Gates 2024 Rising Star Supplier of the Year: Mevotech/MacPherson Ride 2024 Sales & Marketing Supplier of the Year: DRiV 2024 Data & Technology Supplier of the Year: Standard Motor Products 2024 Outstanding Shipping Supplier of the Year: Bosch 2024 Rep of the Year: Glen Roy, NRS 2024 Supplier of the Year: Gates 2024 Rising Star Supplier of the Year: Mevotech/MacPherson Ride 2024 Sales & Marketing Supplier of the Year: DRiV 2024 Data & Technology Supplier of the Year: Standard Motor Products 2024 Outstanding Shipping Supplier of the Year: Bosch 2024 Rep of the Year: Glen Roy, NRS The post Auto-Wares Announces 2024 Supplier Awards appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Lucas Oil has announced the latest addition to its vehicle performance product lineup: Lucas Emissions Clear. The company said this fuel and exhaust system cleaner addresses the need for effective solutions to reduce vehicle emissions and improve catalytic converter performance, helping vehicle owners meet strict emissions regulations. In a news release announcing the product, the company explained that Lucas Emissions Clear Fuel and Exhaust System Cleaner targets the entire fuel delivery system, removing harmful deposits that contribute to excessive exhaust emissions. By reducing particulate matter before it reaches the catalytic converter, the product helps extend its lifespan, optimizes combustion and improves emissions catalyst effectiveness. Formulated for easy integration into routine vehicle maintenance or pre-emissions testing, Lucas Emissions Clear is a one-tank treatment that provides emissions control, promotes cleaner air quality and is compatible with any gasoline engine, the company said. “A cleaner engine means a more efficient, more reliable car, and Lucas Emissions Clear delivers exactly that for drivers,” said Lucas Oil CEO Morgan Lucas. “We take pride in helping our customers save money on repairs and maintenance. Cleaner emissions not only contribute to a healthier environment, but also extend the lifespan of exhaust systems, providing long-term financial benefits for drivers and helping to meet more stringent regulations. With this product, we are making it easier and more affordable to maintain optimal performance and compliance with emissions standards.” Designed for environmentally conscious vehicle owners, fleet managers, automotive enthusiasts and drivers seeking improved fuel efficiency and performance, Lucas Oil said its Emissions Clear can cut harmful pollutants by up to 90% while delivering up to 5% improvement in fuel economy. The post Lucas Oil Introduces Lucas Emissions Clear appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Bill Long, president & CEO, MEMA, The Vehicle Suppliers Association, issued this statement regarding the implementation of China tariffs to its membership. Dear MEMA Members, On February 1, 2025, President Trump signed an Executive Order which imposed new tariffs on the majority of items coming from China into the U.S. These new tariffs are being implemented under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). The IEEPA tariffs, set at 10%, went into effect at 12:01 am ET on February 4, 2025. There is currently no date by which the tariffs will sunset. Further, the 10% tariffs articulated in this Executive Order will be imposed on top of any prior and existing “duties, fees, exactions, or charges applicable to such imported articles.” China subsequently announced retaliatory tariffs of between 10-15% on certain U.S. goods and further imposed export controls on five critical minerals. Additional Details: Goods in Transit: U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) issued a formal notice on February 5, 2025 and guidance via the Cargo System Messaging Service which provide more information on the items covered by the new tariffs. Consistent with the language included in the Executive Order, CBP noted that items that are onboard a vessel before 12:01 am EST on February 1, 2025 are exempt from the newly imposed Chinese tariffs of 10% as long as they are entered for consumption (or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption) before 12:01 am EST on March 7, 2025. However, products of China that are entered for consumption beginning February 4, 2025 would be subject to the new tariffs. Therefore, if there is a product of China that is placed on the vessel between February 1, 2025 and February 3, 2025, but it is not entered until February 4, 2025 or later, then it would still be subject to the tariffs. CBP further issued guidance via its Cargo Systems Messaging Service on how companies can certify eligibility for this provision. Importers will need to use secondary HTS 9903.01.23 if they are eligible for this “on the water” exception. The use of HTS 9903.01.23 will only be available for those imports within those time-bound requirements. Goods Covered by the Executive Order: The CBP notice covers the majority of goods coming from China into the U.S. There are very limited exceptions for donations (i.e., food, clothing, medicine used to relieve human suffering) and informational materials (e.g., publications, films, posters). In addition, an importer can make use of the Chapter 98 duty saving or reduction provisions (e.g., U.S. goods returned, goods exported for repair/alteration and returned). See below. Excluded from the IEEPA Tariffs: 9903.01.21: Articles the product of China and Hong Kong that are donations, by persons subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, of articles, such as food, clothing, and medicine, intended to be used to relieve human suffering. 9903.01.22: Articles the product of China and Hong Kong that are informational materials, including but not limited to, publications, films, posters, phonograph records, photographs, microfilms, microfiche, tapes, compact disks, CD ROMs, artworks, and news wire feeds. CHAPTER 98: The additional duties imposed by heading 9903.01.20 shall not apply to goods for which entry is properly claimed under a provision of chapter 98 of the tariff schedule pursuant to applicable regulations of CBP, and whenever CBP agrees that entry under such a provision is appropriate, except for goods entered under heading 9802.00.80; and subheadings 9802.00.40, 9802.00.50, and 9802.00.60. For subheadings 9802.00.40, 9802.00.50, and 9802.00.60, the additional duties apply to the value of repairs, alterations, or processing performed (in China and Hong Kong), as described in the applicable subheading. For heading 9802.00.80, the additional duties apply to the value of the article assembled abroad (in China and Hong Kong), less the cost or value of such products of the United States, as described. Drawback: The Executive Order states that drawback will not be available for items covered by the IEEPA tariffs. De Minimis: The Executive Order revoked duty-free “de minimis” treatment for goods coming into the U.S. from China that are subject to the order. According to CBP: “De minimis provides admission of articles free of duty and of any tax imposed on or by reason of importation, but the aggregate fair retail value in the country of shipment of articles imported by one person on one day and exempted from the payment of duty shall not exceed $800.” For more information, see the CBP Guidance on De Minimis Shipments from China: CSMS # 63992482 – GUIDANCE: ACE Processing of De Minimis Shipments Per Executive Orders issued February 1, 2025 NOTE: De Minimis Update on 2/7/2025: The White House issued an Executive Order which announced the suspension of the afore-mentioned revocation on de minimis treatment for goods coming from China. MEMA is still analyzing the new order but it indicates that the revocation would return once “adequate systems are in place to fully and expediently process and collect tariff revenue applicable.” Source: Amendment to Duties Addressing the Synthetic Opioid Supply Chain in the People’s Republic of China – The White House CBP is expected to issue an updated guidance document to help inform the trade community of the details concerning this change. MEMA will share this information as soon as it becomes available. Free Trade Zones (FTZ): Beginning February 4, goods subject to these IEEPA tariffs must be admitted in a zone as “privileged foreign status” (with limited exceptions for goods eligible for “domestic status”). When withdrawn from the zone and entered for consumption, the goods will be subject to the IEEPA tariffs (and other applicable duties) related to the classification under the applicable HTSUS subheading in effect at the time of admission. Exclusions: At this time, there is no language in the Executive Order concerning an exclusion process. Escalation: The Executive Order includes language stating that the U.S. may escalate these actions if China takes steps to retaliate against U.S. exports and goods. MEMA will continue to update member companies on any new developments regarding the tariffs. As new details may evolve, we will promptly notify members of any changes as soon as more information becomes available. If you wish to join the MEMA Trade Working Group, contact Bill Frymoyer. The post MEMA Issues Details on China Tariff Implementation appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Valvoline announced that its Restore & Protect motor oil has been named 2025 Product of the Year USA Award winner in the car care category. The company said the product was selected for this honor through a national study of 40,000 American shoppers, as surveyed by Kantar, a consumer research firm. As the largest consumer-voted awards program recognizing product innovation, the Product of the Year award is recognition of the benefits Restore & Protect offers to consumers, Valvoline said. Launched in January 2024, Valvoline said Restore & Protect is the first motor oil designed to effectively restore a car’s engine to perform like new. The company said its product continues to challenge traditional views of the role motor oil plays in engine care and is setting a new benchmark for performance in the industry. “As we constantly strive to deliver exceptional products to our customers, we are honored to be chosen by consumers as a 2025 Product of the Year award winner,” said Greg Barntsen, Valvoline Global operations general manager – Americas. “Restore & Protect is not only on the forefront of value-added innovation in our industry, it’s a reflection of Valvoline Global’s commitment to inventing the way forward with innovative solutions to global automotive challenges.” The post Valvoline’s Restore & Protect Wins Product of the Year Honor appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

National Auto Parts Warehouse (NPW) hosted a weekend of events Jan. 31-Feb. 2 to celebrate and honor its vendors and customers. Following NPW’s Million Dollar Dinner on Jan. 31, the company held its Vendor Appreciation Dinner and Customer awards on Feb. 1, in Miami, Fla. “It means the world to us to do business with you,” said NPW President and CEO Chris Pacey as he opened the awards ceremony. “You’re not just a vendor. It’s not just a relationship. It’s a friendship. Many of you have done business with our family for many years. I can tell you we take that very seriously. We look forward to growing this company with your support.” The Vendor Award Winners Include: Training Support Vendor of the Year: Dorman Technology Support Vendor of the Year: Gates Marketing & Logistics Vendor of the Year: DRiV Customer Service Vendor of the year: SMP Inventory Management Vendor of the Year: BBB Engine/Performance Vendor of the Year: Melling Traditional Parts Vendor of the Year: DuraGo Sales Account Manager of the Year: Mike Wamsley, NA Williams NPW’s gala weekend concluded with the annual FAST Expo at the Miami Airport Convention Center. The expo returned as a live event this year, with more than 80 exhibitors, after being digital in 2024. Visitors got to enjoy a trade show, race simulators, live engine build, car show and a portable dynamometer. Photos from the event, as well as the awards ceremony, can be seen below. NPW Vendor Award Winners: From Left: Larry Pacey, Danielle Rickerson, Dorman Products’ Matisse Dornier-Duff and Nico Dolciato, John Pacey, Chris Pacey. From Left: Chris Pacey, Gates’ Daniel Farr, Bob Watson and Gladden Summerlin, Larry Pacey, Danielle Rickerson, John Pacey. From Left: DRiV’s Marco Botello, Leo Santiago, Kyle Vandecaveye, Rob Rotan and Charles Sargent, Danielle Rickerson, DRiV’s Ryan Jones and Chuck Hawkins, John Pacey, Chris Pacey, Larry Pacey. From Left: SMP’s Ward Armstrong, Chris Pacey, Danielle Rickerson, SMP’s Nory Rivera and Larry Sills, Larry Pacey, SMP’s Paul Farwick, John Pacey, SMP’s Matt Robinson. From Left: Larry Pacey, BBB’s Josh Castrillo and Guy Balsome, Danielle Rickerson, John Pacey, Chris Pacey. From Left: Chris Pacey, Larry Pacey, Melling’s Doug Smith and Laura Short, Danielle Rickerson, John Pacey. From Left: Chris Pacey, Larry Pacey, DuraGo’s Brian Hendrickson, Danielle Rickerson, John Pacey. From Left: Chris Pacey, Larry Pacey, NA Williams’ Dan Murrell and Mike Wamsley; Danielle Rickerson, John Pacey. FAST Expo Photo Gallery: The post NPW Presents Vendor Awards, Hosts FAST Expo appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Advance Auto Parts announced that it has appointed Jeff Vining as executive vice president, general counsel and corporate secretary, effective March 2, 2025. In this role, the company said Vining will be responsible for all aspects of the Advance’s legal, corporate governance and compliance functions. Vining will report directly to Shane O’Kelly, president and chief executive officer. The company added that Tammy Finley, who currently serves in this role, is retiring and will stay with Advance in an advisory capacity to support the transition. Finley spent 27 years at Advance in the legal, human resources and communications functions. Advance said she was vital in leading the company through almost three decades of growth and change management, and, most recently, the divestiture of the Worldpac business. “Jeff’s experience in supporting successful business transformations and driving efficiencies is critical for the success of our strategic action plan,” O’Kelly said. “We are thankful for Tammy’s many contributions over the years along with her passion for Advance and our team members. We wish her all the best as she retires.” A news release from Advance explained that Vining brings more than 20 years of deep legal expertise within publicly traded companies, including key areas such as corporate governance, M&A, risk management, labor and employment, and litigation. Most recently, he served as general counsel and secretary at Unifi, Inc., where he was responsible for the company’s global legal functions and ensuring compliance with corporate governance requirements. Vining received his Doctorate of Jurisprudence at the University of Richmond School of Law in Richmond, Virginia, and his Bachelor of Science from James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Virginia. The post Advance Auto Parts Appoints Jeff Vining as General Counsel appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Larry Pacey and the NPW team created an evening to remember as hosts of their 12th Annual Million Dollar Vendor Award Reception and Dinner. It was a dazzling event as vendors from across the country gathered on the 40th floor of the EAST Hotel in Brickell, Miami, Florida, on Friday, Jan. 31, 2025. NPW is a member of both the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance, as well as AAM Group. Chris Pacey, NPW CEO and President (in foreground), Larry Pacey, NPW Chairman. Arriving on buses with a police escort, vendors started the gala event with a fun cocktail hour. Then, guests enjoyed a fabulous filet and lobster tail dinner, followed up with bananas foster for dessert, as they listened to a musician on keyboard providing entertainment before the evening’s award presentations. Founder Larry Pacey and his son, Chris Pacey, CEO and President of NPW, began the night’s presentation with a long and impressive list of accomplishments in 2024, while adding to buckle up for a spectacular 2025 as they continue their goal of growing their business. (from left): Chris Pacey, Craig Kerins, Dorman VP Sales, Nico Dolciato, Dorman Regional Sales Manager, Larry Pacey, John Pacey, and Steve Berman, Dorman Chairman. Chris underlined their commitment to invest in team member development and promotions this past year, in addition to continuing their aggressive stance that resulted in the introduction of 34,000 new, unique SKUs in 2024, plus the addition of 140 CSC members added to their network of repair shops. On the docket for 2025 are programs to expand marketing initiatives, in addition to continuing their support of the nonprofit organization First Tee with their 35th annual golf tournament. (from left): Chris Pacey, Gil Benjamin, US Motor Works CEO and President, Larry Pacey and John Pacey. Chris also reminded the audience of Larry being awarded AWDA’s Pursuit of Excellence, and Danielle Rickerson being named a member of the AMN Women at the Wheel Class of 2024. (from left): Chris Pacey, Mike Harvey, WIX VP Sales, Larry Pacey and John Pacey. Following these remarks, Larry and Chris recognized and awarded 45 individual vendors, again an increase from 41 in 2023, at the $5 million, $15 million and $20 million levels, in addition to the $1 million club. NPW emphasized its goal to increase the number of participating members in 2025. (from left): Chris Pacey, Matthew Kaufman, Anchor Industries Sales Manager, Larry Pacey, Doug Kaufman, Anchor Industries CEO, and John Pacey. The companies in this year’s Million Dollar Vendor Club are below, followed by a photo gallery of the evening’s festivities: Agility Auto Parts Anchor Industries APW ARP ATP/Pioneer BBB/Remy Bosch Cific Heads Cloyes Davico Deka Dorman Products DRiV Dura-Go Edelbrock Group Energy Suspension Engine-Pro FCS First Brands Gates Hastings Piston Rings Highline Warren Holley Liland Global MAHLE Melling Motive Gear MPA Niterra NA (NGK) Plews & Edelmann Race Winning Brands Redhorse SA Gear SBI SKF Standard Motor Products (SMP) Topline Products Trakmotive TYC UEM Pistons US Motorworks Valvoline WAI Wilmar WIX The post NPW Honors Top Vendors at 12th Annual Million Dollar Dinner appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Parts Authority announced a leadership transition that will see its current CEO and co-founder, Randy Buller, moving into the role of Chairman of the Board, and the welcoming of Clark Hale as the company’s new CEO, effective March 3, 2025. Buller, along with his co-founders, Yaron Rosenthal, David Wotman and Steve Yanofsky, helped transform a once New York-based family business with less than 10 locations into a leading nationally-recognized automotive warehouse distributor with nearly 300 locations in 23 states and Washington, D.C., the company said. Using his financial background, entrepreneurial mindset and automotive industry expertise, Buller helped build the business by offering an unparalleled depth and breadth of brand name inventory to customers, focusing on customer service, investing heavily in technology, and valuing team member satisfaction and professional growth, Parts Authority explained. “Over the span of 40 years, Randy drafted and executed the Parts Authority roadmap for rapid growth through both organic growth and M&A. As he transitions to the role of Chairman, Randy will continue to be fully available in providing support to Parts Authority, just as he has since 1980,” the company added. “I know this feels like a big change, but I am very positive and confident in the future of Parts Authority. I look forward to continuing to do what I love, with people I love, while taking a small step back in the day-to-day. I’m thrilled to be handing the reins to Clark and I am looking forward to working with him to drive Parts Authority’s future success,” said Buller. [A letter from Randy Buller is provided here.] Parts Authority said Hale brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record to the company. He has been affiliated with Kohlberg & Company since 2019, and has also been serving as a member of the Parts Authority board of directors. “I want to thank Randy and his co-founders for entrusting me with leading the future of Parts Authority. It is an honor to be following in their footsteps in continuing on the legacy and culture of such a great organization,” said Hale. “I am very excited to take on this important next step in Parts Authority’s growth and evolution. I am confident that with our team, we can continue to demonstrate and execute on our commitments to our customers and vendor partners as the leader in the industry.” The post Parts Authority Announces Leadership Transition appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article