Counterman

As the days grow shorter, the leaves begin to change, and there’s a nip in the air. Deer season has opened in many states, and that means an increase in antlered traffic for those of us on the roads as well as in the woods. The United States is home to around 32 million white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), and another 3.5 million black-tailed or mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus). While a huge number of sporting folks will enjoy spending the upcoming fall and winter months searching for deer, many others hope to avoid them at all costs. Deer hunters spent roughly $23 billion pursuing their quarry in 2020, from license fees to purchasing gear, as well as travel and lodging. On the other hand, the insurance industry reports approximately $1 billion in deer-related losses annually, the result of roughly 1.5 million individual claims. Hunters spend considerably more per year chasing deer, but they probably enjoy themselves a lot more than the folks making a claim with their insurance company! White-tail populations are spread throughout the United States, but as humans continue to develop former deer habitat into suburbs and as cities spread ever outward, people encounter deer on a more frequent basis. Bordering on being a nuisance, urban and suburban deer outnumber populations found elsewhere in my state. I’ve hunted in upstate New York for nearly 30 years, but the biggest buck I’ve personally encountered was seen in my suburban neighbor’s yard a couple of years ago, browsing at their bird feeder! Deer are naturally most active and dawn and dusk, but as the seasons change from summer to fall, their activity becomes a little more intense. The heat is on to find a mate and to find dwindling food resources, which means they’re more likely to leave traditional areas of cover (like the woods) and be on the move, crossing roads and even highways. Increased deer traffic in low-light conditions, along with the greater overlap of our “habitats,” is a recipe for disaster on the road. Defensive driving isn’t just about other drivers and vehicles. In areas with high deer populations, self-aware drivers naturally keep watch along the roadside, looking for animals lurking in the shadows, and for their tell-tale glowing eyes after dark. The old phrase “a deer in headlights” refers to their tendency to freeze up or panic when blinded by oncoming lights. Those eyes are tuned for low-light conditions, so when your bi-xenon HID or LED-upgrade headlamps suddenly shine directly in them, it’s even more disorienting for them than it is for the rest of us! When it comes to running deer, another old adage I’ve often heard is that “you won’t hit the deer you see … you’ll hit the one behind her.” As herd animals, deer (especially females) often travel together. White-tailed deer are named for the prominent white fur on their rump, and when startled, that furry flag of a tail stands high as a warning to others. If a deer crosses in front of you, and her tail is up, there’s a good chance it’s for the benefit of another deer behind her. While your attention is diverted by the “near-miss,” you’re liable to hit (or be hit by) the next deer in line. This is one of many reasons that when confronted with the choice of hitting the deer in front of you or swerving, sometimes it’s safer to take the hit. In most deer-strike claims, damages are limited to the front bumper, radiator/grille, lights and hood. Depending on the angle of the hit, deer also might strike or “tumble” down the side of the vehicle. Vehicles are designed to safely withstand front-end impacts greater than even the most “monster” buck, so firm braking in a straight line should be your first choice. Attempting to avoid the collision could put you off the side of the road, or head-on into oncoming vehicles. Winter conditions can make recovering from a hasty maneuver even trickier, so leave the stunt-driving to the movie stars! The post Deer-Collision Season: It’s Bucks vs. Bumpers appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The University of the Aftermarket Foundation (UAF) has presented Bob Egan with the UAF Educational Advocacy Award. This prestigious award recognizes an aftermarket leader for their dedication to the pursuit of excellence in education. Egan served as chairman of the University of the Aftermarket Foundation since 2017 and recently transitioned to the role of chairman emeritus. During his tenure, UAF saw record growth in the funding of scholarships and educational programs that pave the way for students to pursue and excel in careers in the aftermarket. Egan retired from Federal-Mogul in 2015. During his esteemed 36-year career, he held a series of executive roles of increasing responsibility, most recently serving as senior vice president, sales and strategy. He played an instrumental role in the growth of Federal-Mogul, helping the company become one of the largest suppliers in the aftermarket. Egan has been an active industry participant throughout his career. He served as chairman of the Auto Care Association, the Automotive Sales Council and the Heavy Duty Manufacturers Association and Business Forum. In 2008, the Automotive Warehouse Distributors Association recognized Egan as Leader of the Year. “Bob has had a very impressive professional career, and he has been dedicated to the success of the aftermarket through his leadership of the University of the Aftermarket Foundation,” said Roger McCollum, AAP, chairman of the University of the Aftermarket Foundation. “For the past six years, Bob has led UAF by example, actively participating in committees and reviewing countless scholarship applications each year. The UAF Educational Advocacy Award is rarely presented and there is no one more deserving to receive it than Bob Egan.” To learn more about the University of the Aftermarket Foundation, apply for a scholarship or grant or make a donation, visit www.uofa-foundation.org. The post UAF Honors Bob Egan with Educational Advocacy Award appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

NTN, the parent company of BCA Bearings and Bower Bearings, announced that it received a 2023 Automotive Communications Award from Women in Auto Care. NTN received the award in the “Business-to-Business – Promotional Goods, Gear, Marketing Collateral” category for its BCA and Bower “Summer Cruisin’” promotions. “We are honored to be recognized by an inspiring organization like the Women in Auto Care”, said Georgianne Dickey, director of marketing. “Our BCA and Bower summer promotions are always popular with our customers, and winning an Automotive Communications Award puts an exclamation point on our 2023 promotions as we are hard at work planning for 2024.” The BCA and Bower summer promotions reward participating distributor customers in the automotive and heavy-duty aftermarket segments with BCA- and Bower-branded promotional goods, which they can then use to conduct their own local promotions. “This strategy increases brand awareness at every level of the distribution channel, from the distributor to the technician, while enabling our distributors to localize the incentives and customize their promotions to their loyal customer bases,” NTN said in a news release. The theme for the 2023 BCA and Bower summer promotions was “Summer Cruisin’”, and the promo-item packages contained items used for popular summer car care activities. Items such as carwash kits, microfiber towels, car dusters and tailgate carry-alls keep cars clean and organized, while coolers, director’s chairs and umbrellas keep refreshments and people cool in the shade, allowing recipients to go for a summer cruise in comfort and style. The 2023 Women in Auto Care Automotive Communication Awards were presented at the annual Women in Auto Care Awards Presentation, during AAPEX in Las Vegas. The awards recognize aftermarket manufacturers, distribution networks and other organizations for outstanding business-to-consumer and business-to-business advertising, marketing and public relations activities. Women in Auto Care is a community of the Auto Care Association, the co-owner of AAPEX, a trade-only event for the automotive aftermarket. The post NTN Brands Receive 2023 Automotive Communications Award appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

PRT announced that it has introduced seven new complete strut assemblies representing nearly 4 million vehicles in additional coverage in North America. The strut assemblies cover popular models such as the BMW 3 Series and Subaru Legacy, in addition to brand-new applications such as the 2022 Chevrolet Malibu, 2019 Kia Soul and 2019 Cadillac ATS, among others. PRT is a brand of the ADD USA group, one of the largest manufacturers of complete strut assemblies in the world. PRT products are manufactured under the strictest OE-quality processes required by the major automakers, according to the company. “Our highly automated factories supply premium-quality products for the OE and aftermarket, focusing on innovation and advanced solutions,” said Bruno Bello, director of global marketing at PRT. “PRT is always dedicated to the constant development of new products that stay ahead in aftermarket technology. These additions not only expand our product range but also strengthen our presence in the North American aftermarket. The new items are in stock and ready to ship.” For more information, call 770-238-1611 or visit the PRT website. The post PRT Launches Seven New Complete Strut Assemblies appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Premium Guard Inc. (PGI) has launched three redesigned websites. Each of the refreshed designs features “a clean and intuitive user interface and are a clear reflection of the company’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction,” the company said. “PGI is leaning into the future of the automotive aftermarket industry,” explained Anan Bishara, CEO of PGI. “Our emphasis is on putting customers first while providing accurate and comprehensive data, in a fresh, user-friendly design to ensure an end-to-end experience that helps the professional installer get the job right in a timely manner.” The revamped PGI corporate site, found at www.premiumguard.com, features comprehensive information about PGI’s products, programs, solutions and family of premium brands. Through streamlined navigation and a responsive, mobile-friendly layout, site visitors can quickly find the information they’re searching for; learn about PGI’s latest innovations; access valuable resources; and stay up to date on company news, according to PGI. Designed in tandem, the new and improved Premium Guard Filters and ECOGARD sites “deliver modernized, user-centric interfaces and enhanced e-catalogs with cutting-edge product and application search functionality,” PGI noted. Built with service professionals in mind, the new sites showcase innovative features such as dynamic search; push-to-talk; application-specific fluid and capacity data; and other digital tools aimed at improving service bay and parts-counter efficiency. The post Premium Guard Launches Three Redesigned Websites appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

New Advance Auto Parts CEO Shane O’Kelly served as a U.S. Army captain in the 1990s after graduating from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. Early in Advance’s third-quarter conference call on Nov. 15 – during which the company reported an operating loss of $43.7 million – O’Kelly said his time in the military taught him the importance of aligning an organization “around fewer measurable goals while ensuring while ensuring discipline and accountability in the process to achieve those goals.” O’Kelly, who replaced Tom Greco as CEO on Sept. 11, then outlined five “decisive actions” that Advance is taking “to help stabilize the company and return to profitable growth.” The headliner was the company’s decision to divest its most prized asset: Worldpac. Advance acquired Worldpac and Carquest in 2014 through its acquisition of General Parts International Inc. At the time, Advance boasted that the transaction created the largest provider of aftermarket parts in North America. Centerview Partners, an investment-banking and advisory firm, will assist with the sale process, according to the company. “Worldpac is a high-performing business and as you know, is very different than our core blended-box model,” O’Kelly said during the conference call. “As we get back to the fundamentals of servicing our professional and DIY customers, we view now as the right time to simplify our model. The Worldpac business still operates relatively independently from Advance, and we believe that the sale process will not create a distraction.” In a separate sales process, Advance plans to divest its business in Canada. Advance’s Canadian business – which goes to market under the Carquest banner – predominantly serves DIFM customers. As part of its operational review launched in August, Advance also announced a cost-cutting program that the company expects to generate at least $150 million in annualized savings. While Advance’s Q3 net sales were up 3% to $2.7 billion, the company reported negative cash flow through the first three quarters of 2023 – an outflow of $156.8 million. The cost-reduction program “will be primarily driven by simplifying our organizational structure, minimizing duplicative efforts and eliminating investments that are not core to supporting our frontline team members and customers,” O’Kelly said. O’Kelly noted that Advance plans to reinvest approximately $50 million from the cost-cutting program “to improve the retention of our frontline teams and ensure we have experienced team members to serve our customers.” “In fact, we began making changes to our frontline compensation structure in Q3 and are already seeing a reduction in turnover in targeted frontline roles,” he added. Advance Appoints New CFO Coinciding with its third-quarter earnings announcement, Advance announced the appointment of Ryan Grimsland as executive vice president and chief financial officer, effective Nov. 27. Tony Iskander, who has served as interim chief financial officer since August, will continue in his role as senior vice president, finance and treasurer. Grimsland, 46, brings more than 20 years of experience in corporate finance, treasury, financial planning and retail strategy and transformation. Most recently, Grimsland served as senior vice president, strategy and transformation at Lowe’s Companies. During his 17-year tenure at Lowe’s, he held leadership roles across all aspects of the finance organization, including senior vice president, corporate finance and treasurer; vice president, corporate financial planning and analysis; and vice president, stores finance. During Advance’s Nov. 15 conference call, O’Kelly said Grimsland “has a strong track record of driving organizational improvements while implementing best practices to resolve complex issues.” “In addition to our CFO announcement, we’ve taken action to streamline our management structure,” O’Kelly added. “We have reorganized parts of my leadership team and transitioned responsibilities for our marketing, merchandising and e-commerce functions to the appropriate leaders in our organization who will drive enhanced collaboration and accountability.” As part of that reorganization, Advance announced that it is eliminating the position of executive vice president, merchandising, marketing and e-commerce, currently held by Jason McDonell. McDonell will depart from the company effective Dec. 1. The post Advance to Spin Off Worldpac as Company Reports Operating Loss appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

In observance of Thanksgiving Day, Counterman will not be distributing its e-newsletter scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 23. Instead, Counterman will send the e-newsletter on Friday, Nov. 24. The staff of Counterman wishes you and your loved ones a wonderful Thanksgiving! The post Counterman on Holiday appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

In the almost 100 years of the Genuine Parts Company (GPC), parent company NAPA and Motion, it has had five CEOs. You can literally count them on one hand. With that brings “an incredibly consistent, powerful and longstanding culture” of being a solutions-oriented business for customers, said Will Stengel, president and COO of GPC. But, when COVID-19 hit, GPC was forced to rethink its usual strategies for getting the right part to the right customer at the right time. As a result, it underwent a technological revolution. “I think it’s fair to say any company that’s had success over decades needs to continuously challenge itself to improve,” Stengel told attendees at the MEMA Aftermarket Technology Conference in October. “What COVID did for GPC is prove that we could improve our business model, which we’ve done.” It started with hiring the right people. In 2021, GPC hired Naveen Krishna as its EVP and CIDO — the first technologist to run GPC’s IT department. Then, Susan Starnes, a former Lowe’s executive, became the company’s first vice president of emerging markets to help create innovative strategies for our business. The next step was to take GPC’s solutions-oriented approach to solving customer problems and apply technology to it. “All the fundamental elements of our business have a dedicated technology strategy behind it,” Stengel explained during the conference, held at GPC’s headquarters in Atlanta. “That lines up with this whole idea that tech is at the core of what we do and what we want to do.” GPC is one example of an aftermarket company that is no longer thinking of itself as strictly in the automotive and industrial space. Instead, its focus has shifted to become a technology company in the automotive aftermarket. If you ask Paul McCarthy, president and CEO of MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers, he thinks all companies should adopt that mindset. “Technology is driving our success, efficiency and our future. This is the reality for the aftermarket,” he said. “I’m issuing a call to action: a demand for innovation in our industry from suppliers.” Amid the discussion around technology trends, a common theme that surrounded innovation and efficiency was what we’re calling the buzzword of 2023: artificial intelligence. Like many industries, the automotive aftermarket is delving into AI and ways it can help businesses be more productive and effective as future mobility continues to inch closer to needing aftermarket solutions. AI Applications in the Aftermarket Picture this: You know when and where a repair is going to happen and can get the part that technician needs to the shop before the vehicle comes in for service. That is just one example of how AI can make our industry more efficient. But what exactly is AI? Tilak Kasturi, founder and CEO of Predii, a company that develops automotive-specific AI applications, said AI is the simulation of human intelligence processes by machines on certain business intelligence (BI), such as data, content, reports, etc. It utilizes machine learning, neural networks and natural language processing to do things such as recognize patterns, make decisions and judge like a human. “BI is aggregated data and analytics, such as market intelligence, sales forecasting, etc.,” he explained. “If you say ‘right time, right part, right place,’ that is BI, but ‘right part, right place, ahead of time’ is AI. Knowing beforehand requires some prediction ability.” David Brondstetter, a 40-year aftermarket veteran and CEO of SureCritic, an AI software that responds to customer reviews for repair shops, added that AI is applying algorithms to a data set to understand what is going to happen in the future. A good example is parts ordering. “If you’re able to predict that, let’s say an O2 sensor is nearing end of life, you can predictably set an appointment for that customer at the shop, get the part ordered, and then have the customer come in,” he said. “The problem with parts ordering right now is you rely on all these things to happen, and then you assume your customer’s going to come in.” Scott Brown, industry ambassador and co-founder of the Diagnostic Network, a digital resource and forum for technicians, said an example of how his company has used AI is in the form of AiDN, an AI-powered assistant. Brown said AiDN will detect a vehicle-specific discussion in a Diagnostic Network forum and will respond like a member of Scott’s team. “If you think about the deliverable and who it’s being delivered to, it can take an apprentice technician or middle-educated technician and get him started on the right pathway,” Brown said. “We will mature this technology and continue to train it on expert information. We think it will streamline [a technician’s] process of getting to a successful result faster in the future.” A Long Road Ahead While companies like Predii, SureCritic, Diagnostic Network and others are implementing AI for various solutions, industry experts say more work needs to be done. For example, access to good industry data, and education around the types of AI to use are critical. Data security and protecting your IP is another issue. Kaivan Karimi, global partner of strategy and cybersecurity at Microsoft, presented the concept of “responsible AI” at the Technology Conference as a guideline for businesses when experimenting with this technology. “There is the wild, wild West AI and then there is responsible, curated AI,” he said, adding that responsible AI is setting standards and guardrails around how you’ll use the tool while making sure your data is secure. “AI is a great productivity, tool, but people need to expect a set of standards when using it.” Knowing the correct AI tools to use comes down to working companies that specialize in industry data. For example, ChatGPT is not meant for industry specific data, said Predii’s Kasturi.” It can actually take you to the wrong path,” he said. When speaking about data and predicting when a part will fail, Right to Repair is at the heart of the aftermarket’s data access troubles. Vehicle telematics data is crucial for building out technology to predict when parts need replaced and the right way for a technician to fix a vehicle. “We know what the world looks like when there is real repair access,” McCarthy said. “Take the Phillips Connect trailer. Just with your brakes, it can tell you their performance, wear and exactly how much life is left in key components so that you can do the repair before something breaks. But this concept and this positive future is only possible with Right to Repair.” Cybersecurity is another big issue playing a part in using AI. Microsoft’s Karimi said securing your company’s data in each step can decrease data breaches and cybersecurity attacks. “You need to protect the factories, the lines, the cars, the enterprise, the network, the backends, the cloud, and then some security operation center at a center that ties the whole thing together,” he said. “Your strengths are only as good as the weakest link.” McCarthy added that if a Right to Repair law is passed, and safe, open connectivity is achieved, it can expand technology and services and improve forecasting and inventory for all involved along the supply chain. GPC’s Stengel added that for aftermarket companies, any technology—such as AI—must prove to make the industry companies more profitable, in addition to efficient. “We talk about data, we talk about digital, we talk about the role in which technology serves and improves the customer experience, but, ultimately, it’s got to drive a financial expression for the business, which is growth and operating profitability,” Stengel said. Industry Jobs of the Future With an exciting future in technology ahead, aftermarket companies may be forced to rethink roles at their companies. The question on many minds is “Will AI take my job?” The answer might surprise you, Karimi said. “When I give talks to engineers, and they ask, ‘Am I going to lose my engineering job?’ I say, You may lose your engineering job to another engineer who knows AI. You have to adopt AI as a tool. It’s a massive productivity gain. It’s around to stay.” As the use of data and AI applications increase, SureCritic’s Brondstetter thinks that data scientists are going to become more prominent in aftermarket organizations. “Before this rise of generative AI, most of the data scientists were working on normalizing data,” he said. “Now that we’re in a state where we’ve got computing power to handle all this data, these predictive algorithms can normalize the data and data scientists can work on tweaking the model. That’s where you get a real generative AI. I think that position will become more prominent because the core of AI is having data scientists who understand that.” Predii’s Kasturi said in his experience, automotive data analysts and experienced technicians are critical to ensuring AI’s future in the aftermarket. Skilled technicians, for example, can verify the results of generative AI models. “I see that as the future where technicians are hands-on, ratchet-and-wrench-type people, but also are powering some of these expert-based systems,” Kasturi said. “They know their data really well. They know their codes, they know their parts, they know the fix.” Brown agreed, adding that an aging or injured technician can now turn into a triage specialist that takes the AI and vehicle information, and then prepares a repair path plan and assigns it to the other technicians in the shop. “This new generation can hopefully rebirth our service industry,” he added. The post AI in the Automotive Aftermarket appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers recently recognized Dana Incorporated with its Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Award. The association presented the DEI Award to Dana at AAPEX in Las Vegas. “We are honored to accept this prestigious award and thank MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers for recognizing Dana’s efforts in creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment,” said Vanesa Badillo, Dana’s senior manager, talent development, who accepted the award on behalf of Dana. “At Dana, we continuously build upon our diverse strengths. Dana’s DEI strategy aims to cultivate a strong and inclusive culture where all our people have opportunities to thrive and reach their full potential.” To be considered for the MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers DEI award, a company must contribute to and operate in the automotive and commercial-vehicle aftermarket; have an existing internal DEI strategy and objectives in place that support the core values of DEI; have made an achievement either internally or externally to advance DEI in the aftermarket; and must be an established company of good repute and sound financial condition. “At Dana, we are proud to have leaders who challenge the status quo and address barriers to inclusion by reviewing and adjusting various employee and business policies and processes, such as publishing a supplier diversity policy,” Badillo added. “Dana focuses on accountability for inclusive behaviors at all levels of the organization. This leading phase of Dana’s DEI journey has made clear governance guidelines that establish DEI objectives and address barriers to inclusion through employee management processes.” The MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers DEI award recognizes the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion in the automotive aftermarket and celebrates those individuals and organizations who champion the spirit of DEI in their organizations and communities. MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers created the DEI Awards in 2021. Each year at AAPEX, MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers recognizes one individual from a member company and one member company who embody and advance the core values of diversity, equity and inclusion. The post Dana Receives MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers DEI Award appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The University of the Aftermarket Foundation (UAF) board of trustees has elected its officers for fiscal-year 2024. Veteran aftermarket executive Roger McCollum will serve as chairman of the foundation. McCollum replaces outgoing chairman Bob Egan, who has transitioned to the role of chairman emeritus. Chris Pruitt has taken on the role of secretary vacated by McCollum. The UAF board of trustees held an official confirmation vote on Oct. 28 during its meeting in Las Vegas. The approved slate of officers is as follows: Chairman – Roger McCollum, MAAP, The McCollum Family Senior vice chairman – John R. Washbish, MAAP, president and CEO, Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance Vice chairman – Larry Pavey, AAP, CEO, Automotive Parts Services Group Treasurer – William Maggs, MAAP, executive vice president, supply chain, Parts Authority Secretary – Chris Pruitt, president and CEO, East Penn Manufacturing and Flicker/Langdon/Pruitt Chairman emeritus – Bob Egan, MAAP, Egan & Associates Chairman emeritus – Rusty Bishop, AAP, leadership advisor, Federated Auto Parts Executive director – Jennifer Tio, MAAP, president, Maximum Marketing Services Inc. The following Lifetime Trustee representatives will serve on the University of the Aftermarket Foundation board of trustees in the coming year: Mohammed Al Fayyad, ACDelco Michelle Allen, Valvoline Bill Babcox, AAP, Babcox Media Corey Bartlett, Automotive Parts Headquarters Richard Beirne, MAAP, Richard and Lisa Beirne Jason Best, First Brands Group Marc Blackman, Gold Eagle Jeff Blocher, Mann + Hummel MHFT Fred Bunting, The Bunting Family Mike Buzzard, AAP, The Clay Buzzard Family Jeff Darby, Dorman Products Inc. John Del Vasto, Lucy and John Del Vasto Jon Ellsworth, Genuine Parts Company Chris Gardner, MAAP, MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers Duncan Gillis, BBB Industries LLC Larry Griffin, VIPAR Heavy Duty Todd Hack, MAAP, Mevotech Bill Hanvey, MAAP, Auto Care Association Tim Hardin, Epicor Software Corporation Todd Hertzler, Robert Bosch, LLC Tina Hubbard, HDA Truck Pride Michael Kitching, GB Remanufacturing Pete Kornafel, MAAP Jeffrey E. Koviak, AAP, DRiV Fletcher Lord III, AAP, Parts Warehouse/Crow Burlingame Paul McCarthy, MAAP, Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association Zach Miller, Highline Warren Mark O’Leary, SPS Commerce Rollie Olson, Rollie & Gayle Olson and Family Heather Preu, MAM Software Group Inc. Jacqueline Rodriguez, Parts Authority Robert Roos, The Pronto Network Ryan Samuels, AWDA Rick Schwartz, The Schwartz Family Robert M. Segal, MAAP, Sanel NAPA/The Segal Family Eric Sills, AAP, Standard Motor Products Bill Stroupe, KIAWA Education Foundation Tom Tecklenburg, AAP, Dayco Products LLC Jessica Toliuszis, Women in Auto Care Chuck Udell, MAAP, Morris/Rupp McCartney Education Trust of APSA Chris Williams, N.A. Williams Company Several more industry professionals will serve UAF in a variety of support roles, including Mike Blawas, audit committee; Anne Coffin, AAP, grants manager; Ryan Devine, MiX representative; Aldo Enriquez, marketing work group; Grace Hovis, YANG representative; Ted Hughes, AWDA liaison; George Keeley, legal counsel; Ken Marker, investment advisor; Steve Ng, Coffee Club work group; Nathan Perrine, comptroller; Joe Stephan, marketing committee; and Casey Ventrillo, investment advisor. The University of the Aftermarket Foundation is a 501(c) 3 not-for-profit organization. All contributions are tax-deductible to the extent provided by law. To make a donation, visit UofA-Foundation.org. To learn about available scholarships, and to apply online, visit AutomotiveScholarships.com or HeavyDutyScholarships.com. The post Roger McCollum to Serve as UAF Chairman appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The Volkswagen Group is utilizing DCC Pro electronically controlled shock absorbers from KYB Corp. to equip new Tiguan, Passat Variant, SKODA Superb and Kodiaq models. The new models are scheduled to hit the market in the first quarter of 2024. DCC Pro (Dynamics Chassis Control Pro) systems use double-valve shock absorbers to independently control the extension and compression oscillations caused by the car body and the wheel movements while driving. These valves react to road conditions and driving situations in a few milliseconds, according to KYB. The ECU activates the respective extension and compression solenoids to adjust independently the internal pressure of the shock absorber to suit road conditions and the driver’s preference (from comfortable to very sporty). The damping characteristics are automatically adjusted in a continuous way, which, in conjunction with the full independence between extension and compression movements, “brings the vehicle comfort and control to the highest level.” “This provides safe, dynamic maneuverability and an unprecedented ‘flying-carpet’ ride experience,” KYB adds. KYB and the VW Group have been working together for several years. Since collaborating on the Audi RS suspension, KYB and Volkswagen have cooperated extensively for the VW brand. “KYB will continue growing in advanced technologies that provide high added value to our customers in these challenging times for the automotive sector,” the company said in a news release. The post Volkswagen Adopts KYB Shock Absorbers for Various Models appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Niterra North America Inc. (formerly NGK Spark Plugs U.S.A. Inc.) announced that Michael Burchi has been appointed general manager of aftermarket and OE product. Burchi will step into the role vacated by Mark Boyle, who was recently promoted to PAMA regional general manager of product. “Mike has been a Niterra associate for over five years and has made significant contributions to the product team during his time with the company, managing product lifecycles, reducing global costs and analyzing key customer KPIs,” said Kirt Denman, director of aftermarket.”In his new role, Burchi will oversee the aftermarket and OE product, business intelligence, content, customer support and training/technical services for the U.S. and Canada.” Burchi graduated from Michigan State University with a B.A. in International Relations Economics. He has spent his career in automotive product management, specializing in situation analysis, product strategy and executive summaries to streamline decision-making. Burchi also has expertise in data analytics. “I am excited to step into this new role,” said Burchi. “I know my background and expertise will allow me to lead these teams into a sustainable future of innovation and growth.” The post Niterra Appoints Burchi to GM of Aftermarket and OE Product appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Tri-State Enterprises announced the appointment of David Prater as executive vice president, corporate development. Prater will lead Tri-State’s acquisition efforts as it looks to expand into new markets, and will manage vendor relations and purchasing, the company said. “I am extremely happy to welcome David Prater to the Tri-State team,” said Tristan Taylor, CEO of Tri-State Enterprises. “Tri-State has a lot of history with David through our affiliation with Parts Plus. He has always been a valued adviser and I am confident that his addition will help us identify companies that share Tri-State’s values and we hope to add some of those companies to the Tri-State family.” Before joining Tri-State, Prater served as president of the Automotive Distribution Network, and spent more than 20 years as its executive vice president. In his previous role, he managed purchasing, marketing, sales and technology. “I am honored to join Tri-State Enterprises. I have known the Tri-State team for years and watched them grow into the company they are today,” said David Prater. “I look forward to assisting them in taking the Tri-State model into new areas of country.” The post Tri-State Hires David Prater as EVP Corporate Development appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Lumileds received the Best New Tool for Repairs Award for its Philips Xperion 6000 UV Pillar work light from the Import Vehicle Community at AAPEX in Las Vegas. “We designed the Philips Xperion 6000 UV Pillar as a multi-purpose work light that helps technicians save time, money and space in their tool chest,” noted Aubry Baugh, Lumileds senior manager, aftermarket marketing leader, NA. “This innovative light features three light sources: a main light rated CRI95 for color matching; a 180-lumen spotlight; and a very handy UV inspection light for critical repair jobs. The Xperion 6000 UV Pillar is three lights in one and allows techs to carry a single tool.” Featuring an articulating LED panel for precise beam placement, a swiveling hook and powerful magnetic base, the Xperion 6000 UV Pillar can be placed in nearly any location or position to deliver light exactly where it is needed. The light features a rechargeable lithium battery for exceptional battery life, according to the company, and it’s compatible with the Philips multi-dock recharging station. If the light is ever misplaced, technicians can find it anywhere in the shop by making it beep and flash with the optional Philips “Find My Device” key fob. Designed to withstand the demands of automotive repair work, the Xperion 6000 UV Pillar is rated IP65 against intrusion by fluids and IK07 against impacts. The ABS rubber surfaces retain excellent grip, even in the presence of grease and oil, according to the company. The post Philips Work Light Earns Best New Tool for Repairs Award appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Litens Aftermarket recently announced the addition of eight new SKUS for overrunning alternator decouplers (OADs) and one SKU for overrunning alternator pulley (OAPs) to its product lineup, offering coverage for more than 1 million vehicles in operation (VIO). The new SKUs include late-model coverage for popular Ford, Hyundai, Buick, Nissan and Honda models. The decision to expand the OAD product line is a direct response to the growing demand in the market, with approximately half of registered vehicles now equipped with an OAD, according to Litens. As these vehicles reach the aftermarket “sweet spot” for replacement parts, “Litens is committed to ensuring that technicians and consumers have access to the right replacement parts.” OE belt-drive systems on vehicles built with an OAD are specifically engineered to accommodate the functionality of an OAD and should never be substituted with a solid pulley or a one-way clutch. Ensuring that technicians and customers have access to the proper replacement parts is crucial to maintaining the longevity of a vehicle’s belt-drive system components. “As the inventors of the OAD, Litens has played a pivotal role in allowing contemporary alternators to meet the heightened performance and efficiency requirements that underpin the modern driving experience we all enjoy today,” said Scott Howat, national sales manager, Litens. “We believe it is our responsibility to provide technicians and consumers with the essential parts required to maintain the vehicle throughout its entire lifespan.” Litens developed the OAD to meet the demands of improved performance and efficiency in alternators, particularly in late-model vehicles. It achieves this through two design elements that mechanically set it apart from traditional solid pulleys: an internal torsion spring and a one-way clutch mechanism. The OAD contributes to the optimal performance of the alternator system by providing essential features such as vibration damping, stable belt tension and protection against reverse rotation. Substituting an OAD with any other pulley compromises these critical functions and can lead to adverse effects, including increased friction, potential belt slippage and an elevated risk of component failure, ultimately undermining the reliability and performance of the entire belt drive system. For more information on Litens Aftermarket and OADs, visit www.litensaftermarket.com/oaddecoupler. The post Litens Expands OAD, OAP Coverage appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Right to Repair has notched another victory. On Nov. 7, Ballot Question 4 in Maine asked this question: “Do you want to require vehicle manufacturers to standardize on-board diagnostic systems and provide remote access to those systems and mechanical data to owners and independent repair facilities?” At press time, more than 80% of Maine voters had answered “yes,” ensuring that vehicle owners and the independent repair shops of their choice can access the diagnostic tools and data necessary for routine repairs. “The result of [Tuesday’s] election in Maine proved another victory for the American consumer and the Right-to-Repair movement that is gaining support across the United States,” said Bill Hanvey, president and CEO of the Auto Care Association. “The right to repair is one of a few unifying issues our nation faces, and whether we achieve repair access chamber by chamber or state by state, I am confident that every American will soon have the fundamental right to repair what belongs to them. Right to repair isn’t going away and this victory demonstrates that it’s an issue that needs to be resolved.” The Maine vote comes after movement on the federal level to advance the Right to Equitable and Professional Auto Industry Repair (REPAIR) Act (H.R. 906). Last week, a House Energy and Commerce subcommittee unanimously voted to advance the bipartisan REPAIR Act to the full committee for consideration. “Maine voters’ overwhelming show of support for Question 4 adds momentum to the growing national push for right-to-repair protections,” CAR Coalition Executive Director Justin Rzepka said. “The CAR Coalition will continue this important fight at the federal level with bipartisan bills like the SMART and REPAIR Acts to ensure every American – no matter where they live – has the right to repair the car they own.” Meanwhile, John Bozzella, president and CEO of the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, said the results in Maine were “disappointing but hardly surprising.” “Out-of-state, big-box auto retailers – that don’t speak for independent auto repairers – spent nearly $5 million trying to scare Mainers into thinking that the right to repair their vehicles was going away,” Bozzella said in a statement. “It will not go away. Automotive Right to Repair already exists. Mainers can get their vehicle repaired anywhere, anytime, anyplace. That was true yesterday, and it’s true today and tomorrow.” Tommy Hickey, director of the Maine Automotive Right to Repair Coalition, told the Portland Press Herald that the next step is to meet with Maine’s attorney general and help guide the state on the best approach for implementing the law. In the news article, Hickey called Maine and Massachusetts the “godfathers” of the Right-to-Repair movement. The post Right to Repair Triumphs in Maine Referendum appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Fenix Parent LLC, operating as Fenix Parts, a Hurst, Texas-based recycler and reseller of OEM automotive parts, announced it has completed its acquisition of the assets of Brothers Auto Parts in Indianapolis. Brothers is a full-service automotive recycler servicing the Indianapolis market. This is Fenix Parts’ sixth acquisition in the Midwest, bringing Fenix’s location count to 24 full-service and five self-service locations. “We are pleased to announce the acquisition of Brothers and excited about the addition of its experienced and talented team to the Fenix family,” said Bill Stevens, CEO of Fenix Parts. “This acquisition expands our Midwest footprint westward and leverages our existing Midwest distribution network to increase regional production. With a location in the ‘Crossroads of America,’ Fenix gains distribution and logistics access to multiple Midwestern markets as we continue to grow our business.” Stevens added: “I want to give a special welcome to the team at Brothers. Brothers has been in the auto-recycling business for over 35 years, and we are excited to have Jeremiah Johnson join Fenix to support our continued growth in the area as our general manager of Fenix Parts Indianapolis.” Fenix Parts continues to pursue opportunities that align with its strategic-development plans. Current auto-recycling owners interested in learning more about Fenix’s acquisition process should contact the company at [email protected]. The post Fenix Parts Completes Acquisition of Brothers Auto Parts appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Dayco announced that the company is taking steps “to become the preferred solution provider for front-end-drive-system components.” With 140 part numbers being introduced in the coming months as well as a strategic effort to have specific top-selling parts guaranteed in stock, Dayco is focused on ensuring coverage is readily available for popular vehicle makes and models, the company said. The “Top Movers” project will ensure that Dayco’s top high-volume part numbers are always in stock for distributors. The operations team is enhancing Dayco’s warehouse-management system by creating a new safety-stock policy as well as consolidating different orders to the same shipment, reducing complexity, costs and order cycle times, according to the company. “We have the right team in place to help us re-establish our position in the market,” said Tom Tecklenburg, VP of Dayco N.A. Aftermarket. “Our key focus this past year has been on improving our fill rates and analyzing any possible gaps in our core product offerings – belts, kits and components. The Top Movers initiative and new coverage we’re introducing build on a commitment to our customers to help drive sales among the shops they serve, and to ensure top movers are always available so we can deliver the right part at the right time.” The initiative also includes bringing to market 140 new part numbers during Q1 2024. Dayco’s line of light-duty serpentine-belt kits will grow by eight part numbers, for a total of 105 SKUs, focusing on high-VIO applications including popular last-mile delivery fleet vehicles. Timing-chain kits will increase by nine SKUs. Serpentine belts will increase by 4 SKUs for an increase in VIO coverage of 2.3 million. In addition, Dayco is launching more than 40 SKUs for tensioners, water pumps and pulley to enhance coverage for fast-moving applications. Hoses also continue to see line adjustments, with 80 SKUs launching in 2023 for an additional 54 million in VIO coverage. The line includes two new branched hoses for super-duty Ford diesel trucks. For additional details, distributors should contact their Dayco sales representative. The post Dayco Unveils ‘Top Movers’ Initiative appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Continental announced that the NightViu premium line of professional driving and working lights will be made available to consumer markets, including off-road enthusiasts, recreational vehicles (RVs) and marine. Originally designed for use on construction, mining and off-highway equipment, “the NightViu lighting line provides a level of rugged design, durability and performance not normally seen in consumer-lighting products,” according to Continental. Built to withstand extreme temperatures, vibration, dust and moisture, NightViu lights feature advanced LED technology that provides excellent lighting performance and exceptional energy efficiency, according to the company. NightViu driving lights provide a focused beam of light for long-distance illumination. They’re ideal for applications such as desert/rally racing or any activity where maximum beam distance is required, Continental noted. NightViu working lights provide beams that are shorter but wider. This makes them suitable for applications such as rock crawling, lighting up pickup beds and sport fishing boats. “The NightViu line was created for some of the toughest applications you can imagine including mining, construction and agriculture,” said Edwin Betancourt Jr., product manager, Continental. “Some might consider them over-engineered for consumer applications, but we believe there are folks out there who simply want the best they can get for their lighting. That’s why we’ve decided to make NightViu available for off-road enthusiasts, RV owners, and others who want a professional level light source for their off-road activities. These lights can be used for ATVs, UTVs and SUVs, as well as Jeeps, snowmobiles, work trucks and even riding lawnmowers and go-karts. The build quality and housing seals make them suitable for marine applications as well including blue-water cruising and fishing.” NightViu working lights are available in a choice of ultra-wide, wide, flood and spot beam patterns. Each of the beam patterns is offered in a choice of 1,500, 2,500, 3,500 and 4,500 lumen performance for a total of 16 lights in the NightViu range of working lights. NightViu driving lights are available in a variety of designs and configurations including five light bars, three multifunctional lights and two reversing lights. They provide up to 5,500 lumens and a beam field length of up to 440 meters. The lights feature free-form curved reflectors that direct the light beam exactly where it’s needed. NightViu Lights are built to withstand temperatures ranging from minus 40 F to 194 F and are rated IP68 for ingress protection (IP) from dust and water. They produce approximately 100 lumens per watt and have been designed to ensure that they do not create electrical interference that could affect the vehicles existing electronics. The post Continental NightViu Lighting Available to Consumers appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Epicor introduced two solutions that enable parts distributors and vehicle service/repair businesses to predict likely future demand based on sophisticated new data models. The new solutions, Epicor Predictive Inventory Assistant (PIA) and Predictive Maintenance Assistant (PMA), were on display at the company’s booth at AAPEX 2023 in Las Vegas. Epicor PIA and PMA leverage the power of the Epicor aftermarket product content engine and connected data network, which together provide visibility into more than 1 billion individual part transactions and more than 140 million vehicle repair events per year, according to the company. Epicor data scientists combined this channel visibility with predictive modelling and leading-edge deployment technologies to deliver real-time parts inventory and service/repair intelligence to two of the industry’s most important decision points. “These exciting new solutions harness the power of data to help customers not only have the right parts at the right place at the right time, but also to anticipate and address future sales and service opportunities,” said Tim Hardin, Epicor senior vice president of global automotive, data, and extend services. “The resulting ‘Insight Advantage’ empowers Epicor customers to think big and grow faster by being significantly more efficient and providing a great customer experience.” Epicor Predictive Inventory Assistant Epicor PIA is the industry’s first intelligent inventory-management solution, according to Epicor, providing stocking recommendations based on aggregated financial information from “stores like you.” PIA uses machine-learning technologies to intelligently cluster similar stores based on a variety of dimensions, such as growth score, size, local car parc and geographical location/urbanization level. PIA ranks part numbers and makes “add” recommendations of specific parts not currently in the user’s inventory, but which are driving revenue growth at other, similar stores. “Predictive Inventory Assistant adds an entirely new layer of intelligence to existing inventory modeling solutions by factoring in store and market characteristics that, until now, required detailed study and input from distributor and store personnel,” Hardin said. “PIA enables these businesses to continually and easily optimize their inventories to match emerging demand.” Epicor Predictive Maintenance Assistant Epicor PMA is the only solution that enables service and repair providers to predict future repairs for any popular passenger vehicle, according to the company. The solution puts real-time, AI-enriched forecasts at the fingertips of vehicle service professionals as they are writing estimates, interacting with technicians, and advising their customers. “Imagine taking your vehicle to a tire dealership for new tires and being informed that there’s a good chance you will experience a water pump failure in the near future. This holistic vehicle repair intelligence can help shops dramatically strengthen customer confidence and trust, and ultimately, accelerate profitable growth,” Hardin said. Epicor PMA uses web “listener” and MicroStrategy HyperCard technologies to generate vehicle-specific service ranking reports that are presented via the user’s mobile device or web browser. The service writer or other user can click on the HyperCard to access a comprehensive PMA service dossier covering replacement rate information for more than 100 part and service types specific to the customer’s vehicle year/make/model/engine. This instant repair intelligence offers value at the service desk, in guiding vehicle inspections, deploying repair reminders, selling extended warranties, and when consulting customers who are considering the purchase of a used vehicle, among other situations. “Because they have so many choices, today’s digitally enabled consumers often need additional reasons to return to and trust a vehicle service provider,” Hardin said. “Epicor Predictive Maintenance Assistant enables shops to differentiate themselves through data-driven intelligence that helps take the guesswork out of the car ownership and repair experience.” The post Epicor Introduces Predictive-Analytics Solutions appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Raybestos recently announced the launch of the all-new Raybestos R-Line+ rotor. The R-Line+ rotor features a chemically resilient, resin-modified material on the hat and edges. This provides protection against rust and corrosion caused by harsh environmental conditions, according to Raybestos. In addition to its enhanced corrosion resistance, Raybestos says the R-Line+ rotor features: Superior surface finish for consistent braking Low initial lateral run-out and disc-thickness variation for smooth, vibration-free braking Advanced metallurgy for structural strength and heat transfer OE vane design and plate thickness for heat capacity and strength Precision balance for vibration-free performance The new line will feature new packaging – a sleek black box with a graphic side label for easy identification. The post Raybestos Introduces R-Line+ Brake Rotor appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Continental has added eight new part numbers to its line of OEM knock sensors. The sensors are the same part that the vehicle manufacturer uses and deliver the exact fit, form and function as the original part, ensuring an easy installation and long service life, according to Continental. The eight new part numbers provide application coverage for some of the most popular domestic, European and Asian makes and models on the road today. The expanded line covers Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, Infiniti, Jeep, Lincoln, Mercedes-Benz, Mercury, Nissan and Ram models ranging from 2000 to 2023. The new sensors provide coverage for 28.8 million vehicles in operation (VIO) in the United States and 2.4 million vehicles in Canada. “Our newly expanded line was developed to meet the growing need for reliable knock sensors on some of the most common vehicles on the road today,” noted Brendan Bachant, Continental product manager for engine management and fuel. “The original sensors can be prone to failure due to mechanical damage, excessive vibration, high engine temperatures, and corrosion. Continental has made these OEM sensors available to the aftermarket so that professional technicians can easily and confidently service the most common vehicles in the shop, like the Ford F-150 and Explorer, the Jeep Wrangler and the Nissan Maxima and Altima. Technicians can be confident when choosing the Continental knock sensor that they will avoid comebacks.” Knock sensors are designed to detect engine ping caused by pre-ignition and relay the information to the electronic control unit to adjust engine timing and help keep the engine running smoothly. These sensors are an ideal repair for a rough-running engine with a timing and knock-sensor fault code and will help shops to restore the performance of their customers’ vehicles to OE specifications, according to Continental. Continental knock sensors are built in ISO-certified facilities to deliver the highest level of dependability, the company noted. The post Continental Expands Line of OEM Knock Sensors appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

WIX Filters announced the winners of the 2023 “Win with WIX” installer promotion, which took place from June 27 through Aug. 25. Installer customers who switched to WIX-branded filters and placed a qualifying opening order received a complete in-shop POS kit, and were automatically entered into the sweepstakes. The installer winners received this year’s grand prize for them and a guest, which included VIP WIX private-suite seating at the Bank of America ROVAL 400 NASCAR Series Cup race at Charlotte Motor Speedway on Oct. 8. In addition, they were given an exclusive tour of the Hendrick Motorsports museum and the WIX manufacturing facility in Gastonia, North Carolina. The 2023 winners were Alan Starkey, owner of Starkey Auto Care in Omaha, Nebraska; and Corey Cusack, owner of Corey’s Tyhee Automotive in Pocatello, Idaho. In addition to the installer winners, the WD sales representative and WIX sales representative that were responsible for the new WIX business earned the right to also attend the VIP race weekend along with a guest. The WD winners were Tyler Schott of Arnold Motor Supply in Omaha, Nebraska; and Hoss Prestwich of National Performance Warehouse (NPW) of Idaho Falls, Idaho. The WIX sales team winners were Robin Saunders of Omaha, Nebraska; and Tony Liston of Salt Lake City. “This promotional and sweepstakes program was an opportunity for us to cultivate new customers in a fun and engaging way,” said Tina Davis, senior WIX marketing & brand manager. “We got to show our appreciation to new WIX installers who are on the front line of the auto industry. It was a great pleasure to spend time with our customers and show them some southern hospitality in Charlotte for the weekend. We look forward to more fun and engaging promotions in the year ahead.” To learn more about WIX filters, please contact a local sales representative or visit wixfilters.com. The post WIX Filters Announces Promotion Winners appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Since the 1920s, AP Emissions Technologies has focused on products and people. It started when John Goerlich acquired the patent rights to a muffler company and founded Associated Parts in Toledo, Ohio. It continued as Vange Proimos and his family entered the business in the 90s, strategically expanding through acquisitions. In January this year, the company experienced another strategic shift. Marmon, a Berkshire Hathaway Company with hundreds of manufacturing and service businesses, acquired the company. Despite change, longtime company executives, along with Proimos, are proud that AP Emissions Technologies’ core values, integrity and rich heritage continue as the team looks to leverage the backing of a global organization like Marmon. Expanding investments in automation and R&D capabilities to introduce new products are top priorities on the list. “Our spirit of entrepreneurism continues with Marmon,” says Gary Nix, a 28-year company veteran who heads the emissions side of the business. “We have nearly 1,000 stakeholders across multiple sites bonded together by unique values and a culture all dedicated to serving the customer. Marmon’s emphasis to accelerate investments in technology and their global resources will take us to the next level.” The AP Emissions Technologies team sat down with aftermarketNews to share what will be changing in the coming years and how Marmon’s investment in the company is ensuring its strong future. Increased Manufacturing for a Larger Footprint Today, AP provides the market with a full assortment of automotive exhaust and emissions technologies. It has vertically integrated manufacturing, a large footprint and an executive team with over 100 years of automotive aftermarket experience combined. Steve Nuneviller, executive vice president of finance and accounting, said the company has had consistent growth year over year in top-line revenue and bottom-line earnings. Rich Biel, president of AP Emissions Technologies and longtime Marmon executive, says those attributes, including those that Proimos instilled, and a “listen to what the customer wants and the rest takes care of itself” philosophy are what attracted Marmon to AP. “From catalytic converters to exhaust tailpipes and everything in between, AP is unmatched in product quality, coverage and depth,” he says. “AP hits all the strategic objectives within Marmon’s automotive aftermarket group. They’re characterized by a large market with strong barriers of entry and are growing at a healthy rate with high-margin, non-discretionary products.” Nuneviller said with AP and Marmon having common goals, the new ownership transition has been seamless. “These [Marmon executives] are aftermarket folks that get the business,” he says. “They know who the customers are, who the vendors are and what they provide us. The AP and Marmon partnership makes so much sense and has been great for the company and its employees.” Jayme Farina, executive vice president, adds that one thing that will never change is AP’s focus on serving its customers. “We have believed in giving our customers the right product in a timely manner and at a competitive price for decades,” Farina says. “Marmon shares those same principles and our passion for innovation will drive us to stay at the forefront in the emissions space.” One important aspect of Marmon’s backing is that each company is autonomous, Biel says. “We have to have the best coverage, most new products and best cost basis to deliver value to our customers,” Biel says. “Marmon’s vision is to support its companies with the resources needed to deliver this formula.” Nix adds: “Marmon brings strength and support to every facet of the business, whether it’s manufacturing technologies related to automation, IT, systems, leveraged distribution or long-term financial investments. They have the expertise in every one of these areas to help build a stronger AP.” Vertically Integrated and Data-Driven From the start, AP has been a nimble company—another aspect that attracted Marmon Holdings. AP’s ability to change quickly based on the needs of the marketplace and its customers is rare in an organization of its size. It has nine brands serving a multitude of distribution channels, specialty markets, wholesale markets, retail and e-commerce. The company sells a whopping 15,000 parts for all makes and models, ensuring that it has what customers need. AP has been able to do this thanks to its vertically integrated manufacturing process. It starts with the purchase of millions of pounds of steel brought in through the port of Wilmington, North Carolina, nearby the company’s distribution center in Goldsboro. From there, AP makes the individual parts for specific products: They coat their own catalyst substrates on state-of-the-art, fully automated, vacuum-controlled equipment that optimizes expensive precious metals. They roll and weld their own tubing, stamp parts, bend pipes and assemble mufflers—with ever-expanding automation to remain cost competitive. “It’s all done in-house,” Nix explains. Because AP has U.S.-based manufacturing and makes many of its own components for its products, supply chain complexities are diminished. In addition, with R&D teams and tooling engineers integrated into the manufacturing process, the company can respond quicker to changes in the market. Data plays a big part in allowing the company to change on a dime. The company’s business sales, tracking, planning, scheduling and production software make sure every step is measured. The results are used to ensure that AP is making the right parts for in-demand applications. “OEM research, video data, catalog content—they’re all rich sources for information to help steer our teams in the right direction to deliver the right parts on time,” Nix adds. Doing Whatever it Takes for the Customer At the core of AP Emissions’ values is service to the customer. The company’s promise of quality, coverage and delivery revolves around the customer experience. From manufacturing to delivery, AP vows to produce quality parts for whatever job customers may encounter—whether it’s for the performance, passenger car or commercial market—that are delivered on time through a high-service supply chain. “Our goal is to understand the voice of the customer and to provide solutions to them when they need it,” says Biel. “We’re a company and management team that cares about its people and its community, which includes our customers and our vendor community,” said Yusef Ewais, executive vice president of human resources. “At AP, we are proud of our strong culture. Our culture is based on three important pillars: trust, respect and collaboration.” Sales representatives on the ground give AP an edge when it comes to staying up to date on products. Henry Hippert, vice president of sales, says AP’s national sales force—experts in emissions and exhaust—have nearly 400 years of experience in the field combined. Glenn Barco, vice president of sales, credits AP’s culture of innovation, urgency and “doing it right” for the way its team interacts with the aftermarket and its valued customers. “Relationships are paramount here at AP,” Barco says. “Every one of our experienced sales team members are dedicated to problem solving and increasing our customer’s market share.” Farina and Biel agree that AP’s people are the engine that keeps the company running. “They come in every day with a smile on their face and do their job with pride,” Farina says. “We have a culture that inspires the team and builds on each other’s strengths.” The post AP Emissions Is Investing for the Future appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Raybestos recently launched a brand-new website featuring an enhanced user experience. The website is designed for easier navigation with updated content and an overall sleek new design, First Brands Group noted. Raybestos products now are organized by type to easily navigate between friction; drums and rotors; calipers; hydraulics; hardware; hub assemblies; and racing & performance parts. The new website also features an entirely new parts-finder function to help users search and filter parts for their vehicle in a matter of seconds. Other resources include technical service bulletins and how-to-videos to provide continuous educational content about Raybestos brakes. The post Raybestos Launches Updated Website appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article