APF

Aug. 30, 2017—eBay announced the availability of Online Repair Manuals for over 80 percent of vehicles on the road. The manuals are available as an add-on purchase whenever a customer buys a part or accessory on eBay Motors, according to eSeller Cafe. "With Online Repair Manuals, we are taking the shopping experience one step further for our buyers by providing them with the parts and resources—including expert instructions—that can help shoppers make their rides an extension of their unique individuality and meet their needs," said Todd Madeiros, vice president of eBay Motors Parts & Accessories. Once purchased, Online Repair Manuals are accessible via an access code sent by email. eBay’s Online Repair Manual program is a time limited subscription service. Buyers will have the choice to purchase access to them for 14 days, 90 days, or a full year. The addition of Online Repair Manuals follows a continuing development of vehicle fitment data, item specifics for the parts and accessories categories, and expansion for a new tire installation service. Today, eBay Motors Parts & Accessories is one of the largest automotive marketplaces with some of the widest selection of parts and accessories. Unlike traditional auto parts stores, eBay Motors Parts & Accessories offers more than just new parts. The category features many used, refurbished, performance, and rare spare parts offered by professional sellers and individual car enthusiasts. eBay did not provide pricing information on the new Online Repair Manuals. Source: https://www.ratchetandwrench.com/articles/5150-ebay-motors-adds-online-repair-manuals-for-parts-accessories

Down for maintenance it looks like...

According to Twitter, Advance Auto Parts has launched a new website that enhances the usability and mobile responsiveness of their shopping experience. Check out the mobile version link and screenshots below https://m.advanceautoparts.com/

Nearly four decades ago, AutoZone opened its first store. This Friday, it will celebrate another milestone: the debut of store No. 6,000. Auto parts giant AutoZone Inc., founded in 1979 as Auto Shack by J.R. “Pitt” Hyde III, will debut its 6,000 store at 2761 Kirby Road, Friday. Aug. 26 in the company’s hometown — Memphis. Auto parts giant AutoZone Inc., founded in 1979 as Auto Shack by J.R. “Pitt” Hyde III, will debut its 6,000 store at 2761 Kirby Road, Friday. Aug. 26 in the company’s hometown — Memphis. “Obviously, our home is Memphis, but that relationship exists in 50 states,” said Tom Newbern, executive vice president of store operations and commercial for AutoZone. “We invest in the local community wherever we are ... but most of our team here at the store support center are from Memphis. We all consider ourselves Memphians, and we just appreciate the support that the community has given us.” Newbern joined AutoZone 32 years ago as a part-time employee at store No. 110, located at the corner of Hickory Hill Road and Winchester Road. Newbern described his path from part-time retailer to EVP of store operations as a three-decade evolution. Most of the company’s leadership, especially on the operations side, he said, has a store background. “Staying close to the customer has always been very important to AutoZone,” Newbern said. “Having that experience with direct customer interaction is part of our culture. In fact, it is required — even if you are coming from somewhere outside of Memphis or outside of AutoZone — that you spend time working in the store, regardless of whether you are coming in as a lawyer or an accountant or project manager. It doesn’t matter — you are required to work in the store.” The company averages about 200 new brick-and-mortar stores per year, 150 of which are in the U.S. with the remaining in Puerto Rico, Mexico and Brazil. Newbern said they are always looking for additional opportunities, not only in the U.S. but around the globe. “The difference in us and some of the international players is we’re looking for countries where our model — the same model we have successfully executed in the U.S. — works and appeals to the population there,” Newbern said. “So, starting with a very good, heavy DIY business because that is our expertise.” But this weekend, it's Memphis where the company will celebrate its historic milestone with a two-day, public celebration. Festivities start Aug. 25 at 11 a.m. at the new Kirby Road location with a ribbon cutting by some of AutoZone’s executive leadership, music from the Grizzline and an appearance by the Memphis Redbirds mascot, Rockey. NASCAR driver Alex Bowman will also be in attendance with KIX 106. The party continues Saturday, Aug. 26, at the AutoZone store at 5945 Winchester Road from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. AutoZone will provide giveaways to attendees both days, and a Mid-South Food Bank donation drive will also be occurring. “We have been on a very steady glide path with regards to growth for years and years, and very consistent growth … but the importance of [the 6,000 store] being in Memphis really matters to us,” Newbern said. “That relationship between us and the community of Memphis, the leadership of the City of Memphis, has been very important to AutoZone starting with [founder] Pitt Hyde in our decision 20 years ago to build our store support center Downtown. And, if you were Downtown 20 years ago, we were the only ones here. Again, just another example of making sure the community realizes that we appreciate it.” Source: https://www.bizjournals.com/memphis/news/2017/08/22/autozone-to-celebrate-retail-milestone.html

AC Delco parts catalog is located at this link: http://parts-catalog.acdelco.com/catalog/catalog_search.php Their catalog will give you only AC Delco part numbers which you can then search for at retailers and online suppliers. Make sure you spot check AMAZON AC Delco Parts as there are many sellers that use the marketplace to sell AC Delco auto parts.

The ArcticPRO ACX1180C refrigerant handling system from MAHLE Service Solutions is the premier SAE-certified unit to service heavy-duty vehicles that use R-134a refrigerant. The ArcticPRO ACX1180C is the OEM heavy-duty commercial option from MAHLE Service Solutions’ ACX1180 series. Easy to service and maintain, MAHLE says the ACX1180C is designed to increase technician productivity due to its fully-automatic program to recover, vacuum, leak test and charge without command for ease of operation. The ACX1180C also features an integrated test function that allows the user to capture a before-and-after service snapshot to ensure proper A/C system service functionality. High-pressure leak detection and liquid refrigerant flushing are standard high-performance features essential for heavy-duty service, according to MAHLE. In addition to recovering more than 95 percent of heavy-duty A/C system refrigerant, the ACX1180C features a high capacity 50-lb internal DOT cylinder to service larger commercial vehicles (as compared to the typical 30-lb cylinder in automotive version recovery machines). The unit also includes a 5 CFM vacuum pump, an integrated printer, an ambient humidity sensor, three temperature sensors, four pressure sensors, a vacuum micron sensor providing greater system diagnostic capabilities, a factory-installed heater belt and is hybrid certified. MAHLE Service Solutions is currently offering a promotion that includes a free unit cover for customers who purchase an ACX1180C machine between Aug. 7 and Sept. 30. The ACX1180C meets stringent certification requirements, including SAE J2788, SAE J2099 and UL 1963, and is backed by a two-year parts and labor warranty. ArcticPRO ACX1180C Refrigerant Handling System Part Number: 460 80390 00 FEATURES R134a. Fully recover and recharge in any climatic condition. Vacuum Leak Test. Monitors level after evacuation, informs of possible leak. Automatic Air Purge. Eliminates contaminated air without monitoring gauges or opening valves. Shock-Mounted Load Cells. Ensures stable calibration and charge accuracy.. Automatic Oil Drain. Display reminds you to empty the graduated container and shows the amount of oil to replace. Ergonomic. Designed with unobstructed accessibility for easy maintenance. Hybrid Function. Capable of servicing high voltage electric compressor A/C systems. 20' Cable Temp Probes. Monitor performance of the A/C unit through A/C vents. 50 Lb Internal Tank. Large enough for HD service. Factory-Installed Heater Belt. Heats cylinder to raise refrigerant pressure enabling you to charge during any climatic condition. On-Board Integrated Thermal Printer. Print to USB (for standard paper) allows user to store "before and after" service information by vehicle and print information for the customer. OPTIONAL FEATURES ECO Lock Quick Couplers. Engineered to prevent gas dispersion into the environment. Database. Reliable and high-quality vehicle database included for latest A/C service information. Integrated Identifier. Refrigerant identifier to avoid costly cross contamination. Sample filter clearly visible for inspection. Automatic Dye Injection. Detects leaks without additional UV dye handling. Integrated Hose Flushing. Eliminates need for additional or loose adapters. Available on Amazon for $6,568.34 For more information about MAHLE Aftermarket Service Solutions, visit servicesolutions.mahle.com.

Source: http://www.foxbusiness.com/markets/2017/08/22/lg-to-open-michigan-plant-to-make-electric-car-parts.html LG Electronics said Tuesday it will spend $25 million to open a U.S. plant for manufacturing electric vehicle components. The 250,000-square-foot building is located in Hazel Park, Michigan, a suburb of Detroit. When it opens next year, the plant will create at least 292 jobs in Hazel Park and an expanded research and development center in nearby Troy. The Michigan government is providing a four-year, $2.9 million capital grant for the project. “LG’s initiative to develop and produce world-class EV components in the United States represents a key pillar of our strategy to be the best technology partner to U.S. automakers,” said Ken Chang, head of the LG Vehicle Components North American Business Center. LG said vehicle components are the company’s fastest-growing business. Auto-related revenue jumped 43% year-over-year to $1.5 billion during the first half of 2017, driven by LG’s supplier agreement with General Motors (GM) for the new Chevrolet Bolt electric vehicle.

Source: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2017-08-16/amazon-looms-over-icahn-and-starboard-s-auto-parts-retailer-bets Activist investors targeting auto-parts retailers are taking hits to their investments, and Amazon isn’t helping. When hedge fund Starboard Value LP disclosed a stake in Advance Auto Parts Inc. in 2015, it said the stock, then at $171, could more than double. The retailer’s shares have instead nearly halved since then, after warning weak sales will continue for an industry that’s also drawn interest from billionaire Carl Icahn. Advance Auto’s peers O’Reilly Automotive Inc. and AutoZone Inc. also have also plunged this year amid disappointing demand. SOURCE: BARCHART Perhaps the biggest bogeyman weighing on the shares is Amazon.com Inc., which sent shockwaves across the retail industry in June with its $13.7-billion acquisition of Whole Foods Market Inc. The online juggernaut has also been making inroads with autos, launching a car-research site and a parts marketplace last year. While car-part distributors -- with their technical expertise, trove of components and ability to quickly deliver to mechanics -- are more insulated from e-commerce than other retailers, though they’re not invincible. “We fear an increased level of price transparency -- these companies either more aggressively price or promote their products to drive the same level of sales growth,” Seth Basham, an analyst at Wedbush Securities, said of the auto-parts retailers. “I don’t think it’s a primary driver of what’s been hurting same-store sales in the industry this year, but that doesn’t mean there can’t be a bigger impact going forward.” Investor Interest The more immediate challenges dragging on the industry include economic uncertainty for low-income customers, higher gas prices and warmer weather that has eased the wear and tear on consumers’ cars, Advance Auto Chief Executive Officer Tom Greco said Tuesday. Starboard’s view is that Amazon is a mild headwind -- at most -- to the industry, a person familiar with its strategy said. The New York-based hedge fund is pleased with Advance Auto’s efforts to cut costs and bolster its online presence and sees earnings improving early next year, said the person, who asked not to be identified because the matter is private. Further encroachment by online rivals could pose a threat to industry profit margins that are in excess of 20 per cent -- part of what initially drew investors like Starboard and Icahn to the aftermarket parts business. With the average age of vehicles on American roads approaching 12 years, investors also are betting an older vehicle fleet will mean more repairs and parts replacement. To capture that expected growth, Icahn has strung together several companies that deal in automotive parts, including service and retail chain Pep Boys, Auto Plus and parts supplier Federal-Mogul. For now, e-commerce represents a sliver of the $277-billion aftermarket parts business, according to estimates from Wedbush and the Auto Care Association, an industry trade group. Online sales were about $11-billion last year, with EBay Inc.’s roughly 40-per-cent share being the largest, Wedbush estimates. Amazon had about a 25-per-cent share, though it’s growing at a rapid clip, Mr. Basham said. Amazon Encroaches Amazon launched the Amazon Automotive store in 2006 and has been expanding its inventory since then. It’s added a parts-finder filter that lets shoppers enter the make and model of their cars to find the correct parts. “We’re continually expanding our selection and improving the customer experience with things like our Part Finder, Amazon Garage and, most recently, Amazon Vehicles,” a company spokeswoman said in an email. Icahn Automotive, which owns Pep Boys and Auto Plus, and Starboard declined to comment. Spokespersons for O’Reilly, AutoZone and Advance Auto also declined to comment. In trying to assess the potential threat from Amazon and other online parts sellers like RockAuto and EBay, analysts are honing in on retailers’ exposure to the consumer-facing “do-it-yourself” market, as opposed to the “do it for me” approach in which retailers sell to professional mechanics. The do-it-yourself market could be more vulnerable because consumers who aren’t in a hurry to buy a new wiper blade or spark plug may go online to find the cheapest price. DIY Slowdown The do-it-yourself segment already is lagging, according to the Auto Care Association, which estimates sales will grow at a compound annual rate of 3.8 per cent in the five years ending in 2017, compared with a 4.4-per-cent increase for the do-it-for-me market. The slower growth also is a reflection of cars getting increasing complex and loaded with technology, which contributes to more repairs necessitating technicians, said Behzad Rassuli, senior vice president of strategic development at the Auto Care Association. Some bumpers, for instance, now are built with embedded sensors that need to be properly calibrated. “The opportunity for the consumer to repair their own vehicle has been dwindling,” Mr. Rassuli said. Mr. Icahn said as much when speaking about his acquisition of Precision Auto Care Inc. in June, the latest addition to his chain of auto-repair shops. He’s also planning to take advantage of higher utilization of cars driven by the growth of ride-hailing businesses, he told the Wall Street Journal in an interview at the time. Greg Henslee, O’Reilly’s CEO, has said the impact of companies like Amazon will be limited because they will struggle to sell component to consumers who don’t know what’s wrong with their car. Online retailers “will continue to take a little bit of market share here and there,” Mr. Henslee said on an earnings call in February. “I don’t see them nearly as one of our most prominent competitors.” Digital Experience Even if their expertise diagnosing car troubles offers some protection, traditional parts retailers still are under pressure to improve their digital experience, especially since a buyer will often go online to ensure a part is in stock before picking it up at a store. Advance Auto is investing heavily in technology to ensure a “consistent experience every time, both in-store and online,” Mr. Greco said on the company’s earnings call Tuesday. He told analysts consumers will have a “faster and more frictionless experience” online. If you’re a parts retailer, “you’re definitely concerned,” Wedbush’s Basham said. “You’re thinking about ways to defend your turf and to capitalize on the way consumers are changing their behaviour.”

Parts Authority has announced the acquisition of World Auto Parts. World Auto Parts has been a supplier of high-quality replacement parts for the past 36 years with three stores in the Cleveland area. “The combination of Parts Authority and World Auto Parts gives us a strong presence in the marketplace and it expands our national and regional footprints,” said Randy Buller, CEO of Parts Authority. “For Parts Authority, World Auto Parts delivers professional team members, great customers and a successful building block to grow from.” The three locations will immediately be integrated with Parts Authority’s computer system and the current staff of World Auto Parts will continue to run the operations under the direction of Parts Authority. For more information on Parts Authority, visit partsauthority.com. Source: http://www.aftermarketnews.com/parts-authority-acquires-world-auto-parts-ohio/

http://www.federatedcc.com/ The Federated Car Care Center Program is a nationwide network of independently-owned repair facilities. Federated Car Care Centers can take care of all of your preventative maintenance and repair needs, both import and domestic, older or the latest models. You can trust your car to the Federated Car Care Professional who is conveniently located and provides exemplary service at competitive price Federated Car Care Centers employ highly qualified, ASE certified technicians for all repair services and install brand name, quality parts that meet or exceed OE specifications. Federated Car Care Centers are also well trained in the latest repair and diagnostic procedures and maintain state-of-the-art equipment to diagnose and repair the latest models. Federated Auto Parts: http://www.federatedautoparts.com

ARMINGTON HILLS, Mich. – Ride Control, maker of Gabriel shocks and struts, announced the launch of a new training menu on the Gabriel website. An expansion of the Answerman Tech Line, the new training page include videos, technical bulletins, online catalogs and FAQs for light- and heavy-duty vehicles. “The convenience and resources from the new training menu have received a lot of positive feedback,” said Jonathon Gore, director of marketing at Gabriel North America. “We are dedicated to keeping our customers educated about our products. By expanding our Answerman page to a full menu of resources and training options, we strive to provide as much education as possible.” The new training menu is divided into two sections: light-vehicle training and heavy-duty training. Each section includes a series of training videos to help dealers and installers better-sell Gabriel shocks and struts, as well as to ensure their proper handling and optimum performance. The menu also provides FAQs to provide a variety of information to dealers, installers and consumers. Technical bulletins and the Answerman Tech Line will educate Gabriel customers on product installation and safety, inspection, proper disposal and the best fit for a vehicle in question, along with many other useful topics, according to Ride Control. The new training menu also accepts field-training requests for Gabriel ride-control on-site product training. Here, Gabriel customers can request custom Gabriel product-knowledge training at their operation, based on availability. Training participants can include parts managers, mechanics or outside sales personnel. The full online PDF catalog for light-vehicle and heavy-duty ride-control products is available for dealers and customers to choose the best possible option for their sale. Gabriel’s interactive Part Lookup is available on the home page for quick and easy instant online search by application or part number. To learn more about Gabriel’s online training resources, click the Training menu tab at gabriel.com. Source: http://www.counterman.com/gabriel-introduces-new-website-training-resources/

Topic moved to Advance Auto Parts Forum

Q2 sales increased year over year to $2.26 Billion. Comparable store sales flat. Year to date free cash flow more than doubled versus prior year. Year to date operating cash flow grew 28% versus prior year. ROANOKE, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aug. 15, 2017-- Advance Auto Parts, Inc. (NYSE: AAP), a leading automotive aftermarket parts provider in North America, that serves both professional installer and do-it-yourself customers, today announced its financial results for the second quarter ended July 15, 2017. Second quarter GAAP earnings per diluted share (Diluted EPS) were $1.17. Second quarter Adjusted earnings per diluted share (Adjusted EPS) were $1.58, which excludes $0.41 of non-GAAP adjustments. Second Quarter Performance Summary Twelve Weeks Ended Twenty-Eight Weeks Ended July 15, 2017 July 16, 2016 July 15, 2017 July 16, 2016 Q2 BPS Inc (Dec) Sales (in millions) $ 2,263.7 $ 2,256.2 $ 5,154.6 $ 5,235.9 Comp Store Sales % 0.0 % (4.1 %) (1.5 %) (2.8 %) Gross Profit (in millions) $ 993.1 $ 1,010.3 $ 2,263.8 $ 2,360.1 Gross Profit (% sales) 43.9 % 44.8 % 43.9 % 45.1 % (91 ) SG&A (in millions) $ 846.4 $ 793.6 $ 1,937.3 $ 1,872.5 SG&A (% sales) 37.4 % 35.2 % 37.6 % 35.8 % 222 Adjusted SG&A (in millions) (1) $ 797.6 $ 767.1 $ 1,863.3 $ 1,802.0 Adjusted SG&A (% sales) 35.2 % 34.0 % 36.1 % 34.4 % 123 Operating Income (in millions) $ 146.7 $ 216.7 $ 326.5 $ 487.7 Operating Income (% sales) 6.5 % 9.6 % 6.3 % 9.3 % (312 ) Adjusted Operating Income (in millions) (1) $ 195.5 $ 243.1 $ 400.4 $ 558.2 Adjusted Operating Income (% sales) 8.6 % 10.8 % 7.8 % 10.7 % (214 ) Diluted EPS $ 1.17 $ 1.68 $ 2.63 $ 3.82 Adjusted EPS (1) $ 1.58 $ 1.90 $ 3.18 $ 4.41 Average Diluted Shares (in thousands) 74,093 73,835 74,093 73,842 (1) For a better understanding of the Company's adjusted results, refer to the reconciliation of non-GAAP adjustments in the accompanying financial tables in this press release. “We delivered sales growth and continued to close the comp sales performance gap versus the industry in Q2 while more than doubling year to date Free Cash Flow. Our revised guidance for the year incorporates the impact of industry headwinds in the first half, which we expect to continue in the second half of the year and we are taking the appropriate actions to adapt to this environment. We’ve now assembled a world class leadership team that is executing our transformation plan to significantly drive growth and long term shareholder value,” said Tom Greco, President and Chief Executive Officer. Second Quarter 2017 Highlights Total sales for second quarter came in at $2.26 Billion, a 0.3% increase vs. the prior year period. Comparable store sales for the quarter were flat. The Company's Gross Profit margin decreased 91 basis points year over year to 43.9%. The decline was primarily driven by the non-cash accounting impact of the planned inventory reduction as well as the increase in supply chain costs, unfavorable mix and commodity headwinds. These factors were partially offset by the Company’s efforts to drive favorable material cost performance. The non-cash accounting impact of the year over year inventory reduction was 26 basis points in Q2. Excluding the non-cash accounting impact of the inventory reduction, the Company’s Gross Profit margin decreased 65 basis points year over year. The Company has purchased inventory at higher costs in the past, which are reflected in the balance sheet on a LIFO basis. In addition, under accounting rules certain supply chain costs associated with inventory have been capitalized. As the Company reduced the inventory, these costs moved from the balance sheet and generated a non-cash negative impact to gross margin. As we continue to reduce inventory, it will improve cash flow, but there will continue to be a non-cash negative impact to gross margin. Adjusted SG&A was 35.2% of sales, a 123 basis point increase year over year. The increase was primarily driven by investments in customer focused strategies. In addition, higher medical and insurance expenses and support center costs related to increased personnel costs also contributed to the increase. The Company's GAAP SG&A increased 222 basis points versus the prior year. The Company's Adjusted Operating Income of $195.5M (8.6% margin) declined 214 basis points versus prior year, primarily driven by the declines in gross profit and SG&A factors described above. Excluding the non-cash impact of the inventory reduction the Adjusted Operating income would have been $207.3M (9.2% margin), a decline of 188 basis points on a year over year basis. On a GAAP basis, the Company's Operating Income declined 312 basis points. Operating cash flow increased approximately 28.3% to $267.3 million through the second quarter of 2017 from $208.4 million through the second quarter of 2016. Free cash flow was $145.0 million through the second quarter of 2017 compared to $70.5 million through the second quarter of 2016 primarily driven by inventory reduction efforts. 2017 Annual Outlook The Company provided the following update to its full fiscal year 2017 guidance: New Stores 60-65 new stores Comparable Store Sales -3% to -1% Adjusted Operating Income Rate 200 to 300 basis points year over year reduction Income Tax Rate 37.5% to 38.0% Integration & Transformation Expenses Approximately $100 to $150 million Capital Expenditures Approximately $250 million Free Cash Flow Minimum $300 million Diluted Share Count Approximately 74 million shares The Company expects to continue reducing inventory levels to improve cash flow, and therefore will experience the associated non-cash accounting gross margin headwinds. Excluding the non-cash impact of the year over year inventory reduction which is estimated to be 75 basis points, the year over year reduction on Adjusted Operating income rate is expected be 125 basis points to 225 basis points. Dividend On August 10, 2017, the Company's Board of Directors declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.06 per share to be paid on October 6, 2017 to stockholders of record as of September 22, 2017. Investor Conference Call The Company will detail its results on a conference call scheduled to begin at 8 a.m. Eastern Time on Tuesday, August 15, 2017, which will be made available concurrently on the Company’s website, www.AdvanceAutoParts.com. The call is also available by dialing (877) 704-4453 or (201) 389-0920 if calling internationally. A replay of the conference call will be available on the Advance website for one year. About Advance Auto Parts Advance Auto Parts, Inc. is a leading automotive aftermarket parts provider that serves both professional installer and do-it-yourself customers. As of July 15, 2017, Advance operated 5,073 stores and 131 Worldpac branches and employed 73,000 Team Members in the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The Company also serves approximately 1,250 independently owned Carquest branded stores across these locations in addition to Mexico and the Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, British Virgin Islands and Pacific Islands. Additional information about the Company, employment opportunities, customer services, and on-line shopping for parts, accessories and other offerings can be found on the Company's website at www.AdvanceAutoParts.com. Forward Looking Statements Certain statements contained in this release are forward-looking statements, as that term is used in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements address future events or developments, and typically use words such as believe, anticipate, expect, intend, plan, forecast, outlook or estimate. These forward looking statements include, but are not limited to, key assumptions for 2017 financial performance including adjusted operating income; statements regarding expected growth and future performance of Advance Auto Parts, Inc. (AAP), including store growth, capital expenditures, comparable store sales, gross profit rate, SG&A, adjusted operating income, inventory levels, free cash flow, income tax rate, General Parts integration costs, transformation costs and adjusted operating income rate targets; expectations regarding leadership changes and their impact on the company’s strategies, opportunities and results; statements regarding enhancements to shareholder value; statements regarding strategic plans or initiatives, growth or profitability; statements regarding productivity targets; and all other statements that are not statements of historical facts. These forward-looking statements are subject to significant risks, uncertainties and assumptions, and actual future events or results may differ materially from such forward-looking statements. Such differences may result from, among other things, AAP’s ability to implement its business and growth strategy; ability to attract, develop and retain executives and other employees; changes in regulatory, social and political conditions, as well as general economic conditions; competitive pressures; demand for AAP’s products; the market for auto parts; the economy in general; inflation; consumer debt levels; the weather; business interruptions; information technology security; availability of suitable real estate; dependence on foreign suppliers; and other factors disclosed in AAP’s 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016 and other filings made by AAP with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. AAP intends these forward-looking statements to speak only as of the time of this communication and does not undertake to update or revise them as more information becomes available. Advance Auto Parts, Inc. and Subsidiaries Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (in thousands) (unaudited) July 15, 2017 December 31, 2016 Assets Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 257,230 $ 135,178 Receivables, net 680,503 641,252 Inventories 4,293,367 4,325,868 Other current assets 95,115 70,466 Total current assets 5,326,215 5,172,764 Property and equipment, net 1,431,294 1,446,340 Goodwill 993,916 990,877 Intangible assets, net 618,879 640,903 Other assets, net 67,109 64,149 $ 8,437,413 $ 8,315,033 Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity Current liabilities: Accounts payable $ 2,937,096 $ 3,086,177 Accrued expenses 629,088 554,397 Other current liabilities 32,143 35,472 Total current liabilities 3,598,327 3,676,046 Long-term debt 1,043,690 1,042,949 Deferred income taxes 438,782 454,282 Other long-term liabilities 228,337 225,564 Total stockholders' equity 3,128,277 2,916,192 $ 8,437,413 $ 8,315,033 NOTE: These preliminary condensed consolidated balance sheets have been prepared on a basis consistent with our previously prepared balance sheets filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, but do not include the footnotes required by generally accepted accounting principles, or GAAP, for complete financial statements. Advance Auto Parts, Inc. and Subsidiaries Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations Twelve and Twenty-Eight Week Periods Ended July 15, 2017 and July 16, 2016 (in thousands, except per share data) (unaudited) Q2 2017 Q2 2016 YTD 2017 YTD 2016 Net sales $ 2,263,727 $ 2,256,155 $ 5,154,565 $ 5,235,933 Cost of sales 1,270,639 1,245,898 2,890,793 2,875,787 Gross profit 993,088 1,010,257 2,263,772 2,360,146 Selling, general and administrative expenses 846,377 793,573 1,937,281 1,872,463 Operating income 146,711 216,684 326,491 487,683 Other, net: Interest expense (13,921 ) (14,021 ) (32,351 ) (32,964 ) Other income, net 3,169 6,244 7,982 9,367 Total other, net (10,752 ) (7,777 ) (24,369 ) (23,597 ) Income before provision for income taxes 135,959 208,907 302,122 464,086 Provision for income taxes 48,910 84,307 107,113 180,673 Net income $ 87,049 $ 124,600 $ 195,009 $ 283,413 Basic earnings per share (a) $ 1.18 $ 1.69 $ 2.64 $ 3.84 Average shares outstanding (a) 73,848 73,576 73,810 73,476 Diluted earnings per share (a) $ 1.17 $ 1.68 $ 2.63 $ 3.82 Average diluted shares outstanding (a) 74,093 73,835 74,093 73,842 (a) Average shares outstanding is calculated based on the weighted average number of shares outstanding during the quarter or year-to-date period, as applicable. At July 15, 2017 and July 16, 2016, we had 73,862 and 73,613 shares outstanding, respectively. NOTE: These preliminary condensed consolidated statements of operations have been prepared on a basis consistent with our previously prepared statements of operations filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, but do not include the footnotes required by GAAP for complete financial statements. Advance Auto Parts, Inc. and Subsidiaries Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows Twenty-Eight Week Periods Ended July 15, 2017 and July 16, 2016 (in thousands) (unaudited) July 15, 2017 July 16, 2016 Cash flows from operating activities: Net income $ 195,009 $ 283,413 Depreciation and amortization 135,200 139,265 Share-based compensation 19,938 9,142 (Benefit) provision for deferred income taxes (16,006 ) 11,454 Other non-cash adjustments to net income 6,212 1,012 Net change in: Receivables, net (37,012 ) (57,241 ) Inventories 41,923 (236,403 ) Accounts payable (153,750 ) 11,611 Accrued expenses 91,333 51,488 Other assets and liabilities (15,498 ) (5,301 ) Net cash provided by operating activities 267,349 208,440 Cash flows from investing activities: Purchases of property and equipment (122,364 ) (137,920 ) Proceeds from sales of property and equipment 1,311 1,293 Other, net 20 (2,430 ) Net cash used in investing activities (121,033 ) (139,057 ) Cash flows from financing activities: (Decrease) increase in bank overdrafts (4,202 ) 13,656 Net borrowings (payments) on credit facilities — (34,500 ) Dividends paid (13,363 ) (13,291 ) Proceeds from the issuance of common stock 2,281 2,222 Tax withholdings related to the exercise of stock appreciation rights (6,230 ) (12,489 ) Repurchase of common stock (3,303 ) (12,179 ) Other, net (2,027 ) (224 ) Net cash used in financing activities (26,844 ) (56,805 ) Effect of exchange rate changes on cash 2,580 1,467 Net increase in cash and cash equivalents 122,052 14,045 Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 135,178 90,782 Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 257,230 $ 104,827 NOTE: These preliminary condensed consolidated statements of cash flows have been prepared on a consistent basis with previously prepared statements of cash flows filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, but do not include the footnotes required by GAAP for complete financial statements. The Company retrospectively adopted ASU 2016-09 in the first quarter of 2017, which resulted in a reclassification of $15,535 of excess tax benefits related to share-based compensation from financing activities to operating activities in the comparable period of last year. Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures The Company's financial results include certain financial measures not derived in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). Non-GAAP financial measures should not be used as a substitute for GAAP financial measures, or considered in isolation, for the purpose of analyzing our operating performance, financial position or cash flows. However, the Company has presented these non-GAAP financial measures as management believes that the presentation of its financial results that exclude non-cash charges related to the acquired General Parts intangibles and non-operational expenses associated with i) the integration of General Parts, ii) store closure and consolidation costs and iii) transformation expenses under our strategic business plan is useful and indicative of its base operations because the expenses vary from period to period in terms of size, nature and significance and relate to the integration of General Parts and store closure activity in excess of historical levels. These measures assist in comparing the Company's current operating results with past periods and with the operational performance of other peer companies in its industry. The disclosure of these measures allows investors to evaluate the Company’s performance using the same measures management uses in developing internal budgets and forecasts and in evaluating management’s compensation. Included below is a description of the expenses the Company has determined are not normal, recurring cash operating expenses necessary to operate the Company’s business and the rationale for why providing these measures is useful to investors as a supplement to the GAAP measures. General Parts Integration Expenses - As disclosed in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Company acquired General Parts International, Inc. (“General Parts”) for $2.08 billion on January 2, 2014 and is in the midst of a multi-year integration plan to integrate the operations of General Parts with Advance Auto Parts. This includes the integration of product brands and assortments, supply chain and information technology. The integration is being completed in phases and the nature and timing of expenses will vary from quarter to quarter over several years. The integration of product brands and assortments was primarily completed in 2015 and the focus shifted to integrating the supply chain and information technology systems. Due to the size of the acquisition, the Company considers these expenses to be outside of its base business. Therefore, the Company believes providing additional information in the form of non-GAAP measures that exclude these costs is beneficial to the users of its financial statements in evaluating the operating performance of the base business and its sustainability once the integration is completed. Store Closure and Consolidation Expenses - Store closure and consolidation expenses consist of expenses associated with the Company’s plans to convert and consolidate the Carquest stores acquired from General Parts. The conversion and consolidation of the Carquest stores is a multi-year process that began in 2014. As of July 15, 2017, 719 Carquest stores acquired from General Parts had been consolidated into existing Advance Auto Parts stores format. While periodic store closures are common, these closures represent a major program outside of the Company’s typical market evaluation process. The Company believes it is useful to provide additional non-GAAP measures that exclude these costs to provide investors greater comparability of its base business and core operating performance. The Company also continues to have store closures that occur as part of its normal market evaluation process and has not excluded the expenses associated with these store closures in computing the Company’s non-GAAP measures. Transformation Expenses - The Company expects to incur a significant amount of expenses over the next several years as it transitions from its integration plan to a transformation plan that involves a complete transformation and integration of the entire company. During the second quarter, the Company completed a significant restructuring of its field structure and streamlined other support center functions to better position the Company to deliver on its growth and profitability priorities. The Company recognized severance and other costs in the second quarter related to these actions. In addition, the Company incurred professional services for assistance in its strategic business plan efforts, including its productivity agenda that the Company expects to start producing significant savings in the second half of 2017. The Company has included a reconciliation of this information to the most comparable GAAP measures in the following tables. Reconciliation of Adjusted Net Income and Adjusted EPS: Twelve Week Periods Ended (in thousands, except per share data) Twenty-Eight Week Periods Ended (in thousands, except per share data) July 15, 2017 July 16, 2016 July 15, 2017 July 16, 2016 Net income (GAAP) $ 87,049 $ 124,600 $ 195,009 $ 283,413 SG&A adjustments: GPI integration and store consolidation costs 6,919 17,002 19,783 48,355 GPI amortization of acquired intangible assets 9,124 9,459 21,403 22,121 Transformation expenses 32,753 — 32,753 — Other income adjustment (a) (502 ) — (8,878 ) — Provision for income taxes on adjustments (b) (18,351 ) (10,055 ) (24,723 ) (26,781 ) Adjusted net income (Non-GAAP) $ 116,992 $ 141,006 $ 235,347 $ 327,108 Diluted earnings per share (GAAP) $ 1.17 $ 1.68 $ 2.63 $ 3.82 Adjustments, net of tax 0.41 0.22 0.55 0.59 Adjusted EPS (Non-GAAP) $ 1.58 $ 1.90 $ 3.18 $ 4.41 Reconciliation of Adjusted Selling, General and Administrative Expenses: Twelve Week Periods Ended (in thousands) Twenty-Eight Week Periods Ended (in thousands) July 15, 2017 July 16, 2016 July 15, 2017 July 16, 2016 SG&A (GAAP) $ 846,377 $ 793,573 $ 1,937,281 $ 1,872,463 SG&A adjustments (48,795 ) (26,461 ) (73,939 ) (70,476 ) Adjusted SG&A (Non-GAAP) $ 797,582 $ 767,112 $ 1,863,342 $ 1,801,987 Reconciliation of Adjusted Operating Income: Twelve Week Periods Ended (in thousands) Twenty-Eight Week Periods Ended (in thousands) July 15, 2017 July 16, 2016 July 15, 2017 July 16, 2016 Operating income (GAAP) $ 146,711 $ 216,684 $ 326,491 $ 487,683 SG&A adjustments 48,795 26,461 73,939 70,476 Adjusted operating income (Non-GAAP) $ 195,506 $ 243,145 $ 400,430 $ 558,159 (a) The adjustment to Other income for the twelve and twenty-eight weeks ended July 15, 2017 relates to income recognized from an indemnification agreement associated with the acquisition of General Parts. (b) The income tax impact of non-GAAP adjustments is calculated using the estimated tax rate in effect for the respective non-GAAP adjustments. Reconciliation of Free Cash Flow: Twenty-Eight Week Periods Ended July 15, 2017 July 16, 2016 Cash flows from operating activities $ 267,349 $ 208,440 Purchases of property and equipment (122,364 ) (137,920 ) Free cash flow $ 144,985 $ 70,520 NOTE: Management uses free cash flow as a measure of our liquidity and believes it is a useful indicator to stockholders of our ability to implement our growth strategies and service our debt. Free cash flow is a non-GAAP measure and should be considered in addition to, but not as a substitute for, information contained in our condensed consolidated statement of cash flows. Adjusted Debt to Adjusted EBITDAR: (In thousands, except adjusted debt to adjusted EBITDAR ratio) Four Quarters Ended July 15, 2017 December 31, 2016 Total debt $ 1,044,108 $ 1,043,255 Add: Capitalized lease obligation (Rent expense * 6) 3,246,204 3,221,202 Adjusted debt 4,290,312 4,264,457 Operating income 626,406 787,598 Add: Adjustments (a) 77,009 72,828 Depreciation and amortization 254,332 258,387 Adjusted EBITDA 957,747 1,118,813 Rent expense (less favorable lease amortization of $2,732 and $3,498, respectively) 541,034 536,867 Adjusted EBITDAR $ 1,498,781 $ 1,655,680 Adjusted Debt to Adjusted EBITDAR 2.9 2.6 (a) The adjustments to the four quarters ended July 15, 2017 include General Parts integration, store consolidation costs and transformation expenses of $77.0 million. The adjustments to Fiscal 2016 include General Parts integration and store consolidation costs of $72.8 million. NOTE: Management believes its Adjusted Debt to Adjusted EBITDAR ratio (“leverage ratio”) is a key financial metric for debt securities, as reviewed by rating agencies, and believes its debt levels are best analyzed using this measure. The Company’s goal is to maintain a 2.5 times leverage ratio and investment grade rating. The Company's credit rating directly impacts the interest rates on borrowings under its existing credit facility and could impact the Company's ability to obtain additional funding. If the Company was unable to maintain its investment grade rating this could negatively impact future performance and limit growth opportunities. Similar measures are utilized in the calculation of the financial covenants and ratios contained in the Company's financing arrangements. The leverage ratio calculated by the Company is a non-GAAP measure and should not be considered a substitute for debt to net earnings, net earnings or debt as determined in accordance with GAAP. The Company adjusts the calculation to remove rent expense and capitalize the Company’s existing operating leases to provide a more meaningful comparison with the Company’s peers and to account for differences in debt structures and leasing arrangements. The use of a multiple of rent expense to calculate the adjustment for capitalized operating lease obligations is a commonly used method of estimating the debt the Company would record for its leases that are classified as operating if they had met the criteria for a capital lease or the Company had purchased the property. The Company’s calculation of its leverage ratio might not be calculated in the same manner as, and thus might not be comparable to, similarly titled measures by other companies. Store Information: As of July 15, 2017, the Company operated 5,073 stores and 131 Worldpac branches and served approximately 1,250 independently owned Carquest stores. The below table summarizes the changes in the number of the company-operated stores and branches during the twelve and twenty-eight weeks ended July 15, 2017. AAP AI CARQUEST WORLDPAC Total April 22, 2017 4,312 182 565 130 5,189 New 13 4 3 1 21 Closed (1 ) — (2 ) — (3 ) Consolidated — — (3 ) — (3 ) Converted 57 — (57 ) — — July 15, 2017 4,381 186 506 131 5,204 December 31, 2016 4,273 181 608 127 5,189 New 21 5 6 4 36 Closed (5 ) — (4 ) — (9 ) Consolidated (3 ) — (9 ) — (12 ) Converted 95 — (95 ) — — July 15, 2017 4,381 186 506 131 5,204 View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20170815005367/en/ Source: Advance Auto Parts, Inc. Advance Auto Parts, Inc. Media Contact Laurie Stacy, 540-561-1206 [email protected] or Investor Relations Contact Prabhakar Vaidyanathan, 919-227-5466 [email protected] Source: http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=130560&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=2293882

The BWP151 BL-Spec 1/2” Drive brushless impact wrench is a heavy-duty, high-torque tool, powered for productivity, and designed for the automotive professional. Manufactured with a glass-filled nylon housing, the BWP151 is built to withstand corrosive automotive solvents and fluids common to the automotive repair environment. And best of all, the BWP151 is now proudly made in the USA at our Charlotte, North Carolina plant with global materials.

Luber-finer®, a leading brand in heavy duty filtration since 1936, is pleased to introduce a new mobile app that makes identifying the right filtration technology for light commercial and heavy-duty applications - and locating where to obtain it - both easy and convenient. The new app, which can be downloaded for free on iOS and Android™ powered smart phones and tablets, puts all of the information users need to find a Luber-finer filter right at their fingertips. "For people who work in the heavy-duty industry, searching for filters via a desktop PC isn't always convenient," said Layne Gobrogge, Director of Heavy Duty Marketing. "The new app provides drivers, technicians, fleet maintenance managers and parts distributors the tools they need to quickly look up filter parts and search for Luber-finer distributors who carry them." The new Luber-finer app features a user-friendly display that is optimized for viewing and interaction on mobile devices. Designed to be streamlined and practical, the app offers users these tools: Online Parts Catalog: Search the parts catalog to find the part number and specification details for any Luber-finer lube/oil, fuel/water, air, hydraulic, coolant or cabin air filter. Part Search: Type a Luber-finer part number into the app to obtain a part description, part dimensions and vehicle compatibility information. Cross Reference: Type the part number of another brand's filtration product into the cross-reference tool to obtain a part number and part description for a comparable Luber-finer filter. Distributor Locator: Type in a ZIP code and select a mile radius to find nearby distributors. Save Favorite Searches: Save frequently used part and distributor searches by clicking a star on the part or distributor search results page. Quickly access these favorite searches in the future from a "Favorites" tab. Download the app by searching "Luber-finer" in the Apple App Store® or in the Google™ Play Store. Luber-finer® - Built To Do More. For more information on Luber-finer heavy duty filtration products, please contact your Luber-finer sales representative, visit www.luberfiner.com or call (800) 851-3641. You can also follow Luber-finer on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube.

AnzoUSA Performance Lighting RockAuto now carries the full line of AnzoUSA performance lighting: Cornering Lamps, Fog/Driving Lamps, Headlamps, High Mounted Brake Lights, Parking/Turn Signals, Roof Marker Lamps, Side Marker Lamps and Tail Lamps. With over four decades of manufacturing experience and German TÜV quality certification, AnzoUSA lighting is known worldwide for providing durability and innovative styling at an affordable cost. All AnzoUSA lights are: Designed, tested and built using CAD/CAM in a state-of-the-art ISO 9002 and QS 9000 quality certified factory to ensure seamless installation and precise fit. SAE and D.O.T. compliant, delivering both excellent illumination and appearance. Durability tested for impact strength, watertight seal (both fresh and salt water) and abrasive dust/dirt resistance. RockAuto has AnzoUSA performance lighting products for everything from a 1993 Ford Mustang to a 2002 GMC Yukon to a 2012 Honda Civic…To see the performance lighting we have for your vehicle, go to the RockAuto catalog and click on the “Body” category.

New RockAuto Mobile Site! It is now easier than ever to find and order auto parts from your mobile device with RockAuto.com’s new mobile catalog! The mobile catalog offers the same huge selection and reliably low prices as the desktop computer catalog, but it is optimized for smart phones and tablets with features including: Simplified navigation to part descriptions, part photos, Cart and Help. A side alphabet for quicker access to vehicle make: tap "C" for Cadillac, tap "M" for Mazda... A handy Menu (quick access to your account) and a Search Bar at the top make it easy to head in the right direction. Try out our new mobile catalog by visiting RockAuto.com via your smart phone or tablet! You can also see the new mobile catalog from a desktop (It will be jumbo sized!) by clicking "Mobile Site" in the bottom right corner of RockAuto.com.

CARSON, Calif., Aug. 10, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- U.S. Auto Parts Network, Inc. (NASDAQ: PRTS), one of the largest online providers of aftermarket automotive parts and accessories, reported results for the second quarter ended July 1, 2017. All information and data are from continuing operations, which exclude the AutoMD operating segment unless specifically noted. Second Quarter 2017 Financial Summary vs. Year-Ago Quarter Net sales increased 3% to $80.2 million compared to $78.0 million. Gross margin was 29.0% compared to 30.4%. Net income was $26.9 million, or $0.67 per diluted share, compared to $1.2 million or $0.03 per diluted share. Adjusted EBITDA (a non-GAAP measure defined below) was $3.8 million compared to $4.0 million. Ended the quarter with no revolver debt. Second Quarter 2017 Operational Highlights vs. Year-Ago Quarter Total online orders increased by 11% to 954,000 orders. Conversion rate increased 20 basis points to 2.0%. Customer acquisition cost reduced by 7% to $6.99. Management Commentary "Our second quarter was highlighted by the return to double-digit growth in our private label business, largely driven by a 37% increase in online marketplace sales," said Aaron Coleman, CEO of U.S. Auto Parts. "Despite lower sales in our e-commerce channel, we still increased overall sales and grew total online orders by 11%, while improving conversion and reducing customer acquisition cost. "We are continuing to experience a shift in channel mix this year, with our lower-margin online marketplace channel gaining momentum and our e-commerce channel experiencing lower traffic. We are addressing these channel dynamics with various initiatives, including a new e-commerce traffic optimization strategy and prudent cost management across the entire organization, which is further reflected by the 130 basis point reduction of operating expenses. "Looking ahead to the remainder of 2017, we expect the deployment of these initiatives to help drive improved results as we exit the year. But regardless of the sales channel, we plan to continue capitalizing on industry tailwinds as more and more consumers shop online for auto parts, be it through third-party sites like Amazon and eBay, or our e-commerce sites." Second Quarter 2017 Financial Results Net sales in the second quarter of 2017 increased 3% to $80.2 million compared to $78.0 million in the year-ago quarter. The increase was largely driven by a 37% increase in online marketplace sales to $28.3 million, partially offset by a 13% decrease in e-commerce sales. Gross profit in the second quarter of 2017 was $23.2 million compared to $23.7 million in the year-ago quarter. As a percentage of net sales, gross profit was 29.0% compared to 30.4% in the year ago quarter. The decrease in gross margin was primarily driven by lower-margin channel mix and higher freight costs. The company continues to expect gross margin to range between 29-30% going forward. Total operating expenses in the second quarter were reduced to $21.7 million compared to $22.1 million in the second quarter of last year. As a percentage of net sales, operating expenses decreased 130 basis points to 27.1% compared to 28.4% in the year ago quarter as a result of lower call center and marketing expenses. Net income in the second quarter was $26.9 million, or $0.67 per diluted share, compared to $1.2 million or $0.03 per diluted share in the year-ago period. The significant increase was driven by the release of a valuation allowance from the company's cumulative net operating losses, which resulted in a $25.9 million tax credit. Adjusted EBITDA in the second quarter of 2017 was $3.8 million compared to $4.0 million in the year-ago quarter. At July 1, 2017, cash and cash equivalents totaled $9.9 million compared to $2.7 million at December 31, 2016. The company also continued to have no revolver debt at July 1, 2017. Read full press release: http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/us-auto-parts-reports-second-quarter-2017-results-300502431.html

This is also available on Amazon same price.

Thanks for joining @MCT ! After you posted this I had to take a look at the wiki on this because I don't know myself. I always thought freon was R22, R134, and the newer R1234yf. Even a shorter word for "refrigerant" but come to find out its a registered trademark for The Chemours Company as a brand (spin-off from DuPont). Interesting read: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freon https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chemours

They also have customized catalogs such as for filters: http://www.showmethefilters.com/catalog.html

The 3M Automotive Aftermarket Division is introducing a new tool designed to enable autobody technicians and distributor sales staff to get answers to their collision repair questions on their mobile devices. Available on the Apple App Store, the free app provides quick access to 3M collision repair product information, process guides, application videos and standard operating procedures. In addition to product-ordering information, users can find technical data sheets, safety data sheets, new product announcements, special offers and promotions and news and events. The mobile app also lets users bookmark their favorite content and email content to others. “We designed this app to be a clean and user-friendly platform where our user customers and the sales people who call on them can quickly find the product information, technical advice and news they need, on the device they have with them everywhere – their smartphone,” said Dale Ross, U.S. marketing operations manager for 3M Automotive Aftermarket Division. “Initially, this is available for Apple phones but will soon be available for Android phones as well.” The 3M Collision Repair App runs on iOS 9.0 or later and is fully compatible with the iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch. Source: http://www.aftermarketnews.com/3m-automotive-aftermarket-division-introduces-free-collision-repair-app/

PTC has expanded its product offering and updated its packaging on its all new filter program. This includes air filters, cabin air filters, fuel filters, oil filters, PCV valves and transmission filters. PTC says some of the key features and benefits include: KEY FEATURES & BENEFITS True OE design, fit and function for easy installation & long dependable performance Over 90% market coverage for all makes and models, including Domestic, Japanese, Korean and European applications (more numbers are continuously being added throughout the year) Bold new graphic packaging helps stimulate POP sales New detailed application catalog available (applications also available online) AIR FILTERS • CABIN AIR FILTERS • FUEL FILTERS OIL FILTERS • PCV VALVES • TRANSMISSION FILTER KITS New detailed application catalog available (applications also available online) For more information, go to ptcauto.com or call 800-626-8333.

O’Reilly Automotive Inc. has announced record revenues and earnings for its second quarter ended June 30, 2017. Sales for the second quarter increased $114 million, or 5 percent, to $2.29 billion from $2.18 billion for the same period one year ago. Gross profit for the second quarter increased to $1.20 billion (or 52.4 percent of sales) from $1.13 billion (or 51.8 percent of sales) for the same period one year ago, representing an increase of 6 percent. Net income for the second quarter increased $25 million, or 10 percent, to $283 million (or 12.3 percent of sales) from $258 million (or 11.8 percent of sales) for the same period one year ago. Diluted earnings per common share for the second quarter increased 17 percent to $3.10 on 91 million shares versus $2.65 on 97 million shares for the same period one year ago. The company adopted a new share-based compensation accounting standard during the first quarter of this year, which requires excess tax benefits from share-based compensation payments to be recorded in the income statement. O’Reilly’s second quarter ended June 30, 2017, diluted earnings per common share of $3.10 includes a 9-cent benefit from the adoption of the new accounting standard and a 6-cent benefit from the reduction in legal accruals. Greg Henslee, O’Reilly’s CEO, commented, “As we announced in our press release earlier this month, we faced a more challenging sales environment during the second quarter than expected, resulting in a disappointing second quarter comparable store sales increase of 1.7 percent. While there are several factors that drive demand in our industry that can result in soft performance in any given period, it is clear that we continue to face headwinds from a second consecutive unseasonably mild winter, which did not generate the rate of parts failure we would normally expect through this point of the year, combined with continued soft consumer demand across our industry. During difficult market conditions, such as the ones we faced in the first half of this year, our team remains absolutely dedicated to providing consistently high levels of service to our customers. Our long-term commitment to exceptional customer service is the key to our past and future success, and I would like to thank Team O’Reilly for their relentless dedication to taking care of every customer who calls or walks through our doors every day.” Year-to-Date Financial Results Sales for the first six months of 2017 increased $174 million, or 4 percent, to $4.45 billion from $4.27 billion for the same period one year ago. Gross profit for the first six months of 2017 increased to $2.33 billion (or 52.4 percent of sales) from $2.22 billion (or 52.1 percent of sales) for the same period one year ago, representing an increase of 5 percent. SG&A for the first six months of 2017 increased to $1.47 billion (or 33.1 percent of sales) from $1.38 billion (or 32.3 percent of sales) for the same period one year ago, representing an increase of 6 percent. Operating income for the first six months of 2017 increased to $861 million (or 19.4 percent of sales) from $844 million (or 19.7 percent of sales) for the same period one year ago, representing an increase of 2 percent. The company’s results for the six months ended June 30, 2016, included a benefit from one additional day due to Leap Day in February 2016. Net income for the first six months of 2017 increased $35 million, or 7 percent, to $548 million from $513 million for the same period one year ago. Diluted earnings per common share for the first six months of 2017 increased 13 percent to $5.93 on 92 million shares versus $5.24 on 98 million shares for the same period one year ago. The company’s first six months of 2017 diluted earnings per common share of $5.93 includes a 32-cent benefit from the adoption of the new accounting standard. Henslee said, “We opened 105 net, new stores during the first half of 2017, and we are well-positioned to hit our target of 190 net, new store openings by the end of the year. We continue to be pleased with the performance of our new stores and remain very confident in our opportunities to grow in existing and new market areas. While our comparable store sales growth for the first half of 2017 is below our expectations, we continue to strongly believe in the long-term strength of our industry, supported by a growing and aging vehicle fleet, which has now reached an average age of 11.6 years, and steady, sustained increases in annual miles driven, now trending at over 3.2 trillion miles per year. More importantly, we remain extremely confident in our ability to increase our market share, driven by our team’s ability to provide industry-leading parts availability and unsurpassed technical knowledge and service levels to our customers.” Source: http://www.aftermarketnews.com/oreilly-automotive-reports-2nd-quarter-2017-results/

http://www.tirebusiness.com/article/20170706/NEWS/170709985/pep-boys-adds-stores-in-nyc-philly-metro-areas PHILADELPHIA — Pep Boys has acquired PJ's Auto & Tire Center in Franklin Square, N.Y., and opened a Service & Tire Center in Bordentown, N.J., increasing its presence in the New York and Philadelphia metro markets. Pep Boys, a subsidiary of Icahn Automotive Group L.L.C., described PJ's Auto & Tire — a family-run business since 1980 — as a six-bay shop located in a high-traffic neighborhood in Franklin Square on Long Island. Financial terms of the acquisition were not disclosed. Pep Boys did not elaborate on the status of the dealership's owners or staff. The greenfield store in Bordentown also is a six-bay shop, Pep Boys said. Bordentown is a community of about 3,900 inhabitants bordering Trenton, N.J. Both locations will use the Pep Boys Service & Tire Center identity. Pep Boys now has 16 stores on Long Island and nearly 30 in the New York metro area. The new stores push Icahn Automotive's network of stores closer to the 1,500 mark. This is Pep Boys' third acquisition of 2017. In mid-May the Philadelphia-based retailer acquired Mathis Tire & Auto Service and Direct Tire Distributors in Memphis, establishing a retail position in that market for the first time with a dozen locations and a 6,000-unit warehouse. In January Pep Boys bought Just Brakes L.L.C., an automotive repair and maintenance chain with 134 stores throughout the U.S. southern tier, and said it planned to convert those stores to the Service & Tire Center brand.