Publisher’s Perspective: The Point of No Return
I‘ve just hung up the phone, after having an interesting conversation with one of my favorite readers. He runs a successful chain of stores in New England, and I’m always more enlightened after having spent even a small amount of time with him. What prompted his call? It’s the alarming rate of labor claims his
Editor’s Ink: Behind the Rumors
This month, we look behind the rumors to present an in-depth look at the factors that contributed ARI’s downfall.
What’s in a Name?
Counterman, Counterwoman, Counter Professional: They all describe the essential link in the distribution channel. What’s in a name? For a decidedly masculine-named magazine like Counterman, there’s quite a lot, apparently.
Membership Has its Privileges!
You can point to many industry influences, but none can hold a candle to the importance of programmed distribution. Its evolution within this market has been the single-most influential phenomenon our industry has ever seen. Nobody sells more automotive products (combined) today than NAPA, the industry’s very first group. With some 6,000 participating outlets, no
Oh, Give Me a Home
Should anyone be worried that Home Depot has announced it will test market automotive products at its stores?
Who Are Ya Stickin’ It To?
While WDs and retailers have been “sticking it” to their suppliers, they might really have just been “sticking it” to themselves.
Candy and Cashews
What’s the real difference between jobbers and retailers? These days, it’s really more than just the snacks each sells.
Expectations
By now, our entire industry is well aware of the "Chinese presence." What astounds me is that it took so long for so many to actually grasp this reality. Not to be an alarmist, but if you’re a manufacturer or large-scale purchaser of automotive products and you haven’t made your way to China by now,
Are You Working ‘In’ or ‘On’ Your Business?
How you answer that question might determine the future of your store.
Where the Rubber Meets the Road
In the automotive aftermarket, for far too long, parts manufacturers have allowed their products to become commodities.
The Big Getter
Every February, we list the 20 largest store groups in the industry, and each year this list reveals significant changes in store ownership.
The Real Rock Stars
If technicians are the industry’s rock star, what are the parts professionals?