Opinion Archives - Page 38 of 43 -
Shhh! Are You Listening?

We all tend to talk too much when we’re in front of customers. Often, the best policy is to shut up and let them talk.

Outsourcing the Brand

I recently read an article that discusses a new retail strategy – Pay N Save – from aftermarket retailer CSK Auto. According to the article, the Pay N Save concept was created to provide a "convenient, easy-to-shop alternative to the mega-store hassle." A Pay N Save spokesperson said, "you can think of a Pay N

Here’s Your $39 Brake Job

When does a $39 brake job hurt this industry? It damages the industry’s reputation every time a brake job doesn’t cost $39.

Differentiate…Or Die

In true “survival of the fittest” form, what’s left of program groups and their WD members are the strongest players with the deepest pockets.

Raw Materials Hit Raw Nerve for Suppliers

Have you bought a tank of gas lately? Prices for petroleum, copper – and particularly steel – are putting the squeeze on suppliers.

The Proliferation Puzzle

Vision steers markets. It also reveals opportunities and sparks capitalism and entrepreneurialism. From where I sit, if our industry doesn’t come together on the issue of information standardization, across all segments and levels of the market, it will reflect a serious lack of “vision” on our part.

It’s a Solution, Not a Cost

There are precious few things in this business that can’t be solved with employee and customer training. Here are just two examples. Is there anything training can’t solve? In the lofty circles of industry cocktail party conversation, lots of lip service is devoted to all sorts of industry woes. Perhaps none, however, is as lamented

Aftermarket Afterthoughts, Part II

Further exploring the mysterious meaning behind the word “aftermarket.”

You Want Fries with That?

It’s no clich: Add-on sales can add some serious numbers to your store’s bottom line. Just ask any waitress.

An American Love Affair

It’s time for National Car Care Month Vehicle Check-Up Events!

Which Is It?

Consumers say they want quality. The big question is: Are they willing to pay for it?

Afterthoughts About the Aftermarket

Ever heard the term “aftermarket”? What does it mean? I’ve heard of the “after life,” and I’ve had an “afterthought” (or two). But, what is an “aftermarket?”