Ready to Sell Your Store?
PART 1 PART 2 PART 3 PART 4 If you are a small business owner, particularly of an auto parts store, you have probably poured more than a little of yourself into the business over the years. Like a proud parent, you have watched this enterprise grow and blossom, undoubtedly into a much larger
Looking Back, Looking Forward
The more things change in the automotive distribution business, the more they stay the same.
A Family Affair
This year’s Counterperson of the Year, Jesse "Mac" McGinnis, has managed to create a family atmosphere at his Louisville, KY, Bumper to Bumper store, one that retains employees and keeps customers coming back. Over nearly three decades in the parts business, Mac McGinnis has made a name for himself among customers and colleagues, and
Ours Is Not a Static Industry; Change Comes With the Territory
For the seventh year, the Counterman staff has determined which forces of change have the most influence on aftermarket distribution. Every year the Top 10 list goes through an intensive editorial review process during which influences are debated, reshuffled, added or eliminated. Inventory Ownership Who owns your inventory? That seemingly innocuous query has really become
Troubling Trends
The markets inefficiencies are posing serious hurdles for many suppliers. Much of the problem is of our own doing.
Price Check on Aisle Nine
Data between trading partners doesnt match up, which creates all sorts of problems – and wastes millions of dollars. Imagine an upside-down world in which everything you say is misinterpreted or misunderstood by nearly everyone with whom you come in contact. It wouldn’t be very fun. Imagine ordering a hamburger and getting a hot dog.
It’s Not a Dealer Item…It’s Yours!
Forget about four-letter words. There’s a far more damaging four-word phrase each of you should eliminate from your sales vocabulary.
Selling the Complete Lube, Oil and Filter Job
Maintenance is the key to longevity. Your mother knew what she was talking about when she nagged you to brush your teeth after every meal. And to eat your vegetables. And to change your underwear daily whether you thought it was necessary or not. She knew that if you took good care of yourself, you’d
Terrified of Technology?
Technology can be terrifying, especially when you’re the one writing the check for it. But to ignore it brings even scarier nightmares.
An (un)Usual Observance
Kids say the darndest things…maybe we should listen.