The ABCs of Technical Skill Levels
Sitcom stereotypes are no match for today’s master technician.
Why is it in Vogue?
I don’t know where or when it became fashionable to crucify the aftermarket companies that have trained, serviced and supported the repair community for more than four generations.
Steering & Suspension
Worn steering, suspension parts are often the most overlooked —and most crucial — components of automobiles.
Don’t Ignore Lost Sales, APA Members Hear at Annual Conference in Texas
SAN ANTONIO — Parts professionals can no longer ignore lost sales, attendees at Automotive Parts Associates’ (APA) annual conference in San Antonio heard March 6-8. The confluence of reduced consumer spending, a lagging economy and automotive industry doldrums mean aftermarket professionals must capitalize on every customer interaction to make the sale, said Jeff Levine, chairman
Get Off Your Duff
Stools — those four-legged devices that were originally designed for people to sit on while they were drinking, eating or relaxing — aren’t for use by parts professionals.
The Top 20 Super Stores of 2007
At first glance, Counterman’s Super Stores list might look a lot like last year’s and the year before — and the year before that. But through acquisitions, mergers and steady growth, the list has changed ever so slightly. Although the names might be the same, their respective places on the list have shifted in several cases.
Friction Materials: Selling Premium vs. Standard Linings
When a customer asks for a box of brake pads or shoes for a vehicle, what do you recommend?
Production vs. Custom Engines
The article “Crate Engines: A Smart Solution” by Larry Carley (September) presented a one-sided opinion of the repowering business. I believe the more than 7,000 custom machine shops in the US would take great exception to many things Mr. Carley espoused in his article. He paints a sorry picture of the custom engine rebuilding industry
Ignition System Sales in a Changing Market
There are more ignition SKUs than ever and the product mix is constantly changing, creating a challenging sales environment for distribution.
Top 10 News Stories of 2007
For the fourth year in a row, the editorial staffs of aftermarketNews and Counterman magazine have selected what they determined to be the most significant events to impact the automotive aftermarket in the past year. News stories are presented in chronological order.