2011’s Top Stories In Review
At the beginning of each year, we review the top stories of the previous year in automotive aftermarket parts distribution. We gauge this by reviewing the most-read stories from our sister e-newsletter, aftermarketNews.com. One of the most-read stories of the year came in July when Advance Auto Parts would introduce home delivery in two markets
Babcox Media, Publisher of Counterman, Acquires Automotive Video Inc.
AKRON, Ohio – Babcox Media Inc., publisher of Counterman, announces its acquisition of Automotive Video Inc. (AVI), effective Jan. 1, 2012, extending its reach farther throughout the automotive aftermarket, tire, performance, collision, commercial trucking, engine building and powersports markets. AVI’s broad range of educational products for technicians and video production capabilities adds to Babcox Media’s
The Network’s Sold-Out National Convention to Feature Top Business Speakers at Wynn Las Vegas
GERMANTOWN, Tenn. – The Automotive Distribution Network has signed several renowned seminar speakers to appear at its sold-out National Convention, which will be held Feb. 26–29, at the Wynn Las Vegas Resort, according to Mike Lambert, president of the Network. “The Network’s attendees across every level of distribution have always viewed the seminars as the
Iridium in Spark Plugs
Iridium has a higher melting temperature than platinum and is six times harder than platinum.
Gasoline Direct Fuel Injection Systems
The concept of injecting gasoline directly into an engine’s cylinders was invented by Swedish engineer Jonas Hesselman in 1925. During World War II, Germany began equipping some of its fighter aircraft with direct fuel injection to prevent engine stall-out during high-speed aerial maneuvers. After World War II, domestic and import auto manufacturers discovered that their
Let’s Show How Creative The Automotive Aftermarket Auto Parts Industry Can Be
During my time at industry week, I had the opportunity to visit both AAPEX and SEMA for extended periods of time. It’s always exciting to see so many companies and all of the innovative and creative ideas that are continuously flowing out of our great industry. The great thing about the automotive industry is that
Meet Todd Carpenter, Counterman’s 2011 Counter Professional of the Year
Todd Carpenter, Counterman’s 2011 Counter Professional of the Year, sponsored by Affinia, WIX and Raybestos brake and chassis, puts a strong emphasis on continuing education.
BATTERIES: WHAT’S YOUR PRODUCT I.Q.?
Car batteries are a frequently replaced underhood component, more so than many other parts such as spark plugs, plug wires, sensors, water pumps, alternators, starters, even belts and hoses. The typical car or light truck will probably go through four or more batteries during its lifetime. The service life of most wet cell lead-acid batteries
I’ll Stick To A Human Counterpro
By Allen Markowitz and Allan Gerber Wow, artificial intelligence — modern technology is absolutely astounding. Recently, I purchased an Apple iPhone 4S. One of the many features built in is Siri, a speech-recognition “personal assistant.” Being my inquisitive self, I started exploring this feature, setting appointments, placing calls, setting up alarms, asking it to read my
Fisher Acquires McLaughlin Stores
STAUNTON, Va. – Fisher Auto Parts has acquired McLaughlin Automotive Stores. The deal was announced in October by Walter McLaughlin, CEO of McLaughlin Automotive Stores and Bo Fisher, CEO of Fisher Auto Parts. “Relative to its size, McLaughlin is one of the most successful and profitable companies in the aftermarket because their dedicated, talented and