BETHESDA, MD -- Roughly 72.7 percent of repair shops expect their level of online parts purchasing to increase this year, according to "Trends in Online Parts Purchasing," a new market research report published by the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA).

"Trends in Online Parts Purchasing" surveys U.S. repair shops in order to determine the current state of online automotive replacement parts purchasing. The study was developed and conducted by AAIA at the request of the Vehicle Manufacturers Parts Group (VMPG), a member constituency of the Auto International Association (AIA) segment of AAIA. Study results were reviewed at a peer group meeting of its members. In-depth analysis of aftermarket trends has been the focus of a growing number of peer groups sponsored by AIA for its various member groups.

While growing, the overall level of online parts purchasing accounts for less than 20 percent, compared with 80 percent through traditional channels, according to the report. Foreign vehicle-focused shops generally purchased larger percentages of their parts online than domestic vehicle-focused shops. Typically, domestic vehicle-focused shops purchase between one and 10 percent of their parts online. Foreign vehicle-focused shops purchase approximately 21 to 30 percent of their parts online.

The study is available to AAIA members for $195 and to non-members for $395.

For more information or to order a copy, contact AAIA at 301-654-6664 or visit: www.aftermarket.org.

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