LAS VEGAS, NV — The Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA) announced the first steps in its new aftermarket industry image campaign with the release of its Special Report, "Direct Importing: Do the Risks Outweigh the Reward?" at a news conference held yesterday at the Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX).
"This AASA Special Report is the first of many steps in the association’s campaign promote the important value-added services and quality products provided by aftermarket suppliers," said Steve Handschuh, president and chief operating officer of AASA. "This exciting initiative is the result of hard work by AASA’s Marketing Executives Council, which will spearhead many of the campaign’s activities in the coming months," he added. 
At right: AASA’s Steve Handschuh announces the association’s new industry image campaign.
"Direct Importing" examines the potential pitfalls and unforeseen expenses which may accompany direct import of aftermarket parts by warehouse distributors, retail chains, retailers, chain stores, program groups and jobbers. "This business decision has many ramifications, not just the safety and legal issues," the report notes. "As a distributor moves up the channel of distribution, many additional costs and considerations will be encountered."
"Direct Importing: Do the Risks Outweigh the Reward?" has been mailed to members, the media, aftermarket distributors and key aftermarket trade association leaders. It also is available for free download at the AASA website, www.aftermarketsuppliers.org.
