Flat Auto Part Prices Result in Lower Margins for Entire Supply Chain
The prices consumers pay for motor vehicle parts and equipment have increased very little since 1982, which has made growth in margins difficult, according to the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA). In an analysis of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) appearing in MEMA’s bimonthly newsletter Market Analysis, the index shows that prices for auto parts have grown very little in the 22 years following the resetting of the CPI in 1982.
Amerityre Names New CFO, New Sales and Marketing Manager
The board of directors of Amerityre Corp. has appointed Anders Suarez to serve as the company’s CFO. The board of directors of Amerityre Corp. has appointed Anders Suarez to serve as the company’s CFO.
Russell Automotive 2004-2005 Automotive Performance Catalog Now Online
Edelbrock has announced that the 2004-05 Russell Automotive Performance Catalog, filled with more than 300 new fluid transfer products and updates, is now online at: www.russellperformance.com. The 2004-05 edition features increased selections for sport compact cars, including items such as brake lines, fuel lines and other specialty fittings.
SKF Finalizes Acquisition of Vogel
SKF Group said it has completed its acquisition of Willy Vogel AG – a world leader in the field of lubrication systems. Through this acquisition, SKF will become a world-leading supplier of lubrication systems, according to the company. SKF paid approximately $85 million to Hannover Finanz Group, which has owned Willy Vogel AG since 1988. As part of the acquisition, SKF takes over net debts of approximately $7.8 million. Vogel will be reported as part of SKF as of the third quarter this year.
NC3R Co-Sponsors the 2004 International Big R Show
The National Center for Remanufacturing and Resource Recovery (NC3R) has again agreed to co-sponsor the 2004 International Big R Show, which takes place Oct. 29-Nov. 1 in Las Vegas. In the past, NC3R has provided training sessions and partnered on many projects with the Automotive Parts Rebuilders Association (APRA), which hosts the Big R Show. This year, NC3R will be conducting two half-day training sessions focused on avoiding the costs associated with work related illnesses and injuries and improving competitiveness. These training sessions will focus on ergonomics and warranty return cost analysis.
SEMA Board of Directors’ Election Results Announced
The results of the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) board of directors election are final. SEMA, has elected three newcomers and re-elected seven incumbents into office on its board of directors.
International Big R Show Registration Now Online
Online registration has opened for the International BIG R Show, which takes place Oct. 29-Nov. 1 at the Riviera Hotel in Las Vegas. Since 1988, the International BIG R Show has helped suppliers to the automotive and truck parts remanufacturing industry reach out to potential customers. The show is designed to attract rebuilders of a wide range of automotive and truck parts, exposing them to the key suppliers in this industry. In 2003 more than 160 exhibiting companies displayed the latest equipment, components, new units, cores and more during the two-day
Michelin Workers Could Strike
Based on statements made by United Steelworkers of America (USWA) negotiators in Pittsburgh, workers at unionized Michelin North America plants in the U.S. could go on strike if a new contract isn’t reached by USWA’s Aug. 11 deadline.
AAPEX to Feature Service Information Update From Federal and California Regulators
Attendees at the Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX) will have the opportunity to hear first-hand from regulators at the California Air Resources Board (CARB) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regarding the progress that has been made in making critical diagnostic tools and information affordably and conveniently accessible to independent technicians. Attendees will also be able to express their concerns and ask questions regarding these important requirements.
Northstar Automotive Glass Names Director of Business Development
Bob Avers has joined Northstar Automotive Glass as director of business development. Prior to joining Northstar, Avers was senior vice president of U.S. wholesale sales and marketing for Autostock Distribution.
KC HiLites Hires Bob Cook Sales
KC HiLites, a leading brand of auxiliary lighting, has selected Bob Cook Sales for sales representation in the Southern states.
NASCAR Legend Bobby Allison to Deliver MACS Keynote Speech at Convention
NASCAR legend Bobby Allison will deliver the keynote speech at the 25th anniversary of the MACS Convention and Trade Show entitled “NOW IS THE TIME!”