During the MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers Heavy Duty Aftermarket Dialogue last week, attendees were given an unfiltered look at what aftermarket heavy-duty executives think about the market today and the challenges and opportunities on the horizon. In a session called “Talk From the Top,” Shannon O’Brien, senior director of programming and strategy at MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers, took to the stage to explain themes that came out of her anonymous conversations with heavy-duty aftermarket executives. O’Brien said she is the only person who knows the true scope the conversations in order to bring the HDAD crowd an unedited perspective on the aftermarket.
A few topics aftermarket executives discussed included labor, consolidation, e-commerce and supply chain. See excerpts from this story, which originally appeared on our sister brand, Fleet Equipment. Read the full story from Fleet Equipment at the link below.
The pros and cons of consolidation
Supplier consolidation has been a double-edged sword, O’Brien said. While it brings scale and enhanced solutions, it also creates disruption and frustration among channel partners. This dichotomy highlights the need for better communication and customer service during transitional periods.
2024 Outlook
There’s a cautious optimism, O’Brien said. Executives aren’t bracing for a recession, nor are they anticipating a boom. The focus is on prudent, adaptable strategies, avoiding knee-jerk reactions, and being prepared for election-year uncertainties.
“In summary, 2023 was tough. No one’s preparing for a catastrophic 2024, but no one’s preparing for an amazing year as well,” O’Brien said.
