The title of this column is not a mistake. Yes, it is a repeat from last year, but an intentional one. Each year, I continue to watch our industry in awe. We continue to grow and have successful years as an industry. It is never more apparent as when we all head to Las Vegas for AAPEX and SEMA.Earlier this year at NACE, the show floor grew significantly, and the numbers are up already for the 2016 show in Anaheim, Calif. The number of AAPEX exhibitors is up this year as well. SEMA has grown to the point that they are putting companies in the lobby of the hotels that are adjacent to the show. Frankly, it is just incredible how our industry continues to grow.
The old adage used to be that when new car sales are up, it was a threat to the aftermarket. Well, not this time. Record new car sales have not slowed the aftermarket one bit. Wall Street continues to report growth and the retailers and traditional distributors indicate excellent years also.
This is, of course, driven by the average age of vehicles on the road and miles driven. The more we drive the older cars, the more they break. That’s a good thing – broken cars need to be fixed, and they are fixed with parts and labor.
I do also want to bring up a looming battle we are going to face. Right to Repair was a huge win for all of us in the aftermarket, but storm clouds are on the horizon. The fight over data in our vehicles is about to heat up and the OEs are not going to back down on this one. I heard last night of the talk of the OBD II port being removed. The thought is that the data somehow belongs to the OEs and access should be cut off.
Of course, this is hearsay, but the OEs have deep pockets and are able to mount a formidable battle. We really need to circle the wagons on this one and get involved. Use your associations as a conduit for your assistance. They are already on it and starting to mount the offensive. We will need everyone involved on this one.
Stay tuned for more on these issues.
