i-SHOP Standard Version 3.0 Now Available
BETHESDA, MD – A new version of the i·SHOP standard from the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA) is now available. i·SHOP is a set of interconnectivity standards that eliminate non-productive data entry and bring needed information to the technician and shop management automatically. i·SHOP Version 3.0 incorporates Web Services and XML architecture in a specification
R. L. Polk & Co.’s Ask the Industry Talks about Protecting Against Software Piracy
Thanks to increased legislative and media attention, the issue of counterfeiting has been pushed to the forefront of the American business’ consciousness. Blamed for the loss of billions of dollars every year, product counterfeiting is estimated to cause about $12 billion in lost sales annually for American automotive suppliers. Within the aftermarket, counterfeiting isn’t limited only to trademark violations or manufacture of knock-off parts. It also includes the illegal copying or ‘pirating’ of software, a primary business for a number of companies in the aftermarket. For this week’s “Ask the Industry,” we spoke with several companies that develop software solutions for the automotive aftermarket to find out how they protect against software piracy.
AutoZone President Speaks at ASA Annual Meeting
Bill Rhodes, AutoZone president and chief executive officer, was recently the guest speaker at an Automotive Service Association (ASA) luncheon where he addressed an audience of ASA members and volunteer leaders. The luncheon was part of ASA’s 2006 Annual Business Meeting held April 26-29 in Austin, TX.
Equipment and Tool Institute Elects 2006-2007 Officers and New Directors
The Equipment and Tool Institute has announced the results of its 2006-2007 elections. All officers and directors will take office as of May 1.
Babcox’s Tech Group Magazines Award Several Readers’ Choice Awards
During Automotive Aftermarket Industry Week 2005 in Las Vegas, Underhood Service, ImportCar and Brake & Front End magazines presented several aftermarket companies with its prestigious Readers’ Choice Award. Of the hundreds of advertisers who seek readers’ attention, these companies are among the foremost communicators in the industry. Only 10 companies earned this distinction from each magazine.
Early-Bird Registration Extended for CARS
The deadline to take advantage of “early-bird” registration discounts for the Congress of Automotive Repair and Service (CARS) has been extended to Oct. 25. Depending on the registration category, most attendees can save $100 or more off standard registration fees.
CARS Increases Lineup of Management Seminars for 2005
The Automotive Service Association’s (ASA) Congress of Automotive Repair and Service (CARS) has increased its lineup of management seminars for 2005, emphasizing the need for continuing education in the competitive automotive service industry. CARS 2005 will be held Nov. 3-5 at The Mirage in Las Vegas. All five of the management seminars are approved by the Automotive Management Institute (AMI) and qualify for AMI credit.
AutoZone Adds New Feature to Web Site
AutoZone has added a new function to its Web site — www.autozone.com — creating an Internet information portal for both consumers and repair professionals. Designed with the primary purpose of helping consumers connect with quality repair shops, the portal includes a “Find-A-Shop” tab that allows users to search for professional automotive repair shops nationwide by entering their zip codes.
Magazines Announce ‘Readers’ Choice Awards’ Recipients
The readers of Babcox’s Counterman, Brake & Front End, ImportCar and Underhood Service magazines have announced the Readers’ Choice Award recipients for 2004. The awards are based upon those companies whose advertising most successfully communicated their messages to the aftermarket.
Car Care Council Women’s Board Announces Winners of the Automotive Communications Awards
The Car Care Council Women’s Board (WB) has announced the winners of the new Automotive Communications Awards (ACA). The awards were presented during the Women’s Board reception on Tuesday, Nov. 2 in Las Vegas, during AAPEX. The Automotive Communications Awards recognize companies/agencies that provide automotive information through outstanding advertising, marketing and PR efforts. The business-to-consumer awards have 14 categories for entry targeted to women, including car care clinics and direct mail piece or campaign/newsletter. The business-to-business awards consist of 21 categories with such options as logo design and special promotions and promotional events/trade show.