Michelin Applies Expertise to Range of Automotive Accessories
Imagine if the same expertise that goes into creating the rubber compound that allows your tires to grip the road in all kinds of weather was used to create a high-performance windshield wiper that keeps the rain off your windshield just as effectively. Well, Michelin has done just that. Michelin Lifestyle Limited (MLL) has launched its line of high-performance wiper blades in another step to extend the Michelin brand to a full range of automotive accessories.
Using The Internet As A Tool To Promote Your Shop
For many people the Internet has become the primary medium for finding information, addresses, products and services — including auto repair. If your business does not yet have its own Web site, you’re missing a great opportunity to tell people who you are and what you can do for them.
Florida-Based Company Launches Repair Shop Franchise Program
RepairOne Automotive Concepts LLC, a privately held company based in Daytona Beach, Fla., is launching a national franchise program based on its royalty-based payment plan. The “Just One” program is expected to begin in the 4th quarter of 2004 and is based on the company’s “Be-the-One” mission statement. According to the company, RepairOne franchisees will operate under an agreement to pay a royalty based on the store’s gross retail sales of parts and labor revenue.
AutoZone Sales Up 5.6 Percent
AutoZone has reported sales of $1.360 billion for its third fiscal quarter, which ended on May 8. That’s an increase of 5.6 percent from fiscal 2003. Same store sales, or sales for domestic stores open at least one year, increased 2 percent for the quarter, the company said.
Appearance Accessories Capture More of Market
Over the past eight years, appearance/body accessory products have shown the largest growth of any product group in the industry, increasing 96.4 percent. Following closely is custom wheels, with performance chemicals in third place.
Pickups Plus Franchisee to Distribute New ValuGard Line
Aftermarket accessories retailer Pickups Plus, which recently acquired Auto Preservation (AP) from Automotive International Inc. will begin to distribute its new ValuGard product and service offering through a franchisee in Columbus, Ohio. Through the recent acquisition, Pickups Plus will now offer automotive dealerships ValuGard care and warranty products, including paint sealant, undercoating, fabric protector and anti-rust compounds, plus a full line of prep/recon products.
Detroit Diesel Creates Parts, Service and Customer Support Organization
Detroit Diesel Corporation (DDC) has created to two new departments to focus on customer support. The company has made a number of executive appointments in conjunction with the announcement.
Buffalo Insurance Group Buys Aftermarket Firm
The Lawley Service Insurance Group of Companies, based in Buffalo, NY, has acquired TWS and Associates, an Orchard Park, NY-based firm specializing in automotive aftermarket products. The purchase of the 30-year-old firm by Lawley’s Automotive Dealership Solutions subsidiary is designed to strengthen the agency’s automotive business in Western New York and the Southern Tier.
NHTSA to Release Defect Data to Public
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) said this week data collected from its defect warning system will be made public sometime this year. The agency agreed to keep warranty claims and consumer complaints confidential after automakers claimed access to the data would allow competitors to learn proprietary information about their vehicles. However, NHTSA dismissed manufacturers’ attempts to limit some information, such as the states in which defect-related deaths are occurring.
Executive Interview with Rex Falkenrath, Founder and CEO of Hi-Tech Engine Components
Our latest edition of “Executive Interview” features Rex Falkenrath, founder and CEO of Hi-Tech Engine Components. Falkenrath founded Hi-Tech in August of 1973. With more than 31 years in business, Hi-Tech Engine Components has developed a full line of engine parts and kits sold nationally through parts store chains and program distribution groups. Join us as we learn more about Hi-Tech Engine Components and the engine parts market.