Bosal Launches New Online Exhaust Catalog
Bosal, a leading manufacturer of import exhaust systems and components, has introduced a new online version of its full line catalog. The new electronic catalog covers Bosal’s complete line of one-piece, direct-fit replacement import exhaust systems, mufflers, catalytic converters, pipes and accessories and features more than 3,000 import makes and models. The online catalog provides application data, ordering information and illustrations.
Two Collins & Aikman Board Members Resign
Two board members investigated internally for insider deals have resigned from auto supplier Collins & Aikman Corp. (C&A), which has lost money three years in a row, and on Thursday reported another first-quarter loss. The quarter’s red ink was slightly less than it was the same period a year ago.
Executive Interview with Kathleen Schmatz, President and CEO of AAIA
Our latest edition of “Executive Interview” features Kathleen Schmatz, President and CEO of the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA). Schmatz became president and CEO of AAIA on Jan. 1, 2004. She had served as executive vice president of the association since January 2002. In addition to filling us in on her first few months at her new post, Schmatz shared with aftermarketNews.com updates on AAIA’s merger with AWDA, Right to Repair legislation and the Be Car Care Award Campaign.
AAIA to Host Information Webinar on New PIES Data Audit and Certification Service
Earlier this week, AAIA announced the availability of a new service to audit and certify product information compliance with the Product Information Exchange Standard (PIES). To explain how the DAC service works and describe the importance of accurate product information to the aftermarket industry, AAIA and Comergent will conduct an informational Webinar at 11 a.m. (EST) on Thursday, May 13.
Tire Shipments Gain Momentum This Year: RMA
According to the Rubber Manufacturers Association (RMA), tire shipments will grow 3.2 percent overall in 2004, due to a rebound in the commercial trucking sector and a strengthening U.S. economy. Tire shipments for 2003 increased by 0.6 percent, compared to 2002 levels, said the RMA, as a result of a strong replacement tire market demand being offset by a decline in light vehicle OE tire markets.
AAIA Launches New Data Audit and Certification Service
AAIA has launched a new service that enables aftermarket manufacturers and suppliers to audit and certify product information compliance with the Product Information Exchange Standard (PIES). The Data Audit and Certification service (DAC) is provided in partnership with Comergent Technologies, Inc., a leading demand chain management software applications company based in Redwood City, Calif.
DST Asks: What Topics Would You Like to Read About?
Right now, today, perhaps no other industry is as poised and ready to transform itself as the automotive aftermarket parts and service industry to leverage technology usage to dramatically enhance productivity and boost bottom-line performance. That’s why we took the opportunity, after publishing three months worth of weekly columns, to ask our readers what they would like us to discuss in the next three months. The responses were interesting and thought provoking. Here’s a general recap of what we’ve covered so far and, based upon your feedback, topics for the near future.
Genuine Parts Co. Reports First Quarter Results
Genuine Parts Co. (GPC) has reported sales and earnings for the first quarter, which ended on March 31. Sales for GPC totaled $2.2 billion, up 9 percent compared to the first quarter of 2003. Net income for the quarter was $100.2 million, an increase of 13 percent over $88.4 million recorded in the previous year before the cumulative effect of an accounting change adopted January 1, 2003.
TRW Vehicle Safety Systems Achieves ISO/TS Certifications
TRW Vehicle Safety Systems has achieved the International Standards Organization (ISO)/Technical Specification (TS) 16949 quality management certification for its airbag manufacturing operations in Mesa, Ariz. This specification aligns existing automotive quality system requirements within the global automotive industry. It also specifies the quality system requirements for the design, development, production, installation and servicing of automotive-related products.
Texas-Based MSD Ignition Bought by Gryphon Investors
MSD Ingnition, a manufacturer of products for the high performance segment of the aftermarket, has been bought out by Gryphon Investors, a private equity firm based in San Francisco, Calif. Gryphon Investors purchased 100 percent ownership of El Paso, Texas-based Autotronic Controls Corp. and its MSD Ignition brand on April 8.