TBC Corp., a distributor of automotive replacement tires based in the US, and a joint venture between Japan’s Sumitomo Corp. and French tire manufacturer Michelin, announced that it has reached an agreement to divest its company-owned retail portfolio to Mavis Tire Express Service Corp., according to a press release dated May 24. As per the transaction, TBC will transfer 595 retail locations to Mavis and will also provide wholesale and tire distribution for Mavis, the release...

Advance Auto Parts, an automotive aftermarket parts distributor in North America, announced that for the first quarter ended April 22, 2023, its net sales stood at $3.4 billion, up 1.3% compared with the first quarter of the prior year, primarily driven by new store openings, according to a press release dated May 31. The company's operating income was $90.0 million or 2.6% of net sales, compared with 6.0% in the first quarter of 2022, the release added. Significance: Commenting on the res...

Australian automotive distribution company and provider of vehicle parts, accessories, equipment, service and solutions, Bapcor, announced the construction of its second centralized-distribution center, according to a press release dated May 29. The 41,580-square-meter Bapcor Distribution Centre is located in the Brisbane suburb of Redbank, Australia. When operational, the center will consolidate seven existing Brisbane-based warehouses into one purpose-designed facility, the compan...

DRiV, the aftermarket division of Tenneco, has inaugurated a fully-automated shuttle and packaging system at its European Distribution Center in Willebroek, Belgium, according to a press release dated April 25. This $12 million investment in automation further improves customer service by delivering DRiV’s automotive brands to where they need to be, faster, the release added. The shuttle hosts all fast-moving articles, allowing DRiV to pick 60% of its order lines at up to seven times the sp...

Denmark-based spare parts logistics provider Danx, part of the Danx Carousel group, announced that it has partnered with Tromsø Budbil Sentral (Tromsø Courier Central, or TBS), the largest supplier of courier services in northern Norway, according to a press release dated May 23. The partnership will see Danx offer strategic investment and resource support while benefiting from TBS’ well-established local customer network, which stretches from Narvik to Kirkenes, in northern Nor...

US-based automotive parts distributor Genuine Parts Co. has announced that Kevin Herron, president, US Automotive Group (USAG), will retire at the end of 2023 after a 34-year career with the company, according to a press release dated May 23. The company said Randy Breaux has been elevated from his post as president, Motion, to the newly created role of group president, GPC North America, effective July 2023. In the new role, Breaux will oversee both the automotive and industri...

Trico, a firm involved in automotive wiper engineering, design and technological development, has outlined its range of automotive-windscreen wiper solutions, according to a press release dated May 5. The company said it is leveraging its experience in supplying to over 100 automakers to become a trusted supplier of replacement wiper blades and assemblies for the global automotive aftermarket. The Trico Force range includes wipers with “[Aerofoil-designed] beam blades,” whi...

Australian automotive distribution company and provider of vehicle parts, accessories, equipment, service and solutions, Bapcor, announced the acquisition of E-Max Australia, according to a press release dated May 18. With the move, E-Max will become an integral part of Bapcor's Commercial Vehicle Group, forming part of the existing wholesale business, Australian Truck Parts (ATP). The E-Max brand specializes in electrical loom and accessories products, providing innovative solutions for...

US-based retailer of aftermarket automotive parts and accessories AutoZone has reported net sales of $4.1 billion for its third quarter ended May 6, 2023, an increase of 5.8% from the third quarter of fiscal 2022, according to a press release dated May 23. Domestic same-store sales, or sales for stores open at least one year, increased 1.9% for the quarter, the company said. Net income for the quarter increased 9.3% over the same period last year to $647.7 million, the company said. Signif...

Meko (previously Mekonomen Group), an automotive spare-parts distributor based in Sweden, announced the that Åsa Källenius is leaving her position as Meko's CFO at her own request to take on a new assignment outside the group, according to a press release dated May 19. The company added that the process of recruiting a new CFO will begin immediately and Källenius will remain in her role until a successor is appointed. Significance: "Åsa Källenius has been [CFO]&nbs...

PartsTech, a US-based business-to-business parts marketplace for the auto repair industry, announced that it has closed a Series C capital raise of $35 million, according to a press release dated May 18. The fundraising round was led by OpenView, a venture capital firm. Tim Keebler, partner at OpenView, stated, "Vehicles are staying on the road longer than ever before and shops are increasingly embracing digital solutions to improve the way they work. PartsTech drastically improves the w...

Australian automotive aftermarket-parts distributor CoolDrive Auto Parts has announced that it will showcase its latest technical training offerings, tools and equipment range, and its renewed focus on vehicle diagnostics at the upcoming Autocare 2023, an automotive convention organized by the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) in Brisbane, Australia, according to a press release dated May 7. Members of CoolDrive’s technical training team will host sessions focusing on wha...

MAM Software, a UK-based provider of business-management software and product-cataloging solutions, announced that it will be showcasing the latest developments to its current software and displaying brand-new additions to its expanding portfolio of products at the upcoming Automechanika Birmingham 2023 at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham, UK, from June 6–8, according to a press release dated May 12. MAM Software will shed light on their core business belief that "digit...

LKQ's Euro Car Parts Ltd. (LKQ Euro Car Parts), alongside seven other leading suppliers to the aftermarket, has announced the launch of a unique new garage concept to help the industry’s professionals navigate the ever-changing automotive landscape and deliver best-in-class service, according to a press release dated May 5 by the Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF). Developed in conjunction with MPM Oil, Pagid, Schaeffler, Shell, Valeo, Varta and ZF Aftermark...

O’Reilly Automotive, a US-based automotive aftermarket-parts retailer, has announced record revenue and earnings for its first quarter ended March 31, 2023. In a press release dated April 26, it said sales for the first quarter increased $412 million, or 12%, to $3.71 billion from $3.30 billion for the same period one year ago. The company’s operating income for the first quarter increased 7% to $717 million from $670 million for the same period one year ago. Net income for the first quar...

TBC Corporation, a distributor of automotive replacement tires based in US, has announced the appointment of Sam Kato as the company’s new president and CEO, according to a press release dated May 1. Kato, who served as TBC’s chief administrative officer for the last two years, replaces Laurent Bourrut who is retiring after completing his assignment. Bourrut will remain an executive advisor to Kato and TBC. According to the company, Kato is a veteran of global automotive businesses for mo...

US-based independent manufacturer and distributor of automotive replacement parts, Standard Motor Products (SMP), announced the release of 373 new part numbers in its April product expansion announcement, according to a press release dated April 26. The release provides new coverage in 87 different product categories, and more than 100 part numbers for 2022 and 2023 model-year vehicles, the company said. As part of the expansion, the company said its collision repair and advanced driver ...

JTEKT Corp. has announced that it will merge its two aftermarket sales companies, JTEKT Sales Co., Ltd. and Koyo Kowa Co., Ltd., in Japan on July 1, 2023, according to a press release dated April 13. Post the move, the merged company will be known as JTEKT Sales, the release added. JTEKT said the purpose of the merger was to build a sales system that faces customers as “one JTEKT” which unites the group, and the move is aimed at strengthening its aftermarket business. Si...

US-based distributor of replacement parts, components and systems, LKQ Corp., has reported revenue of $3.3 billion in the first quarter of 2023, flat from the first quarter of 2022, according to a press release dated April 27. Total parts and services revenue increased 1.5%, according to the release, which added that other revenue fell 19.2% in the first quarter of 2023 primarily due to weaker commodity prices relative to the same period in 2022. Net income for the first quarter of 2023 ...

PARTS iD, a US-based e-commerce company for automotive parts, accessories and the aftermarket announced that board member Lev Peker has assumed the role of CEO, according to a press release dated April 26. As CEO of CarParts.com from January 2019 to April 2022, Peker oversaw a more than doubling of annual revenue, a nearly fourfold improvement in EBITDA and an increase in market capitalization of over 500%, according to the release, which added that Peker most recently served as CEO...

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA), the peak body representing Australia’s electric vehicle (EV) Automotive Service and Repair industry has announced that it welcomes the release of the government’s National Electric Vehicle Strategy, adding that the automotive service and repair industry will be an important component of ensuring the EV Strategy succeeds, according to a press release dated April 20. Australia’s first National Electric Vehicle Strategy was rel...

US-based manufacturer and distributor of automotive aftermarket parts, Motorcar Parts of America, announced that it has received the 2022 award for Outstanding Corporate Logistics Support from Parts Warehouse, a member of The Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance, Inc., and Associate Stores at the organization’s 2023 Sales Conference & Vendor Expo recently held in Birmingham, Ala., according to a press release dated April 24. Separately, the company highlighted the recognition it receive...

US-based automotive parts distributor Genuine Parts Company has announced its results for the first quarter ending on March 31, 2023, according to a press release dated April 20. The company reported sales at $5.8 billion, an 8.9% increase compared to $5.3 billion in the same period of the prior year. The growth in sales is attributable to an increase in comparable sales and a benefit from acquisitions, partially offset by a net unfavorable impact of foreign currency, the release added. ...

UK-based remanufacturer and fuel systems supplier, Carwood, has become the latest member to join the UK aftermarket industry body Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF), according to a press release dated 20 April. With more than 50-year’s expertise, Carwood is a leading remanufacturer and technical services provider for the global car, commercial vehicle, off-highway, motorsport and defence industries, the release added.  Carwood’s remanufactured portfolio spans OEM-ap...

Australia-based automotive parts distributor CoolDrive Auto Parts has outlined its expansive product range and service offering in the engine management sector, according to a press release dated April 17. The company said its engine management product offering is headlined by AFI, a brand of automotive petrol and diesel engine management components. Additionally, it also has products from global brands including Denso, Bosch, Continental, Delphi, NTK, Walker, Nissens, BorgWarner, Valeo ...

Alliance Automotive Group (AAG), a European automotive aftermarket distributor, announced that it has acquired Bellecave, a member of the group based in Bayonne, a city in southwestern France, according to a press release dated April 18. Significance: Founded in 1971, Bellecave has 34 employees and generates an annual turnover of €11 million in car parts and equipment produced mainly with professional customers. Bellecave is the main independent wholesaler of spare parts in the Basque Count...

Siligom, a France-based tire distributor and service provider, and Parts Holding Europe (PHE), a distributor of vehicle spares in France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxemburg, Italy and Spain, have announced that Siligon’s acquisition of PHE-owned Glass Auto Service has received approval from the supervisory authorities, according to a press release dated April 14. This acquisition enables Siligom, which is already present in the glazing market with more than 90 outlets under the Siliglass b...

LKQ Fource announced the expansion of its wholesaler network in the Netherlands with the acquisition of parts wholesaler Leo de Groot Partscenter XL, according to a press release dated April 13. LKQ Fource said after years of joint cooperation, this was the next logical step in its success story. With this takeover, LKQ Fource’s number of own wholesaler outlets in the Netherlands stands at 85. Leo de Groot Partscenter XL offers a wide range of tools and car materials as well as advanced ser...

Negotiators representing the European Parliament and European Council have reached an agreement on a new plan to establish electric vehicle (EV) charging and hydrogen refueling infrastructure in the EU, according to an official press release from the European Parliament dated March 28. During the negotiations, members of the European Parliament (MEPs) managed to secure that electric charging pools for cars with at least a 400-kW output will have to be deployed at least every 60 km along ...

LKQ Europe, a subsidiary of Switzerland-headquartered LKQ Corporation, a distributor of automotive aftermarket parts for cars, commercial vans and industrial vehicles, has announced its partnership with CECRA, the European Council for Motor Trades and Repairs, according to a press release dated March 23. This partnership is built on shared objectives and common interests, including access to vehicle data, electric vehicles (EVs), green deal and the ongoing skill development of automoti...

First Brands Group, a global automotive parts manufacturer for the automotive aftermarket, has become the latest member to join the UK aftermarket industry body Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF). The three members of the First Brands Group are well known in the aftermarket via original equipment (OE) wiper blade manufacturer, TRICO, water and fuel pump manufacturer, Airtex, and recently relaunched into the UK, spark plug brand, Autolite, according to the release. Signifi...

Torqata Data & Analytics, a US-based data analytics software company that works with tire manufacturers, distributors and retailers, announced that it has appointed Kirsten Zaremba, Ashley Hoyt and Kate Beirowski to the team, bringing additional experienced women into the automotive industry, according to a press release dated March 31. Torqata also elevated Elizabeth Schneider to vice president of Product. Zaremba has been appointed as the new director of Marketing and she brings ov...

LKQ Europe, a Switzerland-based distributor of automotive aftermarket parts for cars, commercial vans and industrial vehicles in Europe and a subsidiary of LKQ Corporation, announced that it has entered into an agreement with LeasePlan, a global player in Car-as-a-Service, to expand their cooperation to a European level, according to a press release dated April 6 by Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF). The multiyear agreement is based on a dual mode of collaboration...

German trade fair, congress and event organizer Messe Frankfurt, and India’s apex component industry body Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA) have reiterated that ACMA Automechanika New Delhi — the exhibition of auto parts, auto components and products for car aftersales service — is scheduled to be held from February 1–3, 2024, at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, according to a press release dated April 3. Set to return in 2024,...

Aftermarket parts supplier, WAI Global, announced that it will be exhibiting at Automechanika Birmingham 2023 at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham, UK, from June 6–8, according to a press release dated April 5 from the UK aftermarket industry body, Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF). The company will showcase its range of rotating electrics, starter motors and alternators, window regulators, wiper motors, ignition products and engine management products...

US-based retailer of aftermarket automotive parts and accessories AutoZone announced that Jenna Bedsole will join the company as senior vice president, general counsel and secretary, Customer Satisfaction, according to a press release dated March 30. Jenna will come to AutoZone from Baker Donelson where she served as managing shareholder of the law firm’s Birmingham office. With over 25 years of legal experience, she has successfully represented large employers and public companies in a bro...

RAC, a UK-based breakdown service provider for private and business drivers, revealed that the government has announced a series of new measures that will support the shift to electric vehicles (EVs) as part of the wider plans to transition toward a net-zero future, according to a press release dated March 31.  With the goal of decarbonizing the transport sector, a new £381 million Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) fund has been introduced, alongside an additional £15 millio...

UK motorists strongly support keeping the first Ministry of Transport (MOT) tests at three years, in new research by UK automotive trade body Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), according to a press release dated March 22. In a poll of British car owners by Savanta, a UK-based data and market research company, 67% said they were concerned that extending the MOT would put lives in danger with three quarters agreeing that the typical £35-£45 cost of a test is a price ...

CLEPA, the European Association of Automotive Suppliers, has urged the entire aftermarket value chain to prepare for the challenges of servicing such vehicles over the next few decades amid the shift to battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) and the rise in adoption of connected vehicles, according to a press release dated April 5. These challenges for the service industry were the focus of the 14th edition of the CLEPA Aftermarket Conference 2023, with the theme "Driving Service Innovation". ...

MEKO (previously Mekonomen Group), an automotive spare-parts distributor based in Sweden, announced the appointment of Petra Bendelin as its new COO with Tobias Narvinger leaving his position for a new, senior management position in another industry, according to a press release dated April 3. Bendelin is currently MEKO's director of Business Development and Strategy and has worked in the company since 2010 in several senior roles. She takes up the position in July. The role of...

Relais Group PLC, a spare parts distributor and provider of repair and maintenance in the Nordic vehicle aftermarket, announced that it has signed an agreement regarding the acquisition of the Finnish company Adita Oy, according to a press release dated March 29. The sellers are Adita's founder and main shareholder, and the company's sales director. According to the release, Adita is a highly regarded local distributor of spare parts and equipment for cars and marine use in the Helsinki ...

North America’s The Shyft Group, a company involved in specialty vehicle manufacturing, assembly and upfit for the commercial, retail and service specialty-vehicle industry, announced that Pamela Kermisch, chief customer growth officer at Polaris, has been appointed to the company’s board of directors, effective March 20, according to a press release dated March 21. Since January 2018, Kermisch has served as the chief customer growth officer at Polaris Inc., the global powersports co...

MEKO (previously Mekonomen Group), an automotive spare-parts distributor based in Sweden, announced that its company management has presented adjusted financial targets, and explained in more detail how it plans to strengthen its position as a market leader in the independent vehicle aftermarket in northern Europe, according to a press release dated March 21. The updated financial targets indicate that a net sales corresponding to approximately 19 billion Swedish kronor (around US$1...

The UK and Ireland arm of Alliance Automotive Group (AAG), a European automotive aftermarket distributor, announced that it has partnered with global warehouse robotics provider Exotec, according to a press release dated March 20. As per the announcement, Exotec has won a significant contract with AAG as part of its UK expansion efforts, following a contract win with AAG France, which was announced in June 2022. AAG’s National Distribution Centre is expected to feature “Exotec’s co...

The UK and Ireland arm of Alliance Automotive Group (AAG), a European automotive aftermarket distributor, announced that it has recently completed the acquisition of Direct Auto Parts Ltd. (DAP) and Car Parts Warehouse Ltd. (CPW), according to a press release dated March 6. DAP is a single branch business based in Barking in East London, England, with sales of £2.6 million and 13 employees. It is an existing member of the Parts Distribution Partnership (PDP) aftermarket buying...

The UK and Ireland arm of Alliance Automotive Group (AAG), a European automotive aftermarket distributor, announced that it will be the headline sponsor at Automechanika Birmingham 2023, taking place at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) Birmingham, UK, in June 6–8, 2023, according to a press release dated March 20. The event is the UK’s leading exhibition for the automotive aftermarket and supply chain sector. It is expected to attract over 500 exhibitors from 23 ...

MEKO (previously Mekonomen Group), an automotive spare-parts distributor based in Sweden, announced that it was intensifying its work to reduce the company's climate footprint, according to a press release dated March 21. As one of the first companies in the independent automotive aftermarket in northern Europe, MEKO has joined the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), an international framework for companies that adopt science-based climate targets to limit global warming, the rele...

MEKO (previously Mekonomen Group), an automotive spare-parts distributor based in Sweden, announced that it has appointed Helena Sauramo as the new managing director for its recently acquired Finnish subsidiary Koivunen with effect from May 15, according to a press release dated March 10. Sauramo comes from the Finnish car retailer Delta Motor Group and in her new role, she will focus on further strengthening growth and profitability in Finland, the release added. MEKO acquired Koiv...

US-based independent manufacturer and distributor of automotive replacement parts, Standard Motor Products (SMP), announced that it has introduced 100 new part numbers, according to a press release dated March 22. The latest product release includes new coverage for 56 product categories and 29 part numbers for model year (MY) 2022 and 2023 vehicles. As part of its continued expansion of collision repair and advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) programs, the company has introduc...

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) announced that a national modifications summit has been created to protect the future of aftermarket manufacturers, according to a press release dated March 22. Called National Light Vehicle Modifications Summit, the inaugural event is taking place at Autocare, Australia’s largest automotive training convention, on June 9 in Brisbane and the event is touted as an initiative for the aftermarket to collaborate and influence national v...

TEMOT International, a Germany-based automotive spare parts network, announced that Merlin Diesel Ltd., a global supplier of spare parts and test equipment for diesel injection systems headquartered in Lancashire, UK, has joined the International Trading Group, effective January 2023, according to a press release dated March 14. Merlin Diesel is an authorized distributor and service partner for renowned brands. The company supplies customers in more than 100 countries with products for automo...

Alliance Automotive Group Benelux (AAGB) has announced the acquisition of Allcos BV, a company specializing in the sale of cleaning products for the car industry, according to a press release dated March 20. Allcos BV supplies and imports professional maintenance and cleaning products for the Dutch automotive market under the brands Kenotek, ZviZZer and Concept Chemicals. Significance: Allcos is the total supplier for car washes, rollovers, chain car washes, truck wash compa...

Australian automotive distribution company, Bapcor, announced that it has launched Revival Auto Parts, a brake-restoration specialist business, according to a press release dated March 7. Operating for decades under the Australian Automotive Distribution (AAD) remanufacturing division, Revival Auto Parts now has its own dedicated workshop located in Derrimut in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, run by a dedicated workshop team. According to the release, Revival Auto Par...

Advance Auto Parts, an automotive aftermarket parts distributor in North America, announced that Tom Greco has informed the company of his plan to retire as president and CEO of the company at the end of 2023, according to a press release dated 28 February. Following Greco’s retirement, he plans to serve in an advisory capacity through a transition period. In connection with Greco’s planned retirement and the company’s succession planning process, the Advance Auto Parts' board has forme...

US-based auto parts distributor, Arch Auto Parts, announced the expansion of its main distribution center located at its Ideal Queens Industrial Building, at 184-10 and 184-60 Jamaica Avenue in Jamaica, Queens, New York, according to a press release dated 13 March. Ideal Queens, purchased by KABR and Monocle in February 2022, consists of more than 620,000 rentable square footage, which is located with access to Manhattan, Long Island City, Long Island, JFK International Airport, LaGuardi...

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) announced that it has joined other global association leaders to support the critical global right-to-repair movement by signing the new right-to-repair position statement, according to a press release dated 9 March.  The statement enumerates the core beliefs of the movement, and the objectives and intended outcomes of right-to-repair legislation. It sets forth 10 best-practice principles to develop a framework ...

Auto Care Association, a US-based industry body representing independent manufacturers, distributors, and repair shops, announced in a press release dated 9 March that it has joined other global association leaders to support the critical global right-to-repair movement by signing the new right-to-repair position statement. According to the release, the statement enumerated the core beliefs of the movement and the objectives and intended outcomes of right-to-repair legislation. The docum...

CarParts.com, a US-based e-commerce provider of automotive parts and accessories, has reported its results for the fourth quarter and fiscal year ending on 31 December 2022, according to a press release dated 7 March. Net sales in fiscal year 2022 were USD661.6 million, up 14% from USD582.4 million in fiscal year 2021.  Net loss during the year stood at USD1 million, compared to a net loss of USD10.3 million in fiscal year 2021, the release added. For the fourth quarter of 2022, ...

US-based independent manufacturer and distributor of automotive replacement parts, Standard Motor Products (SMP), announced that it has expanded its line of parts for hybrid and electric vehicles (EVs), according to a press release dated 8 March. The company believes approximately 7 million hybrid vehicles are currently on the road. Many of them are more than 10 years old, and hybrids feature more components when compared to gas and diesel vehicles. SMP said hybrid repair oppor...

US-based independent manufacturer and distributor of automotive replacement parts, Standard Motor Products (SMP), has announced that it has introduced 276 new part numbers since the start of the year, according to a press release dated 27 February. It said the product release includes new coverage for 77 product categories, and 43 part numbers for 2022 and 2023 model year vehicles. SMP said that it continues to focus on the hybrid and electric vehicle market through its Standard and Four...

Japanese trading company Marubeni Corporation has announced that it successfully completed a USD50 million investment into Cirba Solutions, a cross-chemistry battery management and materials processor for end-of-life (EOL) batteries, according to a press release dated 9 February. Cirba Solutions is a pioneer in the North American battery recycling industry and has built a profitable business by processing EOL lithium ion (Li-ion) batteries and cross-chemistry batteries for over...

AUTOBACS SEVEN, a Tokyo-based car parts and accessories retailer, along with its affiliate, Bucks E-Mobility, announced that it has started taking applications for test drives as well as vehicle purchase reservations for the BYD Atto 3 electric sport utility vehicle (e-SUV), according to a press release dated 21 February. The test drive application as well as vehicle booking can be done at two of AUTOBACS SEVEN’s retail locations in Utsunomiya, Japan, called AUTOBAC...

UKS, a UK-based distributor of aftermarket products global brands in the UK and Ireland, has announced that a comprehensive range of products from Muller Filter is now available through UKS, according to a release dated 14 February from the UK aftermarket industry body Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF). Italy-based Muller Filter is said to have 40 years of experience in OE filter development, ensuring they are a key supplier to the aftermarket. They claim to offer an origin...

Advance Auto Parts, an automotive aftermarket parts distributor in North America, has announced its financial results for the fourth quarter and full year ended 31 December 2022, according to a press release dated 28 February.  For the full year 2022, the company's net sales stood at USD11.2 billion, an increase of 1.4% compared to 2021. The company's full year gross profit was USD5 billion, or 44.5% of net sales, which decreased 33 basis points compared with the prio...

US-based distributor of replacement parts, components, and systems, LKQ Corporation, has reported fourth quarter 2022 financial results in which its revenue stood at USD3 billion, a decrease of 5.8% as compared to USD3.2 billion in the fourth quarter of 2021, according to a press release dated 23 February. The company’s total parts and services revenue decreased 4.8% and its other revenue fell 20.1% in the fourth quarter, primarily due to weaker commodity prices relative to the same period ...

O’Reilly Automotive, a US-based automotive aftermarket parts retailer, has announced that after 65 years of operating in the automotive aftermarket space across the United States and Mexico, it has opened its 6,000th store in Fort Gibson, Oklahoma, according to a press release dated 22 February. Significance: Commenting on the announcement, Greg Johnson, O’Reilly’s CEO, said, “As we celebrate 65 years of O’Reilly Auto Parts and the opening of our 6,000th store location, we recognize...

US-based automotive parts distributor Genuine Parts Company has announced its results for the fourth quarter and twelve months ending on 31 December 2022, according to a press release dated 23 February. The company reported sales of USD5.5 billion, a 15% increase compared to USD4.8 billion in the same period of the prior year. Net income was USD252 million as against USD256 million in the prior year period. Within its Automotive Parts Group, global automotive sales were USD3.4 billion in the ...

US-based distributor of replacement parts, components, and systems, LKQ Corporation and Canada-based automotive aftermarket parts supplier Uni-Select announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement for LKQ to acquire Uni-Select for USD2.1 billion, according to a press release dated 27 February. Uni-Select was founded in Boucherville, Québec, Canada in 1968. It is involved in the distribution of automotive refinish and industrial coatings and related products in North Americ...

Rossmore Lubricants, official distributor of Gulf Lubricants throughout the UK and Ireland, has announced that the brand will now be available through Marathon Warehouse Distribution, a UK-based automotive parts distributor, according to a press release dated 14 February by UK aftermarket industry body Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF). Gulf Lubricants will initially be available via its Redditch National Distribution Centre that feeds its national network of distribution c...

The organizers of Autopromotec, the international exhibition of automotive equipment and aftermarket industry, have announced a new event called Futurmotive - Expo and Talks that will be held from 16 to 18 November at the Bologna Exhibition Centre. It is aimed at auto manufacturers, component manufacturers, distributors and buyers, according to a press release dated 12 January. The event will take place in conjunction with E-Charge, the exhibition dedicated to the electric vehicle (EV) chargi...

Arnold Clark Autoparts, a UK-based distributor of car parts and accessories, has announced that it has been named the ‘Factor of the Year’ at the CAT magazine Awards 2023, as voted for by professionals in the automotive aftermarket, according to a press release dated 14 February by UK aftermarket industry body Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF). The award ceremony saw established companies and individuals shortlisted in 11 award categories including ‘Supplier of the Ye...

Canada-based automotive aftermarket parts supplier Uni-Select has reported its financial results for the fourth quarter and full year that ended in December 2022, according to a press release dated 17 February. In the fourth quarter, the company reported consolidated sales of USD424.8 million, up USD24.6 million or 6.2% year-on-year (y/y). Net earnings stood at USD12.1 million, up USD3.1 million from the fourth quarter of 2021. For the full year 2022, the company reported consolidated sales o...

The UK aftermarket industry body Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) has announced that it has appointed Craig McCracken, group factor manager at Arnold Clark Autoparts, as its new president, according to a press release dated 17 February. Craig succeeds immediate past president Richard Welland and will remain on the IAAF board, alongside Welland, honorary treasurer Lawrence Bleasdale and chief executive Mark Field. Craig has over 40 years of experience in the automotive indu...

According to a press release dated 10 February, Auto Care Association along with MEMA Aftermarket, Consumer Access to Repair (CAR) Coalition, and Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) applauds US House of Representatives Neal Dunn, Brendan Boyle, Warren Davidson, and Marie Gluesenkamp Perez for reintroducing the ‘Right to Equitable and Professional Auto Industry Repair’ (REPAIR) Act in the Congress. Auto Care Association is a US-based industry body representing independent ...

Automechanika Birmingham, the UK’s largest supply chain and aftermarket trade show has announced that it will be offering visitors the chance to connect with exhibitors more easily than ever before at this year’s show, via the use of an innovative networking app, according to a press release dated 14 February by UK aftermarket industry body Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF). Taking place from 6 to 8 June 2023 at the NEC, Automechanika Birmingham 2023 will include 500 le...

Relais Group Plc, a spare part distributor and provider of repair and maintenance in the Nordic vehicle aftermarket, has announced the appointment of Thomas Ekström as the chief financial officer of the company, according to a press release dated 15 February. Ekström joins Relais from Atoy Oy, where he worked as group CFO. Prior to that, Ekström has been CFO in several companies, such as Rettig Group Ltd, Algol Oy and Marimekko Oyj. The company says he has a broad experience from financial...

US-based manufacturer and distributor of automotive aftermarket parts, Motorcar Parts of America, has reported results for its fiscal 2023 third quarter ending in December 2022, via a press release dated 9 February. Net sales for the fiscal 2023 third quarter were USD151.8 million compared with USD161.8 million in the prior year, the release added. Net sales for the fiscal 2023 nine-month period were USD488.3 million, up 3.2% compared with USD473.1 million in the prior year. Net loss for the ...

O’Reilly Automotive, a US-based automotive aftermarket parts retailer, has announced record revenue and earnings for its fourth quarter and full year ending December 2022, according to a press release dated 8 February. Sales for the fourth quarter increased USD353 million, or 11%, to USD3.64 billion from USD3.29 billion for the same period one year ago. The company’s net income increased USD10 million, or 2%, to USD529 million from USD519 million in the year ago period. For the fu...

The Automotive Industries Association of Canada (AIA Canada) has appointed Stuart “Stu” Klein to the newly created position of senior director, collision, according to a press release dated 3 February. Klein will join the association’s senior leadership team, which helps guide AIA Canada’s support and advocacy for the Canadian auto care sector. He will play a vital role in helping to direct AIA Canada’s efforts involving the collision sector of the industry, the release added. AI...

CLEPA, the European Association of Automotive Suppliers, has announced that it believes access to in-vehicle data requires the urgent introduction of regulatory guidance, according to a press release dated 8 February. The urgency was also recently outlined by the Independent Service Providers (ISPs) group in a letter sent to the European Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen, CLEPA said. CLEPA believes the continued delay risks access to the untapped potential in creating real competitio...

Moto-Profil, a Poland-based importer and distributor of automotive spare parts and accessories, announced that it recorded an increase in revenue in 2022 compared to the previous year and also saw its network expanding, according to a press release dated 2 February. The company, however, did not reveal revenue figures. Moto-Profil said its ProfiAuto network closed the year with over 240 shops and wholesalers as well as more than 2,150 car service workshops in Poland, Czechia, and Slovakia. Th...

US-based Fisher Auto Parts has announced that it has acquired Market Street Auto Parts LLC, according to a press release dated 7 February. Founded in 1929, Fisher Auto Parts is said to have approximately 500 company-owned locations and over 100 independent distributors across 18 states. Market Street Auto Parts, a supplier to professional parts installers as well as retail and do-it-yourself customers, has been operating in the North Lebanon County in Pennsylvania for over 16 years, according...

US-based Auto Parts 4Less Group has announced that AutoParts4Less.com, its multiseller marketplace of automotive parts in the US, has set a Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) sales record for the month of January 2023, surpassing the total of all GMV sales in the previous months, according to a press release dated 6 February. The company did not mention the record figure in its official announcement. The company had announced the launch of what it called the industry's first pure-play automotive p...

Nexus Automotive International, a Geneva-based alliance of independent car parts distributors, has announced that Freek Blekxtoon, CEO of NEXUS Automotive Netherlands is joining NEXUS Automotive International as NEXUS Workshops Network Development Expert in the Garage Service & Concept department, according to a press release dated 7 February. He has been and associated with the AllPart wholesale network for 20 years. Blekxtoon will take up his appointment from April 2023. In th...

Netherlands-based spare parts distributor PartsPoint has announced that it has acquired a Netherlands-based spare parts shop called Brezan Kampen through its subsidiary Alliance Automotive Group Benelux (AAGB) on 1 February 2023. Following the acquisition, Brezan will be fully integrated within PartsPoint, according to a press release dated 1 February. Until recently, the branch was active in the Netherlands as a franchisee of a parts supplier Brezan Automaterialen in the province of Ove...

Netherlands-based spare parts distributor PartsPoint has acquired Ameco Rotterdam-Ommoord, an auto parts store, through its subsidiary Alliance Automotive Group Benelux (AAGB), according to a press release dated 4 January. As part of the transaction, Ameco Rotterdam-Ommoord will be fully integrated within AAGB. Until recently, the company was active in the Rotterdam region as a franchisee of another Netherlands-based parts supplier called Brezan. Significance: After the acquisition, a Part...

ATI Sadi Autoteile GmbH, a Germany-based specialist wholesaler for car parts and accessories, workshop equipment, and care products, has announced that it has become a new shareholder in German automotive parts wholesaler SELECT AG, according to a press release dated 13 January. The medium-sized family business ATI Sadi Autoteile from Nuremberg, Germany becomes the 14th shareholder of SELECT AG. With this step, Sadi receives full access to the service modules in purchasing, sales, and th...

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) has announced that it welcomes the release of the new Australian standard for electric vehicle (EV) service and repair, according to an official announcement dated 2 February. The standard, ‘AS 5732 Electric Vehicle Operations – Maintenance and Repair’ contains new safety framework for independent service and repair workshops and it includes workshop layout, specialized tools, and protection equipment for technicians to safely and ef...

LKQ Europe, a Switzerland-based distributor of automotive aftermarket parts for cars, commercial vans, and industrial vehicles in Europe and a subsidiary of LKQ Corporation, has announced that it has expanded its presence in the European salvage business with the acquisition of Rhenoy Group, a Dutch supplier of remanufactured engines and recycled OEM car parts, according to a press release dated 2 February by Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF). The Rhenoy Group operates...

Australian automotive aftermarket parts distributor CoolDrive Auto Parts has announced that it has acquired Turbo Master Australia, in an effort to boost its engine management offering, according to a press release dated 31 January. Turbo Master Australia offers products for passenger cars, trucks and machinery with the core of its range focused on direct replacement aftermarket turbochargers that consist of upgraded components such as billet compressor wheels and other internal parts. It als...

According to a report by The Economic Times, India’s Road Transport and Highways minister Nitin Gadkari announced that the government plans to scrap more than 900,000 vehicles older than 15 years that are owned by the central and state governments. This decision is aligned with the government's effort to decarbonize the road transport sector. Speaking at a session on future of mobility, organized by a trade body Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (F...

Wilmar, a US-based supplier, distributor, and category manager of tools and equipment to the automotive aftermarket and other industries, announced that it has appointed Ken Hartman as CEO, according to a press release dated 19 January. The company said that Hartman brings over two decades of leadership experience in the tool and equipment industry and a track record of business expansion through the development and execution of innovative growth strategies. Prior to joining Wilmar, Hartman s...

Nexus Automotive International, a Geneva-based alliance of independent car parts distributors, has announced that it will lend support to IAMAGA, a regional entity dedicated to the African automotive aftermarket, in an effort to enhance its focus on Africa, according to a press release dated 26 January. IAMAGA, which includes 34 Africa based members and their affiliates, will provide services such as transactional activities for optimized access and pricing, strategic partnerships with OEMS, ...

UK automotive trade body Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has announced that its ‘Meet the Buyer’ event will return to Automechanika Birmingham 2023 in June, as part of an all-new Automotive Supply Chain Forum from Automechanika organizer Messe Frankfurt, according to a press release dated 19 January. Meet the Buyer brings together automotive purchasers with suppliers who can meet their specific requirements. With automotive supply chains increasingly squeezed by global d...

CarMax, a US-based retailer of used cars, has announced that in the third quarter ending November 2022, its net revenue stood at USD6.5 billion, down 23.7% compared with the prior year third quarter, according to a press release dated 22 December. It also announced that the total retail used units sold decreased 20.8% to 180,050 and total wholesale units sold decreased 36.7% year-on-year to 118,757. Despite a decrease of USD165 per unit from the record prior year third quarter, wholesale...

Bilia Norge AS, has signed an agreement with Great Wall Motor to be an importer and dealer of their car brands in Norway, according to a press release dated 23 January. Billia Norge AS is a European car dealer that offers servicing and sales of cars, transport vehicles, and trucks plus supplementary services such as financing and insurance. The establishment of Great Wall Motor includes import operations as well as dealer operations with car sales and aftermarket services, the release added...

Inchcape, a United Kingdom–based independent, multibrand global automotive distributor, announced that it has completed its acquisition of Derco, an automotive distributor in Latin America with operations in Chile, Peru, Colombia, and Bolivia, in what is Inchcape’s biggest such deal since 1967, according to a press release dated 3 January. The move is expected to extend Inchcape’s distribution leadership in LATAM, bringing significant additional revenue and margin accretive profit to the G...

Red Diamond Aftermarket Solutions, a brand of US-based The Shyft Group, announced that it will exhibit at the 2023 Florida RV SuperShow and introduce its line of Red Diamond Shocks by premium manufacturer KONI, according to a press release dated 18 January. The Shyft Group is a firm engaged in specialty vehicle manufacturing, assembly, and upfit for the commercial, retail, and service specialty vehicle markets in North America. Known for making adjustable shocks for numerous brands of recreat...

Konect.ai, an AI-powered SMS platform for automotive dealerships, and TotalCX (formerly InteractiveTel), a provider of AI-driven customer experience management solutions, have announced a strategic partnership and presence at the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) show in Dallas on 27–29 January, according to a press release dated 20 January. The partnership is claimed to be a holistic approach to build automation and accountability in auto retail. Konect.ai's platform allows de...

Inchcape, a United Kingdom-based independent, multi-brand global automotive distributor, announced an agreement to enter into a joint venture with CATS Group of Companies and also announced a decision to acquire a controlling stake in CATS, a distributor of luxury vehicles in the Philippines, according to a release dated 17 January. The deal is claimed to expand Inchcape’s global distribution footprint as it enters the Philippines, further building on its presence in the APAC region. It wil...