MyTVS has announced its entrance into the quick commerce delivery segment for distribution of automotive parts and lubricants for passenger vehicles and commercial vehicles, aiming to cut down supply chain costs by 30%, according to a report by Motor India dated Dec. 19.  The initiative is set to enhance the company's supply chain efficiency through collaborations with its existing retail network while utilizing the myTVS digital catalog to minimize the inventory stocked in dark sto...

US-based retailer and distributor of aftermarket automotive parts and accessories, AutoZone, has reported a 2.1% year-over-year increase in net sales, reaching $4.3 billion for the first quarter ended Nov. 23, 2024, compared to the same period in the prior fiscal year. The growth in sales is attributed to an increase in same-store sales across both domestic and international locations. The company saw a slight increase in gross profit as a percentage of sales to 53.0% due to higher merchandis...

CarParts.com, an e-commerce destination for automotive parts and accessories, has announced its partnership with Extend, a provider of shipping protection and product protection, according to a press release dated Dec. 12. This collaboration introduces Extend Shipping and Product Protection for items sold on CarParts.com. Through Extend's services, customers of CarParts.com now have the option to protect their orders beyond the standard manufacturer warranty, with the option to extend coverag...

Northern Wholesale Supply LLC (NWS), a distributor of recreational vehicle (RV), marine and power sports parts and accessories, announced its acquisition by an affiliate of Sun Capital Partners Inc., a private equity firm, according to a press release dated Dec. 16. This acquisition includes all assets of NWS along with the Northern Wholesale Supply LLC trade name. Post-closing, the operation will continue under the Northern Wholesale Supply LLC name, signifying a strategic partnership aimed ...

Commercial Truck and Trailer Parts (CTTP), a national distributor of aftermarket parts for the US heavy-duty truck industries, has announced a partnership with Fleet Services Inc. to establish a presence in the Southern California region, according to a press release dated Dec. 10. Fleet Services, established in 1966 and known for its service for nearly six decades, operates from four locations in California, US — Anaheim, San Bernardino, San Diego and Ventura. This partnership aims to leve...

NexaMotion Group (NMG), a US-based company offering solutions to simplify complex vehicle repair, announced that it has officially opened a new C&M Auto Parts store in Beltsville, Maryland, marking this as its 10th expansion in 2024, according to a press release dated Dec. 10. This new addition aims to serve the local market by providing a broad spectrum of automotive aftermarket parts. With a partnership with Transtar Aftermarket Solutions, a sister NMG company, the Beltsville facility i...

LKQ Corp. has announced significant changes to its board of directors as part of its ongoing board refreshment process, according to a press release dated Dec. 11. The company revealed that James S. Metcalf will join the board as an independent director starting from Dec. 11. This appointment coincides with the announcement that Dominick Zarcone has decided not to stand for reelection and will retire at the conclusion of his term during the company's 2025 annual meeting. Following Zarcone's d...

Carwow Group has unveiled a new service on the Auto Express platform titled Find a Car, aimed at providing retailers, brands and leasing firms direct access to a substantially increased pool of potential car buyers. This service is incorporated into the Auto Express website, which has recently undergone a rebranding. It allows buyers in the market to sift through, research and secure both new and used vehicles more efficiently. Given that Auto Express attracts over 44 million unique visi...

The Automechanika Shanghai 2024 event is set to take place from Dec. 2 to 5, featuring 81 events and over 400 speakers. There are estimated to be over 6,000 exhibitors showcasing their latest advancements in automotive aftermarket technology, emphasizing the event theme of innovation, transformation and a sustainable automotive future. With the high number of exhibitors, the theme is expected to explore various facets of the industry including R&D, production, distribution, e-commerce, ...

XL Parts and The Parts House have elevated Vikrant Aggarwal to the position of president and COO, according to a report by Aftermarket News dated Nov. 26. Aggarwal, who initially joined the firm as COO in October, will focus on delivering exceptional value to customers, expanding market presence and driving sustainable growth under the leadership of Mike Odell, the CEO of XL Parts, The Parts House and Marubeni Automotive Aftermarket Holdings. Odell will remain president and CEO of Marubeni...

HCI Equity Partners, a US-based private equity firm focusing on the lower middle market, has named Matt Johnson as the CEO of Driven Distribution Group, its new automotive aftermarket distribution platform, according to a press release dated Nov. 19. Distribution Group is a warehouse distributor of automotive aftermarket hard parts, consumables and accessories. This announcement follows shortly after Driven Distribution's endeavors including the acquisition of the auto parts and accessories d...

Dragonfly Energy Holdings Corp., a company involved in energy storage, has announced its partnership with Keystone Automotive Operations Inc., a distributor and marketer of specialty automotive equipment and accessories in North America, according to a press release dated Nov. 13. This collaboration enables Dragonfly Energy's products to be available for shipment from Keystone Automotive's eight distribution centers, offering overnight or two-day delivery across 48 states and nine Canadian pr...

Motorcar Parts of America (MPA), a US-based remanufacturer, manufacturer and distributor of automotive aftermarket parts, has reported an increase in net sales for the fiscal second quarter of 5.9%, reaching $208.2 million, according to a press release dated Nov. 12. The company's gross profit increased to a record $41.3 million from $41.1 million a year earlier. These figures were influenced by certain one-time expenses, including $2.7 million for new business onboarding and $1.3 millio...

CarParts.com Inc., a US-based e-commerce provider of automotive parts and accessories, has reported results for the third quarter ended Sept. 28, 2024, in a press release dated Oct. 29. The company said its net sales decreased to $144.8 million, down 13% from the year-ago quarter. Its gross profit stood at $51.0 million compared to $54.8 million; its gross margin was 35.2%, up from 32.9% from the year-ago quarter; and net loss was $10.0 million, or $0.17 per shar...

US-based independent manufacturer and distributor of automotive replacement parts, Standard Motor Products (SMP), announced the expansion of its Collision Repair program, now consisting over 8,000 parts designed to replace vehicle components damaged in collisions, according to a press release dated Nov. 11. This program covers a wide array of parts including advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) components, underhood and cabin components, actuators and sensors, and connectors. Each part of...

Bproauto, the new aftermarket parts brand of Stellantis, announced that as it nears its second year of operations in North America with its launch in January 2023, the company has significantly expanded its product offerings and market presence, offering customers competitively priced and readily available parts, all backed by warranty, according to a press release dated Oct. 31. Bproauto's expanding product line now includes more than 20 categories of automotive parts, such as air and fuel d...

US-based independent manufacturer and distributor of automotive replacement parts, Standard Motor Products (SMP), has announced the finalization of its acquisition of AX V Nissens III APS (Nissens), a European manufacturer and distributor of aftermarket engine cooling and air conditioning products, according to a press release dated Nov. 1. The acquisition, which was initially announced in July, saw SMP taking over all issued and outstanding shares of Nissens for an estimated $390 millio...

Motorcar Parts of America (MPA), a US-based remanufacturer, manufacturer and distributor of automotive aftermarket parts, announced significant changes to its traditional sales team ahead of its participation in the recently concluded Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX) in Las Vegas, according to a press release dated Oct. 31. The move included the promotion of Craig Meadows and the hiring of Jake Boggs. The company said Meadows is an industry veteran with more than 28 years of ...

FlexShopper Inc., a US-based national online lease-to-own retailer and payment solutions provider, has announced a strategic partnership with the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance, which operates an expansive network that includes over 3,700 independent distributors, auto parts stores and professional service repair shops across North America, according to a press release dated Nov. 6. This effort marks a considerable expansion of FlexShopper's payment solutions to more than 7,800 locations, in...

Private investment firm Brixey & Meyer Capital (BMC) has announced its acquisition of Smith Equipment Solutions, a company in the technical field services and distribution industry for automotive aftermarket shop equipment, according to a press release dated Nov. 6. The company, previously owned by Wil and Emily Smith who will maintain an ownership stake, is headquartered in Raleigh, North Carolina. Smith Equipment Solutions' expertise lies in the repair, inspection and preventa...

Phinia, the spinoff company of the fuel systems and aftermarket segments of Michigan, US-based powertrain technologies supplier BorgWarner, announced that it is attending the ongoing 2024 Automotive Aftermarket Product Expo (AAPEX) at the Venetian Expo in Las Vegas from Nov. 5 to 7 with its aftermarket brands Delphi, Delco Remy and Hartridge.  The company's Delphi showcase features a sneak peek of several new parts set to be announced later in the fourth quarter. Delphi anticip...

NexaMotion Group (NMG), a US-based company offering solutions to simplify complex vehicle repair, announced that it has acquired parts distributor City Auto Supply, as part of its national expansion endeavors, according to a press release dated Oct. 31. A distributor of automotive parts that supplies to the auto repair industry, City Auto Supply is known for carrying over 100,000 individual parts. The company operates through three wholesale distributor locations, with two in San Francisco an...

Denmark-based spare parts logistics provider Danx, part of the Danx Carousel group, announced that it has recently moved its Stockholm distribution center to a larger and refurbished facility in Kungens Kurva, Sweden, aiming to enhance its operational efficiency and sustainability measures, according to a press release dated Oct. 30. This relocation from the Skärholmen terminal is part of Danx's broader strategy to adapt to market growth and environmental concerns. The new hub is equipp...

O’Reilly Automotive Inc., a US-based retailer in the automotive aftermarket industry, has disclosed its financial achievements for the third quarter ended Sept. 30, 2024, according to a press release dated Oct. 24. Sales for the third quarter increased $161 million, or 4%, to $4.36 billion from $4.20 billion for the same period one year ago. Operating income was $897 million (or 20.5% of sales), which was flat compared to $897 million (or 21.3% of sales) for the same period one year ag...

US-based automotive parts distributor Genuine Parts Co. (GPC) has reported its third-quarter results for 2024, recording sales of $6.0 billion, a 2.5% increase compared to $5.8 billion in the same period of the prior year, according to a press release dated Oct. 22. The growth in sales is attributable to a 3.2% benefit from acquisitions and a net 0.1% favorable impact of foreign currency and other, partially offset by a 0.8% decrease in comparable sales.  Net income was $2...

Motor's PartSaver data-cleansing services play a vital role in streamlining operations for businesses involved in the automotive industry, particularly in managing and procuring automotive parts, according to a press release dated Oct. 22. PartSaver, acquired and refined by Motor Information Systems in 2008, has become an essential solution for standardizing and validating parts information, addressing a previously widespread problem of inconsistent and unreliable parts data that businesses face...

In a strategic move to bolster its presence and services across Africa, IAMaga, the African regional arm of Nexus Automotive International, has announced the acquisition of BTR, according to a press release dated Oct. 21. This acquisition aims to enhance the expansion of suppliers' activities and deliver more services throughout the continent by providing tailored services to suppliers lacking an adequate regional footprint. Nexus said that since its inception, it has focused on delivering va...

The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), a US-based trade organization for the automotive aftermarket industry, has announced leadership appointments to better address the evolving needs of the automotive aftermarket industry, according to a press release dated Oct. 17. As part of the move, Jim Moore has assumed the role of vice president, OEM and Product Development, leading efforts at SEMA Garage facilities in Diamond Bar, Calif., and Plymouth, Mich., to aid in product development...

Alliance Automotive Group (AAG), a European automotive aftermarket distributor, has announced a significant leadership shift within its German business unit with Fabian Roberg, who has been the managing director of AAG's German operations and is set to resign by the end of October, according to a press release dated Oct. 14. Since AAG's acquisition of Roberg's family business in 2015, he has been instrumental in growing the German unit's revenue from €150 million to over half a billion...

Following its recent acquisition of PPi Automotive, NexaMotion Group (NMG), a US-based company offering solutions to simplify complex vehicle repair, has inaugurated a new store in Pittsburgh, according to a press release dated Oct. 8. The facility, which opened its doors on Oct. 1, spans 11,000 square feet and boasts a significantly enhanced offering with four times the inventory and double the number of delivery drivers compared to its predecessor, the release added. This expansion aims ...

Donaldson Company Inc., known for its filtration solutions, has inaugurated a new distribution center in Olive Branch, Miss., according to a press release dated Oct. 15. This expansion is set to bolster Donaldson's capacity to cater to the burgeoning demand in the mobile solutions aftermarket segment, which encompasses industries such as heavy-duty trucking, construction, mining and agricultural equipment, the release added. Situated within the Memphis, Tenn., metropolitan area, the Olive ...

Stryten Energy, a US-based energy storage solutions provider, has announced a significant investment in Revkit, a new digital platform that brings together a community of automotive enthusiasts, according to a press release dated Oct. 15. Revkit showcases unique vehicle modifications and provides easy access for consumers to purchase the best automotive aftermarket products to customize their vehicles, the release added. According to Mike Judd, CEO and president of Stryten Energy, this i...

Moss Motors and Rimmer Bros, both global suppliers of replacement and restoration parts for British marque vehicles, have announced that following their merger earlier in 2024, they have appointed Ben Smart as Global CEO, according to a press release dated Sept. 30. Smart, a leader in the automotive aftermarket sector, will oversee global expansion and innovation for the companies, which serve over 240,000 customers in 150 countries, the release added.  Under Smart's le...

Driven Distribution LLC, backed by HCI Equity Partners, has acquired the auto parts and accessories distribution business of Chicago Parts & Sound, according to a report by aftermarketNews dated Oct. 3. This acquisition is a strategic move for Driven Distribution, following its earlier recapitalization of Tri-State Enterprises Inc. in November 2023. Chicago Parts & Sound, established in 1978 and taken over by Bob and Jackie Lederer in 2002, has additional locations in Illinois, US, an...

TruckPro, a US-based provider of heavy-duty truck and trailer products and services, announced that it has expanded its North American presence by acquiring Advanced Distribution, according to a press release dated Oct. 2. This acquisition is part of TruckPro's strategic effort to continue its expansion and enhance its service and support capabilities across North America, signifying a notable development in the truck and trailer service industry. In a statement, Chuck Broadus, CEO of Truc...

US-based retailer and distributor of aftermarket automotive parts and accessories, AutoZone, has announced its financial results for the fourth quarter ended Aug. 31, 2024. The company reported net sales of $6.2 billion, up 9.0% from the fourth quarter of fiscal 2023, according to a press release dated Sept. 24. Despite a minor decrease in gross profit margin to 52.5%, the company saw an operating profit increase of 6.1% to $1.3 billion. Net income for the quarter was $902.2 mi...

US-based ReverseLogix, known for its end-to-end returns management solutions, announced that it has been chosen by JEGS, an online retailer specializing in performance automotive parts, to enhance its customer returns experience and boost efficiency within its operations, according to a press release dated Sept. 24. The company said this collaboration marks a strategic move within the automotive aftermarket industry, which is known for its rapid pace and fluid nature, by recognizing the impor...

Altor Locks, a US-based firm recognized for manufacturing robust coupler locks, announced that it has entered into a strategic partnership with Automotive Accessories Marketing USA Inc. (The AAM Group), the largest distribution group in the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) marketplace, according to a press release dated Sept. 4. This collaboration was initiated after The AAM Group's members, which include leading automotive aftermarket distributors, were impressed by the resilien...

Nexus Automotive International (Nexus), a Geneva-based alliance of independent car parts distributors, announced the opening of a new North American head office in Dallas to better meet regional expectations and enhance its supplier satisfaction, according to a press release dated Sept. 11. Nexus will place a strong focus on North America, Asia and Africa/Middle East regions in the coming months, with plans to attend key events such as AWDA/AAPEX, Automechanika Dubai and Shanghai. In addition...

Bridgeline Digital Inc., a US-based company known for its AI-powered marketing technology, has announced that its product HawkSearch will be utilized by a prominent national aftermarket automotive truck parts retailer to enhance product discovery on its e-commerce website, according to a press release dated Aug. 29. This integration is aimed at increasing sales through HawkSearch's AI-powered Smart Search feature, which significantly improves the accuracy and relevance of search results for c...

Meko (previously Mekonomen Group), an automotive spare-parts distributor based in Sweden, has announced that it is amplifying its sustainability efforts through a newly formed partnership with Worldfavor, a platform known for enabling access to transparent data, according to a press release dated Aug. 29. This collaboration is set to enhance the transparency and sustainability of Meko's supply chain, targeting the entirety of its supply base which encompasses both centrally managed suppliers ...

Advance Auto Parts, Inc., an automotive aftermarket parts provider in North America, announced its financial results for the first quarter ended July 13, according to a press release dated Aug 22. Second-quarter 2024 net sales totaled $2.7 billion, which was flat compared with the second quarter of the prior year. Comparable store sales increased 0.4%. The company's operating income was $71.8 million, or 2.7% of net sales compared with 4.7% in the second quarter of 2023. However, there was...

Rowe Auto Service, a parts supplier located in the US, recognized for its extensive product knowledge, professional service and wide-ranging inventory, has been acquired by Fisher Auto Parts, according to a report by Aftermarket Intel. This acquisition marks Fisher Auto Parts' third acquisition since its significant affiliation with Berrodin Parts Warehouse in October 2023. Furthermore, this purchase accompanies the opening of 32 new greenfield locations in the year to date, in addition to th...

Advance Auto Parts Inc., an automotive aftermarket parts provider in North America, has announced the sale of its wholesale distribution business, Worldpac Inc., to Carlyle-managed funds for $1.5 billion in cash, according to a press release dated Aug. 22. This transaction, expected to close by the year's end, aligns with Advance's strategy to simplify its enterprise structure and concentrate on its blended box business. The sale proceeds will largely be utilized to bolster the company's bala...

North America-based collision repair centers operator Boyd Group Services Inc. has announced its results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2024, saying that sales increased by 3.4% to $779.2 million from $753.2 million in the same period of 2023, with same-store sales declining 3.2%, according to a press release dated Aug. 8. Net earnings decreased to $10.8 million, compared with $26.3 million in the same period of 2023 and net earnings per share decreased to $0.50, compared with $...

US-based automotive parts distributor Genuine Parts Co. (GPC) announced the appointment of Jenn Hulett as executive vice president and chief people officer, effective Aug. 19, in a press release issued on the same date. Hulett's appointment follows the retirement announcement of Jim Neill, who has committed to continue in an advisory capacity until Sept. 30 to facilitate a smooth transition. In her new role, Hulett will oversee GPC's global human resources operations, contributing to the comp...

NexaMotion Group (NMG), a US-based company offering solutions to simplify complex vehicle repair, has announced the expansion of its general repair products at its Transtar Aftermarket Solutions location in Orlando, Fla., according to a press release dated Aug. 13. Transtar, with over three decades of presence in the Orlando market, has been known for supplying transmission and driveline parts to automotive repair facilities. With this new collaboration, customers in Orlando will now have acc...

LKQ Europe, a distributor of automotive aftermarket parts, services and solutions across Europe, has recently initiated a centralized workshop concept hub aimed at strengthening the collaboration among its 16 concept brands, according to a press release dated July 26. This move is designed to facilitate the sharing of best practices and resources among LKQ Europe's in-country workshop concept teams and the garages they collaborate with. The company said the ultimate goal is to foste...

Vast-Auto Distribution, a subsidiary of Groupe Del Vasto, a distributor and marketer of automotive parts in Eastern Canada and a shareholder of the Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance, announced that it has expanded its presence in Newfoundland and Labrador by integrating three new stores into its Parts City Auto Parts chain, according to a press release dated Aug. 16. These stores, formerly operating under Browne's Auto Supplies, are strategically located in Mount Pearl, Newfoundland a...

US-based Aesop Auto Parts, a distributor of automotive parts and accessories founded in 2021 by affiliates of private equity firms Outerbound Capital and American Pacific Group, has announced the addition of Rob Wagman to its board of directors, according to a press release dated Aug. 12. Wagman brings over 30 years of experience in the automotive industry, including his tenure as president and CEO of LKQ Corp. from 2012 to 2017. During his leadership at LKQ, Wagman escalated the company's re...

Following the release of used car sales data by SMMT, Kevan Wooden, the CEO of LKQ UK & Ireland, emphasized the significant growth in the used electric vehicle and hybrid market, according to a press release by UK aftermarket industry body Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) dated Aug. 8. Wooden pointed out the opportunity this growth presents for garages and workshops to become specialists in servicing plug-in vehicles, especially as only 11% of UK mechanics are cur...

Motorcar Parts of America (MPA), a US-based remanufacturer, manufacturer and distributor of automotive aftermarket parts, has reported an increase in net sales by 6.4%, reaching $169.9 million, and a gross profit increase of 9.8% to $29.2 million for the fiscal 2025 first-quarter ended June 30, 2024, according to a press release dated Aug. 8. Despite this growth, the company faced an unfavorable noncash $11.1 million foreign exchange loss, affecting its operating results. However, through cos...

Advance Auto Parts Inc., an automotive aftermarket parts provider in North America, announced that it has made its MotoVisuals service and repair animations tool accessible within Steer's customer relationship management (CRM) solution and Tekmetric's shop management system (SMS), according to a press release dated Aug. 5. MotoVisuals, which includes over 500 service and repair animations covering a wide array of automotive systems such as advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) technologies...

Meko (previously Mekonomen Group), an automotive spare-parts distributor based in Sweden, has announced that it has successfully completed the acquisition of Elit Polska, a move that significantly enhances its footprint in the Polish automotive aftermarket, according to a press release dated Aug. 1. The acquisition was first announced on May 10, 2024, following an agreement with LKQ Corp., the previous owner of Elit Polska. The acquisition has propelled Meko to become the third-largest e...

Moog Louisville Warehouse, a distributor of automotive parts and supplies in the greater Louisville, Ky., and southern Indiana area, announced that it has officially joined Auto-Wares Group of Companies, an aftermarket automotive distribution company headquartered in Grand Rapids, Mich., according to a press release dated Aug. 5. This partnership represents a significant milestone for both organizations, aimed at capitalizing on their combined strengths for future growth and innovation. The t...

CarParts.com Inc., a US-based eCommerce provider of automotive parts and accessories, has reported results for the second quarter ended June 29, 2024, in a press release dated July 30.  The company reported a decrease in net sales by 18% to $144.3 million. Its gross profit stood at $48.4 million against $60.4 million. Notably, the period saw a substantial net loss of $8.7 million, or $0.15 per share, a significant drop from the previous year's net loss of $0.7 million, or $0.01...

Genuine Parts Co. (GPC), a US-based distributor of automotive and industrial replacement parts, has announced its financial results for the second quarter of 2024, ending June 30, according to a press release dated July 23. The company reported sales of $6.0 billion, marking a slight increase of 0.8% compared to the same period in the previous year. This rise in sales is attributed to a 2.2% benefit from acquisitions, despite a 0.9% decline in comparable sales and a 0.5% adverse impact from f...

CarParts.com Inc., an online provider of automotive parts and accessories, has announced the opening of its new state-of-the-art fulfillment center in Las Vegas, according to a press release dated July 24. The fully automated center integrates state-of-the-art AI capabilities to streamline operations, bolster safety measures, and extend availability of automotive parts and accessories, the company said. This facility is designed to significantly enhance the efficiency of handling both...

Meko (previously Mekonomen Group), an automotive spare-parts distributor based in Sweden, has announced that it is significantly enhancing its warehouse capabilities in Poland, a strategic move aimed at bolstering its market presence and facilitating ongoing growth, according to a press release dated July 19. The firm is relocating its central warehouse in Poland to a new facility, nearly double the size of the current one, located in the Warsaw region. The transition to a larger warehouse, s...

LKQ Corp., a Chicago-based provider of alternative and specialty parts and services for automobiles and other vehicles, announced the appointment of Andrew Clarke to the company’s board of directors as a new independent director, effective immediately, according to a press release dated July 22. With the addition of Clarke, the LKQ board will consist of 10 members, eight of whom are independent. Clarke brings significant logistics, transportation, operations and financial expertis...

GSF Car Parts, a UK-based supplier of car parts to the independent aftermarket, announced the opening of new branches in East Manchester, UK, and Southeast London as part of their ongoing expansion efforts, according to a press release dated July 9 by the UK aftermarket industry body, the Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF). The new Openshaw branch in East Manchester, which covers an area of 4,000 square feet, marked a significant milestone by achieving record-breaking sales ...

Stellantis North America has inaugurated a new Mopar Parts Distribution Centre (PDC) in Brampton, Ontario, Canada, at an investment of C$25.1 million and is set to provide employment for over 170 individuals, according to a press release dated July 9. The PDC, encompassing 513,000 square feet, is designed to serve the Greater Toronto Area, Quebec, and Eastern Canada, housing nearly 55,000 parts and having the capacity to ship up to 2 million orders annually. According to the company, a not...

Diesel Technic UK, a supplier of automotive parts and accessories, has recently made several strategic appointments to its sales team, reflecting the company's ongoing commitment to expanding its customer base in the UK and enhancing support for partners and end-user fleets, according to a press release dated July 9. As part of the move, Luke Winship and Kevin Petrie have been appointed sales managers for the Central region and the North and Northern Ireland region, respectively. These appoin...

Meko (previously Mekonomen Group), an automotive spare parts distributor based in Sweden, has announced its expansion in Estonia through the acquisition of Automeister, a company that includes the established workshop concept Carstop with 14 facilities across the country, according to a press release dated July 8. The company said this move is aimed at increasing market shares and enhancing profitability in the Baltic region. Automeister, founded in 1993, has been operating the Carstop concep...

Highline Warren, a US-based supplier of consumable and maintenance products for the automotive aftermarket, has announced the opening of a new distribution center in Vacaville, Calif., later in 2024, according to a press release dated July 1. In preparation for this expansion, the company is actively hiring for various roles, including equipment operators and administrative clerical assistants, with plans to add operations supervisors, merchandise processors and additional clerical positions ...

Meko (previously Mekonomen Group), an automotive spare-parts distributor based in Sweden, announced that Michael Løve announced his resignation from the Board of Directors at MEKO to dedicate his efforts entirely to his position as CEO of the Danish energy company OK, according to a press release dated July 2. Løve, who joined MEKO's board in 2020 while also serving as OK's CEO, made this decision following the recent approval by Danish competition authorities of OK's significant investment...

The Auto Care Association, a US-based industry body representing independent manufacturers, distributors and repair shops, has announced the elected members of its board of directors for the 2024-2025 term, according to a press release dated July 1. This board is effective as of July 1. The members of this Auto Care Association Board of Directors are: Chairman of the board: Mike Boyer, president, TASCO sales reps Vice chairman of the board: Greg Noethlich, CEO, Old World Industries ...

LKQ Corporation has announced that it has successfully concluded negotiations with the trade union Verdi, securing a new collective bargaining agreement that will impact approximately 5,000 of its employees in Germany, according to a press release dated June 21. The agreement includes a specific focus on 730 employees stationed at the LKQ Sulzbach-Rosenberg distribution center. Scheduled to remain effective until April 30, 2026, this two-year agreement introduces a mandatory peace obligation,...

CarParts.com Inc., an online provider of automotive parts and accessories, has announced the launch of its first comprehensive brand marketing campaign in the company's over 25-year history, according to a press release dated June 27. The campaign — titled "Now That's My Speed"— will run across digital and social platforms this summer to enhance brand recognition, drive business growth and establish a competitive advantage in the growing auto parts aftermarket industry. The c...

Fisher Auto Parts, a US-based auto parts distribution network, has announced the opening of a Massachusetts, US, distribution center, according to a press release dated June 19. The company has purchased a 217,000-square-feet distribution center on 12 acres located at 2189 Westover Road in Chicopee, Massachusetts. Equipped with 32 loading docks, the new facility will become operational once it is fully outfitted with features to optimize efficiencies, including logistical and material-handlin...

GSP North America, a manufacturer and distributor in the automotive aftermarket, has announced the appointment of Evan Bauer as director of Key Accounts, according to a press release dated June 24. In this role, Bauer will be responsible for managing and growing key accounts in the retail segment for GSP's lines across North America. Bauer's experience as an aftermarket sales and product management leader brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the GSP team, the company said. "G...

Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), a US-based trade organization for the automotive aftermarket industry, has announced that it is preparing to host over 2,400 brands at its SEMA Show set to take place Nov. 5–8 in Las Vegas, according to a press release dated June 13. This automotive exhibition boasts numerous new companies presenting for the first time, as well as established brands such as Flaming River, Katzkin, Kia, McLeod, Mopar Stellantis, Snap-on and Real Truck....

ENEOS USA Inc., the US arm of Japanese oil and metals company ENEOS Corp., and Georgia, US-based Mighty Auto Parts have announced a new distribution partnership across the US and in Ontario, according to a press release dated June 10. As part of the partnership, Mighty will stock the ENEOS 0W-8 Motor Oil, ENEOS Import DPS Fluid and ENEOS ECO CVT Fluid. Mighty supports a nationwide network of franchises and company operations located in 44 states and serves more than 15,000 automotiv...

Motorcar Parts of America Inc. reported financial results for its fiscal 2024 fourth quarter and year ended March 31, 2024, revealing year-over-year increases in sales, operating income and cash flow from operating activities, according to a press release dated June 11. The company's net sales for fiscal 2024 increased 5.1% to $717.7 million, gross profit increased 16.3% to $132.6 million, and operating income increased 26.5% to $46.1 million. The company generated approximately $39.2 million...

Lithia & Driveway (LAD), an automotive retailer in North America that also provides a suite of financing, leasing, repair and maintenance options, announced that it has expanded its footprint in the US southeast region with the purchase of Sunrise Chevrolet Buick GMC at Collierville and Sunrise Buick GMC at Wolfchase in Memphis, Tenn., and Woodbridge Hyundai in the Greater Toronto area, according to a press release dated June 11. Combined, these newly acquired stores are projected to generat...

Motorcar Parts of America (MPA), a US-based remanufacturer, manufacturer and distributor of automotive aftermarket parts, has announced that it plans to nominate F. Jack Liebau, Jr. for election to the company's board of directors at its 2024 annual shareholders meeting, according to a press release dated June 10. Liebau has nearly 40 years of experience investing in public companies for institutional asset managers such as Primecap Management Co., The Capital Group, Davis Funds and...

Motorcar Parts of America Inc. (MPAA) has announced the appointment of Dan Lelchuk as director of Business Development for brake products, according to a press release dated June 6. The company said Lelchuk is an industry veteran who previously served as the president, CEO and co-founder of Centric Parts. His role at MPAA will focus on supporting and enhancing brake calipers, brake pads and brake rotor product offerings. “Dan Lelchuk’s background complements the company’s f...

Advance Auto Parts, Inc., an automotive aftermarket parts provider in North America, announced its financial results for the first quarter ended April 20, according to a press release dated May 29. First-quarter 2024 results showed a 0.3% decrease in net sales totaling $3.4 billion, compared to the same period in the previous year. Comparable store sales also decreased by 0.2%. Gross profit decreased by 2.2% to $1.4 billion, primarily due to increased costs that couldn't be entirely covered b...

The Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA) Aftermarket Suppliers, an association in North America representing motor-vehicle component manufacturers, has announced that the association along with the Auto Care Association are collaborating with S&P Global to host an exclusive webinar on June 6, 2024, which will discuss the Aftermarket Joint Channel Market Size and Forecast for 2024–27, according to a press release dated May 30. This webinar, exclusive to members of the M...

In a press release dated June 3, Fortum announced that it has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Marubeni Corp. to develop a sustainable lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery recycling chain with a focus on graphite recycling. Marubeni will assist Fortum by supplying in-process waste materials and processing chemicals, and exploring potential graphite and lithium recycling technologies. This partnership aims to create a recycling value chain to meet market demand, while also in...

Advance Auto Parts Inc., an automotive aftermarket parts provider in North America that serves both professional installers and do-it-yourself customers, announced that Ken Bush, senior vice president and chief merchant, will retire from the company after nearly 20 years and be succeeded by Bruce Starnes, who has been named executive vice president and chief merchant, effective June 24, 2024, according to a press release dated May 29. Starnes, 48, who will lead all aspects of merchandising st...

GSF Car Parts, a UK-based supplier of car parts to the independent aftermarket, announced a significant increase in its exhaust system sales, with a year-to-date sales increase of over 30% compared to 2023, according to a press release dated May 28 by the UK aftermarket industry body, the Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF). The company credits this growth to its A2A brand, which is manufactured exclusively by a leading original equipment manufacturer OES provider and is know...

FIGIEFA, the Europe-based international federation of independent automotive aftermarket distributors, announced that it has elected a new board of directors during its General Assembly in Istanbul, according to a press release dated May 22. The board comprises professionals from national associations and automotive spare parts distribution companies across Europe. The newly appointed board members are Mads Engberg as president (representing AUTIG from Denmark), Bastian Müller as vice presid...

US-based retailer and distributor of aftermarket automotive parts and accessories, AutoZone, has reported net sales of $4.2 billion for its third quarter ended May 4, 2024, an increase of 3.5% from the third quarter of fiscal 2023, according to a press release dated May 21. For the quarter, net income stood at $651.7 million compared with $647.7 million in the same period last year, while diluted earnings per share increased 7.5% to $36.69. Commenting on the results, “I want to thank and...

The Auto Care Association, a US-based industry body representing independent manufacturers, distributors and repair shops, has announced latest updates to the Auto Care Vehicle Information Portal (VIP), according to a press release dated May 20. The VIP platform allows users to both manage and download the Aftermarket Catalog Exchange Standard (ACES) and Product Information Exchange Standard (PIES) supporting relational databases, enabling companies to get the right part, to the right place, at ...

LKQ Corp., a Chicago, US-based provider of alternative and specialty parts and services for automobiles and other vehicles, announced in a press release on May 10 that it has entered into a definitive agreement to sell Elit Polska, a Poland-based distributor of automotive parts, consumables and workshop equipment, to Meko. Meko (previously Mekonomen Group) is an automotive spare-parts distributor based in Sweden. The company operates across eight markets through its group brands FTZ, Inter-Te...

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) said that it has welcomed the Australian government’s announcement that automotive apprentices are now eligible for funding under the New Energy Apprenticeships Program, according to a press release dated May 6. The AAAA, who represents market participants including independent service and repair workshops, believes the program extension will encourage new automotive apprenticeships across the country. “The broadening of the New ...

Genuine Parts Co. (GPC), a global distributor of automotive and industrial replacement parts, has announced that Paul Donahue will transition from chairman and CEO to executive chairman, effective June 3, according to a press release dated April 29. At that time, William Stengel, currently president and COO, will succeed Donahue as president and CEO of GPC and will serve as a member of the board of directors. "The board is confident that Will is the right person to lead GPC into the future an...

Genuine Parts Co., a global distributor of automotive and industrial replacement parts, has announced an acquisition for its US Automotive business, stating that effective April 30, the company acquired Motor Parts & Equipment Corp. (MPEC), according to a press release dated May 1. MPEC, founded in 1938, is based in Rockford, Ill. It is said to be the largest independent owner of NAPA Auto Parts stores in the US, operating 181 locations across Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minne...

AllParts, a European cooperative of independent automotive wholesalers, has announced that it is expanding its portfolio of garage networks with the Car Service Partner concept, according to a press release dated April 25. This accessible concept, specially designed to provide support to independent garage owners, began on April 2. Car Service Partner is exclusively available through AllParts wholesalers and was developed in response to the increasing demand from independent garage owners for...

Berlin-based Autodoc SE, an auto parts e-commerce platform, has announced that global alternative asset manager Apollo has led a minority equity investment alongside leading institutional investors at a valuation of €2.3 billion, according to a press release dated May 3. As part of the transaction, two Apollo representatives will join the company’s supervisory board. The funding will support Autodoc’s expansion into the business-to-business sector while strengthening its position in the...

The Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA) Aftermarket Suppliers, an association in North America representing motor-vehicle component manufacturers, has announced that it applauds the announcement on May 6 by US Vice President Kamala Harris and the Biden-Harris Administration in their support of small- and medium-sized auto parts manufacturers and autoworkers, according to a press release dated May 6. MEMA said through the announcement of more than $100 million in funding and...

Porsche has outlined its accessories portfolio for its models, saying that its portfolio allows models that have already been delivered to be customized while staying true to the brand with the product and retrofit options, according to a press release dated May 2. The company said all products under Porsche Accessories are tailored to the customers’ requirements and individual life style, and the vehicle warranty remains in full effect. The Porsche Accessories product program currentl...

UK-based A1 Motor Stores, an automotive aftermarket buying and distribution group, has announced its partnership with Global One Automotive, an exclusive automotive alliance of trading groups, according to a press release dated April 26. Effective July 1, A1 Motor Stores will become a shareholder of Global One Automotive, marking a significant milestone in its growth strategy. The decision to join Global One Automotive aligns with A1 Motor Stores' commitment to enhance its presence and compet...

O’Reilly Automotive, Inc., a US-based retailer in the automotive aftermarket industry, has announced record revenue and earnings for its first quarter ended March 31, 2024, according to a press release dated Apr. 24. Sales for the first quarter increased $268 million, or 7%, to $3.98 billion from $3.71 billion for the same period one year ago. Operating income increased 5% to $752 million (or 18.9% of sales) from $717 million (or 19.3% of sales) for the same period one year ago. Net income ...

Auto Parts 4 Less Group Inc., a US-based e-commerce automotive parts firm, has announced that its revenue climbed from $48,573 in January 2024 to $102,409 in March 2024, up 111%, according to a press release dated Apr. 17. The company didn’t disclose further revenue details. Christopher Davenport, CEO and Founder of Auto Parts 4 Less Group Inc. stated, "This success is primarily driven through our LiftKits4Less.com platform, which we reactivated just five months ago. Additionally, while our...

LKQ Corporation has reported first quarter 2024 financial results. In a press release dated Apr. 23, the company announced that its revenue for the first quarter of 2024 was $3.7 billion, up 10.6% compared to $3.3 billion for the first quarter of 2023. Its total parts and services revenue increased by 12.1%. Other revenue for the first quarter of 2024 fell 14.6% primarily due to weaker precious metals prices relative to the same period in 2023. Net income for the first quarter of 2024 was $15...

Auto Parts 4 Less Group Inc., a US-based, e-commerce automotive parts firm, announced that it has completed the first tranche of funding from RB Capital Partners, following the successful restructuring of its balance sheet, according to a press release dated April 11. The company aims to focus toward fostering revenue growth and operational expansion, the release added. Commenting on the move, Christopher Davenport, CEO of Auto Parts 4 Less Group, said, "We are thrilled to partner with RB Cap...

Meko (previously Mekonomen Group), an automotive spare-parts distributor based in Sweden, announced that it is modernizing its central warehouse in Helsinki with new technology and automated inventory management, according to a press release dated April 12. The renovated warehouse will enhance the efficiency of operations, lead to improved service, and result in sustainably lower costs. The facility is planned to be fully operational in the first half of 2025. Meko is the market leader in the...

Meko (previously Mekonomen Group), an automotive spare-parts distributor based in Sweden, announced that its branch and workshop concept BilXtra is broadening its footprint in the Swedish market, according to a press release dated April 15. The company has formed a partnership with Bilam, the owner of five facilities in southern Sweden, with a goal to further boost BilXtra's brand recognition and establish it as a vital addition to Meko's suite of other concepts in Sweden, the release added. ...