http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/Business+Profiles/Article/list/41819 Auto stores, body shops and automotive independent repair shop profiles. 2009-11-21T10:48:05Z http://motorage.search-autoparts.com/motorage/Business+%26+Management+Solutions/Menkes-Automotive-rises-to-the-top-of-the-countrys/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/643245?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 When Vernie Menke used to wander out to his father's shop behind his childhood home, he knew he wanted to work in an automotive shop for the rest of his life. But when he walked into his first job at Paul Fischer Performance Shop in 1970, his views all changed. Yes, he still wanted to be in a shop, but this was different. The shop was pristine. It was spotless and organized ? just how Menke knew a good automotive repair shop should be run. 2009-11-21T05:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/motorage/472009/643245/menke-flash-260_flash.gif HTML http://motorage.search-autoparts.com/motorage/Business+Basics/Certified-Automotive-uses-technology-to-get-its-me/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/643126?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Gene Morrill might be one of the few shop owners in the country who encourages his technicians to log onto Yahoo! Messenger during work. But utilizing technology in a multitude of ways helped the shop land in second on the top 10 Motor Age Top Shops in 2009. 2009-11-20T05:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/motorage/472009/643126/certified-flash-260_flash.gif HTML http://motorage.search-autoparts.com/motorage/Business+Basics/Motor-Age-unveils-top-10-shops-in-Top-Shops-contes/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/642710?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Shops from around the country fill out the top 10 of the fourth annual Motor Age Top Shops Contest. The top shop in 2009 is Menke Automotive Repair in Newburgh, Ind., and shops from Colorado, Ohio, Florida, North Carolina, California, Michigan, Arizona and another Indiana shop round out the list. 2009-11-19T05:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/motorage/472009/642710null HTML http://motorage.search-autoparts.com/motorage/Business+Basics/Increasing-gross-profits-starts-with-looking-at-la/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/636349?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 ORLANDO ? There are only three ways to make money in the automotive repair shop business, but by crunching some numbers, you can increase your gross profit. So by working on increasing sales, increasing gross profit and decreasing expenses, you can make more money. Kelly Bennett focused on increasing gross profit in his class ?Increasing Gross Profit? during WORLDPAC?s second day of its first supplier and training expo. 2009-10-24T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/motorage/432009/636349null HTML http://motorage.search-autoparts.com/motorage/Business+Basics/Bendix-issues-fraud-alert-concerning-fake-checks/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/629532?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC (Bendix CVS) and Bendix Spicer Foundation Brake LLC are warning their employees, customers and other consumers about a business financing scam that has appropriated the companies' identities. 2009-09-28T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/motorage/402009/629532null HTML http://motorage.search-autoparts.com/motorage/Business+%26+Management+Solutions/The-Top-Shops-for-2008/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/572989?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 The 2008 edition of Motor Age?s Top Shop contest featured a number of qualified entries. Each shop brought something different to the table, and a number of unique business practices shone through. Whether its community service, activity in the automotive industry, ASE Blue Seal Shop classification or good, quality techs, these shops are some of the best in the country. 2008-12-23T05:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/motorage/522008/572989null HTML http://motorage.search-autoparts.com/motorage/Business+Basics/All-in-the-Family/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/568949?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 It's a dream of many a father and son to launch a successful family business. For Aaron Clements, this dream started in 1977, when he and his father opened C&C Automotive in Augusta, Ga. 2008-12-01T05:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/motorage/492008/568949/13_thumbnail.jpg http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/motorage/492008/568949/13F_flash.jpg XML http://abrn.search-autoparts.com/abrn/Hands-On+Management/Couple-committed-to-success-in-tough-times/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/570177?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 At Korte's Collision, the husband and wife team of Matt and Lisa Korte are still surprised by their five-year success story. Matt can still remember handwriting estimates in the early days. And Lisa recalls balancing the books with their four-year-old son building Legos at their feet. Their tag-team approach to running a business and a family keeps them much too busy to realize their success. 2008-12-01T05:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/492008/570177/5_thumbnail.jpg http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/492008/570177/5F_flash.jpg XML http://abrn.search-autoparts.com/abrn/Hands-On+Management/Creative-marketing-turns-North-Carolina-shop-aroun/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/570176?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 When Billy Darr accepted the job as general manager at Triangle Auto Body of Durham, N.C., he had his work cut out for him. Owner Dwayne Glenn, who started the business in 1984, had built a very successful business based on dealer referrals. The company lost one-third of its business when one key dealer account opened its own body shop and another sold its franchise. 2008-12-01T05:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/492008/570176/4_thumbnail.jpg http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/492008/570176/4F_flash.jpg XML http://abrn.search-autoparts.com/abrn/Hands-On+Management/Family-commitment-is-the-glue-that-holds-Wisconsin/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/560465?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 To say Dreher Collision Center – with locations in Appleton and Brownsville, Wis. – is family-owned would grossly underestimate the impact of family on the business. This family comprises nearly 50 percent of its employee base, which is currently at nine. 2008-11-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/432008/560465/9_thumbnail.jpg http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/432008/560465/9_f_flash.jpg XML http://abrn.search-autoparts.com/abrn/Hands-On+Management/Eco-friendly-format-draws-business-to-northern-Cal/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/560464?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Jacques Andres, owner of Oakland, Calif.-based Clean Green Collision, became interested in making the collision repair industry more eco-friendly as a result of a personal experience. 2008-11-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/432008/560464/8_thumbnail.jpg http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/432008/560464/8_f_flash.jpg XML http://aftermarketbusiness.search-autoparts.com/aftermarketbusiness/Business+Profiles/John-Washbish-fills-new-Alliance-position-of-execu/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/561743?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 John R. Washbish has taken on a new role in his aftermarket career. Washbish is stepping into the position of executive vice president, a new position with Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance, Inc. 2008-10-29T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/442008/561743/washbish_thumbnail.jpg http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/442008/561743/washbish_flash.jpg HTML http://abrn.search-autoparts.com/abrn/Business+Profiles/Dingmans-Collision-receives-BBB-Integrity-Award-fo/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/558283?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 OMAHA, Neb. – Dingman’s Collision Center has received the Better Business Bureau (BBB) Integrity Award, an honor that focuses on demonstrated ethical business practices with key stakeholders including customers, employees and community at large, rather than a company’s growth, profitability or popularity. 2008-10-13T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/422008/558283null HTML http://aftermarketbusiness.search-autoparts.com/aftermarketbusiness/Distribution/Frost-amp-Sullivan-Chemicals/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/556782?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Despite the millions of dollars invested in product development and marketing for automotive chemicals, consumers continue to be extremely skeptical of the benefit claims associated with these products. Vehicles cost a lot of money and for most people their vehicle ranks as one of their top investments. But, a vehicle's value is much greater than just the cost. For instance, vehicles provide transportation to and from the workplace or serve as a tool to deliver a service, thereby playing a key role in income generation. 2008-10-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/412008/556782/12_thumbnail.jpg http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/412008/556782null XML http://abrn.search-autoparts.com/abrn/Hands-On+Management/Maine-shop-turns-green-into-gold/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/552322?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Planning a trip to New England this year? Aside from the changing leaves, Shawn Moody might have another reason to bring you here — the one-stop I-CAR Gold Moody's Collision Centers in one of soon-to-be four locations in southern Maine. Moody's ultimate goal is to operate in Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont. 2008-10-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/392008/552322/i1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/392008/552322/6F_flash.jpg XML http://abrn.search-autoparts.com/abrn/Hands-On+Management/Pragmatic-owner-takes-practical-approach-to-DRPs/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/556147?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 We've all heard that the optimist sees the donut and the pessimist sees the hole. But perhaps the one with the clearest vision is the pragmatist, the one who sees the donut and the hole. 2008-10-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/402008/556147/i3_thumbnail.jpg http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/402008/556147/i3_t_flash.jpg XML http://motorage.search-autoparts.com/motorage/Business+Basics/Auto-Tech-and-Body-Bridging-Collision-and-Technica/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/556831?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Like a colossus astride the Pompano Beach, Fla., repair market, Auto Tech and Body bridges both technical and collision repair with a state-of-the-art facility. As envisioned by owner Jay Ghanem, however, this shop is designed to encompass much more than just customary car upkeep. A high-end lobby denotes taste and culture, technicians are certified to do recall repairs for every manufacturer of vehicles sold in the United States and Canada and the upper floor of the building actually functions as the South Florida Community Center. 2008-10-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/motorage/412008/556831/18_thumbnail.jpg http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/motorage/412008/556831/18F_flash.jpg XML http://aftermarketbusiness.search-autoparts.com/aftermarketbusiness/Distribution/Specialty-newsmaker/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/556781?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 What are some of your hottest selling products right now? 2008-10-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/412008/556781/11_thumbnail.jpg http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/412008/556781null XML http://aftermarketbusiness.search-autoparts.com/aftermarketbusiness/Distribution/The-OReillyCSK-factor/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/550383?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 As noted before, we believe CSK's 1,345 stores make an excellent complement to O'Reilly Auto Parts' base of 1,918 stores, giving O'Reilly immediate market density on the West Coast and narrowing the store count gap relative to the two largest auto parts retailers: AutoZone, which has 4,032 stores in the United States and 130 in Mexico; and Advance Auto, which operates 3,291 stores in the continental United States, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. O'Reilly and CSK have minimal overlap in their store footprints, with the exception of a few states in the Great Lakes area. We expect O'Reilly will close 60 stores, 50 of which may be in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area in order to thin out overlapping operations. 2008-09-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/382008/550383/11_thumbnail.jpg http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/382008/550383null XML http://abrn.search-autoparts.com/abrn/Hands-On+Management/Self-motivation-keeps-Nebraska-shop-owner-passiona/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/545065?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Eric Dawson, 36, owner of I-CAR Gold Status AA Collision Repair in Omaha, Neb., has barely had time to pack up the party trimmings from the open house of his newest baby, a second shop – Shadow Lake Collision Center, five miles from AA Collision Repair in Papillion, Neb. The grand opening in May 2008 drew more than 300 people, including the city's mayor, fire and rescue, and state troopers. The opening also allured potential customers. 2008-09-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/352008/545065/2_thumbnail.jpg http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/352008/545065/2F_flash.jpg XML http://abrn.search-autoparts.com/abrn/Hands-On+Management/Thriving-on-auto-dealer-body-work/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/545066?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 More and more auto dealers are making the determination that they don't want to be in the collision repair business, instead forming relationships with one or more body shops they can trust to do that work for them on a referral basis. That trend too can benefit those dealers that do opt to operate their own body shops, as those shops may be well positioned to handle collision work for other dealers as well. 2008-09-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/352008/545066/3_thumbnail.jpg http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/352008/545066/3F_flash.jpg XML http://motorage.search-autoparts.com/motorage/Technical/Georges-Sierra-Shell-Fueling-a-Successful-Future/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/547031?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 No one knows exactly where or when it started, but since the first blacksmith decided to sell gasoline to a growing fleet of horseless carriages, the history of the gas station has been intertwined with that of the automobile. Once as commonplace on corners as Starbucks (now facing its own changes), true full service stations are few and far between these days. One notable exception: George's Sierra Shell in Fontana, Calif., which not only has survived, but thrived. 2008-09-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/motorage/362008/547031/15_thumbnail.jpg http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/motorage/362008/547031/15F_flash.jpg XML http://abrn.search-autoparts.com/abrn/Shop+Profiles/Booming-business-for-baby-boomers/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/532390?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 The same year that Jackie Robinson became the first African American to play major league baseball, "Meet the Press" made its television debut on NBC, and The Voice of America began to transmit broadcasts into the Soviet Union, a humble body shop opened its doors in Canal Winchester, Ohio, on the outskirts of Columbus. The year was 1947. 2008-08-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/312008/532390/4_thumbnail.jpg http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/312008/532390/4F_flash.jpg XML http://motorage.search-autoparts.com/motorage/Business+%26+Management+Solutions/Toy-Auto-Man-No-Toying-Around-for-Santa-Fes-Toyota/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/532983?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 If all it takes is being the right person in the right place at the right time, Stephen Inoue was perfectly poised for opportunity. Having long observed the repair industry as a technician, a manager and even a drag racer, when he was hired on at Santa Fe's Toy Auto Man — an alteration of "Toyota Man" to avoid trademark infringement by the Japanese giant — he found the original owner not merely open to his ideas, but willing to sell him the shop. Joined by his wife Claudia, this "old school" concern was like clay to be molded by the couple. 2008-08-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/motorage/312008/532983/16_thumbnail.jpg http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/motorage/312008/532983/16F_flash.jpg XML http://aftermarketbusiness.search-autoparts.com/aftermarketbusiness/Opinion%2FCommentary/Sales-show-resiliency/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/532522?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 To help determine business trends in May and June, seasonally stronger months, we polled a sample base of 151 automotive parts retailers across the United States, comprised of an almost equal split of stores in the Southeast, Northeast, Midwest and West. Surprisingly, the results suggest that aftermarket sales trends held up fairly well from May into June. This survey tends to more accurately gauge direction than magnitude, but we think it indicates second quarter 2008 earnings per share (EPS) results will be in line or better for parts retailers. Overall, the survey results point to improved trends in general for all parts retailers, as well as the professional installers, from what were relatively weak results in the March quarter. 2008-08-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/312008/532522/9_thumbnail.jpg http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/312008/532522null XML http://abrn.search-autoparts.com/abrn/Shop+Profiles/Missouri-shop-repairs-just-about-anything/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/532391?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Perry Legend Collision Repair Center doesn't restrict itself to auto repairs. The Columbia, Mo.-based shop also repairs tractor-trailers, buses, boats and even farm equipment such as combines. As owner Bill Rajewski puts it, "Our philosophy is, 'If we can get it through the door and it's repairable, we're going to fix it. 2008-08-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/312008/532391/5_thumbnail.jpg http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/312008/532391/5F_flash.jpg XML http://aftermarketbusiness.search-autoparts.com/aftermarketbusiness/Business+Basics/Green-Earth-welcomes-global-distributor-new-manage/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/531364?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 >Green Earth Technologies (GET) has partnered with its first international distributor — New Zealand-based Nano1 Limited — opening retail product availability to Australia, the Pacific Islands, New Zealand, South East Asia and the United Arab Emirates. 2008-07-24T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/302008/531364null HTML http://aftermarketbusiness.search-autoparts.com/aftermarketbusiness/Business+Basics/Green-vehicle-spa-treatment-gains-momentum/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/528298?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Following his 8-year-old son's suggestion, a Detroit man is working to patent a vehicle steam-cleaning and detailing business boasting an eco-friendly treatment process that preserves and protects car finishes. 2008-07-09T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/282008/528298null HTML http://abrn.search-autoparts.com/abrn/Shop+Profiles/Pennsylvania-shop-builds-business-on-first-impress/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/526242?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 When customers enter the front office of Noaker's Auto Body in the small town of Duncannon, Pa., north of Harrisburg, they're struck by a couple sensory reactions. People comment, "It doesn't look like a body shop. It doesn't even smell like a body shop." 2008-07-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/262008/526242/7_thumbnail.jpg http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/262008/526242/7F_flash.jpg XML http://abrn.search-autoparts.com/abrn/ABRN+Features/Texas-shops-follow-consistent-recipe/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/526243?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Any good body shop has to have a strong focus on doing quality work — but few can claim one of the highest customer satisfaction ratings in their region. Callaway's Collision Specialist of Humble, Texas, can make that claim. 2008-07-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/262008/526243/8_thumbnail.jpg http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/262008/526243/8F_flash.jpg XML http://motorage.search-autoparts.com/motorage/Business+%26+Management+Solutions/Specialized-Auto-Inc-A-bradening-specialized-servi/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/528291?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 While the genesis of Specialized Auto Inc. was in the retail of used Volkswagen parts, since becoming "specialized" it ironically has broadened its market base to include other services and Euro-marques like Volvo, Saab, Audi, BMW and Mercedes. 2008-07-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/motorage/282008/528291/16_thumbnail.jpg http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/motorage/282008/528291/16F_flash.jpg XML http://aftermarketbusiness.search-autoparts.com/aftermarketbusiness/Opinion%2FCommentary/Prices-sparking-volatility/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/528593?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 As we approach midyear, it seems like a lifetime ago that oil prices were hovering below $100 per barrel. True, the economic impact was being felt even then, but today's price levels are certainly unexpected and — many may argue — unjustified. We think what may be more troubling to the market is not necessarily the actual level of oil prices, but rather the daily volatility. Large swings such as the $10 spike on June 6 are upsetting and exemplify underlying macroeconomic and geopolitical concerns. 2008-07-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/282008/528593/7_thumbnail.jpg http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/282008/528593null XML http://abrn.search-autoparts.com/abrn/Shop+Profiles/Lifetime-learning-drives-body-shop/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/518591?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Dave's Autobody of Galesburg, Ill., can measure its success in numerous ways — steady growth since its founding in 1977, a loyal customer base, quick turnaround times and low employee turnover. But a single key reason for the company's strong track record is owner Dave Dunn's ongoing willingness to look beyond the collision repair industry for ideas he can apply to his business. That big picture thinking — and the results it generates for his shop — led Dunn to start another venture, Masters Educational Services and Consulting, to spread his good ideas to others within the collision repair industry. 2008-06-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/212008/518591/6_thumbnail.jpg http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/212008/518591/6F_flash.jpg XML http://aftermarketbusiness.search-autoparts.com/aftermarketbusiness/Opinion%2FCommentary/Taking-the-long-view/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/520130?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 During our first aftermarket breakfast panel, we heard from senior executives representing the entire supply chain, from the supplier level (Standard Motor Products and CARDONE), to the retailers and distributors (AutoZone and Parts Depot), down to the professional technician (represented by Monro Muffler Brake). 2008-06-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/222008/520130/9_thumbnail.jpg http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/222008/520130null XML http://motorage.search-autoparts.com/motorage/Business+%26+Management+Solutions/Built-on-a-reputation-Raymonds-is-booming-in-flux-/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/521077?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 "If you build it, they will come." While no one was whispering this classic "Field of Dreams" phrase in Dennis Raymond's ear, he was saying something similar to loan officers when he endeavored to expand his business. On his reputation alone, Raymond was going to jump from a two-car garage at his house to what is now Raymond's Auto Repair LLC's 10,000-square-foot facility, capable of doing everything from state emissions inspections to big rig diesel repair. 2008-06-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/motorage/232008/521077/18_thumbnail.jpg http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/motorage/232008/521077/18F_flash.jpg XML http://abrn.search-autoparts.com/abrn/Shop+Profiles/Family-repair-business-stresses-its-core-values/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/518592?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 A family-owned business nestled in sleepy Tallmadge, Ohio, Padula's Body Shop Inc. has been quietly making noise turning out consistent collision repair work on everything from Rolls Royces to Nissans to Chevys for more than six decades. Angelo Padula welcomed his first customers in 1947 at a shop in nearby Akron, owning and operating the business from 1947 until he died in 1976, when his son, John Padula, began running the business. Padula then moved the business to Tallmadge, building a new shop with then state-of-the-art equipment in 1989. 2008-06-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/212008/518592/7_thumbnail.jpg http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/212008/518592/7F_flash.jpg XML http://motorage.search-autoparts.com/motorage/Business+%26+Management+Solutions/Atlanta-area-drivers-now-can-sleep-while-their-car/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/518856?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Overnight Car Service is the newest advantage offered by all 10 Atlanta-area America's Service Station locations. This concept was developed in order to help customers with busy schedules guarantee the turn-around time of their car repairs. By appointment, and for most services, a customer is able to leave their vehicle anytime before 5 p.m. and receive it back, with all services completed by 7 a.m. the next morning. 2008-05-27T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/motorage/212008/518856null HTML http://aftermarketbusiness.search-autoparts.com/aftermarketbusiness/Business+Basics/Family-run-businesses-facing-different-challenges-/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/518336?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 CHICAGO ? Who says the family business is going by the wayside? While mom and pop stores might be closing in some industries, including some family-run independent shops, are ending after multiple generations, some families have a solid hold on their market shares in today?s aftermarket. Talking at the 2008 Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium, it shows that views of the industry have changed in these family businesses from globalization, technology, collaboration and more. 2008-05-21T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/212008/518336null HTML http://aftermarketbusiness.search-autoparts.com/aftermarketbusiness/Business+Basics/Going-global-comes-with-lots-of-forewarning/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/518202?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 CHICAGO ? Going global is becoming a more common theme among manufacturers, but the places they are going are changing. According to Ernst & Young research presented at the 2008 Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium (GAAS), out of a list of the touted top 100 automotive aftermarket companies, 59 percent have facilities in Mexico, followed by 50 percent with factories in China. 2008-05-20T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/212008/518202null HTML http://abrn.search-autoparts.com/abrn/Shop+Profiles/Colorado-shop-focuses-on-customers/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/512156?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Operating under the philosophy, "The better way to go," ASE-certified Perkins Paint and Collision, part of Perkins Motor City Dodge in Colorado Springs, Colo., has been satisfying customers at its collision repair shop for more than five decades (since 1957). 2008-05-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/172008/512156/4_thumbnail.jpg http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/172008/512156/4F_flash.jpg XML http://motorage.search-autoparts.com/motorage/Business+%26+Management+Solutions/Staff-of-satisfied-employees-the-key-at-Certified-/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/513029?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 There's the old saying that goes, "those who can't do, teach." Well, that's not necessarily true. Take the three Citrus College auto shop professors who combined their talents in 1978 to start Certified Automotive Specialists in Glendora, Calif. Or the pupil who became an employee, then a teacher, at the same college and, ultimately, the owner of Certified Automotive itself. 2008-05-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/motorage/182008/513029/10_thumbnail.jpg http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/motorage/182008/513029/10F_flash.jpg XML http://aftermarketbusiness.search-autoparts.com/aftermarketbusiness/Opinion%2FCommentary/OReilly-stakes-its-claim/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/513074?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Well, the winner of the CSK sweepstakes was finally announced, and, not surprisingly, O'Reilly proposed the winning bid. 2008-05-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/182008/513074/11_thumbnail.jpg http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/182008/513074null XML http://abrn.search-autoparts.com/abrn/Shop+Operations/Second-generation-siblings-take-over-family-shop/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/512162?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Children of body shop owners commonly work in the business growing up — and often at least one son or daughter is interested in taking over the shop when the parent, or parents, retire. And then there are shops like Fairway Collision Repair of Vadnais heights, Minn., a suburb of St. Paul. 2008-05-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/172008/512162/i3_thumbnail.jpg http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/172008/512162/i3F_flash.jpg XML http://stylingperformance.search-autoparts.com/stylingandperformance/Business+Profiles/Bilstein-Wins-Big-at-SCORE-San-Felipe-250/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/511464?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Bilstein Shock Absorbers captured another win for its 9300 Series Black Hawk off-road race shock at the 22nd SCORE San Felipe 250. 2008-04-28T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/stylingandperformance/172008/511464/bilstein_2_thumbnail.jpg http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/stylingandperformance/172008/511464null HTML http://motorage.search-autoparts.com/motorage/Business+%26+Management+Solutions/ASA-getting-word-out-that-shops-are-Open-for-Busin/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/512330?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 The Automotive Service Association (ASA) is launching a campaign aimed at ensuring consumers that independent repair shops are "Open for Business" after concerns have been raised over misinformation surrounding the Motor Vehicle Owners' Right to Repair Act. Independent repairers continue to use third-party information providers, and the automaker Web sites are an additional source for service information. Links to all original equipment manufacturer Web sites can be found on the ASA Web site 2008-04-28T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/motorage/172008/512330null HTML http://motorage.search-autoparts.com/motorage/Business+%26+Management+Solutions/Volkswagen-trying-to-keep-more-maintenance-work-wi/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/512183?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Volkswagen of America, Inc. now is offering a no-charge Carefree Maintenance Program on its entire 2009 model line. With this program, the carmaker says there are no charges for the scheduled maintenance described in each vehicle's maintenance booklet for the length of the New Vehicle Limited Warranty -- three years or 36,000 miles, whichever occurs first. The Carefree Maintenance Program will launch with the introduction of the Tiguan, Volkswagen's all-new crossover utility vehicle. 2008-04-25T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/motorage/172008/512183null HTML http://stylingperformance.search-autoparts.com/stylingandperformance/Business+Profiles/IMR-Inc-Unveils-New-Corporate-Identity/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/511399?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 IMR Inc., formerly Industrial Marketing Research, has unveiled its new corporate identity campaign to reflect the company?s position as a premier source of automotive research, offering syndicated tracking studies and custom research. The company has a new name, a redesigned logo, and a new Web site address, www.AutomotiveResearch.com, plus new trade advertisements and an updated corporate brochure. 2008-04-25T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/stylingandperformance/172008/511399null HTML http://motorage.search-autoparts.com/motorage/Business+%26+Management+Solutions/Training-is-important-whether-employees-stay-or-go/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/510817?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 You provide all the training you can get your hands on for your technicians, but turnover still is a great problem at your shop. It seems as if when a tech is trained, he or she puts in their two-week's notice and heads to a shop or dealership across town. There are a number of reasons people leave their jobs in the bay, and some of them you can't control. But cutting training opportunities so freshly trained techs will not go somewhere else won't help your cause ? in fact, you're probably doing more harm than good. 2008-04-18T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/motorage/162008/510817null HTML http://motorage.search-autoparts.com/motorage/Business+%26+Management+Solutions/New-Jersey-action-could-spread-to-other-states/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/509492?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 ORLANDO ? New Jersey retailers of all types have easier access to state contracts now, including automotive needs. The state recently signed a purchasing agreement alliance to purchase automotive parts for its fleet of vehicles from the U.S. Communities Government Purchasing Alliance. And word of this is spreading around the IWD/Auto Pride Annual Conference. In addition to these thoughts on WDs' and jobbers' minds, IWD, Auto Pride and Truck Pride members are taking part in business meetings and vendor updates, learning tips to operate a better business and taking part in a manufacturer booth show. 2008-04-11T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/motorage/152008/509492null HTML http://stylingperformance.search-autoparts.com/stylingandperformance/Business+Profiles/Four-Seasons-Inc-Adds-Global-Outsourcing-Video-to-/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/509084?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Four Seasons Inc. announces it has added a powerful new video to its Web site, www.4s.com, about the quality of products being outsourced from other countries. The video is accessible through Four Seasons brand?s home page by clicking on the right-hand column ?Overseas Sourcing PSA.? 2008-04-10T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/stylingandperformance/152008/509084null HTML http://motorage.search-autoparts.com/motorage/Business+Basics/Americhem-opening-new-RampD-facility-in-Ohio/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/508427?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Americhem is preparing to open its new Central Research & Development (R&D) facility. The state-of-the-art facility is scheduled to open in early 2008, and is equipped to offer everything needed to advance polymer product development. Located at Americhem's Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, corporate headquarters, the R&D facility houses full analytical, weathering and end-use testing laboratories, process simulation equipment and advanced masterbatch processing. It also features a Customer Concept Center where visitors can meet with the company's experts to make their product vision a reality. 2008-04-09T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/motorage/152008/508427null HTML http://motorage.search-autoparts.com/motorage/Business+Basics/Aftermarket-Technology-Corp-replacing-Mesa-Air-Gro/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/508430?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Standard & Poor's is reporting that Aftermarket Technology Corp. will replace Mesa Air Group Inc. in the S&P SmallCap 600 after the close of trading on Wednesday. As of Monday's close of trading, Mesa Air Group had a market capitalization of approximately $33 million, ranking 600th in the index. 2008-04-09T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/motorage/152008/508430null HTML http://motorage.search-autoparts.com/motorage/Business+%26+Management+Solutions/Ford-releases-annual-report-progress-statement-in-/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/508181?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Ford Motor Company continues to transform and position the company, and has tracked its progress in its 2007 Annual Report and notice of its 2008 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and Proxy Statement. The annual report and proxy statement were mailed this week to approximately 730,000 shareholders, and the proxy statement was filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The documents outline the company's performance in 2007, announce information about the company's annual meeting on May 8 and proposals to be presented there, as well as provide details of compensation for select corporate officers. 2008-04-08T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/motorage/152008/508181null HTML http://motorage.search-autoparts.com/motorage/Business+%26+Management+Solutions/GMAC-Financial-Services-to-purchase-rest-of-Capita/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/508186?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 GMAC Financial Services will exercise its option to purchase the remainder of Capital Auto Receivables Asset Trust (CARAT) 2005-SN1 on April 15. This will result in a termination of all of the outstanding CARAT 2005-SN1 Class B-1, B-2 and C asset backed notes. The Class B-1 and B-2 notes will be purchased at $1,000 per $1,000 face amount, plus accrued interest from March 17. A total of $10 million Class B-1 4.830 percent asset backed notes and $70 million Class B-2 Libor +0.750 percent asset backed notes were sold to the public in April 2005. 2008-04-08T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/motorage/152008/508186null HTML http://motorage.search-autoparts.com/motorage/Business+%26+Management+Solutions/JD-Power-and-Associates-turning-40/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/507325?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Global marketing information firm J.D. Power and Associates, a business unit of The McGraw-Hill Companies, is celebrating its 40th anniversary. J.D. "Dave" Power III ?established J.D. Power and Associates in 1968 from his kitchen table, with a primary focus in the automotive industry. Since that time, the firm has successfully influenced the everyday lives of consumers and industries worldwide, and has expanded to include offices throughout North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. 2008-04-03T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/motorage/142008/507325null HTML http://abrn.search-autoparts.com/abrn/Shop+Profiles/Long-Island-Sears-and-body-shops-combine-for-a-win/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/505959?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Walk into a Long Island Sears Auto Center and you'll witness a business like no other. Of course, Bill Rich, president and CEO, wouldn't mind other shops taking notice of the increasingly successful business plan he helped to introduce on the East Coast. 2008-04-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/132008/505959/8_thumbnail.jpg http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/132008/505959/8F_flash.jpg XML http://aftermarketbusiness.search-autoparts.com/aftermarketbusiness/Opinion%2FCommentary/Will-high-gas--low-sales/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/508442?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Intuition would lead most to believe that gas prices in excess of $3 per gallon do not bode well for the automotive aftermarket. We, however, decided to dig a bit deeper than intuition and examine the correlation between gasoline prices and comparable same store sales (SSS). 2008-04-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/152008/508442/i1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/152008/508442null XML http://abrn.search-autoparts.com/abrn/Shop+Profiles/Related-businesses-build-shops-success/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/505960?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Like many other body shop owners, Phil Nowak, owner of Schererville, Ind.-based Phil's Collision Center, says his biggest challenge is keeping good employees. One approach that has helped ease this situation is to hire young people who have completed collision repair classes at nearby Thornton Fractional Township High School. 2008-04-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/132008/505960/9_thumbnail.jpg http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/132008/505960/9F_flash.jpg XML http://motorage.search-autoparts.com/motorage/Business+%26+Management+Solutions/Competition-muscled-out-via-the-Web/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/506529?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 At Proformance Unlimited, "where insanity is completely normal," Doug Mascaritola and his assistant Paul Lucasiewicz build high-performance V-8 engines and ship them to customers all over the world. 2008-04-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/motorage/142008/506529/13_thumbnail.jpg http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/motorage/142008/506529/13F_flash.jpg XML http://abrn.search-autoparts.com/abrn/Shop+Profiles/Related-businesses-build-shops-success/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/493698?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 By the time he was in his early thirties, Jason Frazier already owned two successful businesses — a truck-building business and a truck accessories company. Now 34, he also has added a body shop to his holdings and appears set for success there, too. 2008-03-01T05:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/082008/493698null XML http://aftermarketbusiness.search-autoparts.com/aftermarketbusiness/Opinion%2FCommentary/Market-Measures-A-sense-of-Deja-Vue/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/501615?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 As we write this piece, 2008 looks much like 2007 (and even 2006) for the automotive aftermarket. On Jan. 9, O'Reilly Automotive Inc. pre-released fourth quarter comparable sales of plus-2.1 percent, missing its previously given guidance range for same store sales (SSS) of plus-4 to plus-6 percent. 2008-03-01T05:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/112008/501615/i1_thumbnail.jpg http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/112008/501615null XML http://abrn.search-autoparts.com/abrn/Shop+Profiles/Body-shop-is-key-profit-center-for-dealership/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/493697?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 In an era when more and more auto dealers seem to be staying out of the body shop business, those dealer body shops that do remain seem to be thriving. One such shop belongs to Las Vegas-based Jim Marsh Chrysler Jeep, which handles bodywork for its own customers as well as those of several other local dealers. 2008-03-01T05:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/082008/493697null XML http://abrn.search-autoparts.com/abrn/Shop+Profiles/Account-work-generates-solid-growth-for-family-ope/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/490739?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 According to an old fashioned adage, it's just as easy to marry a rich man as a poor man. And while that particular saying may be politically incorrect today, its logic often applies to other things. 2008-02-01T05:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/072008/490739null XML http://motorage.search-autoparts.com/motorage/Management/Shop-Profile-Opportunity-to-the-rescue/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/490630?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 "If we would have planned it, it probably never would have happened." That's Aaron O'Connor's take on the founding of his Dolgeville, NY, shop, Automotive Rescue + Repair. Twelve years ago, when O'Connor was working as a tow truck operator, he passed through Dolgeville on a service run. 2008-02-01T05:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/motorage/072008/490630null XML http://aftermarketbusiness.search-autoparts.com/aftermarketbusiness/Opinion%2FCommentary/Market-Measures/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/489294?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 In an effort to determine whether business trends have strengthened in the late fall and early winter, we polled a sample base of 120 automotive parts retailers across the United States. Based on the survey results and industry channel checks, we think trends in the automotive aftermarket have stabilized and believe the operating environment is beginning to improve. While trends are not accelerating robustly, we believe that consumer demand is stabilizing, and we do not expect significant deterioration in industry fundamentals from existing levels (although $4 per gallon gasoline could change our thinking). 2008-02-01T05:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/062008/489294null XML http://aftermarketbusiness.search-autoparts.com/aftermarketbusiness/Web+Exclusive/Newsmaker-Paul-Johnson/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/482376?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 This is the debut of our Newsmaker feature, an up-close and exclusive interview with various aftermarket leaders, which will appear in each issue of The Edge e-newsletter. This week, we speak with Paul Johnson, general director of the global independent aftermarket for GM Service and Parts Operation (SPO), where he is responsible for GM's Independent Aftermarket (IAM) efforts across the U.S. and Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America, Africa and Middle East (LAAM) regions. He also oversees IAM product development for global channels through ACDelco's Aftermarket Product Center (APC), located in Shanghai, China. 2008-01-07T05:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/022008/482376null HTML http://aftermarketbusiness.search-autoparts.com/aftermarketbusiness/Opinion%2FCommentary/Market-Measures/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/483524?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 After six months on the job, CEO Jeff Rachor finally revealed his vision to investors for Pep Boys' path during the next five years. 2008-01-01T05:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/022008/483524null XML http://abrn.search-autoparts.com/abrn/Business+Profiles/One-stop-shop-gives-an-edge-in-heart-of-Alabama/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/481318?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Capitol City Body Works (CCBW) in Alabama's capital, Montgomery, is fast approaching a half-century's worth of operation, in business since 1961. Having moved from several locations and starting out with a mere two employees, anyone at this shop would be quick to remark, "We've come a long way..." 2008-01-01T05:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/522007/481318null XML http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/Business+Profiles/Getting-Ready-to-Sell-Performance/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/477167?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 It's no military secret that Detroit's economy is somewhere between dead and buried. Thus, the assumption is that most car dealers probably have a second job involving customer surveys asking, "Would you like paper or plastic?" or saying, "You can super size for only a quarter more." 2007-12-01T05:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/searchautoparts/492007/477167null XML http://stylingperformance.search-autoparts.com/stylingandperformance/Business+Profiles/Spotlight-Akebono/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/477214?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Originator of ceramic brake friction material. 2007-12-01T05:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/stylingandperformance/492007/477214null XML http://aftermarketbusiness.search-autoparts.com/aftermarketbusiness/Feature+Articles/Buying-new-stores-is-only-the-beginning-says-OReil/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/478368?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 LAS VEGAS — When O'Reilly Auto Parts buys a new store, the hardest part begins after the acquisition, says Ted Wise, COO and co-president of O'Reilly Automotive Inc. 2007-12-01T05:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/502007/478368null XML http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/Business+Profiles/Spotlight-Akebono/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/477164?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Akebono is a leader in the development of advanced, performance brake pad friction material and brake technology and is known for optimizing stopping power and reducing noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) issues. 2007-12-01T05:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/searchautoparts/492007/477164null XML http://stylingperformance.search-autoparts.com/stylingandperformance/Business+Profiles/Spotlight-SPEED-Channel/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/477213?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Must-see TV for motorsports enthusiasts. 2007-12-01T05:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/stylingandperformance/492007/477213null XML http://abrn.search-autoparts.com/abrn/Business+Profiles/Colorado-body-shop-thrives-on-DRP-work/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/481061?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 After only two and a half years in business, Concept Auto Body of Littleton, Colo., already has doubled its square footage and increased its total number of employees nearly five-fold. A large part of that success has come from the shop's participation in several direct repair programs (DRPs), including one that sends the shop a steady flow of business - provided that the shop meets strict customer service standards and completion dates. 2007-12-01T05:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/522007/481061null XML http://abrn.search-autoparts.com/abrn/Business+Profiles/New-shop-brings-meaning-to-auto-transformation/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/481065?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 With one year under his shop's belt, Scott Beetler, owner of the 10,000-sq.-ft. Alchemy Auto Painting & Collision Repair Inc. in Corona, Calif., is riding high on his business, which opened Sept. 20, 2006. 2007-12-01T05:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/522007/481065null XML http://aftermarketbusiness.search-autoparts.com/aftermarketbusiness/Distribution/Will-2008-be-great-for-distribution/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/478484?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Wholesale: Technology at the forefront 2007-12-01T05:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/502007/478484null XML http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/Business+Profiles/Spotlight-SPEED-Channel/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/477166?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 SPEED is a national cable network dedicated to motorsports and everything automotive. From racing, to restoration, motorcycles to movies, SPEED delivers programming from the track to the garage. 2007-12-01T05:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/searchautoparts/492007/477166null XML http://abrn.search-autoparts.com/abrn/Business+Profiles/Getting-Ready-to-Sell-Performance/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/477212?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Sellers Buick-Pontiac-GMC adds performance to the line-up. 2007-12-01T05:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/stylingandperformance/492007/477212null XML http://stylingperformance.search-autoparts.com/stylingandperformance/Business+Profiles/Spotlight-KampN-Filters/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/477215?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 K&N Engineering provides state-of-the-art filtration. 2007-12-01T05:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/stylingandperformance/492007/477215null XML http://aftermarketbusiness.search-autoparts.com/aftermarketbusiness/Distribution/Innovation-is-the-aftermarkets-new-destination/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/478478?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Equip Auto showcases the latest technologies in all aspects of the market. 2007-12-01T05:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/502007/478478null XML http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/Business+Profiles/Spotlight-KampN-Filters/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/477165?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 K&N Engineering, based in Riverside, California, was founded in 1969 as a family business. The company has now grown to become a global company with offices in the U.K. and the Netherlands. 2007-12-01T05:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/searchautoparts/492007/477165null XML http://aftermarketbusiness.search-autoparts.com/aftermarketbusiness/Opinion%2FCommentary/AutoZone-renews-its-focus-on-commercial-sales/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/478480?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 For several quarters, AutoZone Inc. investors have been asked to be patient while management implemented a series of initiatives to fuel more meaningful top-line growth. Part of the company's strategy includes another effort at accelerating its commercial sales with a better mix of hard parts and a renewed focus on building a better commercial sales force. 2007-12-01T05:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/502007/478480null XML http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/Business+Profiles/INVESTMENT-OPPORTUNITY/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/475263?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 RAPIDLY GROWING AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET MANUFACTURER Hedges & Company been retained by a profitable manufacturing company with positive cash flow to find an investor to buy out the original angel investor. This successful startup is in the automotive performance aftermarket and has a strong management team led by a general manager with 14 years of manufacturing experience in this company's segment. This is an excellent opportunity for an individual investor or as a strategic add-on for an existing manufacturer. 2007-11-27T05:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/searchautoparts/482007/475263null HTML http://aftermarketbusiness.search-autoparts.com/aftermarketbusiness/Opinion%2FCommentary/Parts-branding-is-becoming-a-convoluted-issue/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/465348?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Having dependable products that deliver, without fail will help build brand loyalty. 2007-11-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/422007/465348null XML http://abrn.search-autoparts.com/abrn/Business+Profiles/Management-commitment-fuels-growth-for-Conicelli/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/469280?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Body shops affiliated with car dealerships are a mixed bag. For some dealers, the body shop is viewed as simply a cost of doing business. Others prefer to outsource bodywork. But some dealer-affiliated body shops are able to operate as successful profit centers. 2007-11-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/442007/469280null XML http://abrn.search-autoparts.com/abrn/Business+Profiles/Strong-relationships-build-success-for-Cartys-Coll/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/469281?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Don't underestimate the power of relationships, especially in the collision repair industry. Carty's Collision Center of Ontario, Calif., has succeeded by tapping into the power of relationships. 2007-11-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/442007/469281null XML http://aftermarketbusiness.search-autoparts.com/aftermarketbusiness/Feature+Articles/Pleasant-dreams-and-bitter-nightmares/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/465130?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Consolidation and further separation of WDs from customers are growing concerns in the industry. 2007-11-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/422007/465130null XML http://aftermarketbusiness.search-autoparts.com/aftermarketbusiness/Opinion%2FCommentary/Chrysler-could-be-unlikely-savior/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/465344?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 The present Chrysler lineup must have come from an AMC séance. 2007-11-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/422007/465344null XML http://aftermarketbusiness.search-autoparts.com/aftermarketbusiness/Market+Trends+%26+Analysis/Companies-look-to-zap-the-industry-with-electric-v/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/465346?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 China is zapping up its burgeoning alternative auto segment through a joint venture between U.S.-based ZAP, a pioneer in the electric car field, and the Chinese Youngman Automotive Group. The two are to manufacture and distribute electric and hybrid vehicles for the car, truck and bus markets while also focusing on producing an electric charging infrastructure throughout the vast nation. 2007-11-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/422007/465346null XML http://abrn.search-autoparts.com/abrn/Business+Profiles/Tornado-challenges-shop-to-muscle-through-major-st/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/469279?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 What were you doing the night of March 12, 2006? The question has personal significance to Bob Mathews, manager of Bill Mathews Auto Body Inc. in Springfield, Ill., which was founded by his late father in 1972. That night, North Street, where the 17,000-square-foot. facility stood, was dealt a devastating blow by twin tornadoes. The path of the natural disaster seemed to make a beeline for his shop. 2007-11-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/442007/469279null XML http://aftermarketbusiness.search-autoparts.com/aftermarketbusiness/Market+Trends+%26+Analysis/New-federal-roof-strength-regulations-delayed-amid/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/465122?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 New federal regulations regarding rollovers and roof crush resistance have again been delayed while officials at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) are re-tooling the proposed standards. Consumer advocates are calling for congressional hearings into the matter, contending that the roof performance levels currently under consideration cannot ensure the safety of vehicle occupants. 2007-11-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/422007/465122null XML http://aftermarketbusiness.search-autoparts.com/aftermarketbusiness/Operations/Recent-acquisitions-are-spelling-success-for-Canad/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/465121?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 With its 2004 acquisition of Middle Atlantic Warehouse Distributor Inc. (MAWDI), Canada's Uni-Select began the strategic purchase of warehouse distribution hubs in the United States and saw the explosive growth of its business as a result. 2007-11-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/422007/465121null XML http://aftermarketbusiness.search-autoparts.com/aftermarketbusiness/Web+Exclusive/WHI-garners-rank-on-Technology-Fast-500/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/467093?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 During the past five years, WHI (formerly Wrenchead) has grown more than 530 percent — rocketing straight to the top with a catalog of Web-based products for its customers. The company's success hasn't gone unnoticed; today, CEO Bryan Murphy announced that WHI ranked number 361 on Deloitte's 2007 Technology Fast 500, which looks at 500 of the fastest growing technology, media, telecommunications and life sciences companies in North America. 2007-10-23T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/432007/467093null HTML http://offroadbusinessmag.off-road.com/offroadbusinessmag/Manufacturer+Spotlight/In-Daystar-We-Trust/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/463096?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Back in the late 1960s, the popular counterculture slogan was "Never trust anyone over 30." Sage advice perhaps, but guess what? It isn't necessarily true. A sterling example is Daystar, which turned 30 this year. Purple-hazed hippies be damned: everybody trusts Daystar, especially the Off-Road Nation. 2007-10-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/offroadbusinessmag/402007/463096null XML http://aftermarketbusiness.search-autoparts.com/aftermarketbusiness/Distribution/The-Profit-Center-Measuring-data-will-increase-you/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/500124?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 In today's world, maximizing the use of business cash and bottom line management is more important than measuring top line activity. 2007-10-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/102008/500124null XML http://aftermarketbusiness.search-autoparts.com/aftermarketbusiness/Opinion%2FCommentary/Looking-at-time-an-intangible-aspect-of-inventory/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/500130?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Technical advances must be taken advantage of to improve efficiency. 2007-10-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/102008/500130null XML http://abrn.search-autoparts.com/abrn/Shop+Profiles/Driving-home-with-a-piece-of-history/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/464245?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 The father and son are part of a three-generation business that began in the early 1900s when a Swede followed his brother to America seeking prosperity. 2007-10-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/abrn/412007/464245null XML http://aftermarketbusiness.search-autoparts.com/aftermarketbusiness/Distribution/How-much-is-your-business-worth/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/500125?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Most business owners would not invest in stocks if they could not check their value, yet they do not know the value of their largest investment — their business. 2007-10-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/102008/500125null XML http://aftermarketbusiness.search-autoparts.com/aftermarketbusiness/Distribution/Todays-youths-are-tomorrows-employees/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/500122?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 As the baby boomer generation starts to retire and much of Generation X moves into management positions, the industry would be well advised to look at Generation Y (defined as those born between 1980 and 1996) to learn what makes them tick. More specifically, learn what attracts them to a career and entices them to stay in it. 2007-10-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/102008/500122null XML http://aftermarketbusiness.search-autoparts.com/aftermarketbusiness/Distribution/All-Night-repairs-have-little-effect-on-traditiona/ArticleStandard/Article/detail/500126?contextCategoryId=41819&ref=25 Saving customers time with features like a convenient concierge service, is key to All Night Auto's success. 2007-10-01T04:00:00Z http://www.search-autoparts.com/searchautoparts/data/articlestandard/aftermarketbusiness/102008/500126null XML