AASA: Genuine Parts Co./NAPA, O’Reilly Auto Parts rated most attractive customers

AASA supplier member company participants in the Q2 2012 Aftermarket Supplier Barometer rated Genuine Parts Co./NAPA and O’Reilly Auto Parts as the “most attractive aftermarket customers” in terms of growth and profitability. ADN, Alliance and Federated ranked highest in terms of supplier relationship. Customers were rated based on how easy or hard is the customer to work from the perspective of an aftermarket supplier.

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Several factors measured in the Q2 2012 Barometer showed a positive trend with a majority indicating growth or expansion. However, the AASA 2Q Barometer Aftermarket Supplier Sentiment Index declined in the second quarter of 2012, after reaching its highest point since 2010 in 1Q 2012. 

Results from the AASA Q3 2012 Aftermarket Supplier Barometer survey, underway now, may show whether the soft market seen in Q2 is an exception due to overhang from warm weather and slower job creation, or a signal of weaker future demand. Strong market drivers, such as age of vehicles (which Experian noted has reached 11 years), lower gas prices, and signs of life in miles driven all point to continued aftermarket growth, but the pace of that growth is in question.

The Q3 2012 Aftermarket Supplier Barometer survey closes on Wednesday, Sept. 26 – and only member companies that participate will receive the full report on key indicators and market trends. Members interested in participating in the Q3 Barometer survey should contact Bailey Watson of AASA: [email protected].