In the face of advanced technologies and increasingly complex vehicles, the automotive aftermarket needs new strategies for continued growth, AASA President and COO Bill Long told more than 150 aftermarket industry professionals attending the 64th annual Industry Day hosted by the Michigan Auto Parts Association (MAPA) in Flint, Mich.
Long addressed the current state of the aftermarket and highlighted some of the new aftermarket realities impacting it: changing “do-it yourself” / “do-it-for-me” buying habits, autonomous vehicles and access to vehicle data. He concluded his comments with an industry outlook and roadmap for the future.
“At AASA, we see four clear steps forward to securing our futures,” Long explained. “First, we must be clear about what we want – access to the vehicle that offers motorists freedom of choice for vehicle repair and service parts, and access and use of parts and equipment-enabling software…necessary to allow motorists’ freedom of choice.”
Long’s address, “New Aftermarket Realities: Strategic Shifts and Where Do We Go from Here,” was presented at the MAPA Industry Day on Sept. 14. Copies are available upon request to [email protected].
The Michigan Automotive Parts Association represents automotive parts stores, warehouse distributors, service repair facilities and associates throughout Michigan. Founded in 1953, MAPA today represents more than 420 automotive aftermarket businesses in Michigan.
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