Aftermarket Insider Magazine
The Aftermarket Insider is a bi-monthly magazine published by AAIA's in-house editorial team. The Insider provides in-depth articles on industry and marketing trends, a hands-on ToolBox section filled with career tips and advice, coverage of AAIA conventions and special programs, and updates on association and industry news.
Subscriptions to the Insider are only available to AAIA members. To become a member of AAIA, call 301-654-6664 or visit the Membership Information section.
AAIA Editorial Staff
Richard White Publisher
Jennifer Ortiz Editor
Tom Ho Senior Graphic Designer
Marcella Tilli Communications Coordinator
Beatrice Livioco Communications Assistant
Recent Issues
"Results" (Vol 50, December 2007/January 2007) Celebrating Success: Five Years of "Be Car Care Aware" The “Be Car Care Aware” (BCCA) campaign is running at full throttle, and has kept the pace for five fantastic years. Learn how you can join the crew and be a part of BCCA now and down the road – there is no checkered flag for consumer awareness!
AAPEX 2007: An Exceptional Event Stroll the aisles, enjoy a reception, pop into an educational session and see how the Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX), the business-to-business event for the aftermarket, took Las Vegas by storm in 2007.
Toolbox Telecommuting Stay in your pajamas, get a cup of coffee, sit in your favorite easy chair and learn the latest trends in telecommuting. Toolbox explores if working from home can work for you.
"Details" (Vol 49, October /November 2007) It’s All in the Details: Product Profiles 2007/2008 This study gets to the nitty-gritty on 80 aftermarket products, and is a must-have for aftermarket professionals. Take a look at the most comprehensive breakdown and groundbreaking product analysis available.
Right to Repair: On the Air and Everywhere Coverage of the Motor Vehicle Owners’ Right to Repair Act is more widespread than ever. Take a look at the newspaper, Internet and television outlets featuring all the news that’s fit to print about the aftermarket’s essential legislation.
Toolbox Be Green It’s easy being green! Toolbox is blooming with tiny tips on how to be socially responsible at work - small steps for you, giant leaps for your world!
"Conservation" (Vol 48, August /September 2007) The Aftermarket: Green Before Green Was Cool Environmental awareness is growing throughout all industries. Take a peek inside the worldwide expanding eco-movement, see ways the aftermarket has long been a gardener of green and dig deeper into the industry’s efforts to protect the planet.
Aftermarket eFactbook The Aftermarket eFactbook puts fast industry facts at your fingertips! See how this year’s version is more interactive than ever, and discover innovative new ways the CD-ROM allows users access to and use of the best in aftermarket information.
Toolbox Starting Fresh You only get one chance to make a first impression, and it’s vital to make a good one on your first day at a new job! Toolbox offers tips for putting your best face forward on your big first day.
"Harmonization" (Vol 47, June /July 2007) One Size Fits All Always a best-seller, the Aftermarket Factbook is better than ever this year, presenting an expanded version containing a harmonization of research between AAIA and Lang Marketing Resources, Inc. Learn how these two industry sources combined efforts to provide the industry with the most comprehensive aftermarket information available.
Going Green Breathe the fresh air and stroll through the green aisles of the Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX), and discover the steps the show is taking to become more eco-friendly this year.
Toolbox Time Off All work and no play makes for an unproductive employee and an exhausted workplace. Toolbox offers tips on how to not be “on” when you are “off.”
"Influence" (Vol 46, Apr. /May 2007) Turning Up the Heat in the D.C. Summer Peek inside the journal of an Aftermarket Legislative Summit attendee as he has a ball hobnobbing with members of Congress. Listen in as he discusses the automotive aftermarket with Hill staffers and rubs elbows with elected officials – the people whose support can help knock the Motor Vehicle Owners’ Right to Repair Act (and other important industry legislation) right out of the park.
Car Care Guides Top Best-Seller Close to two million of the Car Care Council’s Car Care Guide are in circulation within the industry and beyond. Learn about the popularity of this one-of-a-kind publication, and see in black and white, why the guide is being read all over.
Toolbox Lunch Break Does your lunch break take an unproductive bite out of your work day? Toolbox offers a full buffet of ideas for making the most of your time when you’re “out to lunch.”
"Recognition" (Vol 45, Feb. /Mar. 2007)
A Place at the Table for Repair Shops A seat at the industry table has been officially and resoundingly filled by the new Car Care Professionals Network (CCPN), and this new segment promises to serve a full plate of benefits and services to independent service and repair businesses.
The Keys to a New Life The road of life sometimes takes troubling and unexpected turns, and sometimes a means to get away is all someone needs. Learn how one AAIA member company is giving victims of domestic violence the keys to a brighter future.
Toolbox “Net” Working Is your company living up to its full “Net” working potential? Toolbox offers advice on professional listservs and blogs, and using the internet to enhance company communications.
"Exploring" (Vol 44, Dec. 2006/Jan. 2007)
Driving U.S. Aftermarket Sales in Asia AAIA Launches New Asian Aftermarket Initiative The automotive aftermarket in Asia has become a treasure chest of resources and opportunity in the worldwide industry. Explore the world of the Asian aftermarket as your learn about AAIA’s bold new initiative.
Production Information Management (PIM) The Key to a Healthier and Happier Business Bringing your date up to industry standards is the best way to make your product information into a powerful business tool. Learn how PIM is the key to a healthier and happier business.
Toolbox Healthy Holidays ‘Tis the season to feel stuffed. Toolbox toasts to enjoying the holidays without burning your diet.
"Outsourcing" (Vol 43, Oct./Nov. 2006)
Outsourcing and the Aftermarket:Negative Force or Great Resource? - It’s a small world after all, and outsourcing is making the business world even more connected. Discover how outsourcing is affecting the aftermarket. Online Updates: Aftermarket.org Better Than Ever - Log onto AAIA’s new and improved Web site, and click through its variety of innovative and user-friendly new resources, exclusive to AAIA members. Toolbox - Team Building - Batter up! Toolbox shows how team building activities, both inside and outside the office, can score a home run for employee motivation.
"Recharge" (Vol 42, Aug./Sept. 2006)
Recharge Your Business: AAPEX 2006 - AAPEX 2006 is on the road to becoming the biggest show ever, and has serious horsepower packed into three days. Jump-start your 2006 AAPEX experience by seeing what sparks are firing under the hood at this year’s show. Record-Setting 2006 Aftermarket eForum: An Overwhelming Success - With a record attendance of 350, the 2006 Aftermarket eForum™ provided the industry with outstanding education, networking and business development opportunities. Held July 17-19 at the Hyatt Regency O’Hare in Chicago, the 2006 eForum enjoyed a nearly 25 percent increase in attendance from 2005. Toolbox - Performance Reviews - Performance reviews can cause anxiety for even the most confident employees, especially when salary adjustments are involved. Toolbox offers tips for what to say when it’s time to talk pay.
"Impact" (Vol 41, June/July 2006)
The Crisis of Gas Prices: What does it mean for the aftermarket? - Gas prices have been a headline on every news broadcast and newspaper in recent memory. Learn the truth about gas prices, and industry leaders’ insight on their variety of effects on the automotive aftermarket. 2006/2007 Aftermarket Factbook- The Aftermarket Factbook has been bringing the industry the most comprehensive statistics on the automotive aftermarket for more than 10 years. Learn about what is offered in this year’s edition, as well as the new and improved eFactbook. Toolbox - Fraud in the Workplace - Theft and fraud are very real problems in today’s workplace. Toolbox offers tips and techniques to protect your business from the threats of office crime.
"Evolving" (Vol 40, April/May 2006)
The Face of Today’s Jobber - All businesses have to switch gears through the years to stay current, and, like all professionals, jobbers have had to make adjustments to keep up with the times. Explore the changing face of today’s jobber, and learn how they keep their businesses up and running. Virginia Town Showcase Model Vehicle Check-Up Event - Rain or shine, National Car Care Month in April is being celebrated across the country. Check out a model check-up event in Leesburg, Va. Toolbox - Business Travel - Going on a business trip can be a scary prospect for first-time travelers. The traveling tips offered in this issue’s Toolbox will turn you into a portable professional when you have to take the office off-site.
"Linking" (Vol 39, February/March 2006)
Bad Data Costs Companies Big Dollars - Data synchronization is imperative for tight transmission of data throughout the supply chain. Learn how this process is the key for your business to keep a lock on accurate, and essential information. Auto-Wares Tech Expo Serves Up Education - Auto-Wares Tech Expo provides a balanced buffet of educational and networking opportunities for today’s automotive service professionals. Learn how this program annually serves up a healthy heaping of training, entertainment and fun. Toolbox - E-mail and Voicemail Etiquette Hi, this is Aftermarket Insider and we’re calling in reference to Toolbox. Please read this section to learn how to leave succinct, thorough and appropriate e-mail and voicemail messages, and call us with any questions at 301-654-6664. Thanks, and have a great day.
"Connections" (Vol 38, December 2005/January 2006)
Independent Service Providers Segment - AAIA’s new Independent Service Providers (ISP) segment will represent the exclusive interests of independent vehicle service and repair businesses. Learn how this new forum will help execute grass roots intitiatives. Right to Repair: On the Front Lines - Representatives on both sides of the Right to Repair issue recently met face-to-face to discuss the continuing battle for legislation. Learn how the aftermarket’s voice is reaching Congress on the importance of this issue, and how you can join in the chorus of support for H.R. 2048. Toolbox - Holiday Office Parties Holidays events are a time of joy and good cheer, but can also be delicate situations, especially in a diverse workplace. Keep your holiday festivities happy with Toolbox’s gift of seasonal advice on keeping everything nice.
"Showtime" (Vol 37, October/November 2005)
APPEX 2005:
Keeping You Competitive - Learn this year’s AAPEX game plan and how the show will help your business keep its eye on the ball. Insider will show you how to get the most extra points out of your AAPEX 2005 experience. Hybrid Vehicle Technologies - Environmentally-friendly hybrid vehicles used to be at the top of the trendy list, but because of their multitude of benefits, hybrids can now be found on every city street. Learn how the demand for this innovative vehicle is in high gear and how the growing popularity of hybrid vehicles could affect the aftermarket. Toolbox - Ten Ways to Be the Best Leader You Can Be. A good leader serves as a coach, quarterback and most importantly, teammate, to fellow employees. Toolbox offers a glimpse into what makes a good leader, and provides tips on how to be the best leader you can be.
"Addition" (Vol 36, August/September 2005)
Aftermarket Financial Symposium - All the opportunities to be offered at the first-ever Aftermarket Financial Symposium are guaranteed to sum an unequaled educational event. Learn how a great lineup of speakers and presentations will get to the square root of today’s financial challenges, and how the AFS trade show and networking opportunities will add up to real value for attendees’ bottom lines. The Motor Vehicle Owner's Right to Repair Act - The aftermarket rose to the occasion at the 2005 Aftermarket Legislative Summit, held recently in Washington, D.C. Learn how AAIA members united as the voice of the industry, driving the aftermarket's message to the top of the Hill. Toolbox - Tradeshows. With AAPEX just around the corner, is your booth at its best? Is your staff all set? Are all your resources at the ready? Toolbox will offer tips and advice to help your business have a top-notch trade show.
"Necessity" (Vol 35, June/July 2005)
Access Denied: Fight for Your Right to Repair - Supporting Right to Repair isn't just a good idea - it's essential for aftermarket professionals who want to stay in business. Learn what you can do to help pass the Motor Vehicle Owners' Right to Repair Act. National Car Care Month Review - National Car Care Month 2005 was a huge success. Learn what the industry found out about the habits of today's motoring public. Toolbox - Change. When the winds of change are in the air, people can sometimes have cold feet. Toolbox helps you welcome change, and offers techniques to help others warm up to new situations and opportunities.
"Feel the Power" (Vol 34, April/May 2005)
Knowledge Is Power - Three premier one-of-a-kind events offer valuable insight into the latest trends in technology, retail/wholesale distribution management and finance. The trio of special events in 2005 is must-attend for aftermarket executives and managers looking for that competitive edge. Legislative Summit 2005 - The aftermarket rose to the occasion at the 2005 Aftermarket Legislative Summit, held recently in Washington, D.C. Learn how AAIA members united as the voice of the industry, driving the aftermarket's message to the top of the Hill. Toolbox - Charity. Assisting in worthy causes provides special opportunities for people to learn, grow and bond, while helping out others in need. Toolbox provides suggestions for charity participation, and offers helpful guidelines for giving.
"Consumers" (Vol 33, Feb./March 2005)
The Aftermarket Consumer: Do-it-Yourself or Do-it-for-Me? - The market is based on consumers, and a successful bottom line is based on keeping those consumers happy. A recent AAIA study explores today's aftermarket consumer and offers a look inside the attitudes and perception of the modern motorist. Learn the "who, what, where, when and why," of both the typical DIFM and DIY. "Be Car Care Aware" Year in Review - Truly a branding success story, the "Be Car Care Aware" campaign went at record speed in 2004, including unprecedented participation in National Car Care Month. Learn about hte 2004 campaign milestones, and how your participaton in the upcoming year can keep the campaign running full steam ahead. Toolbox - Networking. When faced with a valuable networking situation, it's the social butterfly, not the wallflower, who benefits most. Toolbox helps you spread your wings and make the best possible connection when networking opportunities bloom.
"2005 Aftermarket Legislative Summit" (Vol 32, Dec./Jan. 2004-05)
Driving our Message to the Hill - The aftermarket is revving its political engines for the Aftermarket Legislative Summit, where members have the opportunity to tell the powers that be about important industry issues. Learn what you can do to help drive our message to the Hill. Aftermarket.org Serves up Member-Only Benefits - AAIA serves up a host of benefits to its members, and the redesigned AAIA Web site is at center court. Learn how your membership is all aces as you explore aftermarket.org. Advantage: Members. Toolbox - Delegating Work. When responsibility floodgates are open at work, sometimes delegating tasks to fellow employees is the key to smooth sailing. Helpful tips are outlined in Toolbox, and you may find that effective delegation is the perfect paddle next time you are up a creek.
"What's in Store at AAPEX 2004" (Vol 31, Oct./Nov. 2004)
What's in Store at AAPEX '04 - Take a peek inside the new and improved world of opportunity at this year's AAPEX, and the exciting changes attendees can expect to see at this year's show. Rev Your Engines for National Car Care Month - National Car Care Month is right around the corner in April, and it's never too early to start planning ways to get involved. Read about innovative, creative and simple ways to participate in the industry's annual rallying point. Toolbox - Motivation. Every office has its ups and downs, and the key to a productive working environment is keeping workers motivated in all situations. Toolbox offers tips and advice on keeping employees energized through good times and bad.
"AAIA: The First Five Years" (Vol 30, August/September 2004)
Taking Time to Celebrate Success - Take a stroll down AAIA memory lane as Insider revisits the milestones achieved during AAIA’s first five years. Ready or Not, Here Comes GF-4 - The latest passenger motor oil specification, GF-4, is now on the market. Explore some of the questions surrounding GF-4 and learn how the new specification will affect the aftermarket. Toolbox - "FEEDBACK" Correspondence between colleagues is essential to a successful work environment. Toolbox helps you open the doors of communication by helping you lay the foundation for good feedback.
"Navigation" (Vol 29, June/July 2004)
The Technology Roadmap - When it comes to connecting in the aftermarket, it is important to know your way around the industry’s rapidly advancing technology. Learn how IT investments can help your business chart a course to connectedness. Women on the Move - Today’s female motorist is in the driver’s seat when it comes to making automotive choices. Learn about a new study that examines some common misperceptions about the female motorist, and the impact this decision-making demographic is having on the aftermarket. Toolbox - A company Web site is a must-have for many in today’s businesses. Toolbox explores the wide world of Web sites, and offers tips to make sure yours is a site to see.
"Potential" (Vol 28, April/May 2004)
The Chinese Aftermarket - The automotive aftermarket is a global industry, and China presents a world of opportunities. Learn how the far-reaching aftermarket is becoming big business in the Far East. Advancing Aftermarket Professionals - The Automotive Aftermarket Professional (AAP) designation demonstrates the industry's commitment to professional excellence. Learn more about the AAP/MAAP industry certification program, and what it takes to earn the aftermarket's highest achievements. Toolbox - "Hello, and thanks you for coming" Toolbox will address proper public speaking, and offer tips you can use to keep audiences engaged during presentations, from "hello" to "have a nice day."
"Action" (Vol.27, February/March 2004)
National Car Care Month - Spring is the season for car care, and National Car Care Month (NCCM) is planting seeds of car care awareness in the minds of the motoring public. Learn how NCCM 2004 is blossoming into a blitz of excitement and media attention, and what you can do to help it grow. Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium (GAAS) - GAAS 2004 is ready with a full tank of high-octane seminars and speakers, and its scholarship program is geared up to help more students than ever cross the finish line in the aftermarket. Learn how this international even is fueling the industry's future by keeping motivated students on the right track for aftermarket success. Toolbox - Superior customer service is crucial to any business, and a key to keeping customres. Toolbox offers tips on the benefits of great customer service, and explains how to go the extra mile to provide service with a smile.
"Leveraging the Promise of RFID for the Aftermarket" (Vol.26, December 2003/January 2004)
Leveraging the Promise of RFID for the Aftermarket - RFID is the wireless communications technology that is creating promising blips on the radar screen of the aftermarket. Learn how the industry is on the verge of tuning into a whole new frequency for operational efficiency. Cradle to the Grave Warranties and the Aftermarket - An extended warranty initiative is blowing in the wind, and could create a stormy forecast for the aftermarket. Learn about cradle to the grave warranties, and how the pursuit of clean air could rain on your bottom line. Toolbox - A revolving door is great — unless it’s the door to your company. Toolbox offers advice on how to get and keep great employees and keep a lock on the door of employee retention.
"Outside the Box" (Vol.25, October/November 2003)
New Things to See at AAPEX '03 - Start your engines for the impressive lineup of brand new activities avaialble to attendees at this year's show. Learn how, with all the exhilarating new events and opportunities, AAPEX '03 is guaranteed to take the checkered flag. The Center of All the Action - Discover how a trip to the AAIA Web site is all it takes to get your voice heard on The Hill. AAIA's new Legislative Action Center makes communicating with the power that be as easy as one-two-three. Toolbox - The well-being of a workplace depends on the well-being of the workers. Toolbox prescribes some simple tips for workplace wellness that are just what the doctor ordered.
"Consensus" (Vol. 24, August/September 2003)
AAIA-MEMA Channel Forecast Model - Explore the AAIA-MEMA Channel Forecast Model and learn how the consensus on aftermarket size is clearing up confusion about industry data. What's at Stake When It's Fake - Learn about counterfeiting and trademark protection in today's aftermarket, and the importance of protecting intellectual property rights. Toolbox - Evaluation time can be tense in any office. Toolbox explores the sensitive subject of performance appraisals and suggests ways to settle stomachs during reviews.
"Analysis" (Vol. 23, June/July 2003)
Analyzing Pay-on-Scan - Take an inside look at Pay-on-Scan (POS) from the perspective of the author of AAIA's study. Learn what works, what doesn't and the lowdown on some myths about this new business process introduced in the aftermarket. Advancing the Cause - Discover encouraging new developments in the aftermarket's push for the Motor Vehicle Owner's Right to Repair Act, and how these developments are driving this legislation in the right direction. Toolbox - Do you have e-mail e-xpertise? Are you sophisticated on your cell phone? Toolbox examines today's advanced workplace, and offers tips on today's technology.
"Education" (Vol. 22, April/May 2003)
Aftermarket Academics - Learn how the University of the Aftermarket, with its innovative programming and top of the line learning opportunities, is producing industry professionals who help keep the aftermarket running efficiently. Aftermarket Collaboration - The “Be Car Care Aware” consumer education campaign started its engine last summer, and has been running at full throttle ever since. Learn about the campaign’s success and how the industry is making consumers aware of “Be Car Care Aware.” Toolbox - When the going gets tough, sometimes you have to get tougher. The Toolbox offers handy tips on managing touchy workplace situations.
"Information" (Vol. 21, February/March 2003)
Demystifying Enhanced Line Review - Learn the secrets of effective category management, and how AAIA’s ELR Guidebook and CD-ROM can make life easier for your business. Data, Data, Everywhere! - Information is king. Learn how using it correctly can be a crowning achievement for your business. Toolbox - Knowledge is power. The Toolbox puts your workplace savvy to the test, and offers tricks and tips for the powerful professional.
"Performance" (Vol. 20, December 2002/January 2003)
In Tune with the Sport Compact Performance Market - Learn about today’s sport compact performance market, and why enthusiasm for performance vehicles has never really been curbed. Telematics: What’s Going On? - Learn about the newest advances in telematics and what today’s “connected cars” have to offer the aftermarket. Toolbox - ‘Tis the season to be sensitive in the workplace. The Toolbox shows you how to celebrate diversity when you deck the halls for the holidays.
"Partnering" (Vol. 19, October/November, 2002)
An Industry Solution Whose Time Has Come - Learn how to get connected to the latest solution for leveraging the Internet for low-cost business communications. Rooted in Action, Growing Toward Results- Learn how the aftermarket's influence in Washington is blossoming and how to get involved. Toolbox - This issue of Toolbox addresses guidelines for workplace harassment policies and procedures.
"Diversification" (Vol. 18, August/September, 2002)
Opening the Door to a World of Opportunity - Learn how to reach an international market and unlock your company's worldwide potential. Distributor Survival Strategy: Don't Put all Your Eggs in One Basket - Change is good–if your business is ready. Learn the benefits of diversification. Toolbox - To wear or not to wear? This issue of Toolbox answers that "business casual" question.
"Attitude Adjustment" (Vol. 17, June/July, 2002)
Be Car Care Aware - Preview a major industry consumer auto maintenance education campaign, spearheaded by AAIA. Success Strategies for Trade Show Marketing - Exhibiting at a trade show is one of the most cost-efficient marketing tools available...if you plan ahead. Toolbox - Energize and fulfill your employees and turn your workplace into a positive environment. This issue of Toolbox tells you how.
"Exploration" (Vol. 16, April/May, 2002)
The Automotive Technician Shortage - The industry needs 60,000 technicians. Right? AAIA out to prove, or disprove, the tech shortage. Remanufacturing: The Originial Recycling - Take a closer look at the industry that recycles practically every part in your car. Toolbox - We're all under stress. But how do we lessen the impact of life's daily upsets? Find out more in the Toolbox.
"Directions" (Vol. 15, February/March, 2002)
Subtle Differences - Think you know a lot about the Canadian aftermarket? Think again. From doughnuts to minivans, this article brings Canada to life. Built to Last - While e-commerce has caused confusion for many in the aftermarket, some companies have it figured out. Toolbox - September 11 changed America, and it changed the way we do business. This issue of the Toolbox puts it in perspective.
"Survival" (Vol. 14, December 2001/January 2002)
Taking the Temperature of OBD II - Now that SB 1146 passed in California, the real work has begun. The Jobber Battle - Through consolidation and downsizing, some jobbers continue to thrive. Read this article to find out how. Toolbox - How to survive? Teamwork. Learn how to turn your staff into a team.
"Development" (Vol. 13, October/November 2001)
Take a New Look at Recycling - Learning how to work with the EPA and the seemingly endless environmental regulations can actually benefit your business. The Extended Drain Interval Debate - What the aftermarket has heard all along is true: When consumers change their oil, the entire industry benefits. Toolbox - Make your company, and your job, recession-proof with this issue of the Toolbox.
"Connections" (Vol. 12, August/September 2001)
The Truth Behind the Hype - The recent eAftermarket Forum™ examined e-commerce and the Internet, discarding hype and discovering truths. Money Matters - PACs drive legislation, garner attention and impact industries. How will you help? Toolbox - The is here, no more excuses: Get organized.
"Globalization" (Vol. 11, June/July 2001)
AAPEX 2001 - This is where top exhibitors and power buyers meet to do business. Learn what's new at the 2001 trade show and what AAIA is doing to add sizzle to its events. Manufacturers' Representatives - They're motivated, knowledgeable, skilled, cost-effecient and more. See why reps can be your outsourcing solution. Toolbox - Keeping your employees motivated translates into greater productivity and profitability.
"Efficiency" (Vol. 10, April/May 2001)
Category Management - Want to lower inventory and increase sales? Category management will show you how. PIES Is Big News - Information access is easier than ever with AAIA's Product Information Exchange Standards. Look Before You Leap - Selling a company requires patience, business acumen, and a keen eye for detail. Read this article to learn about seven common mistakes. Toolbox - Moving ahead in your career requires smart interaction with good results. This issue of the Toolbox teaches you how to bond successfully with your boss.
"Cultivation" (Vol. 9, Feb./March 2001)
Down on the Farm - Exploring rural America to harvest the agricultural aftermarket. Influencing the Future - How four trends in distribution continue to shape the aftermarket. Toolbox - Boring meetings should be a thing of the past — read Toolbox for ideas guaranteed to jazz up any gathering.
"Collaboration" (Vol. 8, Dec./Jan. 2001)
Out of the Box - SB 1146 was finally signed into law in California, and now the real work begins. Trash or Treasure - Tie-in products are an esy way to create profits — so why don't more aftermarket retailers carry them? Toolbox - How do you manage all the personalities and agendas in your office? Turn to the Toolbox for tips that work.
"Energy" (Vol. 7, Oct/Nov. 2000)
Fueling the Future: The Road to Zero Emissions - NiMH batteries, electricity, fuel cells and hybrids. Which technology will win the race to zero emissions? Safety Sells: Safety-Conscious Consumers Help the Aftermarket - Looking for a new way to sell to your customers? Today's consumer is interested in safety, and the aftermarket should be ready to help. Trade Show Toolbox - To make themost of a trade show, you have to be prepared. To be prepared, you have to read this section.
"Change" (Vol. 6, Aug./Sep., 2000)
No Longer an Afterthought: Women and the Aftermarket - If you haven't factored female consumers into your marketing plan, you are putting your business at a disadvantage. Branding: Pump Up Your Product - You're selling more than product — you're selling trust. Toolbox - Break your sales deadlock with these ideas for increasing business.
"Leverage" (Vol. 5, June/July, 2000)
The Ultimate Synergy - Motorsports, the fastest growing spectator sport in the world, is big business for the automotive aftermarket. But without the aftermarket, motorsports would not exist. The Main Event - California is the battleground where the independent aftermarket is fighting car manufacturers and dealers over access to on-board diagnostics. Toolbox - E-mail overload, telephone tag, writer's block: people must struggle with these problems daily. This Toolbox includes useful tips for efficient, easy communications.
"Growth" (Vol. 4, April/May, 2000)
Restoration Boom - Restoring classic cars presents a golden opportunity for the aftermarket. Building on History for a Better Future - AAIA's board is making history as the newly merged association looks to the future. Toolbox - Hiring and Firing: Focus on how to handle the most important aspects of employee relations.
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