RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. – A recent article by Aftermarket Business World “Riding the Brand Wave” provides results from a study showing increased sales at automotive aftermarket program groups who filled their warehouses with national-label products.

“The recent Program Group Product Study notes that increased sales are due to improved product quality – evidence of much hard work by full service suppliers. The value of quality parts backed by full service automotive aftermarket manufacturers is the primary message of the AASA Know Your Parts campaign, focused on repair professionals,” said Steve Handschuh, president and COO of AASA. “The majority of survey respondents also reported that – in response to increased demand from independent repair shops - national label products make up the bulk of their inventory. AASA has experienced a similar increased demand for its free 'Supplier Evaluation Standards' which provide channel partners standardized criteria for supplier selection.”

“The majority of the survey participants reported using a full-line supplier because of the peace of mind and product warranties these suppliers provide – in other words, ‘It’s What’s Inside That Counts,’” said Jack Cameron, AASA vice president and group executive of the AASA Marketing Executive Council, which spearheads the Know Your Parts campaign.

“We are pleased to see that aftermarket supply chain partners realize the benefits of providing quality components to their customers, the qualified repair professionals,” Cameron continued. "Just as these service professionals depend on their knowledge and experience, quality parts depend on the technology, research, development and the manufacturer who stands behind them.”

The full results of the Aftermarket Business World Program Group Product Study can be accessed here.   AASA members and other full service aftermarket suppliers are invited to join the Aftermarket Business World online community here.

About AASA

AASA (www.aftermarketsuppliers.org) exclusively serves manufacturers of aftermarket components, tools and equipment, and related products. It is a recognized industry change agent – promoting a collaborative industry environment, providing a forum to address issues and serving as a valued resource for members. AASA is an affiliate of the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA). “AASA, The Voice for the Automotive Aftermarket Supplier Industry”