Industry Overview and News The automotive aftermarket or motor vehicle aftermarket is a critical segment of the U.S. economy. Distribution channels include original equipment, original equipment service, traditional automotive, programmed distribution, large retailers, and the non-traditional markets. This industry includes all products and services purchased for light and heavy duty vehicles after the original sale. This includes replacement parts for under hood and undercar, engine management, temperature controls, accessories, lubricants and appearance products. This also covers service repairs and the tools and equipment necessary to make the repair. The Automotive Aftermarket total revenue exceeds 200 billion dollars in sales, yielding a median annual growth rate of approximately 4%. Additionally, this industry employs approximately 4.5 million people, more than 800,000 of which are technicians.         TOP Industry News

Snap-on's Tom Ward Elected 2010 Chairman of the AASA Board of Governors Thu, 11 Mar 2010 11:14:00 GMT Bruce Zorich of United Components Inc. joins as new board member. Bill's Battery Co. Joins National Pronto Association Thu, 11 Mar 2010 11:13:12 GMT Bill's Battery Co. operates out of Cincinnati, Ohio, and has many independent jobbers that service the greater Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky and Sout... The NASCAR Foundation Announces 'The Big Five' Projects for NASCAR Day Thu, 11 Mar 2010 11:12:26 GMT The foundation is teaming up with several of the sport's official partners on five projects aimed at education and helping children live happier, hea... OBITUARY: Hickock's Tom Bauman Passes Away Thu, 11 Mar 2010 11:11:22 GMT Hickock Inc.'s Thomas Bauman, 66, a 38-month survivor of lung cancer, lost his battle on March 1. Hella Offers New Optical Warning Systems Catalog Thu, 11 Mar 2010 11:08:21 GMT Catalog features new LED- and strobe-based warning systems for heavy duty use. TOP