DSN Retailing Today honors AutoZone at AAPEX - Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo

DSN Retailing Today, Nov 25, 2002

LAS VEGAS -- Strong attendance at the Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo earlier this month demonstrated the resiliency of this $248 billion retail niche, which grew 4.8% last year despite the economy.

Among the record 82,000 visitors, there was an especially strong retail component this year, including AutoZone, which was honored at a reception hosted by DSN Retailing Today in recognition of its status as the "Hottest growth concept in retailing."

AutoZone continues to break records as the segment leader, with sales up 10.5% to $5.32 billion and with more than 3,000 stores in the United States. Aggressive merchandising and marketing programs pushed comparable store sales up 8.8% this year.

"All of us at AutoZone are very honored to be recognized as a leader in this exciting industry," said Steve Odland, ceo of AutoZone. "We are excited at the prospects of growing our business as AutoZone helps the automotive aftermarket industry persuade consumers to do the recommended routine maintenance on their vehicles. That's a $60 billion growth opportunity."

On the show floor, new products that took center stage included items to accessorize the vehicle, from neon lighting to stylized license plates and seat and steering wheel covers. Emphasis has shifted from commodity items like motor oil to accessories and car care products for light DIYers. Improved safety and security features were also prominent, such as truck bed cover alarms.

Neal Zipser, director of communications for the Motor and Equipment Manufacturers Association, said vendors have begun leading the industry, rather than following the moves of auto makers as in the past. One example he cited was a pop-down entertainment center now available as an accessory. Zipser also noted an increasing number of products targeting female drivers.

"Fifty-five percent of women make car-buying decisions, but they also decide where the car will be fixed. A lot more dealers and service facilities are catering to women," Zipser said.

At a town hall meeting, retailer and vendor panelists discussed how to capture $60 billion on lost sales due to annually unperformed vehicle maintenance. The Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association, one of the show sponsors, launched a public education campaign called "Be Car Care Aware," promoting vehicle maintenance and encouraged all vendors and retailers to get on board.