Aftermarket Takes to the Internet, Study Finds
May 1, 2001 12:00 PM
Eighty-six percent of aftermarket companies responding to a survey have or plan to launch a web site by the end of 2001, according to a new research report published by the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA).
E-Commerce & the Aftermarket examines e-commerce conditions in the automotive aftermarket and trends that will drive Internet business in the next decade. The 40-page report combines survey results from AAIA member companies with data from research firms.
The most common aftermarket products marketed and sold over the Internet by AAIA member companies surveyed include hard parts (33%), performance and comfort accessories (30%), and tools and equipment (29%). About one-fifth market or sell chemicals (20%) or general service parts (19%). Few respondents market or sell technical information (11%) or tires (4%) over the Internet. Other survey information includes:
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Most companies expect to increase their web site budget.
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Most firms said their web sites helped increase total sales.
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Most transactional web sites reported a zero return rate.
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Most companies manage their web sites internally.
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The most common services and functions offered through a web site are product and store locators.
For more information, or to obtain a copy of the survey, phone 301-654-6664 or e-mail aaia@aftermarket.org. The price for AAIA members is $150 and $295 for nonmembers.
