CURRENT & RECENT MEDIA RELEASES:

October 25, 2018 - DAYCO & BURSON AUTO PARTS – THE 35 YEAR HANDSHAKE

Dayco, a leading global engine products and drive systems supplier for the automotive, industrial and aftermarket industries, is proud to celebrate the 35th Anniversary of the company’s alliance with Australia’s Burson Auto Parts (part of the Bapcor Group) in 2018.

Marking this important milestone with a special event, Dayco organised a dinner at No 35, located on Level 35 of Melbourne’s superb Sofitel Hotel for a special celebration.

Both Dayco and Burson Auto Parts have enjoyed outstanding growth since their association started in the early 1980’s when Burson Auto Parts, the company that would become Australia’s preferred supplier of automotive parts, accessories, tools and equipment, had just 11 stores located in Victoria.

Three and a half decades later, Burson Auto Parts has become one of Dayco’s top ten global aftermarket customers, now with more than 175 stores located across Australia and  branching out internationally with its first two stores in Thailand.

During this timeframe, Dayco has continued to expand its vast aftermarket product range to meet the demands of local automotive repairers and the diversity of the Australian car parc. Thousands of new Dayco Sku’s have been added in the areas of drive belts, engine thermal management components and performance components.

According to Dayco Vice President Aftermarket - Asia Pacific, Arnold Mouw, this outstanding business relationship was formed with a handshake 35 years ago and continues to this day.

“The Dayco team really enjoys working with the many Burson Auto Parts stores and we look forward to continuing our success, particularly in the larger Bapcor Group.

“We are delighted to continue to play a part in Burson Auto Parts’ Australian and international success story and look forward to celebrating many more milestone business anniversaries together in the future,” Mr. Mouw stated.

Bapcor Limited CEO and Managing Director Darryl Abotomey highlights the two companies’ commitment to ensuring the broadest aftermarket application coverage as being integral to their long term mutual success.

“Dayco has always understood the importance of supplying the broadest possible range of applications for each of its engine products to suit the Australian car parc. Being able to say “yes” to a customer and to be able to fill that order quickly is of prime importance to us, while also ensuring that we are supplying high quality automotive products. These are the key factors behind our highly successful 35 year association,” Mr. Abotomey said.

The Dayco and Burson Auto Parts 35th Anniversary celebration was a highly enjoyable event that combined fine dining with some of the most spectacular views of Melbourne, the birthplace of Burson Auto Parts and Dayco’s Australian head office. A specially produced plaque commemorating this milestone anniversary was presented to Mr. Abotomey by Arnold Mouw at the celebration.

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Suggested image caption: Celebrating 35 unbroken years of mutual success, (from left) Bapcor Limited CEO and Managing Director Darryl Abotomey and Dayco Vice President Aftermarket - Asia Pacific, Arnold Mouw celebrating this outstanding business milestone.

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October 24, 2018 - INNOVATION LABS SUPPORTING THE FUTURE GROWTH OF AUSTRALIAN AUTOMOTIVE MANUFACTURING

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA), the national industry association representing the automotive manufacturing industry, announces the establishment of two automotive Innovation Labs based in Victoria and South Australia.

Co-funded by Federal and Victorian Government industry development grants, the operation of these new Innovation Labs will be led by the AAAA, providing Australian automotive product designers, manufacturers and start-ups with the the tools, technology,  vehicles, expertise and collaborative environment required to innovate, design, test and manufacture for local and export markets.

Advanced manufacturing services including 3D scanning and printing, measuring sessions, technology transfer, Computer Aided Design and prototyping will be provided. Advanced product development and testing facilities will significantly reduce the time and cost in developing innovative new products for local and global markets.

According to AAAA Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Charity, the establishment of these Innovation Labs will grow an industry that is already punching well above its weight on the global stage.

“Australian automotive aftermarket industry manufacturers are currently producing parts, components and technology worth more than $5 billion each year.

“Our companies are world leaders in the design and manufacture of specialty products with a technological advantage such as 4WD, high performance and motorsport components. These products are purchased on innovation, performance and features rather than on price. Our businesses have been successful because they have made significant investments in R&D and capital equipment and have a strong export focus.

“Establishing this collaborative infrastructure will position our industry for future domestic and export market growth by providing the innovators of the industry with the leading edge technology and expertise  needed to take Australian automotive industry innovations to the world, regardless of how large or small their businesses are”.

The AAAA has appointed automotive industry engineering specialist Luke Truskinger to the role of Innovation Lab Project Manager. Along with his Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering, Luke brings extensive local and international OEM experience to this new role and a history of supporting the Innovation Lab project, understanding the critical role that these Labs will play to support the future growth of Australia’s automotive manufacturing industry.

The AAAA will be engaging in extensive discussions with Australia’s automotive parts and accessories industry to build on the significant work already undertaken as part of the Innovation Lab feasibility study. The next few months of the establishment phase will ensure that the equipment and services offered by the Australian Innovation Labs are closely aligned with the current and future needs of the Australian automotive manufacturing industry.

“We look forward to inviting automotive manufacturers to take advantage of the services and facilities that our Innovation Labs will offer to assist in taking their products from concept to domestic and global market success,” Mr Charity stated.

“This Innovation Lab initiative would not have become reality without the significant financial support provided by the Commonwealth and Victorian Governments in addition to the support of 25 ‘Lab Champion’ companies who contributed to the Innovation Lab feasibility study. We would also like to thank Centre Alliance Senator Rex Patrick for his strong advocacy on behalf of Australian Automotive manufacturers. Everyone should be very proud of this exciting new development that secures the future of Australian automotive design and manufacturing,” Mr Charity added.

To find out more or to register your interest in the Automotive Innovation Labs, contact AAAA Innovation Lab Project Manager Luke Truskinger - Luke@aaaa.com.au

/ends.

Image Link - Stuart Charity, AAAA Chief Executive Officer

For further information, comments or interviews contact:  

Mr Stuart Charity, Chief Executive Officer - AAAA: 03 9545 3333 / 0418 563 959
 

For editorial information contact: 

Paul Marinelli, Marinelli PR: 0417 558 655

 
Additional Editorial Notes:

The AAAA’s vision to support the future growth of Australia’s automotive aftermarket industry through innovation was based on the highly successful precedent set by the United States based SEMA Garage concept. After evaluating the success of this USA based Innovation Lab, the AAAA commissioned a detailed Australian feasibility study before presenting the concept to State and Federal Government Industry Ministers.  For more information on the SEMA Garage visit: https://www.semagarage.com/

Visit the AAAA online

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October 22 2018 - WORLD LEADING MONROE INTELLIGENT SUSPENSION FOR ALL NEW 2018 VOLVO XC40 COMPACT CROSSOVER SUV

Tenneco Inc, parent company of the world’s leading Original Equipment and Aftermarket shock absorber brand, Monroe, is proud to announce yet another premium vehicle to be equipped with Monroe Intelligent Suspension technology.

The all-new 2018 Volvo XC40 Compact Crossover SUV features Tenneco’s CVSAe adaptive suspension technology from its Monroe Intelligent Suspension portfolio.

A proven Monroe suspension technology that has been launched on more than 40 vehicle models to date, Tenneco’s CVSAe semi-active suspension technology continuously senses road and driving conditions and independently adjusts damping levels in real time to provide superior comfort, handling and enhanced road safety – the primary design cornerstones to which Volvo has established an enviable reputation over the decades.

Each electronically controlled Monroe shock absorber connects to a central ECU, which can realign damping settings every 10 milliseconds based on sensor inputs monitoring wheel assembly acceleration, body displacement and steering angle. An externally mounted electronic valve connects to the vehicle’s driving mode control, giving drivers the ability to select damping settings that best suit their requirements.

“Drivers today expect higher levels of comfort and performance from their vehicles, as well as a differentiated driving experience,” said Neville Rudd, senior vice president, Tenneco Global Ride Control.

“CVSAe, like other technologies from the Monroe Intelligent Suspension portfolio, offers a highly tuneable suspension solution that delivers optimal control, comfort and road-holding capabilities under a variety of driving conditions,” Mr Rudd added.

The XC40 complements Volvo’s XC60 mid-size and XC90 full-size SUV models, both of which also feature Tenneco’s CVSAe suspension system.

Tenneco will supply the CVSAe suspension technology for Volvo from its plant in Ermua, Spain, one of the company’s 93 global manufacturing facilities located across five continents.

By developing world leading Monroe suspension technology to international vehicle manufacturers on brand new models, the many benefits of this technical development also flows directly to the global automotive aftermarket.

Tenneco’s world leading Monroe aftermarket ride performance product range is available from quality automotive repairers, suspension specialists and parts retailers across Australia and New Zealand.

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Suggested image caption: The all-new 2018 Volvo XC40 Compact Crossover SUV features Tenneco’s CVSAe adaptive suspension technology from its Monroe Intelligent Suspension portfolio. It is the latest of 40 vehicles to be launched with this world leading Monroe suspension technology worldwide. 

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October 17, 2018 - AUTOBARN LOWNDES RACING CONQUERS MOUNT PANORAMA

Autobarn Lowndes Racing’s Craig Lowndes and Steven Richards have once again conquered one of the world’s most demanding motor races, taking a commanding victory of Australia’s Great Race, the 2018 Bathurst 1000, held at the legendary Mount Panorama Circuit (NSW) on Sunday October 7.

The Autobarn sponsored duo and their highly skilled Triple 8 Race Engineering crew managed to overcome a number of major challenges during the Bathurst weekend to score Lowndes’ 7^th and Richards’ 5th Mount Panorama victory during Lowndes’ final season as a full-time Supercar driver.

This dominating victory places Australia’s most popular racing driver at equal second on the all-time Bathurst 500 / 1000 winners list. Lowndes, who is also a triple Supercar champion, is now level with his co-driver’s father Jim Richards with seven Mount Panorama victories, while co-driver Steve Richards moves up to sixth on the all-time Bathurst winners list with his fifth Mountain victory.

The Autobarn sponsored duo’s 2018 Bathurst challenge did not start smoothly at all with early serious power steering issues and a trans-axle replacement along with some car set-up challenges. Once they were dealt with, Sunday’s six hour race handed them a mid-race downpour that caused an off circuit foray at the pit entry along with in-car ventilation problems and a cool suit failure during Lowndes’ final three stints behind the wheel.

Lowndes, Richards and their outstanding race team overcame these hurdles to gain Autobarn Lowndes Racing a resounding Bathurst victory - a win that has confirmed both Lowndes and Richards’ status as true Bathurst legends. 

The Autobarn duo qualified ninth for the race. This meant that Lowndes had levelled with his mentor Peter Brock at third on the all-time Bathurst Top Ten Shootout appearance list at a staggering 17 times.

Despite Richards’ off-track excursion into the gravel trap on the entry to pit lane due to wet conditions, the Autobarn Lowndes Racing Commodore was up to second place entering the final stint of the race. Lowndes took the lead from the physically struggling David Reynolds on lap 135 of 161. After that, Lowndes raced away to a comfortable lead to secure his 7^th Bathurst victory by more than six seconds.

A huge crowd invasion for the podium presentation ensured a loud celebration with Lowndes and Richards. Race fans chanted “Lowndesy” and “One More Year” in unison and even prompted the Supercar veterans to partake in a ‘shoey’ - the process of drinking victory champagne from their race boots, to which both Autobarn drivers duly obliged, gaining a rapturous crowd response.

“To have all of the problems that we had earlier in the week and then for us to bounce back as a team was really good,” Lowndes said.

“I couldn't have asked for anything more to have the track come to me in the closing stages and it really was an incredible finish for us. I've never had such a big gap on the last lap at Bathurst to be able to enjoy it so much.

“Towards the end, your mind's thinking anything can happen. I started to smell rubber and thought something could be wrong, but it was Tim Slade’s car. The crowd was immense and Richo did a fantastic job - what an amazing finish to a great race,” he stated.

Richards, who also teamed with Lowndes to win at Mount Panorama back in 2015, has partnered the triple Supercars Champion at the Supercar endurance races since 2014 and like Lowndes, also made his Supercars championship debut in 1996.

“Unbelievable, words cannot describe what's just happened… I'm just stunned!” said Richards.

“We know anything can happen at this place, but we've had a tough weekend on our side of the garage and when it came to it, the boys really dug deep. There's been a lot of stress, but we just knuckled down and got on with it and this is an absolute credit to the Autobarn Lowndes Racing team,” he stated. 

While 44 year old Lowndes is competing in his final full time Supercar racing season this year, he has been signed to continue as an endurance race co-driver for the dominant Triple 8 Race Engineering team in 2019. This gives the Autobarn ambassador the chance to edge closer to the record of nine Bathurst 1000 victories held by his mentor, former team mate and close friend, the late Peter Brock.

According to Brad Hyde, Automotive Brands Group General Manager of Marketing, this Bathurst victory has been the highlight of an already outstanding season for Autobarn Lowndes Racing.

“This incredible victory showed the true grit and determination of the Autobarn Lowndes Racing Team. It was nothing short of an outstanding team effort and the entire Autobarn store network are proud to have been a part of Craig’s seventh Bathurst victory.

“From a marketing perspective, it could not have been any better for Autobarn with major national television, online and print media coverage gained throughout. We also conducted a number of Autobarn customer activations during the Bathurst weekend using our pit garage “Lowndsey’s Lounge” set-up, providing money can’t buy Bathurst 1000 pit visit experiences, as well as a driver signing at the new Autobarn Bathurst store” Mr Hyde stated.

Lowndes and Richards re-join forces in the Autobarn Lowndes Racing Commodore once again for the final round of the 2018 Enduro Cup on the streets of Surfers Paradise for the Gold Coast 600 from October 19 to 21. They do so as 2018 Enduro Cup leaders vying for the trophy awarded to the driver pairing with the most points across the Sandown, Bathurst and Gold Coast Supercar endurance race events.

Just like Lowndes’ Supercar performances on the track this season, Autobarn is a true standout of the Australian automotive retail industry. Autobarn combines decades of experience, premier product brands and personalised customer service through a national retail store network that continues to grow at an unprecedented rate.

Motorsport enthusiasts can show their support for Autobarn Lowndes Racing during the final Australian Supercar races of Lowndes’ final full time Supercars season with Autobarn’s exclusive in-store range of race team merchandise available from all 130 Autobarn stores nationwide.

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Suggested image caption:  Autobarn Lowndes Racing’s Craig Lowndes and Steven Richards raced to a commanding victory of Australia’s Great Race - a victory that has confirmed both Lowndes’ and Richards’ status as true Bathurst legends. 

Visit Autobarn online

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October 10, 2018 - DON’T MISS THE BIG BURSON AUTO PARTS SYDNEY METRO TRADE SHOW ON OCTOBER 30

Burson Auto Parts invites the Sydney automotive trade to take part in one of the Australian company’s largest trade shows, the Sydney Metro Trade Show, taking place at The Royal Randwick Racecourse on Tuesday October 30 from 5:00pm to 9:00pm.

With the involvement of more than 54 premium quality Burson Auto Parts suppliers, the Burson Auto Parts Sydney Metro trade show includes exclusive special offers along with outstanding giveaways and three “Take a Break on Burson” major prizes.

The Burson Auto Parts Sydney Metro Trade Show major prizes reflect the Australian company’s growing international footprint, with the major prize being a trip for two to the outstanding island resort of Phuket in Thailand. The second prize of the Burson Auto Parts Sydney Metro Trade Show is a trip to the world class ski resort of Queenstown, New Zealand and the third prize to be given away on the night is a Brisbane city break.

This very special trade exclusive event will enable Burson Auto Parts customers to gain the latest product, technical and service information from Burson Auto Parts suppliers’ expert staff. Detailed product displays and trade show exclusive special offers valid only for the four hours of the event also form a major part of this major Sydney automotive trade event.

With food and drinks provided, race car displays and the products from more than 54 Burson Auto Parts suppliers on hand, Sydney automotive repairers should ensure to visit The Royal Randwick Racecourse after work on Tuesday October 30.

As Burson Auto Parts is the home of all the biggest and best brands that the automotive trade demands, the Burson Auto Parts Sydney Metro Trade Show on October 30 includes the involvement of AD Gaskets, AAM Tech, APEX Tool Group, Austech Industries, Bearing Wholesalers, Bendix, Bosch, Capricorn, CRC, Century Batteries, Dayco, DBA, Diesel Distributors, Exedy, Fuchs, Fulcrum Suspensions, Hella, HPP Lunds, IBS, Invision, JAS, Kinchrome, Lavor, MTQ Engine Systems, Macnaught, Milwaukee, Narva, NGK, KYB, Nulon, Peak, PAT, Penrite, Phillips, Pilot, Prixmax, Roadsafe, Ryco, SGF, STM, Tradequip, Threebond, Transgold, Trico, Tridon, Wesfil, ZF and more.

The Burson Auto Parts New South Wales regional management team looks forward to welcoming you to their Sydney Metro Trade Show on October 30 from 5pm to 9:00pm at The Royal Randwick Racecourse.

To register your attendance, contact your local Burson Auto Parts Sales Representative, Store Manager or call 1300 BURSON (287 766).

/ends. 

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Visit Burson Auto Parts online

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October 12, 2018 - THE AUSTRALIAN AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY EVENT OF 2019 IS COMING

Bringing together more than 400 Australian and international automotive aftermarket companies and more than 10,000 automotive service business owners, parts re-sellers, distributors, buyers and manufacturers, the 2019 Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo will be the region’s largest automotive aftermarket industry event.

This biennial showcase of Australia’s multi-billion dollar parts and maintenance sector of the Australian automotive industry is organised by the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA), the nation’s peak industry association representing manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers, importers and retailers of automotive parts and accessories, tools and equipment, along with providers of mechanical repair and vehicle modification services.

Taking place at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from April 4 to 6, 2019 and being held in conjunction with the 2019 Collision Repair Expo, this complete automotive aftermarket industry event provides instant trade customer access to products, services and training expertise from hundreds of leading industry companies across three busy days.

The 2019 AAA Expo is presented by major corporate sponsor Monroe Shock Absorbers for the 5^th consecutive year. Monroe is joined by a host of leading Australian and international automotive aftermarket companies and industry associations who are also providing their valued support through various Expo Event and Award sponsorships.

This trade-exclusive event has grown significantly over the past decade, directly reflecting the continued growth and prosperity of the Australian automotive aftermarket industry.

The 2019 Expo will also highlight the success that Australian and international companies have achieved through automotive product design, manufacturing and innovation with the 2019 Australian Auto Aftermarket Innovation Awards Breakfast.

Another key component of the 2019 Expo will recognise the stand-out companies, brands and individuals of the Australian automotive aftermarket industry through a series of awards including export, manufacturing, marketing, expo stand and community engagement awards.

These awards include the Outstanding Service to Industry and Young Achiever Award as well as the induction of major industry contributors to the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Hall of Fame. These awards are presented at the 2019 Expo Gala Awards Banquet that will include 1,000 guests, forming the major social networking centrepiece of the event.

A series of industry specific seminars, business training sessions and state of the industry presentations will also take place at the 2019 Expo, ensuring that automotive business owners, technicians and managerial or sales staff remain well informed of industry developments, along with AAAA Government Relations and industry advocacy activity.

According to AAAA Executive Director Stuart Charity, the AAA Expo has become the major biennial must-attend event for industry exhibitors, trade buyers and the wider automotive trade, with the 2019 event set to be the biggest yet.

“We are ready to present the biggest and best Expo that our industry has ever assembled from April 4 to 6, 2019. The parts and maintenance sector of the automotive industry is now Australia’s primary automotive sector that includes world class component manufacturers, marketers and service providers. This major Australian trade expo continues to grow in line with our industry’s impressive growth through innovation, service expertise and technological advances.

“This is an event that gives AAAA member companies the ability to meet thousands of customers face to face across three days of business networking, combined with special training seminars and Expo stand based training presentations that have been designed to assist them in building better businesses,” Mr Charity stated.

“It would be difficult to find any member of the automotive trade who has not been impressed by the highly skilled personnel, the abundance of information, the networking opportunities and the product displays that our member companies make available at this free to attend Expo every two years.

“This is without any doubt the must-attend event of our industry and its continued growth certainly reflects this,” Mr Charity concluded.

2019 AAA Expo and Industry Facts:

The 2019 AAA Expo and the concurrent 2019 Collision Repair Expo (CRE), will cover more than 21,000 square metres of Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre floor space with more than 400 exhibitors taking part from April 4 to 6, 2019.

The 2019 AAA Expo is Australia’s largest automotive industry exhibition, bringing together manufacturers, exporters, importers and service providers that represent this country’s constantly growing automotive aftermarket industry. It is also the largest automotive trade exhibition in the Oceania region.                                                    

AAAA member companies employ more than 40,000 people and export more than $1 billion worth of products each year in an industry that generates revenues in excess of $11 billion domestically each year.

The AAAA is the national industry association representing manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers, importers and retailers of automotive parts and accessories, tools and equipment, along with providers of mechanical repair and modification services in Australia.

The AAAA represents more than 2,500 member companies in all categories of the Australian automotive aftermarket and includes major national and multi-national corporations as well as a large number of independent, small and medium size automotive businesses. Member companies are located in metropolitan, regional and rural Australia.

The AAAA plays an important role in the recognition, development and support of the Australian automotive aftermarket industry. This dynamic association has represented the industry on a range of high-profile State and Federal Government issues directly affecting the industry. Some recent examples include Choice of Repairer, Queensland and national 4WD Vehicle Lift regulations and Road Vehicle Standards Act legislation, along with providing significant industry input towards the far reaching ACCC Study into New Car Retailing among several other major achievements. 

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Stuart Charity, AAAA Executive Director

For further information, comments or interviews please contact:
 

Stuart Charity, Executive Director – Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association

03 9545 3333 / 0418 563 959

2019 AAA Expo Website: https://autoaftermarketexpo.com.au

AAAA Website: www.aaaa.com.au

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October 12, 2018 - 2019 COLLISION REPAIR EXPO TO WELCOME THOUSANDS OF TRADE VISTORS

An integral part of the 2019 Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo is the concurrent 2019 Collision Repair Expo that will be held from April 4 to 6 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

This sector of the Australian automotive aftermarket industry has seen significant development in repair techniques, workshop equipment, surface coatings and tooling in line with modern motor vehicle chassis and panel construction, materials and design.

The 2019 Collision Repair Expo will showcase the latest Australian and international innovations for local collision repairers, supported by practical exhibitor presentations, industry seminars and panel discussions.

The importance of the Collision Repair sector was reflected in the significantly high number of trade members who registered specifically for this expo in 2017. This sector of the aftermarket industry attracted almost 30% of the total trade visitors to the concurrently held 2017 Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo and occupied approximately one quarter of the total exhibitor space. 

Industry leading paint and equipment distributor, Sydney Automotive Paints and Equipment (SAPE), has returned as the major sponsor of the 2019 Collision Repair Expo.

The 2019 Collision Repair Expo seminar program will be strongly supported by I-CAR, who will assist in presenting an impressive line-up of industry experts and specialists who will conduct seminars. These seminars will be focussed on assisting collision repair business owners to maximise their operating efficiencies and repair techniques.

Along with I-CAR, several leading collision repair industry and media organisations will also be co-locating their activities at the 2019 Collision Repair Expo, making this three day event an integral part of this industry sector’s growth and development.

The importance of practical displays in relation to panel repair work on exotic new metals and composite materials will be highlighted by the number of 2019 Collision Repair Expo exhibitors who will be performing live practical demonstrations at their stands, along with utilising the expo’s unique Lowbake Demonstration Spray Booth.

This fully functional spray booth enables every kind of surface coating product to be practically displayed, making this a popular attraction with members of the trade who are keen to witness their industry’s latest products in action. It is also a popular promotional platform for exhibitors to showcase their latest surface coating products.

According to Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association Executive Director, Stuart Charity, “The 2019 Collision Repair Expo will enable businesses within this major industry sector to stay ahead of the latest developments, products and technical training.

“This is a sector of the Australian automotive aftermarket industry that must be fully across the rapid technological advancements in products, tooling and repair processes to future proof their businesses. With practical demonstrations, a detailed industry seminar program and a who’s who of the industry as exhibitors, the Collision Repair Expo has everything that is needed and more all under one roof,” Mr Charity stated.

The speaker and seminar line up for the 2019 Collision Repair Expo is being finalised and will be released shortly.

 More information and free registration details can be found at the 2019 Collision Repair Expo website located at: www.collisionrepair.com.au.  

/ends.

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Image 1

Image 2 - Stuart Charity, AAAA Executive Director

For further information, comments or interviews please contact:

Stuart Charity, Executive Director – Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association - 03 9545 3333 / 0418 563 959

AAAA Website: www.aaaa.com.au

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October 9, 2018 - STATE OF THE ART AUTOLAND DIAGNOSTIC TOOLS FROM BURSON EQUIPMENT

Australia’s automotive workshop equipment specialists, Burson Equipment,  offers the trade a range of state of the art Autoland diagnostic scan tools to keep your vehicle servicing and repair data capabilities up to date, with particular emphasis on the latest European makes and models.

Burson Equipment has three premium quality Autoland products in their range, the ISCAN Scan Tool, the VEDIS -3 Scan Tool and the PS-M1 Vehicle Power Stabiliser.

The Autoland VEDIS-3 Deluxe diagnostic system from Burson Equipment is a high level scan tool that supports hundreds of vehicles from over 40 vehicle manufacturers. With its user friendly interface via the Android operating system, the Vedis3-Deluxe is quick and easy to use and a two year update plan is included with every unit.

Features include:
 

•        8” IPS LCD Touch screen with 5-point touch

•        Android operating system

•        Comprehensive coverage for over 40 vehicle makes from Europe, USA & Asia

•        Wireless connectivity for program updates & printing

•        User friendly interface

•        Monthly wireless updates

•        Customisable unit conversion

•        J2534 pass-thru capability

•        Fault code repair guide

•        Two year update plan is included with every new unit

Functions:
 

·         Read & clear fault codes

·         Data stream (live data)

·         Component activation

·         ECU adaptation

·         ECU coding

·         Service resets

·         Special functions

State of the art hardware design along with in depth off line programming and a myriad of diagnostic functions are the advantages of the Autoland ISCAN 3 Deluxe scan tool from Burson Equipment.

The features of the ISCAN 3 Deluxe scan tool include:
 

●  10.1 inch IPS High Resolution Touch Screen

●  Wireless internet connection for software updates

●  Wireless printing capability

●  Built-in remote control and support availability

●  External memory storage compatibility and User Friendly Interface

●  Graphical Menus

●  Data comparison for analysis

●  Oscillogram presentation for easy problem identification

●  Instant search for online database from fault code page

Burson Equipment also offers the Autoland PS-M1 Vehicle Power Stabiliser Tool to regulate battery voltage during vehicle diagnosis and ECU programming.

The major features of this premium quality tool include:
 

·         Easy operation

·         No setup required

·         Automatically regulates voltage output

·         “Warning Mode” avoids over-current and ensures vehicle battery life

·         Safe vehicle ECU programming & diagnosis - protects the computers in the vehicle during programming while maintaining proper current and voltage while diagnosing and / or performing procedures such as calibration

Specifications:

·         Fixed output voltage: 14 Volt

·         Maximum output current: 70 Amp

Burson Equipment also provides the trade with a major additional incentive for the updating of your workshop capabilities with any of these outstanding Autoland diagnostic tools. Automotive repairers and service centres are able to trade back their older Autoland Scan Tools to Burson Equipment for any of these newer models to receive discounted pricing.  This incentive, combined with access to Burson Equipment Finance if required, ensure that it is both easy and cost effective to stay up to date with vehicle servicing data and the latest automotive diagnostic technology.

The national Burson Equipment team is ready to update your workshop’s diagnostic capabilities and to assist with any workshop equipment enquiries with these state of the art Autoland scan tools by calling 1300 BURSON (287 766).

/ends.

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PS-M1 Vehicle Power Stabiliser Tool

VEDIS -3 Scan Tool

ISCAN Scan Tool

Suggested image caption: - Australia’s automotive workshop equipment specialists, Burson Equipment, offers the trade a range of state of the art Autoland diagnostic scan tools to keep your vehicle servicing and repair data capabilities up to date, with value added trade back options.

Visit Burson Auto Parts online

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October 1, 2018 - FIVE MILLION REASONS WHY IT REALLY PAYS TO BE A CAPRICORN MEMBER

During the last year, more than 19,500 Capricorn Members purchased a total of $1.86 billion worth of automotive parts and other business requirements from Capricorn Preferred Suppliers across Australia and New Zealand.

Given that the whole reason why the Capricorn cooperative exists is for the benefit of its Members, it makes perfect sense that Capricorn Members are rewarded for such an outstanding annual result.

Proving that it really does pay to be a Capricorn Member, aside from the outstanding benefits gained through the strength of this large buying group, Capricorn has paid a $5 million trade rebate to its Members.

This $5 million trade rebate was paid on top of these many other benefits received by Capricorn Members including a Capricorn Share Dividend payment, Capricorn Reward Points and free access to business development resources including Capricorn Service Data, Capricorn Vehicle Videos and the recently introduced AutoBoost online business tool kit.

According to Capricorn Group CEO Greg Wall, “The combined purchasing of all of our Capricorn Members across Australia and New Zealand is the core strength of this cooperative. We are delighted to reward our Members for another record year, clearly proving that it pays both financially and in making your automotive business so much easier to operate by being a Capricorn Member.”

“We are also very proud to have paid an 11% dividend on all Capricorn shares, in addition to the $5 million trade rebate and reward points earned by our Members,” Mr Wall added.

Capricorn Members earn reward points on almost every purchase made from Capricorn Preferred Suppliers. These points can be redeemed by Members to pay for their monthly purchases, effectively giving themselves a discount on the already great prices offered by suppliers. Alternatively, Members can choose to accumulate their reward points to use towards travel, gift cards, workshop equipment or other big-ticket items. By being a part of one of Australasia’s most generous reward programs, these points can and do add up to thousands of dollars in savings each year. In fact, in the last financial year, more than 32 million dollars in reward points were paid to Capricorn Members.    

Rewarding its Members for the purchases they need to make to run their business, providing the ease and convenience of the Capricorn Trading Account and distributing real financial rewards while making the job of running a business so much easier. This isn’t too good to be true, it’s Capricorn.

To find out more or to join Capricorn, visit www.capricorn.coop or email join@capricorn.coop

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Suggested image caption:  Capricorn Members across Australia and New Zealand purchased a total of $1.86 billion worth of automotive parts and other business requirements from Capricorn Preferred Suppliers over the last year, earning themselves a five million dollar trade rebate along with generous share dividends, simply for running their businesses.

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September 20, 2018 - BURSON AUTO PARTS LENDS A HAND TO AUSTRALIA’S FARMERS

On Friday August 31, all 170 Burson Auto Parts stores across Australia were united for one cause - to support the farmers of Australia.

Every member of the national Burson Auto Parts staff team was encouraged to dress like a farmer for this special day to help collect donations for Australia’s farmers.

This national event sent a clear reminder to our farmers that the Australian owned Burson Auto Parts’ family recognises and respects the invaluable contribution that they make to this country’s health and prosperity. The event also displayed that Australia’s farmers are not alone during this time of immense financial and emotional difficulty, as one of the worst droughts to affect Eastern and Southern Australia has developed.

Across the country, Burson Auto Parts delivery drivers collected donations during their rounds throughout the day and collection boxes were placed on all store counters nationwide, with parent company Bapcor Limited donating $25,000.

The Burson Auto Parts Dress as a Farmer Day effort on August 31 raised a total of $74,075 reflecting the generosity of the Australian company’s automotive aftermarket industry customers, who drove this support initiative strongly. Burson Auto Parts trade customers had selflessly donated more than $49,000 by the close of business on this very special day.

It was also a day of fun for the entire Burson Auto Parts team, with many imaginative farmer outfits or Country and Western items of clothing worn. This saw many hilarious images uploaded to social media prior to and during the day, assisting to quickly spread the message far and wide to give generously on Burson Auto Parts’ Dress Like a Farmer Day.

According to Burson Auto Parts Executive General Manager, Craig Magill, this was a great day for the company and its staff.

“As an Australian company, we felt that we needed to do something that was rapid and effective to assist our nation’s farmers. They didn’t ask us for anything, but we wanted to do something to help them given the severity of this drought,” Craig said.

“While many of our team members looked both hilarious and ridiculous on August 31, they really got into the spirit of this nationwide event by dressing as farmers, raising great attention to the cause. Burson Auto Parts, supported by our highly valued trade customers proved to be very generous with their donations,” he added.

/ends.

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The Burson Auto Parts Beaudesert team on Dress Like a Farmer Day, August 31

The Burson Auto Parts Kingston team on Dress Like a Farmer Day, August 31

The Burson Auto Parts Raymond Terrace team on Dress Like a Farmer Day, August 31

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September 19, 2018 - BE A PART OF OUR BIGGEST INDUSTRY EVENT – AUSTRALIAN AUTO AFTERMARKET EXPO 2019

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) is gearing up for the industry’s biggest showcase event, the 2019 Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo, to be held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from April 4 to 6, 2019.

The 2019 Expo will be held in conjunction with the 2019 Collision Repair Expo, covering more than 21,000 square metres of exhibition floor space and including more than 400 exhibitors. It is by far Australia’s largest automotive industry exhibition, bringing together manufacturers, exporters, importers and service providers that represent this country’s constantly growing automotive aftermarket industry.

This biennial event will showcase the strength and diversity of the Australian automotive aftermarket industry, bringing the entire industry together with independent workshop owners and automotive technicians at this three day, trade only event.

The 2019 Expo also represents an opportunity to meet with customers face to face, building relationships and gathering important product and service feedback from the professionals who are actually recommending and fitting your products or using your services.

With just under seven months until the doors are opened at the 2019 Expo, exhibitor bookings are at an all-time high with over 90% of available floor space already sold, so you will have to act quickly if you want to ensure that you have a presence at this stand-out industry event.

A very limited number of sponsorship opportunities also remain available to enable your company to feature more prominently at the 2019 Expo. These sponsorship packages represent excellent value and affordability, providing your company or brand with the opportunity to attract more front of mind customer attention at this biennial event.

“Participating in the Expo as an exhibitor or sponsor gives companies the opportunity to align their brands with the largest and most successful automotive aftermarket industry event in Australia,” stated Stuart Charity, AAAA Executive Director.

“With a limited number of stands still available and many of our sponsorship opportunities already taken up, we encourage you to act now to ensure that you take advantage of this one in two year opportunity to drive your business harder during this massive three day industry event. We are looking forward to what is shaping up to be our best Expo yet,” he added.

For remaining 2019 AAA Expo exhibitor space enquiries contact Nina Roberts at IEC - 03 9596 9205 or by email: nina@iecgroup.com.au.              

To discuss the remaining 2019 Expo sponsorship opportunities that are available, contact  Michelle Vizzuti at the AAAA on 03 9545 3333 or by email michelle@aaaa.com.au.

/ends.

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Suggested image caption:  The 2019 Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo, to held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from April 4 to 6 will be Australia’s largest automotive industry showcase, joining thousands of customers with suppliers, manufacturers and service providers.

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September 12, 2018 - QUEENSLAND 4WD VEHICLE MODIFICATION LAWS IN DISARRAY

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA), the nation’s peak body representing the 4WD modification industry, expresses serious concern over a major enforcement action taken by the Queensland Government last week.

Titled “Operation Lift”, the Queensland Police were instructed to fine, issue Defect Notices and impound modified 4WD vehicles based on recently changed Queensland laws, which are now more restrictive than any other state in Australia.

Queensland 4WD laws were changed with no notice and they appear to be retrospective: motorists had no idea that vehicle lift modifications made legally last year to enhance the safety of their vehicles, may be illegal today. Many of these motorists who had responsible lift changes made to their 4WD vehicles were ambushed during this blitz.

What makes this even more difficult to understand is that the standard 50mm (suspension) plus 25mm (tyre) lift for 4WD vehicles with Electronic Stability Control (ESC) is now only considered outside the law in Queensland. This is despite the fact that it is a state that features some of the most rugged roads in the country.

A 75mm combined lift for ESC vehicles is a very modest lift that most 4WD owners use to ensure that the vehicle can tow caravans or boats and travel to remote and rural areas safely and reliably.  A 75mm combined lift is a safety measure and testament to this is the fact that most emergency vehicles have ESC along with 75mm lift modifications. NSW recently revised their lift laws and maintained that the modest 75mm lift will continue to be in operation for 4WD vehicles with ESC. Victoria also has the same law. 

According to AAAA Executive Director, Stuart Charity, this action directly contradicts a recent undertaking made by the Queensland Minister for Main Roads, Road Safety and Ports, Mark Bailey.

“Only a couple of weeks ago Minister Bailey said that the Queensland Government had no intention of subjecting their vehicle owners to tougher regulations than the rest of Australia and that he supported national harmonisation. It has now become very clear that his Department has other plans. 

“4WD owners that undertook a 75 mm lift late last year had a modification that was well within the law. Today that lift is outside of the law. But at no stage has the Department provided any evidence that a 75mm lift is unsafe and at no stage has an explanation been given as to why this modification was safe for ESC equipped vehicles in QLD in 2017 but is not considered safe in 2018 – why is it safe in NSW and Victoria and not in Queensland ? The situation is seriously beyond belief,” Mr Charity stated.

“The suspension industry is in total confusion because we were in negotiation with Queensland Government Transport and Main Roads (TMR) to supply computer simulation evidence to verify the ongoing compliance and safety of 75mm lifts when Operation Lift was launched.  Effectively the Queensland Police are now enforcing laws that TMR were still negotiating with our industry.

“Vehicle owners that had only just picked up their vehicles or driven over the border from NSW were suddenly pulled off the road and told that their vehicle is not legal in Queensland. One driver picked up a new 4WD that had been modified by the authorised new car dealer and 15 hours later his car was issued with a Defect Notice by the Queensland Police - it is a ridiculous situation,” Mr Charity stated.

As any 4WD suspension specialist or automotive engineer will attest, a 50mm + 25mm lift is very conservative. Many 4WD vehicles that tow a caravan or boat will have a lift of 50mm. That very same owner will most likely also change the tyres because 4WD vehicles are sold with urban tyres and if these cars are intended to be driven in rural conditions, larger diameter tyres will be required. A 25mm tyre lift is also very modest and substantially improves the vehicle’s safety. Based on the new TMR website wording, 4WD owners with a 50mm suspension lift are not allowed to change the diameter of the tyres, so you can now have one or the other, but not both. 

Mr Charity adds, “The conservative 75mm lift is now put in the same basket as dramatically modified vehicles that we see on the road from time to time.  As a responsible industry, we have often encouraged governments to undertake action to get the extreme lift vehicles off the road, because extreme modifications are not performed by the responsible industry that we represent. But somehow the 4WD owners that have opted for the legal 50 mm+ 25mm lift to make their cars safer in rural areas, have been caught up in this TMR crusade.”

The AAAA recommends that any vehicle owner who has been issued with a Defect or Infringement Notice for a vehicle (with ESC) that has a maximum combination lift of 25mm tyres and 50mm suspension, write to the “Officer In Charge” of the Police station where the notice was issued. They should also ask for the Infringement to be reviewed, given that the TMR website provided guidance that a 75mm lift did not require additional certification and this was changed without informing the industry or the public. 

The AAAA also advises any penalised Queensland based 4WD vehicle owners who are customers of a retailer or workshop that is a member of the AAAA, that these companies have access to the AAAA legal hotline to support them. The AAAA is also encouraging drivers with previously legal 75mm lifts to contact the Minister and their local Member of Parliament in relation to this frustrating situation. 

In one week, more than 6,500 4WD owners joined a Facebook Group relating to this issue, with all of these QLD owners now about to make a direct representation to the Minister.

“These 6,500 people did the right thing, they had legal lifts performed by reputable and responsible suspension industry service providers. They did everything by the book and how they are worried and very angry - and they have every reason to be,” Mr Charity stated.

“I am calling on the Minister to meet with the suspension industry and representatives of the Queensland 4WD community. We understand that from time to time the Government will seek to get the extreme 4WD modifications off the road and we support that, but this is over-reach on a massive scale,” he added. 

/ends.

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September 8, 2018 - DAYCO DOUBLES UP FOR AUSTRALIA’S GREAT RACES

Dayco, a leading engine products and drive systems supplier for the automotive, industrial and aftermarket industries, will be doubling up its efforts for success at one of the world’s most famous Touring Car races, the epic Bathurst 1000 to be held at Mount Panorama (NSW) on October 7, 2018.

While appearing on the rear wing of the Monster Energy Tickford Racing Falcon Supercar driven throughout the 2018 season by Cam Waters, the striking Dayco brand logo will also be visible on the rear wing of 2013 Bathurst 1000 winner Mark Winterbottom’s Bottle-O Tickford Racing Falcon Supercar this year.

Cam Waters will be joined behind the wheel by Dayco Ambassador David Russell, who makes his debut with Tickford Racing at this year’s Pirtek Season of Endurance races, that include the Sandown 500 in September along with the Bathurst 1000 and Gold Coast 600 double points earning races in October.

Winterbottom, the 2015 Supercars Champion, will be joined by highly experienced racer Dean Canto at all three of the Supercars Season of Endurance races this year.

With all three of the 2018 Virgin Australia Supercars Championship Season of Endurance races broadcast via free to air networks across Australia and the world in addition to the outstanding local Fox Sports coverage, each of these races will reach huge local and global markets. The jewel in the crown being the gruelling six and a half hour, 161 lap test of man and machine at Bathurst’s Mount Panorama from October 4 to 7.

The additional Dayco signage will also appear on the two Tickford Racing Falcon Supercars at the Sandown 500 and at the Gold Coast 600, all three races where “Dayco Dave” Russell will be competing with this championship and Bathurst winning blue oval team.

According to Arnold Mouw, Dayco Vice President - Aftermarket Asia Pacific, “The increased exposure for Dayco across the Bathurst weekend and all three Supercars Season of Endurance events makes sense as these races enjoy such a strong following amongst fans, and enthusiasts within the automotive industry not only in Australia but all over the Asia Pacific region and the world.

“We are delighted to extend our Tickford Racing association with our signage on Mark Winterbottom’s car at the endurance races and we are excited to see Dayco ambassador Dave Russell back in Supercar action, marking a decade of his appearances as a fast and reliable Supercar co-driver this year. Together with Cam Waters, we are hoping for his strongest ever result at the Sandown 500 and the Bathurst 1000 along with the Gold Coast 600, where he has already taken Dayco to the podium.”

/ends. 

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Dayco Ambassador David Russell (left) and 2017 Sandown 500 champion driver Cam Waters, 2018 Tickford Racing Supercar Season of Endurance driver pairing

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Rendering of Mark Winterbottom / Dean Canto Tickford Racing Falcon Dayco signage

September 13, 2018 - THE AAAA CLARIFIES THE CURRENT SITUATION REGARDING THE GROSS COMBINED MASS RE-RATING OF VEHICLES

Following on from industry dialogue and media activity over recent weeks, the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) seeks to clarify the current situation in relation to the practice of re-rating the Gross Combined Mass (GCM) or towing capacity of vehicles.

A number of AAAA member companies operate as Second Stage Manufacturers for the purposes of undertaking Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) upgrades on a vehicle prior to first registration. This is achieved through the addition of shock absorbers, springs and supporting componentry that are fit for purpose for vehicles that operate at, or close to, the gross vehicle mass limits set by the original manufacturer. This scheme is administered by the Federal Department of Transport and companies operating under this scheme are required to provide the Department with test evidence that the upgraded vehicles maintain full Australian Design Rules (ADR) compliance, which also includes Electronic Stability Control (ESC) Compliance and ADR brake test evidence.

Increasing the Towing Capacity and / or Gross Combination Mass limits of a vehicle is more complex and has the ability to affect more variables on a vehicle, such as drivetrain, engine and chassis. In effect, a poorly worded section of the Australian Design Rules has led to second stage manufacturers being able to simply nominate an increased Gross Combination Mass (in addition to the increased GVM), without the requirement for any testing or evidence to ensure the vehicle can operate safely at the new nominated capacity.

To clarify the situation, in June 2018 the Federal Government Department of Transport issued a circular which advised that “The towing capacity of a light vehicle expressed as Gross Combination Mass (GCM) rating or Rated Towing Capacity or Maximum Braked Towing Mass rating must not exceed the value set by the first stage manufacturer. Second Stage Manufacturers are not permitted to increase the towing capacity as part of a Second Stage Manufacturer Approval that results in a GVM upgrade”. 

It should be noted that this clarification by the Department was not retrospective and only applies to vehicles modified under new or amended Federal approvals. It is also important to clarify that this ruling only applies to vehicles being modified prior to first registration under the Federal Government Scheme. GCM upgrades are permitted on already registered vehicles under the various State and Territory regulations on the condition that each individual vehicle is inspected and signed off as being safe and fit for purpose by a registered signatory engineer. It is the position of the AAAA that all States and Territories should continue to offer this pathway for vehicle owners that require an increase in the towing capacity of their vehicle.

It is clear that the industry is divided on this issue, with some AAAA member companies welcoming the circular as a long overdue clarification, while there are other companies who believe that the Department of Transport’s clarification unreasonably restricts consumer demand for increased towing capacity from their vehicles.

As the nation’s peak body for the automotive aftermarket industry, the AAAA will not place itself in the position of representing some members over others on this issue, particularly as the AAAA is not responsible for the drafting or enforcement of Federal Department of Transport regulations. Having stated this, there are a number of key points that the AAAA wants to put on the public record.

To the AAAA’s knowledge, there is also no recognised test procedure for light vehicles to certify that any increase in GCM above that stated by the original manufacturer is fit for purpose. The AAAA believes that the key issue is not whether a GCM upgrade on a particular vehicle is safe or unsafe, but the fact that there is no agreed method of validating this.

The AAAA is committed to protecting and growing our industry and all representations made to Government on vehicle modification issues are always supported by solid engineering and test evidence. Testament to this was our industry’s investment in 2013 on a comprehensive program of ESC testing in the USA, to support our position that suspension lifts of up to 50mm do not have an adverse impact on a vehicle’s ESC functionality. This resulted in a change to national regulations for owner certified raised suspension modifications.

The AAAA is also currently attempting to develop a viable pathway for Second Stage Manufacturers to undertake GVM upgrades under the new Road Vehicle Standards Act which will come into force over the next two years.

AAAA Executive Director Stuart Charity stated, “We acknowledge that some AAAA members are unhappy about the current situation in relation to GCM re-rating in combination with GVM upgrades.

“In order to develop a pathway forward, we will convene an industry forum on October 4 in Melbourne where all Second Stage Manufacturers and other industry stakeholders will be invited to attend and discuss the issues in a constructive environment and to engage in dialogue about the next steps.

“The AAAA represents the interests of members for the benefit of our entire industry and there are a range of options to consider going forward, including the potential to develop a commercially viable testing regime to support GCM upgrades. But this can only occur after the industry enters into a discussion and the AAAA can represent the majority view,” Mr Charity stated.

“We have an undeniable track record of supporting our industry and we want to determine the willingness of our industry to work collaboratively in order to provide certainty to manufacturers, distributors, technicians and consumers alike in relation to this issue,” Mr Charity added.

The GCM forum will be held at the AAAA National Office in Melbourne from 12.00pm to 3.00pm on Thursday 4^th October.  For further information or to register to attend the forum please contact the AAAA National Office by calling (03) 9545 3333 or by sending an email to: info@aaaa.com.au. 

/ends.

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AAAA Executive Director, Stuart Charity

For further information, comments or interviews contact:

Mr Stuart Charity – Executive Director, AAAA – 0418 563 959

For editorial information contact:

Paul Marinelli, Marinelli PR – 0417 558 655.

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September 7, 2018 - BECOME A WINNER WITH CAPRICORN TRAVEL

Capricorn Members across Australia have an even greater incentive to book their next Qantas flight through the cooperative’s own award winning and highly successful travel agency, Capricorn Travel.

During the month of September, all Capricorn Members who book a Qantas flight through Capricorn Travel will be placed in the draw to win a $2,000 Qantas airline voucher.

There are many advantages of making your business and leisure travel bookings with Capricorn Travel. Capricorn Members benefit from the experience of an established team who are dedicated to ensuring the best possible organisation and advice for your travel needs, while earning more Capricorn Reward Points.

The professionalism of the Capricorn Travel team was highlighted by their success at the 2018 Global Stars Travel Awards in July. Judged from top seller status travel agencies across Australia, Capricorn Travel Manager Lisa Carter and her team enjoyed outstanding success, collecting three prestigious awards:

·          2018 Winner: National Cruise Consultant: Lisa Carter, Capricorn Travel

·         2018 Winner: Diamond Star: Jess Black, Capricorn Travel

·         2018 Winner: Highest Revenue Growth: Capricorn Travel

According to Capricorn CEO Greg Wall, “These prestigious Global Star Travel Awards yet again highlight the hard work and dedication of the entire Capricorn Travel team to ensure that Capricorn Members gain the most value and enjoyment from their business and leisure travel. Congratulations to Lisa, Jess and the team on their outstanding success.”

The Capricorn Travel team has knowledge to share on almost every country in the world. So even if you are unsure of where your next holiday location will be, contact the Capricorn Travel team to find out about destinations to kick start your next exciting domestic or international adventure. Of course Capricorn Members can use their Capricorn Reward Points to gain an instant discount on their travel purchases and to accumulate more through their travel bookings.

Let the multi-award winning team at Capricorn Travel do all of the legwork for your next business or family travel requirements by calling 1800 655 077 or sending an email to travel@capricorn.coop to book your next holiday today!

/ends.

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Suggested image caption:  Capricorn Members who book a Qantas flight for  business or leisure from Capricorn Travel during the month of September will be in the running to win a $2,000 Qantas airline voucher towards a holiday somewhere that looks like this….

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September 7, 2018 - ALWAYS REPLACE SHOCK ABSORBERS IN PAIRS

Australia’s market leader in replacement ride performance products, Monroe, warns that replacing only a single shock or strut could lead to adverse vehicle performance and premature tyre, steering and suspension component wear.

Like other vehicle systems and components, shock absorbers, which stroke an average of 2,800 cycles per kilometre, are subject to significant wear over time. When replacing one worn or damaged shock absorber, it is vitally important to also replace its counterpart on the other side of the vehicle in order to maintain consistent performance and to prevent premature wear.

Because a new shock absorber has experienced no internal wear, pairing it with an old unit could create uneven damping characteristics and cause the newer shock to wear out much faster than expected, because the replaced unit will need to work harder to compensate for the wear of the old shock absorber.

“Shock absorbers have a direct impact on several key areas of vehicle performance, such as stopping distance, steering response, handling, and the ability of the tyres to maintain contact with the road surface,” stated Brydon Tweddell, Monroe Marketing Manager.

“Replacing only a single worn or damaged shock absorber can have adverse effects on vehicle performance characteristics and increase both component and tyre wear. It is critical that automotive technicians always replace both shock absorbers on a single axle to ensure a safer and much more comfortable ride for their customers,” he added.

Worn and damaged shock absorbers have a significant impact on driver comfort and safety, causing vehicles to excessively bounce and sway, adversely affecting steering response along with causing increased stopping distances.

Monroe recommends that automotive technicians check shock absorbers for wear or damage with every vehicle service, and when carrying out other repairs such as brake or tyre replacements. 

When conducting vehicle inspections, automotive technicians should look for common signs of worn and damaged shocks and struts, which include damaged steering and suspension ball joints, poor steering response, fluid leaks from the shock or strut body, cupped or uneven tyre wear and excessive vehicle bounce. When performing road tests, technicians should also look out for any leaning or swaying during lane changes.

Monroe supports its unparalleled range of replacement shock absorber products with training for automotive repairers along with providing the industry’s only five year warranty on its entire Monroe OESpectrum aftermarket shock absorber range for passenger cars, SUV’s and light commercial vehicles. Contact your Monroe Territory Manager or call Monroe Australia’s customer service team on 1800 088 205 to find out more.

 /ends.

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Suggested image caption: To ensure long shock absorber life and to avoid adverse vehicle performance along with premature tyre, steering and suspension component wear, Monroe recommends that automotive technicians always replace shock absorbers in pairs.

Visit Monroe Australia online

September 7, 2018 - FRAM FILTERS INCREASES SUPERCAR PRESENCE FOR THE ENDURANCE RACE SEASON

Filpro Automotive is pleased to announce that its world renowned automotive aftermarket filtration brand, FRAM Filters, will gain an increased presence at three of Australia’s most popular Supercar Championship events.

Known as the 2018 Pirtek Season of Endurance, these are the three two-driver endurance races that includes Australia’s and one of the world’s most famous Touring Car races, the Bathurst 1000 at the majestic Mount Panorama circuit in New South Wales from October 4 to 7.

Along with FRAM Filters’ season long placement on the rear wing of Kiwi racer Richie Stanaway’s Tickford Racing Falcon, the FRAM Filters logo will also appear in two front bar placements for each of the three Season of Endurance Supercar races, which also include the Sandown 500 (Melbourne Sept 14-16) and the Gold Coast 600 (Surfers Paradise, QLD Oct 19-21).

Stanaway won the 2017 Sandown 500 on debut, co-driving with Tickford Racing’s Cam Waters. The talented Kiwi racer is more than determined to attempt back to back wins at this opening endurance race, this year paired with highly experienced racer Steve Owen in the Rabble.Club Tickford Racing Falcon.

According to Filpro Automotive General Manager Australasia, Roger Lassen, “FRAM has always enjoyed a strong motorsport presence around the world, so it makes sense to increase our premium quality aftermarket brand’s exposure at the three most challenging Supercar races of the year which make up more than 75% of the television audience each year, along with outstanding spectator numbers that include many involved in the automotive service and repair industry.”

“While it has been a challenging rookie season for Richie, we know how competitive he is in these races and we wish him and Tickford Racing the best for a return to their top form at the Sandown 500, Bathurst 1000 and in the Gold Coast 600,” Roger added.

The Pirtek Season of Endurance races make up events 12, 13 and 14 of the 16 Round 2018 Virgin Australia Supercars Championship with the final two events being the Auckland SuperSprint from November 2-4 at Pukekohe Park Raceway, which will form part of a major FRAM Filters trade customer promotion, along with the second running of the Newcastle 500 as the series’ grand finale from November 23-25.

Visit FRAM Filters online at www.framfilters.com.au

/ends.

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September 6, 2018 - NEW DAYCO WEBSITES SPEARHEAD GLOBAL IDENTITY

Dayco, a leading engine products and drive systems supplier for the automotive, industrial and aftermarket industries, has completely redesigned its corporate and aftermarket websites to more accurately reflect its position as a leading global manufacturer of Original Equipment (OE) and Aftermarket components.

Digital interaction is the primary means of worldwide communication, so for Dayco and its many customers, these websites provide the ideal conduit to relay the huge depth of information Dayco holds to those that need it, when they need it. It is also the most effective way to portray Dayco’s revised corporate branding, which graphically supports its global identity, values and culture via powerful imagery and a uniform style.

Alongside the ability to promote global recognition of the Dayco brand, the sites also need to deliver in terms of their content and ability to provide an enhanced level of service to Dayco’s existing and future customers. To ensure this objective was met, the sites have been designed to reflect the growing needs of those using mobile devices and thereby utilise the latest technology to seamlessly integrate with whatever platform – mobile, tablet or desktop etc; that users choose to access them.

In terms of content, the new sites highlight Dayco’s growing product portfolio and many technical innovations.

Dayco’s corporate site – www.dayco.com – highlights the company’s OE technological, design and manufacturing competences and its global footprint, which extends to more than 40 locations in 21 countries, as well as its significance to both the light and heavy duty sectors of the automotive industry.

The aftermarket site – www.daycoaftermarket.com – focuses on providing technical information and support to Dayco’s many customers and to the technicians that install its quality OE components. This is done by incorporating videos and Technical Bulletins, as well as a comprehensive parts catalogue. Among its many benefits, this exceptional online resource features multiple search options to offer users the most convenient route to locate the correct replacement product.

In order to serve Dayco’s worldwide presence, these websites are accessible in the local languages for each of Dayco’s international manufacturing facilities, making them accessible for customers from all around the world. As a result, the corporate site is available in eight languages, reflecting its OE related facilities and main customers, whereas the aftermarket site can be accessed in 14 languages, demonstrating the company’s multi-market aftermarket operations.

About Dayco

Dayco is a global leader in the research, design, manufacturing and distribution of essential engine products, drive systems and services for automobiles, trucks, construction, agriculture and industry.

Dayco’s contributions are integral to how people get from place to place, goods are transported, food is harvested, and infrastructure is built. The company operates according to long-held values - keeping promises, delivering on time all the time, and an intense commitment to service no matter what the obstacles. For more than a century, Dayco has overcome challenges, emerging stronger and smarter at every turn.

Dayco improves how the world moves by creating products, systems and relationships that endure. Move Forward. Always.™

Dayco has more than 40 locations in 21 countries and over 4,500 associates. For more information about Dayco, visit the Company's website at www.dayco.com

Suggested Caption - Dayco has completely redesigned its corporate and aftermarket websites to more accurately reflect its position as a leading global manufacturer of Original Equipment (OE) and Aftermarket components. You can bookmark the new websites at www.dayco.com and www.daycoaftermarket.com

August 24, 2018 - CAPRICORN LENDS A HAND TO AUSTRALIA’S FARMERS

Australasia’s largest automotive parts buying cooperative, Capricorn, comprising of almost 20,000 automotive businesses located across Australia and New Zealand, is lending a helping hand to Australia’s farmers.

There are few who would be unaware that Australia’s farmers are experiencing extreme financial hardship as one of this country’s most damaging droughts spans several major farming communities.

Australia relies on its farmers for the fresh, premium quality food that sustains us. During this time of major financial duress caused directly by the severe lack of rain, donations to assist rural families in need are essential.

According to Capricorn Group CEO Greg Wall, “This is Capricorn’s automotive community reaching out to Australia’s farming community and by collecting donations from our Members we hope to make a real difference for the many struggling families on the land at this time.”

Capricorn has elected to donate funds to the Country Women’s Association (CWA) of New South Wales and Queensland, with all donations gained to be evenly divided between both CWA branches.  The CWA are deeply embedded in the affected communities and have the experience and knowledge to support those most in need.  The organisation is self-funded, non-partisan and non-sectarian.

Capricorn Members can donate using their trade account, with all donations being tax-deductible. Simply click on the “Donate” link once logged on at www.capricorn.coop.

/ends.

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Capricorn Group Chief Executive Officer, Greg Wall

August 24, 2018 - MONROE MAGNUM HEAVY DUTY SHOCK ABSORBERS ENSURE LONGER TYRE LIFE, SAFETY & COST EFFICIENCIES

As any experienced heavy commercial vehicle technician will tell you, truck tyre wear patterns present a wealth of information relating to under-vehicle problems. Tyre wear can identify several potentially dangerous issues:

•        Steer or drive axle misalignment

•        Mismatched tyres to truck applications

•        Mechanical or drive train problems

•        Worn axle components

•        Worn ride control or suspension components

Identifying and correcting underlying wear causes should always take place before the investment is made for a new set of tyres.

The cost of a new set of Monroe Magnum heavy duty shock absorbers is approximately the same as the cost of just one truck steer tyre, damaged as a result of worn shock absorbers. Worn shock absorbers are not only uncomfortable for heavy duty vehicle drivers, they can also impact safety, lead to truck downtime and increase operational expenses.

Today, more emphasis is being placed on lowering maintenance costs to improve the bottom line for heavy duty transport operators. Replacement of heavy duty shock absorbers can be a low-cost answer to avoid future high-cost problems.

Worn shock absorbers on heavy duty vehicles are easy to overlook. They're quiet, with no warning lights to see or screeching parts to hear. Shock absorbers wear out from miles of driving in a variety of conditions. Under normal conditions, heavy duty shock absorbers stroke an average of 1,087 times for every kilometre driven. That's 21.7 million times every 20,000 kilometres.

There is no doubt that tyres are the major purchase item for many heavy duty transport vehicle fleet owners and owner-operators. Well performing shock absorbers help control excessive vibration by keeping the tyres in firm contact with the road. This can reduce tyre cupping, one of several causes of premature tyre failure.

The advantage of replacing worn heavy duty shock absorbers don’t end there. Along with maximising vehicle tyre life, many truck components benefit from a reduction in excess vibration, including batteries and running lights, radiators and even body components resulting in reduced failures and maintenance costs.

Don't forget payloads. A well maintained truck, with good shock absorbers to control excessive vibration, can help reduce damage to both trailers and their cargo.

Eliminating downtime by keeping your heavy duty vehicles rolling is the goal of a regularly performed maintenance approach, including the regular replacement of worn heavy duty shock absorbers.

MONROE MAGNUM SHOCK ABSORBERS WILL:

•        Improve your truck safety

•        Reduce tyre wear

•        Reduce battery cracking

•        Prevent cab mount failure

•        Reduce damage to radiator connections 

•        Increase the lifetime of vehicle lamps

•        Enhance braking effectiveness

•        Extend the life span of driveline components

•        Reduce shifting cargo drive

•        Reduce driver fatigue

•        Enhance driver comfort

•        Improve fuel consumption

Monroe Magnum ride performance product advantages include ease of fitment with single bonded bushings that ensure very high durability, along with a high temperature resistant sealing system and hydraulic fluid. The Monroe Magnum specially formulated semi-synthetic fluid improves damping behaviour through more consistent damping over a wide temperature range.

More consistent heavy duty vehicle damping is also achieved with the Monroe Magnum anti-wear coated piston ring, providing high levels of wear resistance. Forces on chassis components are kept to a minimum with the Monroe Magnum double action valving system during bump and rebound actions. This assists greatly to achieve safer commercial vehicle handling performances.

The Monroe Magnum heavy duty range covers the key sectors of truck suspension requirements including cabin dampers, seat dampers and axle shock systems. This heavy duty shock absorber range also provides world class leading quality through durable suspension performance, followed up by Australian sales support that is second to none in the market.

/ends.

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Suggested image caption: The Monroe Magnum heavy duty ride performance product range brings world class quality to every sector of truck suspension requirements, including cabin dampers, seat dampers and axle shock systems

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August 23, 2018 - AAAA & CIAA CLARIFY CURRENT 4WD UPGRADE RULE STATUS

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA), the nation’s peak body for the manufacturers, distributors and retailers of automotive parts and accessories, along with the Caravan Industry Association of Australia (CIAA), the peak national body for the caravanning and camping industry, wish to clarify the situation relating to proposed 4WD law changes in Queensland which has generated media coverage around the country in recent days.

The recent media articles, specifically those that appear in the Courier Mail (Brisbane) of August 21, 2018, vastly exaggerate the effect of the current Federal Government rules which only apply to towing capacity upgrades made on pre-registered vehicles. This has understandably alarmed industry businesses along with their customers.

Members of the AAAA perform safe and responsible vehicle upgrades in Queensland and will continue to do so. The AAAA are working constructively with the Queensland Government on their proposed state based 4WD vehicle modification standards, contrary to what has been stated in several of the recent media articles.

Both the AAAA and the CIAA support 4WD owners and caravan industry consumers in obtaining responsible vehicle modifications that ensure safer towing. 

Both industry organisations are seeking national uniformity in relation to the highly responsible, effective and road safety enhancing 4WD modification rules that currently apply across the rest of the country.

“It makes no sense to think that vehicles which are highly likely to cross state lines are subject to different modification rules and we do want to see the Queensland Government take into account the 4WD suspension modification rules that apply in all of the other states and territories,” stated Stuart Charity, AAAA Executive Director.

“There is currently a disconnect between Queensland and New South Wales on suspension height upgrades and this is of major concern - but to imply that you can’t upgrade a vehicle in Queensland anymore is simply not true and has caused major alarm amongst that state’s 4WD and Caravanning community, representing hundreds of thousands of motorists.

“The AAAA has invested heavily in providing full engineering and testing evidence to all Federal and State Government regulators to prove the ongoing compliance and safety of suspension upgrades and we look forward to working with the Queensland Government to ensure that any future changes in State regulation have the benefit of input from industry experts”, He added.

According to Stuart Lamont, Chief Executive Officer of the CIAA, “The modern day caravanner crosses many state borders and the lack of harmonisation of state based regulations does nothing other than confuse the market.  As one country, the concept of barrier free travel must be a priority to ensure that the many regional areas that the travelling caravanning community frequents are able to be enjoyed in a safe and legal manner and without frivolous impediment.”

“The caravanning community is worth billions of dollars annually to the Queensland economy and political uncertainty over policy does little to stimulate or provide confidence to the 4WD and caravanning markets,” Mr Lamont stated.

The AAAA and CIAA are ready to assist in bringing all of the parties together to achieve national consistency in relation to 4WD vehicle upgrades.

/ends.

For further information or comments:

Stuart Charity – Executive Director, Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association:
0418 563 959

Stuart Lamont – Chief Executive Officer, Caravan Industry Association of Australia:
0415 596 424

For additional editorial information:

AAAA: - Paul Marinelli, Marinelli PR – 0417 558 655.

CIAA – Jessica Bahr – 07 3262 6566

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August 22, 2018 - DON’T MISS THE BURSON AUTO PARTS SANDOWN RACEWAY TRADE SHOW

Melbourne and Victorian based members of the automotive trade are invited to the Burson Auto Parts Sandown Raceway Trade Show, taking place in Melbourne on Wednesday September 26 from 5:00pm to 8:30pm.

This Burson Auto Parts trade show brings direct access to more than 60 leading trade specialist suppliers, providing the trade with the latest technical information along with exclusive Burson Auto Parts Trade Show deals.

Judging by the success of the Burson Auto Parts trade shows held so far throughout 2018, this fourth annual Melbourne event is the biggest of the year as it brings together such a major number of suppliers, products, experts and Burson Auto Parts team members.

There will also be a number of giveaways and door prizes handed out at this Burson Auto Parts trade show, which also includes food and refreshments for all guests to enjoy.

From fast moving replacement parts to state of the art workshop equipment and everything in between, the Burson Auto Parts Sandown Raceway Trade Show will have it all on Wednesday September 26 from 5:00pm to 8.30pm.

Melbourne’s Sandown Raceway is located at 591 Princess Highway, Springvale with access to the Burson Auto Parts Trade Show available from Carpark Gate 2.

As Australia’s leading trade supplier of parts, tools and workshop equipment, trade shows held in major cities and regional centres are a very important part of Burson Auto Parts’ trade focussed operations. These events provide valuable direct trade customer interaction with suppliers, sales representatives and technical experts all at the one venue.

For any further information about this major Melbourne automotive trade show contact Burson Auto Parts on 1300 287 766.

/ends.

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August 13, 2018 - BURSON AUTO PARTS IS NOW IN THAILAND!

An exciting new era in Thai automotive parts, tools, accessories and equipment access took place with the opening of Bapcor Limited’s first Burson Auto Parts store outside of Australia on Friday August 10, 2018 in the central Bangkok suburb of Bangbon. The occasion was marked with a grand opening ceremony to celebrate the joining of two cultures, bringing an Australian icon automotive aftermarket brand to Thailand.

Burson Auto Parts’ first store was opened in Australia in 1971 and the company has steadily grown to become the nation’s leading trade supplier of automotive parts, tools, accessories and equipment over more than four decades.

This is the exciting first step for this true blue Australian company’s international expansion plans for Burson Auto Parts. Thailand has been selected as the first country outside of Australia to experience the automotive product quality and dedicated customer service that makes Burson Auto Parts a trade leader in Australia.

“Burson Auto Parts Thailand represents an exciting new step in our international growth plans for the company. Our brand new multi-storey store in Bangbon delivers the Thai automotive trade and automotive enthusiasts a one stop shop for everything that they require in automotive parts, accessories, tools and equipment,” Bapcor Limited Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Darryl Abotomey stated.

“Our entry into Thailand also represents exciting local career opportunities for people seeking to develop a long term career in Thailand’s constantly growing automotive aftermarket industry, as this is the first of several stores that we are planning to open in the country to best serve local automotive workshops and the aftermarket industry,” Mr Abotomey, who was present at the grand opening, stated.

Bapcor’s strategic partner in the establishment of Burson Auto Parts’ Thailand operations, the Sammitr Group, brings vast local automotive industry expertise and efficiencies to the Australian company, ensuring the best possible product range and service well into the future for Thai based automotive passenger or commercial vehicle service and repair centres.

According to Burson Auto Parts Thailand General Manager, Darryl Gray, the grand opening ceremony of this major Australian company’s first store in the country was a highly memorable event.

“Festivities started from the morning and extended throughout the day, with many customers and the local media enjoying their first Burson Auto Parts store experience and meeting our 11 member staff team,“ Mr Gray stated.

“No foreign company has managed to establish a multi store operation in the Thai auto parts market, which is composed mainly of small operators with one or two stores.

“We plan to open a number of stores in Thailand this year and to eventually have more than twenty stores selling premium international brands alongside local brands. Thailand has a mature automotive market with a good supply chain,” Mr Gray added.

The first Burson Auto Parts store to open outside of Australia offers 1,600 square metres of store space across multi levels and features premium quality Original Equipment parts, leading global automotive aftermarket parts brands, along with local Thai automotive parts brands, providing every level of product for every vehicle application.

Aside from being a leader in automotive parts and accessories, Burson Auto Parts also provides Thai repairers and end users with a premium range of lubricants, car care products, mechanical tools and workshop equipment sourced from quality manufacturers around the world, supported by highly dedicated Burson Auto Parts after sales service.

Burson Auto Parts’ first store in Thailand is located at 312 / 1-3 Soi Ekachai 62, Ekachai Road, Bangbon Bangkok.

/ends.

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Burson Auto Parts’ first store to open outside of Australia with delivery vehicles parked in front at Ekachai Road, Bangbon, Bangkok.

 
The opening of the store included an official blessing from Thai Monks, adhering to the time honoured traditions of the country and its Monastic Community.

 
Internal view of one of the floors of Burson Auto Parts, Bangbong, Bangkok

Burson Auto Parts’ delivery vehicles come in all shapes and sizes, particularly on Thailand.

Another external view of the first Burson Auto Parts store to open outside of Australia.

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August 10, 2018 - INDEPENDENT REPAIRER BUSINESS CONTINUES TO GROW AND STRENGTHEN ACCORDING TO AAAA SURVEY

Directly following the highly positive findings of the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association’s (AAAA) detailed consumer survey, come the results of the inaugural Automotive Workshop Business Confidence study independently conducted for the AAAA by ACA Research.

A total of 250 independent Australian automotive service and repair workshop owners and senior management took part in this highly detailed industry benchmarking survey, representing the first research study of this magnitude ever conducted by the AAAA.

The study’s findings have provided an insight to the strength, confidence and long term positive projections for the service and repair sector of the Australian automotive aftermarket, which as distinct from new car retailing, continues to experience sustained growth.

The ACA Research findings present business growth figures that place Australia’s independent automotive service and repair sector as one of the highest and most consistently strong performers of all Australian service industries.

A total of 44% of the independent automotive workshops surveyed reported seeing a year on year increase in business, with 48% of respondents expecting business growth over the next 12 months. A strong 34% of workshops are maintaining their business size with a solid customer base that continues to return year after year. Both of these trade perspective respondent percentages correlate directly to the findings of the recent AAAA consumer study that amongst many other important facts, revealed that an outstanding 87% of consumers elected to take their cars for service and repairs to their local and highly trusted independent repairer.

There have also been significant gains made by automotive repair businesses that have invested significantly in technology and local area marketing, with the strongest performing independent workshops attracting motorists who own cars that are five or less years old, whilst also attracting more company fleet based repair and servicing business. There is no doubt that the increased consumer awareness that new car warranties will not be voided by selecting their preferred independent repairer is growing. The study found that this was particularly the case during 2017, a result of the sustained efforts by AAAA members to deliver this message to their customers through the AAAA’s Choice of Repairer campaign.

The research reveals that both customer trust and the convenience of using independent automotive repairers is definitely growing, with many workshop owners reporting that they are being asked to service vehicles while under manufacturer warranties more than ever before. The study also reveals that increased demand is being seen for the logbook servicing of European vehicles, diesel vehicles and four wheel drives.

While this detailed Australian automotive workshop research has provided many highly positive snapshots of the sustained health of independent automotive service and repair businesses, this market study also outlined the challenges affecting this sector of the industry.

A total of 22% of respondents felt that their businesses were declining, with the major challenge facing the entire industry being one that the automotive service and repair industry shares with many other Australian service industries, the attraction and retention of skilled staff. This along with the industry’s long term lack of access to technical repair and service information from vehicle manufacturers, remain the two major challenges for the automotive repair and service sector. This finding vindicates the major efforts continually being made by the AAAA, several members of state and federal parliament and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) to rectify this vitally important issue.

This research has also outlined three distinct business categories in the Australian automotive service and repair industry, these categories being identified as Leaders, Business As Usual and At Risk. The study’s findings reveal that leading businesses have invested significantly in updating their technology and skill sets to be able to service younger vehicles of all makes and models. According to this study, automotive repair and service businesses that are not growing and indeed those that are considered at risk, display a trend to operate their businesses intuitively or as they have always traditionally done, as opposed to taking a data driven approach. This includes such things as updated technology, training and local marketing to assist in drawing new customers with younger vehicles to their workshops.

According to AAAA Executive Director, Stuart Charity, this inaugural industry benchmarking survey was conducted for a number of important reasons.

“The AAAA wants to assist the independent automotive workshops of Australia to grow and develop their businesses and the most effective way to achieve this is through detailed market intelligence, the extent of which we have not done before.

“We also wanted market data to accurately challenge the notion that independent repairers were not equipped or experienced enough to service and repair new vehicles, which this independent study clearly reveals is currently one of our industry’s biggest growth sectors,” Mr Charity stated.

“The Australian automotive repair and service industry is growing and will continue to do so as the Australian carparc continues to grow and diversify. This research clearly outlines the importance of investing in service and repair technology, training and marketing in order to continue and sustain this growth. To have such a high percentage of Leader category businesses, along with an even higher percentage expecting further growth in the coming year, heralds a highly positive future ahead for this sector of our industry,” He added.

Along with smaller family operated automotive service and repair workshops, almost half of the data gained in this inaugural AAAA industry benchmarking survey was gleaned from larger independent chains including Kmart Tyre and Auto, Ultra Tune, Repco Authorised Service, ABS, Midas, Future Auto, Auto Masters and Jax Tyres.

/ends.

Print quality image link - Stuart Charity, Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association Executive Director

For further information or interviews contact:

Stuart Charity - Executive Director, AAAA - 0418 563 959

Ben Selwyn – ACA Research - 0411 132 166

For further editorial information contact:

Paul Marinelli, Marinelli PR - 0417 558 655.

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August 6, 2018 - MONROE OFFERS THE INDUSTRY’S ONLY FIVE YEAR SHOCK ABSORBER WARRANTY

Monroe has spent more than a century perfecting the engineering of ride performance products. The global brand that continues to design and manufacture its premium quality automotive aftermarket products in Australia and in state of the art manufacturing facilities all over the world, now provides even more incentive for general mechanics and suspension specialists to recommend and fit Monroe ride performance products.

In taking the Monroe slogan “Built To Last” quite literally, Monroe announces that Australia’s market leading ride performance product brand is extending the factory warranty on all Monroe OE Spectrum shock absorbers from three years to five years. This makes Monroe the only ride performance product manufacturer to offer a five year warranty in Australia and New Zealand, providing two additional years compared to any other shock absorber brand available in each country’s automotive aftermarket.

The Monroe range covers the most comprehensive application range of replacement shock absorbers for the widely diverse Australian and New Zealand carparc. Designed and manufactured to meet and exceed the Original Equipment specifications set by the world’s top selling car manufacturers, each Monroe shock absorber combines technical innovation, precision engineering and long standing durability. Total quality and value for money that is confidently and uniquely supported by Monroe with the industry’s only five year warranty.

Leading the world in ride control technology and engineering, Monroe brings the benefit of being selected by the world’s leading car makers to design and develop ride performance products that perfectly fit each application, from the smallest compact cars to small, medium and large passenger cars, SUV’s and commercial vehicles.

By selecting the Monroe range of replacement shock absorbers, you are going over and beyond the ride, control, traction and comfort levels designed for each specific vehicle. This is particularly the case for European vehicles, with Monroe being Europe’s number one ride performance product brand. This coupled with Monroe’s unparalleled local, Asian and Japanese vehicle ride performance product range ensures that Australia’s general repairers and suspension specialists have access to outstanding quality aftermarket suspension products from one of the world’s top tier manufacturers.

When you select Monroe you are selecting the peace of mind that comes with a global manufacturer who backs their quality “Built To Last” promise with a five year Monroe OE Spectrum range warranty and value for money that is unrivalled by any competing ride performance products.

According to Monroe Marketing Manager Brydon Tweddell, durability, range, superior ride and handling are at the top of the list when repairers and suspension specialists select Monroe ride performance products.

“We have always stood firmly behind the total durability of our aftermarket ride performance products and this has been a major factor in Monroe’s long term market leading status. In wanting to further emphasise the quality that comes with our vast Monroe range, we are proud to be the first to offer a five year warranty on our Monroe OE Spectrum product range, to offer even greater incentives for the trade along with total peace of mind and the best value for money for their customers,” Mr Tweddell said.

“When it comes to road safety, quality should never become a compromising point. We want to ensure that there is even more incentive for general repairers, fitters and re-sellers to offer Monroe as their number one choice for direct fit, application designed, premium quality ride performance products. This ensures that their customers, the motorists of Australia and New Zealand, are driving cars that stop, turn, grip and ride exactly as they should,” He added.

The selection of Monroe ride performance products ensures that your customers gain the peace of mind of the industry’s only five year warranty across the vast Monroe OE Spectrum range of premium quality replacement shock absorbers and struts.

As most motorists rely on their mechanic’s opinion in relation to the replacement of ride performance products, your reputation for providing total customer care can only be enhanced with Monroe’s industry only five year warranty with every set of Monroe OE Spectrum shock absorbers fitted.

Your business can make the most of Monroe’s five year warranty initiative by joining Monroe’s long term alliance program with repairers, suspension specialists and re-sellers across Australia and New Zealand, the Monroe Safety Specialist program.  Monroe encourages motorists to use its network of Safety Specialists through vast advertising and promotion of its online dealer locator on the Monroe website (www.monroe.com.au) along with a dedicated Freecall 1800 / 0800 number that directs consumer enquiries to their closest Monroe Safety Specialist. All of these channels direct qualified customers who are actively seeking to check or replace worn shock absorbers and suspension components to local automotive repair businesses.

Built to Last is much more than just a slogan for Monroe, it is the design and engineering basis from which every Monroe ride performance product is manufactured. It is a statement that reflects on the benchmarks that Monroe has continued to set in automotive aftermarket ride performance product quality for more than a century. By providing the industry’s only five year factory warranty, Monroe ensures that its reputation for total quality and the best value for money stands clearly heads and shoulders above the rest.

“Being able to offer your customers a five year warranty on all Monroe OE Spectrum ride performance products is one of many key Monroe quality advantages that place our market leading brand in a field of its own in the Australian and New Zealand automotive aftermarket,” Mr Tweddell concluded.

Your local Monroe Territory Manager or the Monroe customer service team are pleased to assist for any further information regarding the Monroe Safety Specialist program and the Monroe OE Spectrum range five year warranty, or for any general technical assistance. You can reach them by calling 1800 088 205. A visit to the Monroe Australia website can also provide an abundance of product information at www.monroe.com.au. 

/ends.

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The five year Monroe OESpectrum 5 Year Warranty logo

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Monroe OESpectrum product image 2

Suggested image caption:  Monroe creates another industry first by totally supporting its “Built to Last” promise with the introduction of Australia and New Zealand’s only ride performance product five year warranty across the entire Monroe OESpectrum range.

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August 2, 2018 - INAUGURAL CAPRICORN RISING STARS APPRENCTICE OF THE YEAR COMPETITION WINNER ANNOUNCED

 
After a comprehensive judging process and from more than 500 Capricorn Rising Star nominations received from Capricorn Members across Australia and New Zealand, the Capricorn Rising Stars Apprentice of the Year has been selected.

Capricorn is delighted to announce that Mark Smith, an apprentice from The Battery Terminal in Belconnen, ACT, has been named as the inaugural Capricorn Rising Stars winner.

Mark emerged on top after impressing the Capricorn Rising Stars judging panel with his outstanding work ethic, combined with his passion for the industry and commitment to making the most of the opportunity given to him by his employers at The Battery Terminal.

As the Capricorn Rising Stars Apprentice of the Year, Mark will take his boss and two friends on an all-expenses paid trip to the spectacular 2018 Vodafone Gold Coast 600 Supercar race, held on the streets of Surfers Paradise from October 19 to 21, thanks to Capricorn Rising Stars competition major sponsor, Castrol.

 Mark was justifiably proud to have earned the inaugural Capricorn Rising Stars, Apprentice of the Year accolade.

 "I'm very proud to be the first Capricorn Rising Star and I would like to congratulate all of the other nominees and finalists, as it is so good to see other young people sharing the same enthusiasm for the industry,” he stated.

 “I hope that this initiative continues and that more apprentices gain the recognition that they deserve for their efforts day in, day out. Out of all of the prizes, I am looking forward to the access that I will have with the industry leaders the most. The mentoring will be a great thing for my career as I am ready and willing to learn all the time.“ Mark Smith added.

As part of the Capricorn Rising Star competition winner’s prize pack, The Battery Terminal has also won industry renowned customer service training from The Workshop Whisperer.

The Capricorn Rising Stars competition was developed to assist Capricorn Members in rewarding and retaining their high performing apprentices by recognising their important contribution, while highlighting the promising future that lies ahead of them within the industry.

Through the Capricorn Rising Stars Apprentice of the Year competition, Australasia’s largest automotive parts buying group hopes to encourage more apprentices to join and make their mark in the industry.

The Capricorn Rising Stars judging panel included David Fraser, CEO Automotive - Capricorn, Sean Rahaley, General Manager - Castrol, Stuart Charity, Executive Director - Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA), Brendan Sorensen - TaT Biz, Rachael Sheldrick, Director - Workshop Whisperer and Gavin Cribb, Education Manager - Automotive Centre of Excellence (ACE) Bendigo Kangan Institute.

All of the judges agreed that deciding the winner was a difficult process, due to the extremely high calibre of apprentices who were nominated by Capricorn Members.

Capricorn thanks all of their Members who took part by nominating their outstanding apprentices, the people who represent the future of the Australian and New Zealand automotive repair and servicing industry.

The Capricorn Rising Stars Apprentice of the Year competition was proudly supported by Repco, AutoMate, TatBiz, The Workshop Whisperer and major sponsor Castrol. 

/ends.

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Mark Smith from The Battery Terminal (far left) at the moment when he was told that he had been selected as the inaugural Capricorn Rising Star Apprentice of The Year

Mark Smith (left) was voted as the winner from more than 500 Capricorn Member apprentice entries received by a judging panel that represented a who’s who of the automotive aftermarket industry

2018 Capricorn Rising Stars Apprentice of the Year Mark Smith (third from left) with the team from The Battery Terminal (ACT)

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August 2, 2018 - DAYCO AUSTRALIA INCREASES WAREHOUSE CAPACITY DUE TO PRODUCT RANGE EXPANSION

Dayco, a leading engine products and drive systems supplier for the automotive, industrial and aftermarket industries, has significantly increased the size and capacity of the company’s Australian warehouse and distribution centre located in the Melbourne suburb of Hallam.

Dayco’s warehouse expansion has seen the Hallam warehouse expand capacity by  more than 1,000 square metres of warehousing space, transporter access bays and internal modernisations to support the addition of more than 4,000 new Dayco SKU’s to the already comprehensive Dayco automotive aftermarket product range.

The expansion will allow for further growth in Dayco’s product range over the coming years with the company’s planned introduction of an Industrial belt range along with radiator caps and future additions to the Dayco automotive aftermarket offering.

The Dayco Australia warehouse expansion will also see the company introduce a new bar code scanning system to increase product distribution efficiency and accuracy.

According to Dayco Vice President Aftermarket, Asia Pacific, Arnold Mouw, the company’s warehouse expansion is aligned with Dayco’s global objectives to ensure that their customers receive the best service possible, while providing faster access to the highest quality automotive aftermarket engine belts, thermal management and engine components.

“Our warehouse expansion is an investment in our commitment to the future of the Australian and New Zealand automotive aftermarket industries,” Mr. Mouw stated.

“Making sure that our aftermarket customers in the automotive, trucking and industrial markets have immediate access to our belts, hoses, tensioners, pulleys and additional new Dayco products is our top priority. The larger and more efficient distribution centre will enable us to deliver this objective and provide our customers with even more support,” Mr Mouw added.

With locations worldwide, Dayco is a global leader in the research, design, manufacturing and distribution of essential engine products, drive systems and services and has been for more than a century.

Dayco Australia’s head office and warehouse is located at 11 Dansu Court, Hallam (VIC). For customer service and any enquiries call 03 9796 4044. 

/ends.

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Along with the major expansion of Dayco Australia’s warehouse, the company’s head office in Melbourne (at the same location) has also  undergone a complete facelift.

Dayco Australia’s warehouse expansion has increased capacity by  more than 1,000 square metres of warehousing space, provided additional transporter access bays and features internal modernisations to support the introduction of more than 4,000 new Dayco SKU’s to the vast existing Dayco product range.

About Dayco

Dayco is a global leader in the research, design, manufacturing and distribution of essential engine products, drive systems and services for automobiles, trucks, construction, agriculture and industry.

Dayco’s contributions are integral to how people get from place to place, goods are transported, food is harvested, and infrastructure is built. The company operates according to long-held values - keeping promises, delivering on time all the time, and an intense commitment to service no matter what the obstacles. For more than a century, Dayco has overcome challenges, emerging stronger and smarter at every turn.

Dayco improves how the world moves by creating products, systems and relationships that endure. Move Forward. Always. ™

Dayco has more than 50 locations in 20 countries and over 4,500 associates. For more information about Dayco, visit the Company's website at www.dayco.com.

July 27, 2018 - DAYCO SPONSORED MONASH MOTORSPORT FORMULA STUDENT TEAM ACHIEVES FIRST EVER INTERNATIONAL VICTORY

An important part of Dayco Australia’s motorsport program is the nurturing of new engineering and technical talent within the automotive industry with the company’s long term support of the Melbourne based Monash University Formula Student racing team.

This outstanding young Australian team has once again competed strongly on the global Formula Student stage, racing to victory for the first time against Universities from all over the world at Britain’s historic home of motorsport, Silverstone during July.

The Australian team raced to overall first place with their internal combustion engine powered car and finished 3rd overall with their electric powered car, with both Monash Motorsport cars using integral Dayco engine components to control thermal management and performance.

Integral to achieving this success was the opportunity for the Monash Motorsport team to test prior to the competition in Europe with some of the highest performing Formula Student teams in world.

The Dayco sponsored team was invited to attend an extremely selective competition practice event hosted by Bosch at their extensive automotive proving ground facility located in Boxberg, Germany. This event, attended by 30 of the best combustion, electric and driverless Formula Student teams in the world, allowed the Australian team to replicate competition conditions. They completed this using both of their cars and with each of their competition drivers, giving the team vital testing experience prior to competing.

Monash Motorsport overcame many challenges during the competition at Silverstone, with more than 100 global teams taking part. The team’s electric car, the M17-E, achieved 10th place overall for acceleration, 7th for Skidpad and 3rd for Autocross. The team’s combustion car, the M17-C, set its fastest ever acceleration time of 4.11s, scoring a 7th overall placing along with 4th for Skidpad and 2nd in Autocross.

Both Dayco equipped Monash Motorsport cars set very competitive times throughout the Endurance event, with the M17-C and M17-E finishing 1st and 2nd respectively and ultimately scoring the most points across all the Dynamics based events.

The Monash Motorsport team was ecstatic to have achieved an overall 1st place with their combustion car and an overall 3rd place for their electric car - and to have won their first ever international competition in Monash Motorsport history. The Melbourne based team gained a huge amount of online media exposure and international recognition with this win, along with major interest from the global automotive engineering community.

“Dayco Australia is delighted to be a long term supporter of Monash University’s Formula Student program and congratulates this talented young Australian racing team on their first ever international victory. We are also proud that a number of Dayco components have contributed to this success and wish the team more victories in the future,” stated Dayco Vice President Aftermarket Asia Pacific, Arnold Mouw.

Monash Motorsport now heads to the Formula Student Austrian and German events, seeking to continue flying the Aussie flag proudly from the top steps of the podium.

/ends.

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Suggested Image Caption: The Melbourne based Monash Motorsport Formula Student Team gained its first ever international event victory against more the 100 global University racing teams at Silverstone (UK) during July. Dayco Australia supplies engine and thermal management components to this talented Australian group of developing automotive engineers.

July 26, 2018 - PRECISION EQUIPMENT’S NATIONAL SALES AND SERVICE TEAM GROWS

Precision Equipment is renowned for supplying dealerships nationwide with the highest quality workshop equipment supported by levels of customer service, support and training that is unrivalled in the Australian automotive industry.

Ensuring that automotive service and repair workshops across the country have access to the globally sourced and selected Precision Equipment range of premium workshop equipment products, the Australian company’s customer service team has expanded.

Precision Equipment now provides localised sales and customer service in both Tasmania and in South Australia, complementing the company’s existing national team of equipment specialists.

The Tasmanian branch is now headed by highly experienced equipment specialist, Lee Young. Having spent his entire career in and around automotive repair workshops, Lee brings an extraordinarily high level of automotive tyre and wheel service, general servicing and repair business understanding to Precision Equipment customers located in the apple isle.

Lee commenced his working career straight out of high school in the United Kingdom, becoming an apprentice mechanic at a specialised tyre and exhaust business. He moved to Australia in 1986 and continued his automotive technician career, working his way up to operating a number of tyre and general repair workshops. Lee’s extensive tyre, exhaust and general repair workshop experience was sought by Hoist manufacturer Powerrex Engineering and this became his specialisation for the next 13 years, attending to the many and varied requirements of New South Wales based automotive workshops of all sizes. 

After relocating to Tasmania in 2017, Lee joined Precision Equipment in 2018 as one of the national team’s Equipment Specialists, providing automotive repairers within the state with localised customer service and access to the world’s highest quality and value for money automotive equipment products. Lee’s role also includes providing state based sales and customer service assistance for Burson Equipment customers throughout Tasmania. 

The state of South Australia now also has localised Precision Equipment sales and customer service provided by another highly experienced recruit, Jason Harden. Jason’s automotive industry career started with an Automotive Electrical apprenticeship immediately following his completion of high school in Adelaide.

Jason and another apprentice gained full qualifications together and decided to purchase the business where they worked, spending a successful decade working together in partnership. This was followed by an opportunity to get off the tools and progress into sales and customer service with Automotive Service Solutions. Jason joined the company as a Diagnostic sales and service representative, becoming a mobile diagnostic programmer for independent workshops for almost five years. Logicar then took over the business which  included Carlec engine management parts. Jason’s extensive experience both in diagnostics and in parts positioned him in the role of South Australian state manager for the next three and a half years.

In 2018 Jason joined Precision Equipment and is the local Equipment Specialist for South Australia, providing the state’s growing number of urban and regional dealerships along with national key account customers with service, world class workshop equipment access and training.

The new Tasmanian and South Australian Precision Equipment appointments join the existing Precision Equipment Specialists based in Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland, ensuring proximity to dealerships and major independent automotive repair workshop operators nationwide.

Lee Young’s role also includes the representation of Burson Equipment for Tasmania’s five Burson Auto Parts stores, ensuring that all of the state’s workshop equipment requirements are catered for, ensuring easy local access to the vast Burson Equipment range of diagnostic scan tools and all other workshop requirements.

As a Bapcor Group owned company, Australia’s Precision Equipment operates with the support of one of the nation’s strongest automotive industry companies, ensuring that its customers are provided with the highest quality and value for investment workshop equipment, dedicated after sales service and training.

Tasmanian automotive workshop operators can reach Lee Young by calling 0439 958 743 and South Australian customers can reach Jason Harden by calling 0419 003 769. Precision Equipment can be reached nationally by calling 1300 366 252.

/ends.

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Lee Young – Precision Equipment, TAS

Jason Harden – Precision Equipment, SA

Suggested Caption: Precision Equipment’s national customer service team continues to grow with two new Equipment Specialist appointments in South Australia and Tasmania, enhancing the leading workshop equipment provider’s national team.

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July 24, 2018 - DAYCO EXPANDS SOUTH EAST ASIAN OPERATIONS

Dayco, a leading engine products and drive systems supplier for the automotive, industrial and aftermarket industries, continues to expand the company’s presence and local customer support across South East Asia.

This expansion of Dayco product and customer service support in South East Asia aligns with the significant automotive aftermarket growth taking place throughout the region.

Following the establishment of a new Dayco South East Asian sales office in Singapore and the appointment of Yong Kee Ng as the region’s Business Development Manager in 2017, Dayco also opens a new warehouse in the Penjuru region of the country this year.

The new warehouse ensures that automotive repairers throughout South East Asia have prompt access to the vast aftermarket range of Dayco V-belts, Poly V-belts, timing belts, tensioners and pulleys for both passenger and commercial vehicles.

Dayco also announces the appointment of Ms. Jeannette Loh who now heads the local customer service operation to best support Dayco’s South East Asian customers. Ms. Loh brings more than two decades of customer service support experience across several industries to Dayco South East Asia.

“Dayco’s South East Asian presence and localised customer service continues to grow in line with our commitment to service the rapid growth of the automotive aftermarket industry throughout the region,” stated Dayco Vice President, Asia Pacific Aftermarket, Arnold Mouw.

“Our new localised warehousing coupled with our experienced local management and customer service appointments ensure that Dayco is responding to the increasing demands of automotive repairers and re-sellers throughout the region,” Mr. Mouw added.

With locations worldwide, Dayco is a global leader in the research, design, manufacturing and distribution of essential engine products, drive systems and services and has been for more than a century.

 The Dayco South East Asia regional head office is located at 14, Ang Mo Kio Street 63, Singapore and can be reached for customer service enquiries by calling (+65) 64 836 303.

/ends.

About Dayco

Dayco is a global leader in the research, design, manufacturing and distribution of essential engine products, drive systems and services for automobiles, trucks, construction, agriculture and industry.

Dayco’s contributions are integral to how people get from place to place, goods are transported, food is harvested, and infrastructure is built. The company operates according to long-held values - keeping promises, delivering on time all the time, and an intense commitment to service no matter what the obstacles. For more than a century, Dayco has overcome challenges, emerging stronger and smarter at every turn.

Dayco improves how the world moves by creating products, systems and relationships that endure. Move Forward. Always. ™

Dayco has more than 50 locations in 20 countries and over 4,500 associates. For more information about Dayco, visit the Company's website at www.dayco.com.

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Nine lucky Burson Auto Parts trade account customers have enjoyed the trip of a lifetime at New York City, simply for purchasing premium quality parts from Penrite, Tridon, NGK, KYB, DBA, Dayco, Premier Auto Trade (PAT), Ryco, SuperPro, Bendix, Narva, Projecta and JAS Oceania from February to April 30 this year.

The spread of randomly drawn winners saw nine Burson Auto Parts customers from Western Australia, Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria travel to the Big Apple for an unforgettable seven nights in New York City.

The Burson Auto Parts trade promotion winners flew Premium Economy to the United States and stayed at the funky Hudson Hotel, located right in the centre of New York City on 58th Street, with all breakfasts and dinners included.

Burson Auto Parts left no stone unturned to ensure that this would be a unique and unforgettable visit to the Big Apple for all of the promotion winners, several of whom had never been overseas prior to becoming a Burson Auto Parts trade promotion winner.

The trip highlights included a spectacular helicopter flight around Liberty Island and New York City along with going to see a classic Baseball match between local heroes the New York Mets and West Coast arch rivals, the LA Dodgers.

The Burson Auto Parts New York City promotion winners also saw one of the world’s greatest rock bands, U2, performing live at the legendary Madison Square Garden. This was followed by a visit to New York City’s Broadway to enjoy the stage version of the hilarious “School of Rock” theatre show.

The jet-set Burson Auto Parts promotion winners also visited world famous New York City landmarks including Wall Street, the New York Stock Exchange, the Empire State Building, and the Brooklyn Bridge, while also taking in plenty of famous New York cuisine along the way.

The Burson Auto Parts group of Australians also paid their respects at New York City’s 9/11 Memorial / Ground Zero during the trip.

According to Peter Cheney, Burson Auto Parts General Manager - Merchandise, this was a highly enjoyable and an unforgettable trip for all involved.

“We are delighted with the success of this Burson Auto Parts trade promotion and we were even more pleased to have nine of our customers enjoy such an action and activity packed trip to one of the world’s most amazing cities. Everyone had a fantastic time and it was great to have assembled such a great promotion that included 13 of our most popular aftermarket brands.” Mr Cheney said.

“Burson Auto Parts has definitely raised the bar considerably when it comes to exciting trade promotions,” He added.

The Burson Auto Parts New York City trade promotion was made possible by the involvement of the following leading brands from 11 suppliers; Penrite, Tridon, NGK, KYB, DBA, Dayco, Premier Auto Trade (PAT), Ryco, SuperPro, Bendix, Narva, Projecta and JAS Oceania.

/ends.

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Suggested image caption: Nine Burson Auto Parts trade account customers enjoyed the trip of a lifetime in New York City simply for purchasing products from Penrite, Tridon, NGK, KYB, DBA, Dayco, Premier Auto Trade (PAT), Ryco, SuperPro, Bendix, Narva, Projecta and JAS Oceania during the promotion period.

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July 6, 2018 - TOP FIVE CAPRICORN RISING STAR FINALISTS ANNOUNCED

Following an extensive Australian and New Zealand call-out to Capricorn Members over the past six months to nominate their best performing apprentices, the top five finalists for the Capricorn Rising Stars competition have been selected.

The Capricorn Rising Stars competition was developed to assist Capricorn Members to reward and retain their highest performing apprentices by recognising their important contribution, while highlighting the promising future that lies ahead of them within the industry. Through this national recognition, Capricorn hopes to encourage more apprentices to join and make their mark in the industry.

In what is nothing short of an outstanding response, more than 500 nominations were received from Capricorn Members in this inaugural year of the Capricorn Rising Stars competition.

Capricorn is delighted to announce that the top five Capricorn Rising Star apprentice competition finalists are:

Jayden Barnes from Anthony's Car & Head Centre – NSW

Michael Holmes from Automotive Insight – WA

Mark Smith from The Battery Terminal – ACT

James Trachy from Robson Brothers 4WD – WA

David Wynands from BMW Manawatu and Hawke's Bay Ltd – NZ

Each of the top five finalists have won a Repco tool kit valued at $1000, access to the AutoMate online training program, two tickets to the Capricorn Gala Dinner and Tradeshow being held within their region and invaluable mentoring experiences from automotive repair and servicing industry leaders.

The difficult task of uncovering the winner from each of these outstanding automotive technician apprentices now falls into the hands of the highly experienced Capricorn Rising Stars judging panel that represents a who’s who of the Australian automotive aftermarket industry.

The Capricorn Rising Stars judging panel includes David Fraser, CEO Automotive - Capricorn, Sean Rahaley, General Manager - Castrol,  Stuart Charity, Executive Director - Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA), Brendan Sorensen - TaT Biz, Rachael Sheldrick, Director - Workshop Whisperer and Gavin Cribb, Education Manager - Automotive Centre of Excellence (ACE) Bendigo Kangan Institute.

The apprentice automotive technician who is selected as the winner of the Capricorn Rising Stars competition will take his workshop boss and two friends on a trip to the spectacular 2018 Vodafone Gold Coast 600 Supercar race event held on the streets of Surfers Paradise from October 19 to 21 thanks to major sponsor, Castrol.

The Capricorn Member who nominated the winning Capricorn Rising Stars apprentice will also receive industry renowned Workshop Whisperer customer service training for their business and their apprentice as part of the winner’s prizes.

The Capricorn Rising Stars competition has been made possible thanks to the support of competition sponsors Castrol, Repco, Automate, TaT Biz and The Workshop Whisperer.

All at Capricorn wish each of the five finalists the very best of luck in this exciting inaugural competition and thank all Capricorn Members for taking part by nominating their outstanding apprentices, the people who represent the future of the Australian and New Zealand automotive repair and servicing industry.

/ends.

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The top five Capricorn Rising Star automotive technician apprentice finalists from top left to right: Michael Holmes, James Trachy, Jayden Barnes, David Wynands & Mark Smith.

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July 4, 2018 - INDEPENDENT MECHANICS OUTRANK DEALERS ON RELATIONSHIP TRUST AND EXPERTISE

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) has conducted its most comprehensive consumer research study to date to determine the key factors that consumers use to select a mechanic, along with a host of other insights.

This detailed consumer study  found that the skills, expertise, trustworthiness and personal relationship with a local automotive repairer assume far more importance in terms of generating long term consumer loyalty when compared to other factors including prestigious premises and even cost, which was a low priority in decision making.

An overwhelming 86% of car owners in the survey claimed to personally know and trust the skill and expertise of their local automotive repairer and are loyal to their mechanic.

“This independently conducted AAAA consumer survey is the most comprehensive insight to consumer attitudes, trends and habits in our industry that has ever been conducted,” stated  AAAA Executive Director, Stuart Charity.

“It is an invaluable resource that provides a detailed snap-shot of where the independent automotive servicing and repair industry stands with Australian consumers and we are highly encouraged by its results,” Mr Charity stated.

Conducted by one of Australia’s leading market research companies, The Klein Partnership (TKP), this highly detailed, revealing and insightful consumer study gleaned an outstanding amount of market information from a vast national sample group that included more than 1,500 car owners.

These Australian car owners had their vehicle serviced or had purchased an automotive aftermarket accessory during the past 12 months, providing up to date insights relating to Australian consumers’ attitudes and behaviours in specific regard to the servicing and accessorising of cars.

The highlights of this detailed consumer study are many, supporting the AAAA’s efforts in ensuring that Australian consumers retain their choice of repairer.  78% of respondents believe that it is important to have a good relationship with their mechanic and 71% of respondents trust their mechanic to select the parts to be fitted to their vehicles. 68% of respondents also like the fact that the person who owns the workshop is also the person working on their car.

Consumers surveyed also displayed a significantly higher level of satisfaction with the services provided by independent repairers as opposed to the services provided by car manufacturer dealer service centres. It is also very clear from the survey responses that many consumers are sceptical about capped price servicing and extended warranty claims.  

The consumer survey provided intelligence that workshops can use to attract and retain customers.  For example, an important finding was that 55% of the decisions about where to get a car serviced or repaired are made by women.  The survey outcomes provide some great tips on how to encourage women to select their business and how to drive higher satisfaction rates with female customers.

According to TKP Director Ron Klein, “The results of this AAAA consumer survey outline the growth opportunities that exist for independent repairers and accessory re-sellers. Consumers definitely trust and feel much more comfortable using local repairers with whom they have established relationships, with trust being the factor that overrides all others, including cost, shiny new premises, coffee machines and loan cars.”

“While some misconceptions still exist in relation to the voiding of warranties through the use of non-dealer repairers, the survey results also point toward the progress that the AAAA has made to ensure consumer understanding relating to their choice of repairer. This definitely represents a major opportunity for continued growth for independent repairers across the country,” Mr Klein added.

According to the AAAA consumer survey results, during the past 12 months; 67% of Australian car owners had their car serviced, 52% purchased an automotive accessory and 47% had their car serviced and purchased an accessory.  Accessory purchases were more prevalent amongst family sedan, 4WD and SUV vehicle owners.

31% of the survey respondents owned cars that were manufactured between 2010 to 2014, 23% owned cars manufactured from 2005 to 2009 and 21% owned cars manufactured from 2015 to 2018. 13% owned cars manufactured from 2000 to 2004 and 9% owned cars manufactured prior to 2000. 47% of the vehicles owned by respondents were purchased second hand from an even spread between car manufacturer dealers and independent car dealers.

Several of these factors point towards the continued retention of vehicles by Australian consumers over extended periods of time (and particularly beyond manufacturer warranty periods) making the role of independent automotive repairers and service providers integral to ensure vehicle maintenance and safety, long after warranties or service agreements have expired.

“The data gained from this large group of consumers uncovers a number of consumer trends that will assist our members to provide even more trustworthy, efficient and high value services to their customers into the future, as more car owners become aware that their automotive servicing and repair decision is not limited to new car dealerships, no matter how old the vehicle is,” stated AAAA Executive Director, Stuart Charity.

/ends.

For further comments or interviews contact: Stuart Charity - Executive Director, AAAA - 03 9545 3333 /  0418 563 959 

 Suggested image caption: The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association’s most comprehensive consumer study ever conducted has found that an overwhelming 86% of car owners personally know and trust the skill and expertise of their local automotive repairer and are loyal to their mechanic, while 55% of the decisions about the car service or repair destination are made by women, among many other important findings.

Image 2 - Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association Executive Director, Stuart Charity

Visit the AAAA online 


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July 2, 2018 - BURSON AUTO PARTS REACHES 170 STORES NATIONWIDE

Australia’s preferred trade supplier of automotive parts, tools and equipment, Burson Auto Parts has opened the company’s 170^th store.

This milestone continues the Australian company’s national growth strategy to ensure that more trade customers have access to Burson Auto Parts’ unrivalled range of automotive parts, tools and equipment with even higher levels of delivery efficiency.

According to Burson Auto Parts Executive General Manager - Trade, Craig Magill, the opening of the company’s 170^th store heralds an exciting period in the company’s national growth.

“We have always focussed on positioning our stores where our trade customers want us to be and to stock these stores with significantly high amounts of inventory, to ensure that the automotive repairers of each region have the parts that they need, when they need them.

“We have opened many outstanding stores in greenfield sites in major suburbs and in rural areas where large concentrations of repairers are located. The location of our new Burson Auto Parts stores ensure that repairers who have not had access to conveniently located parts, tools and equipment, no have that access, coupled with experienced staff and efficient delivery services,” Mr Magill stated.

Burson Auto Parts’ dedication to its trade customers across the country has seen the fully Australian owned company grow from 50 stores in 2008, to 100 stores in 2012 and 150 stores located across all Australian states and territories by 2016. In 2018 the total number of stores reaches 170 with the company’s continued growth being guided by the same trade customer service values that have made Burson Auto Parts a true blue Australian success story for almost five decades. 

/ends.

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Suggested Caption:  Australia’s Burson Auto Parts celebrates the opening of its 170^th store in Hervey Bay, a milestone as the company’s strategy for optimum national trade customer reach continues.

Visit Burson Auto Parts online

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June 19, 2018 - CAPRICORN TOPS THEM ALL WITH SALOU 2018 CONVENTION

More than 705 Capricorn Convention Delegates including Members and Preferred Suppliers headed to the beautiful Spanish coastal city of Salou for what proved to be an epic 27^th Capricorn Convention from May 12 to 19.

This was the first time that Australasia’s largest automotive cooperative took their renowned biennial Member Convention to Europe, leaving an outstanding impression on all of the Capricorn Delegates who took part.  

All Capricorn Conventions uphold a time honoured tradition of combining fun, friendship, camaraderie, networking, business education and world discovery. This year’s Capricorn Convention took in the majestic natural beauty and history of Spain’s famed Catalonia region.

To ensure that this would be the trip of a lifetime, Capricorn left no stone unturned to provide Delegates with unforgettable experiences at several outstanding world-heritage listed sights, along with medieval cities and ancient Roman ruins that dated back not tens or hundreds of years, but millennia during this convention.

These included day trips to the amazing city of Barcelona, the ancient Roman fortress of Tarragona, the world famous Codorniu Winery and the incredible mountain top village of Monserrat, among other side trips to the mammoth Camp Nou sports stadium along with transfers to Salou beach on the hour during each day of the Convention.

The GPC Asia Pacific sponsored Capricorn Convention Welcome Beach Party spectacularly headed off the two major festivities of this event. Held at one of Europe’s most exclusive beach clubs, Volcano at Lumine Beach, this breath-taking venue used the Mediterranean Sea as its backdrop, featuring a private beach surrounded by huge party areas. Spanish culinary favourites were flame grilled onsite with lots of party music that ensured a memorable welcome to Spain. This event also saw a famed Spanish tradition come to life with a Human Tower team providing two fantastic displays during the evening.

Despite the very late night, more than 300 Delegates woke up early the next morning and headed to the PortAventura Conference Centre to learn from one of Australia’s top ten motivational and business speakers, Matt Church. This amiable Australian speaker provided a full day of heath, life, family and business coaching across three packed sessions that garnered universal praise from all of the Delegates that attended.

The home of the 2018 Capricorn Convention, the PortAventura resort, offered the perfect facilities for social interaction, with its own large piazza area that saw the entire Capricorn Convention family meet up each and every evening for the (two-hour long) happy hour sessions that were generously sponsored by Capricorn Preferred Suppliers. The meticulously prepared Golf Course also ensured a popular and competitive Capricorn Convention golf tournament on the Wednesday.

This outstanding venue also offered free and unlimited access to Europe’s largest and newest theme park, PortAventura Park. Covering hundreds of hectares, this theme park had everything from the most fiercely frightening roller coasters to animal shows, theatre shows, Spanish dancing entertainment and much more. Also located on site was one of only two Ferrari Land theme parks in the world. Capricorn also provided free entry tickets to this magnificent park which was a must-visit for any thrill seeker or motorsport enthusiast. Home of one of the world’s fastest, completely vertical roller coasters, the combined screams of sheer horror and excitement could be heard with each and every launch.

The 2018 Capricorn Convention hit its peak with the Burson Auto Parts sponsored Gala Dinner on Thursday May 17. Held at the immense La Cantina venue at PortAventura Park, all guests enjoyed first class table service, a Flamenco dance show and fantastic party music, dancing the night away until 1:00am, making it a truly memorable night.

The four and a half decade long Capricorn Convention spirit of camaraderie, friendship, networking, learning and fun is the social glue that bonds this incredibly successful and growing cooperative structured organisation together.  With many multiple Capricorn “Conventioneers” and first timers taking part, this bond was stronger than ever at Salou 2018, making this Capricorn Convention as unforgettable as it was enjoyable.

Europe has now finally been successfully conquered by the Capricorn Convention, leaving one big question on everyone’s minds - where will it be held in 2020?

/ends.

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The piazza at the PortAventura Resort was the location for the daily two hour, happy hours during the 2018 Capricorn Convention.

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One of Australia’s top  business and life coaches, Matt Church during the 2018 Capricorn Convention.

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A highlight of the 2018 Capricorn Convention was the welcome beach party that featured two outstanding human tower displays.

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Australasia’s largest automotive cooperative, Capricorn, held its biennial Convention in Spain, the first Capricorn Convention to be held in Europe. A highlight of the 2018 Capricorn convention was the major Gala Dinner which was sponsored by Australia’s Burson Auto Parts and held on Thursday May 17.

In what was nothing short of a spectacular evening, more than 700 guests from Australia and New Zealand enjoyed an incredible night that included authentic Spanish Flamenco dancing, fine local wines and meals, followed by a disco that powered into the early morning hours.

Held at the enormous La Cantina hall located within one of Europe’s largest theme parks, Port Aventura Park, several Capricorn members dressed in Spanish costumes to get into the spirit of this biennial Capricorn night of nights, being held for the first time in Spain.

Burson Auto Parts Executive General Manager, Craig Magill, made the trip to Salou to address the Capricorn convention delegates personally, acknowledging the efforts that the industry has made to secure its long term future.

“We are delighted to have sponsored such a major highlight of Capricorn’s first ever European based convention. To see so many Capricorn members enjoying their trip of a lifetime at the convention and having such a great time at the Burson Auto Parts sponsored gala dinner was very pleasing.

“This major event also gave me the opportunity to personally congratulate the industry as a whole as to what has been achieved with the AAAA Choice of Repairer campaign, while detailing Burson Auto Parts’ and BNT’s (NZ) continued and growing trade commitment, which has resulted in the creation of hundreds of new jobs and extended career path opportunities across the Bapcor Group.

“It was a fantastic event and we are very proud to have been a part of it,” Mr Magill stated.

Continuing the Burson Auto Parts’ tradition of providing specially themed Capricorn convention gifts, almost 800 Souvenir Spanish bulls were handed out on the night. This follows the highly successful antics of the popular Burson Auto Parts camels that were the gifts for the Abu Dhabi based Capricorn convention, which ended up being photographed in famous locations all over the world!

Burson Auto Parts is one of several automotive aftermarket companies who generously sponsored this 27th Capricorn Convention. The convention included a spectacular beach front welcome party, motivational key note speaker Matt Church, daily sightseeing tours and daily two hour long happy hour sessions at the Port Aventura resort, which served as the convention’s base.

/ends.

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More than 700 guests enjoyed an unforgettable Burson Auto Parts sponsored gala dinner during the 2018 Capricorn Convention held in the Spanish coastal city of Salou.

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(From left) – A number of Burson Auto Parts store manager competition winners and Bapcor company executives were also enjoying this trip of a lifetime at the 2018 Capricorn Convention. From left: John Hall, Lisa Kennedy, Paul Ablett, Steve Medlen, Mario Di Mauro, Wayne Steele, Daniel Tindall, Leesa Comben, Anthony Hughes, Mario Baric and Craig Magill. 

Visit Burson Auto Parts online

June 13, 2018 - NEW FRAM FILTERS WEBSITE LAUNCHED

One of the world’s leading automotive aftermarket filtration brands, FRAM Filters, brings its premium quality product range and information to a new localised Australian online portal at www.framfilters.com.au.

The new, user-friendly Australian FRAM Filters website offers detailed product information on all the world leading aftermarket products that will be available to Australian automotive repairers and re-sellers.

FRAM brings new benchmarks of replacement filtration product quality to the Australian automotive aftermarket, in fact the same and even better quality than the stringent filtration requirements required by original equipment automotive vehicle manufacturers.

The new FRAM Filters Australian website provides detailed information on the FRAM range of replacement oil, air, fuel and cabin filters covering the majority of makes and models on Australian roads.

Promoting the straight forward FRAM Filters slogan - “Performance Driven”, the new FRAM Filters website ensures that Australian automotive repairers and re-sellers can quickly and easily access localised FRAM product information, local sales and customer service, warranty information and the latest news relating to new product releases and technical information.

According to Filpro Automotive Australia and New Zealand General Manager Roger Lassen, the new Australian FRAM

Filters website is one of several customer service initiatives being developed to best service the local automotive aftermarket.

“We are pleased to introduce our new Australian website, which isn’t just a mirror of our international websites with an Australian tag, this website has been designed specifically for Australian repairers and re-sellers to access FRAM Filters product information that is specifically relevant to them,” Mr Lassen said.

“We are bringing a new level of replacement filtration quality to discerning Australian automotive repairers, who are no doubt familiar with the FRAM Filters brand given its long history as a global premium filtration brand. Our new Australian website makes accessing our local product, warranty and contact information very quick and easy,” Mr Lassen concluded.

 Visit FRAM Filters’ new Australian website at www.framfilters.com.au.                  

/ends. 

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Suggested Image Caption:  Detailed information about the FRAM range of replacement oil, air, fuel and cabin filters covering the majority of makes and models on Australian roads can be found at the new FRAM Filters website www.framfilters.com.au

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May 16, 2018 - BURSON AUTO PARTS SHINES AS THE AUTOMOTIVE BUSINESS OF CHOICE AFTER SINGAPORE CONVENTION

Australia’s own Burson Auto Parts has set a new benchmark in group event excellence following the company’s outstanding 2018 Conference, held as a major component of the 2018 Bapcor Group Convention.

Conducted at the magnificent Marina Bay Sands Resort and Expo Centre, the premier hotel, entertainment, restaurant and shopping attraction of Singapore, the Burson Auto Parts conference saw 160 managers travel to the Asian country, joined by more than 60 Burson Auto Parts’ supplier companies from April 15 to 20, 2018.

Burson Auto Parts places a major emphasis on the training, development and motivation of its hard working team of staff across the country. To this end, the Australian company ensured that all Burson Auto Parts store managers could gain the most from their involvement in this conference. This commitment included six specifically designed training workshops, coupled with some enjoyable team building activities.

The large contingent of Burson Auto Parts’ suppliers at the conference ensured education, advice and assistance to store managers throughout the event, with an exclusive trade exhibition area established for the company at the Sands Expo Complex.

Enhancing the social interaction of the entire Burson Auto Parts store management team was also a key aspect of this major event. Social events included a number of culturally inspired Singapore dining events that culminated with the Gala Awards Dinner, held at the Sands Expo Ballroom on Friday April 19. This massive event linked the Burson Auto Parts team with their counterparts from the Bapcor Group in a mammoth 900 person gala awards night that proved to be a major highlight of the five day event.

Team building events also formed a major part of this enjoyable and educational convention. These included some highly competitive Dragon Boat Racing, a competitive event that pitted Burson’s best against their Bapcor Group family members. These included New Zealand brother company BNT, along with teams from their retail cousins Autobarn, Autobarn Corporate and Autopro, with the Burson Auto Parts team emerging victorious.

A detailed session with outstanding motivational speakers Troy and Zara brought yet another training element to the conference, while the business sessions included a look into the exciting future plans for Burson Auto Parts.

Feedback gained from the Burson Auto Parts’ store managers and leadership team who took part in the company’s 2018 conference has been nothing short of extraordinary, according to Craig Magill, Burson Auto Parts Executive General Manager.

“The feedback that we have received following our conference is without any doubt the most positive ever. We couldn’t be more pleased with its success, which has enhanced the already strong camaraderie that exists amongst our highly talented store management team, our suppliers and senior management,” Mr Magill stated.

These sentiments were also reflected by the Burson Auto Parts store managers themselves.

“I absolutely loved it. The conference was non-stop, we went from activity to activity, which kept it interesting as we weren’t solely focussed on product information. There was so much more to it than that. The motivational session by Troy and Zara was a definite highlight, it really made us look at things from a different perspective. We won the Dragon Boat race and that activity was great fun, as it also built rapport and competitiveness between all of the Burson Auto Parts store managers. ” Amy Clift - Manager, Burson Auto Parts Atherton, QLD.

“It is difficult to put into words how I felt about our conference - it was so incredible. We did so much across a short time and it was awesome to meet and share information with like-minded people from all walks of life, not only across the Burson Auto Parts network but also from the other Bapcor Group companies. The setting was unbelievable, we were treated like kings and I took away enough after all of the information sessions that I am sure will assist me and my colleagues for years to come,”” - James Hamblin - Manager, Burson Auto Parts, Bayswater VIC.

Craig Magill believes that the major advantage of organising such a detailed conference at such a great location, was being able to emphasise the importance of each individual person who makes up the Burson Auto Parts national store management team.

“Burson Auto Parts has always placed major importance on the career path opportunities that exist by educating, supporting and developing our most important core asset, the company’s people. The 2018 conference was a shining example of this philosophy in practice across the week that we spent together in Singapore. I don’t know how many times I heard our people say that they felt so fortunate to be a part of this Australian company during our week together,” Mr Magill stated.

 /ends.

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Bgroup – The entire Burson Auto Parts national store manager team along with company management in Singapore

Dbr – The 300 person, Bapcor Group Dragon Boat Racing teams with team flags

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Dining – One of several Singapore dining experiences during the conference

Func – One of several functions held during the conference

Gala1 Image taken from the mammoth Bapcor Convention Gala Awards Dinner in Singapore

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May 11, 2018 - DEDUCT UP TO $20,000 FROM YOUR TAX BILL BY MAKING AN EQUIPMENT PURCHASE WITH CAPRICORN FINANCE

Capricorn reminds its many thousands of automotive business Members that time is quickly running out this financial year to take full advantage of the Federal Government’s $20,000 tax break for equipment asset purchases.

While the Federal Government’s recent budget announcement has confirmed that the $20,000 instant tax write off on business asset investments will be extended to June 30 2019, the opportunity exists during May and June 2018 to capitalise on your tax savings this financial year, while improving your business efficiency, productivity and profitability.

The time has never been better to update your workshop equipment and office equipment from Capricorn Preferred Suppliers, while gaining a significant deduction on your tax bill. Capricorn is also offering double Capricorn Reward Points (three points per dollar spent) for eligible purchases made during June 2018, further enhancing the advantages of purchasing business assets now.

If cashflow at this time of year is a concern, Capricorn Finance is also on hand to ensure that automotive businesses make the most of this tax deduction incentive until June 30 2018, offering highly competitive financial packages tailored to suit automotive businesses.

Capricorn’s Purple Pages guide provides a multitude of Capricorn Preferred Suppliers who can update any automotive or collision repair workshop’s tools and equipment to suit the smallest or the largest requirements.

According to Capricorn Group CEO Greg Wall, continued business investment in plant and equipment leads to business growth, development and sustainability.

“As the technical complexities of repairing and servicing the vast number of makes and models on Australia’s roads increases, automotive workshops need to ensure that they stay ahead of the technical curve by investing in new equipment. There isn’t a better time than right now to invest in your business, significantly reduce your tax bill and gain more Capricorn Reward Points,” Mr Wall stated.

To find out more or to join Australasia’s largest automotive cooperative, visit www.capricorn.coop or call 1800 327 437.  

For enquiries about Capricorn Finance options, email lending@capricorn.coop. 

/ends.

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May 11, 2018 - INAUGURAL AUTOCARE CONVENTION A MAJOR SUCCESS

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association’s (AAAA) inaugural Autocare Convention held on May 4 and 5 at Sydney’s International Convention Centre has been hailed a major success.

Presented by Platinum Sponsor Repco and Diamond Sponsor I-CAR, along with a host of Gold, Silver and Bronze sponsors, Autocare 2018 has proven itself to be a very important and much needed addition to the Australian automotive industry event landscape.

Testament to the Federal Government’s solid understanding of the Australian automotive aftermarket industry, was the delivery of the Autocare 2018 Opening Speech by the Assistant Minister to the Treasurer, Hon. Michael Sukkar MP. This was followed by the convention’s major key note address, which was presented by the Chairman of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), Mr Rod Sims.

“To say that we are delighted with our inaugural Autocare Convention is an understatement,” stated AAAA Executive Director, Stuart Charity.

“The plan to bring a major industry event like this back to Sydney after an absence of five years was a bold one. Like always, our industry banded together to support this new education led convention concept. The industry’s support included a sold-out trade display that featured more than 100 companies, along with generous sponsorship support.

“This enabled us to deliver a wide selection of pre-eminent speakers from around Australia and across the globe to this bumper event,” Mr Charity said.

The inaugural Autocare Convention saw more than 2,000 automotive professionals from mechanical repair businesses join their collision repair and parts supply colleagues, unified in their desire to be well prepared for the current and future challenges of this constantly evolving industry.

Mechanics, technicians, panel repairers, management staff and business owners from every Australian state and Territory were represented at Autocare 2018, alongside delegates from New Zealand and further abroad.

Over 600 Autocare 2018 delegates attended more than 50 convention plenary sessions, seminars and training events that were conducted throughout this major two day, education driven event.

Many more took advantage of the free Autocare Convention trade exhibition that featured more than 100 companies, along with free hourly training sessions and demonstrations taking place on the AutoMate and I-CAR training stages and the Lowbake portable spray booth within the convention.

The success of this inaugural education led automotive aftermarket convention has laid the foundations for the planning to begin on the next Autocare Convention, scheduled to take place in 2020 according to AAAA Executive Director, Stuart Charity.

“We firmly believed that the industry needed an event like Autocare with it’s primary focus being education and training to assist businesses to adapt to the disruption and change that is taking place throughout the industry. The outstanding success of Autocare 2018 confirmed this, giving us the confidence to work on making the Autocare 2020 Convention even more beneficial for our members and the industry as a whole,” Mr Charity concluded.

/ends.

For further information or interviews contact:

Stuart Charity  - Executive Director, AAAA - 03 9545 3333

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49 - AAAA President, Graham Scudamore-Smith during his Autocare 2018 Opening Speech

59 - AAAA Executive Director, Stuart Charity during his Autocare 2018 Opening Speech

64 - The Hon. Michael Sukkar MP, Assistant Minister to the Treasurer during his Autocare 2018 Opening Address

71 - ACCC Chairman Rod Sims during the Autocare 2018 Opening Key Note Address

102- Inclusive free training sessions were held throughout Autocare 2018

117 – The AutoMate and I-CAR Training Stages at Autocare 2018 ran hourly training sessions throughout both days of Autocare 2018

132 - Autocare 2018 was all about interaction between industry experts

153 -  One of more than 50 specialised expert speaker and plenary sessions held during Autocare 2018

Suggested General Image Caption:  The inaugural Autocare Convention proved to be a major success, returning a major automotive aftermarket industry convention to Sydney after a five year absence. The AAAA organised event attracted more than 2,000 automotive professionals and convention delegates  from all over Australia and New Zealand to hear from more than 50 expert speakers and more than 100 exhibiting companies across two days.

Visit the AAAA online

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May 5, 2018 - MANDATORY DATA SHARING CODE A MAJOR PRIORITY

The Hon. Michael Sukkar MP, Assistant Minister to the Treasurer, has left no doubt as to the priority that the Australian Government has placed on supporting the independent Australian automotive aftermarket industry, during his opening address at the Autocare 2018 Convention on Friday May 4.

“The Government is actively working on the design of a mandatory scheme for the sharing of critical repair and service information with consumers and their choice of repairer, ensuring competition and fairness for Australian consumers,” Mr Sukkar stated.

“I am here at the opening of Autocare 2018 to assure you that this is definitely a priority for the Government,” He added.

Minister Sukkar was joined by Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) President Graham Scudamore-Smith and Autocare 2018 Key Note Speaker, Australian Competition and Consumer Commission Chairman (ACCC) Rod Sims, to officially open the largest automotive aftermarket industry event of the year.

Mr Sims supported Minister Sukkar’s comments, which follow recent high profile ACCC enforceable court actions against several major automotive vehicle manufacturers following their comprehensive 18 month study into new car retailing.

“The ACCC, having done the market study, will not now vacate the field. We will continue to engage with stakeholders, including the AAAA, and we will provide advice to the Government to assist in the development of a mandatory scheme for you to get access to the technical information you need to fix cars, and to compete,” Mr Sims stated during the opening Key Note address of Autocare 2018.

According to AAAA Executive Director Stuart Charity, efforts to make data sharing mandatory in the Australian automotive aftermarket industry have never been stronger.

“Both Minister Sukkar and Mr Sims’ speeches reflect their commitment to developing the reforms that will protect 16 million Australian car owners along with their freedom of choice in selecting their automotive repairer. After the comments made today in front of hundreds of AAAA members, it is very clear that we are nearing the end of the road to gaining a mandatory code for our industry,” Mr Charity stated.

The opening day of the inaugural Autocare Convention saw thousands of automotive mechanics, technicians, business owners and support staff join more than 100 of the industry’s largest companies and 50 convention speakers taking part in this two day, education-led event held at the International Convention Centre in Sydney.

Autocare 2018 continues through Saturday April 5 with free trade expo entry for members of the automotive trade with free mechanical and collision repair training sessions being conducted throughout the day.

/ends.

For further information or interviews contact:

Stuart Charity

Executive Director, AAAA - 0418 563 959

Lesley Yates

Senior Manager, Government Relations and Advocacy, AAAA - 0402 005 476

Visit the AAAA online

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April 27, 2018 - EXCITING 2018 DAYCO MOTORSPORT PROGRAM ON TRACK FOR SUCCESS

Dayco Australia embarks on the company’s most exciting motorsport program to date in 2018. Featuring Supercars, Tarmac Rallying, Porsche Carrera Cup and GT Racing, the renowned Dayco logo will be seen by millions of motorsport fans at the many high profile events that each category includes, along with their television and live streaming audiences in Australia, New Zealand and across the world.

The most high profile addition to the Dayco motorsport program in 2018 is the leading aftermarket engine component suppliers’ Supercars involvement. Making the change from a five year stint with Nissan Motorsport, the Dayco logo can now be seen on the rear wing of one of the four Tickford Racing Ford Falcon Supercars, the Monster Energy Falcon driven by 2017 Sandown 500 Champion driver Cam Waters. This new Dayco partnership was christened with a top five finish in the second leg of the season opening Adelaide 500.

Dayco also enters its sixth season as the major personal sponsor of Supercar enduro and International GT racing driver David Russell. “Dayco Dave” will be competing in this year’s Sandown 500, Bathurst 1000 and Gold Coast 600, making a big move to Tickford Racing this season after competing as a Nissan factory team driver for the past five seasons. Russell will be co-driving with 2017 Sandown 500 winner Cam Waters in the Monster Energy Tickford Falcon.

Along with Russell’s Supercars involvement, the talented racer also plans to compete in selected major local and international GT events during the season. The Dayco ambassador kicked off his Intercontinental GT Championship season with a top ten finish in the 2018 Liqui-Moly Bathurst 12 Hour in February co-driving the JBS Australia Lamborghini R-EX with Roger Lago and Steve Owen.

Dayco Australia has also continued the company’s successful involvement in the Rally category, once again continuing its sponsorship of successful racer Alan Roe and co-driver Michael Lloyd. There has also been a change of car for the new season, Roe having parted ways with his highly successful Mitsubishi Evo 6 to debut a brand new BMW M2. The success of this move was confirmed early in this year’s CAMS Tarmac Rally Championship with a third place in February’s Targa North West held in Victoria. This exciting new car will be competing in the entire Championship which includes the world renowned Targa Tasmania event.

The 2018 Dayco Australia motorsport program also includes the 2018 Porsche Carrera Cup, with leading Pro-Am category driver Roger Lago competing in a brand new Porsche 911 Cup Car and debuting with three victories from three races at Adelaide’s opening round.

The support of motorsport based educational and vocational projects has been a part of Dayco Australia’s motorsport programs for several years. The leading automotive aftermarket company continues its involvement with Melbourne’s Monash University Formula SAE Team, known as Monash Motorsport. This team competes in national and global Formula SAE challenges throughout the year, seeking to win against the best local and international University teams. Dayco also supplies components and related technical support to this team.

According to Dayco Vice President, Asia Pacific Aftermarket , Arnold Mouw, the company continues to maximise its exposure to the trade through front line motorsport.

“We have a program of exciting motor racing categories that ensures strong Dayco branding reach to our trade markets across Australia and New Zealand, sometimes even extending beyond those regions as well” Mr Mouw stated.

“It is great to have Dayco join one of the top three teams in Supercars this season and to be a part of the inaugural CAMS Tarmac Rally Championship with a brand new car there as well. We also continue our highly successful Supercars and GT partnership with David Russell this year and look forward to his debut with Tickford Racing at the major Sandown, Bathurst Gold Coast endurance races,” He added.

/ends.

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David Russell  2018 Tickford Racing  co-driver image 1

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2017 Sandown 500 winner Cam Waters with the Monster Energy Tickford Racing Falcon Supercar.

Cam Waters in action at the 2018 Adelaide 500.

Dayco Ambassador and Tickford Racing Supercar Team endurance race driver David Russell.

The JBS Australia Lamborghini R-Ex at the 2018 Bathurst 12 Hour driven by David Russell, Roger Lago and Steve Owen 

Roger Lago competing in the 2018 Carrera Cup in the JBS Australia Porsche 911 Cup Car

Alan Roe and Michael Lloyd competing in the 2018 CAMS Australian Tarmac Rally Championship.

Monash University’s Formula Student Team, Monash Motor Sport, taking Australian design expertise to a global competition with Dayco components and technical assistance

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April 26, 2018 - FRAM FILTERS HIT THE TRACK WITH TICKFORD RACING

One of the world’s best known automotive filtration brands, FRAM Filters, has joined forces with one of Australia’s most successful Supercar teams in the 2018 Virgin Australia Supercars Championship.

FRAM Filters has been a global leader in automotive filtration for more than 85 years, providing automotive repairers worldwide with industry leading quality filtration products designed to suit a broad range of vehicle applications, from passenger cars to high performance and heavy-duty vehicles.

As a part of the major re-launch of the FRAM Filters brand in the highly diverse Australian automotive aftermarket sector, Filpro Automotive has paired the FRAM Filters brand with one of the Supercars’ Championship most exciting young drivers, Richie Stanaway.

 In a career that has included international success in GT Sportscars, GP2 and a host of junior categories, 26-year-old Stanaway paired with Tickford Racing driver Cam Waters to win the Sandown 500 last year, leading to his full-time Supercar drive with the team in the #56 Mega Fuels Tickford Racing Falcon this season.

According to Filpro Automotive General Manager, Roger Lassen, it is exciting to bring FRAM Filters to Supercars with such an exciting young driver and with such an accomplished team.

“FRAM Filters has a long pedigree of motorsport involvement across the world so it made perfect sense for us to bring our world renowned brand of automotive filtration products to Supercars, the unrivalled top category of motor racing in Australia and New Zealand. The FRAM Filters logo won’t be missed emblazoned across Richie’s Tickford Racing Falcon Supercar’s rear wing and we look forward to a great season ahead,” Mr Lassen stated.

“We will be leveraging our Supercars involvement in 2018 by providing trade customers with a number of money can’t buy experiences with Tickford Racing through trade-based FRAM promotions in Australia and through our long-term partner, BNT, in New Zealand,” Mr Lassen added.

/ends.

 
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Image 1 - The world renowned FRAM Filters brand takes pride of place on the #56 Mega Fuels Tickford Racing Falcon being driven by the talented Kiwi Supercar rookie Richie Stanaway during the 2018 Virgin Australia Supercars Championship.

Image 2 -  Kiwi Richie Stanaway is competing in his rookie Supercar season with Tickford Racing during 2018 with FRAM Filters’ right behind the exciting young racer.

April 24, 2018 - DAYCO HONOURED BY BAPCOR GOLD SUPPLIER OF THE YEAR AWARD

Dayco Australia has been honoured by receiving the Gold Supplier of the Year award by the Bapcor Group, parent company of Australia’s preferred trade supplier of automotive parts Burson Auto Parts and New Zealand’s BNT.

The Bapcor Group Gold Supplier of the Year Award was presented to Dayco Vice President Aftermarket Asia Pacific Arnold Mouw at the Bapcor Group Convention Gala Awards Dinner held at the Singapore Marina Bay Sands Expo Ballroom on Friday April 20.

This outstanding event concluded the five day 2018 Bapcor Group Convention that brought together more than 900 members of management, staff and suppliers in Singapore from April 16 to 20.

According to Arnold Mouw, this prestigious award is as highly appreciated as it was unexpected.

“Dayco Australia has always had an incredible relationship with Burson Auto Parts that is now in its 36^th consecutive year. It is a very strong relationship that was built on a hand shake agreement and it has flourished ever since,” Mr. Mouw said.

“What makes this award even more humbling is that it was voted by the Bapcor Group across several different levels of criteria. It is also very pleasing to receive this award out of a field of some 100 Bapcor Group suppliers. We are all incredibly proud,” he added.

Dayco Australia is a veteran of the Australian and New Zealand automotive aftermarket industry, with more than three and a half decades of providing replacement engine components across a full range of applications to suit each country’s vastly diverse carparc.

Dayco continues to invest in the constant improvement of its trade customer service with a recent major expansion of the company’s warehouse and distribution facility located in the Melbourne suburb of Hallam. 

/ends.

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Image 1 -  (From left) Bapcor Group CEO Darryl Abotomey congratulates Dayco Vice President Aftermarket Asia Pacific, Arnold Mouw on receiving the Bapcor Group Gold Supplier of the Year Award at the Bapcor Convention Gala Awads event held at the Singapore Marina Bay Sands Expo Ballroom on Friday April 20.

Image 2 -  (From left) Bapcor Group CEO Darryl Abotomey with Dayco Business Development Manager James Barrett, Dayco Vice President Aftermarket Asia Pacific, Arnold Mouw and Dayco Business Development Manager (NZ) Paul Woods upon receiving the Bapcor Group Gold Supplier of the Year Award. 

Visit Dayco online

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April 17, 2018 - A NEW BUSINESS BOOST FOR CAPRICORN MEMBERS - AUTOBOOST

Capricorn Members have now gained yet another tool to assist in growing and running their automotive businesses.

It is called AutoBoost and it is an exclusive new benefit for Capricorn Members with a small business and big plans.  

By simply logging into www.capricorn.coop/autoboost , Capricorn Members can easily access an entire range of time saving business tools to help take their business to the next level.

Capricorn Members can boost business operations with the use of equipment and building maintenance reports along with a host of time saving forms and checklists such as vehicle accident and inspection report forms.

Marketing is made much easier with online and print advertising templates available for purchase, along with an SMS customer communications system to make regular contact with customers a simple and highly effective process.

Customer service tips and advice can also be accessed to assist Members with building stronger long-term relationships with customers to keep them coming back.

One of the biggest drains on office time management for any small business is employee management. Capricorn’s AutoBoost online business portal includes a range of tools covering everything from new employee recruitment to rostering.

According to Capricorn Group CEO, Greg Wall, “The new AutoBoost business asset combines many effective tools to assist automotive businesses in Australia and New Zealand to save precious time and resources to run their businesses more efficiently. While all workshops may not need to use all of the many tools that Capricorn’s AutoBoost online resource offers, there is definitely a tool to help every workshop to achieve their goals.”

For those Capricorn Members seeking to gain an even greater boost to grow their businesses, Members can also subscribe to Teamly, an online service that includes even more team management tools to help further streamline their business. This includes access to policy and procedure templates, an incident register, an online leave request system and much more.

Being a part of Australasia’s largest automotive cooperative is full of benefits to make it easier for you to run your business and be rewarded simply for doing what you do every day.

For more information about joining Capricorn visit www.capricorn.coop or call 1800 327 437 in Australia or 0800 401 444 in New Zealand.

/ends.

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Suggested image caption: Capricorn introduces yet another benefit to being a Member of Australasia’s largest automotive parts buying group, Autoboost, a free online resource that assists small businesses across many areas of administration, marketing and staff management.

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April 12, 2018 - INCREDIBLE INDUSTRY SUPPORT RESULTS IN AUTOCARE SHOW SELL OUT

In what can only be described as an overwhelming vote of confidence by the automotive aftermarket industry, the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) is delighted to advise that the inaugural Autocare 2018 Convention has sold out all sponsorships and trade show spaces.

The Autocare Show welcomes all members of the automotive and collision repair trade to attend this important two day event absolutely free of charge, to see the latest products and technologies from 100 of Australia’s leading automotive aftermarket companies, take part in live training sessions delivered by local and international experts and benefit from the vast networking opportunities that only an industry event of this size can provide. Members of the automotive trade and their staff can register to attend Autocare 2018 at no charge by visiting www.autocare.org.au

This extraordinary industry interest and involvement has been achieved with just over three weeks remaining before the Autocare Show takes place at the International Convention Centre located at
Sydney’s Darling Harbour on May 4 and 5.

An education led event designed specifically for automotive service and repair professionals, parts manufacturers, suppliers and their collision repair industry colleagues, Autocare 2018 has also seen an outstanding number of trade show registrations for this information packed two day industry event.

According to Stuart Charity, Executive Director of the AAAA, these results are extremely encouraging given that this is the first major automotive aftermarket industry event to be held in Sydney for five years.

“We are more than delighted to see so many leading companies of the Australian automotive aftermarket industry supporting this new and important educational event,” Mr Charity stated.

“The fact that all of our corporate sponsorships and show areas are now sold out reflects the clear intention of these companies to assist their customers, the automotive service and repairers of Australia, as the industry makes the transition to a technology led future. Never before has our industry seen such disruption, innovation and rejuvenation, which is also the theme of this inaugural convention,” He added.

The Autocare Show is taking place as part of the Autocare Convention where Australia’s and the world’s most respected automotive, business and economic professionals are presenting specific keynote addresses and plenary discussions. Delegates from all around Australia have confirmed their registration to attend  the Convention.  Simply visit www.autocare.org.au/convention to register for either the Supply Chain, Mechanical Repair and Collision Repair convention streams.

Presented by Platinum sponsor Repco and Diamond Sponsor I-CAR, the inaugural Autocare Show is proudly supported by a host of the industry’s most successful companies including Brown and Watson International, Ryco Group, ASV Euro Car Parts, Burson Auto Parts, Hella, Pedders Suspension, SAPE Group, Lowbake, DNS Technology and CESA Products, together with over 80 Silver and Bronze Autocare 2018 partners. 

All of this makes Autocare 2018 the Sydney based education, networking and business development event not to be missed by anyone seeking to grow their automotive repair, collision repair, parts or service business.

/ends.

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Autocare 2018 Logo

AAAA Executive Director,  Stuart Charity

 
Visit the AAAA online at www.aaaa.com.au

April 17, 2018 - MONROE SAFETY SPECIALISTS REAP REWARDS

The highly successful Monroe automotive workshop partnership that is built to last, the Monroe Safety Specialist program is back for 2018. Once again this program is packed full of advantages for your business.

This program aligns your business with Monroe’s national marketing campaigns, delivering qualified customers who understand the need to check and replace worn shock absorbers or other suspension components in order to optimise the safety of their cars.

Monroe encourages motorists to use its network of Safety Specialists nationwide through an Online Dealer Locator on the Monroe website www.monroe.com.au and a dedicated freecall 1800 number that directs consumer enquiries to their closest Monroe Safety Specialist. These channels direct qualified customers who are actively seeking to replace worn shock absorbers and suspension components to their local Monroe Safety Specialist.

All it costs is $75 for the year and the inclusions are worth so much more:

Yo Your business will be listed in Australia’s leading online mechanic community at www.mechanic.com.au. This customer generating listing is worth $195 per year, but is yours at no cost as a part of becoming a Monroe Safety Specialist. Additional customer exposure and business generation without additional cost.

·         You will also receive a Monroe merchandise pack including a brochure holder with Monroe brochures, 100 Service stickers, 25 Mirror hangers, a Monroe counter mat, an official Monroe Safety Specialist Certificate and regular Monroe Drive product based newsletters. Additional useful business items include Monroe notepads and pens.

·         Monroe will conduct a number of Monroe Safety Specialist exclusive competitions and promotions to be conducted during the year that will find members in the running to receive some great prizes – just for being a part of the program.

According to Monroe Marketing Manager Brydon Tweddell, now is the time to become a Monroe Safety Specialist.

“The Monroe Safety Specialist program enables the smallest or largest of businesses to benefit from our national marketing campaigns which are designed to deliver customers directly to them, online, in person or by phone.  We look forward to another strong year for our Monroe Safety Specialists in 2018 and encourage new members to be a part of this value packed suspension replacement business generating program,” He stated.

To become a Monroe Safety Specialist, contact your local Monroe Territory Manager or call Monroe Australia Customer Service on 1800 088 205.

 /ends.

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Suggested image caption: For just $75, your business can become a Monroe Safety Specialist in 2018, benefitting from Monroe’s extensive national marketing to gain more ride performance component replacement business along with many other inclusions.

Visit Monroe online 

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April 9, 2018 - BURSON AUTO PARTS HAS THE EXEDY OE REPLACEMENT OR PERFORMANCE CLUTCH SOLUTION

Australia’s preferred trade supplier of parts, tools and equipment offers EXEDY OE replacement and premium quality performance clutch upgrade solutions across an unprecedented vehicle application range.

EXEDY is one of the world’s largest clutch manufacturers and is the leading Original Equipment supplier for Japanese vehicles.

EXEDY is also a premium OE supplier of clutch products and systems to several other international vehicle manufacturers.

With everything from OEM replacement clutches to the latest racing specification performance clutch kits, EXEDY is the premier distributor of clutch products to the automotive aftermarket in both Australia and New Zealand.

Combining total product quality with long term performance and reliability, the EXEDY Clutch range presents Burson Auto Parts’ trade customers with an outstanding product range all the way from standard OE Replacement to the most demanding performance vehicle or 4WD clutch upgrades.

EXEDY’s Sports Tuff performance clutch range is perfect for applications requiring extra torque capacity. This popular range covers the entire spectrum of uses and performance vehicle requirements, either for additional torque capacity for towing, right through to performance enhanced engines and heavy-duty applications.

Burson Auto Parts also offers the premium quality EXEDY Safari Tuff range of 4WD replacement and performance clutches that have been tested under some of the toughest conditions that Australia and the world have to offer. The upgraded damper characteristics of the Safari Tuff range enables greater torque loads and improved drive train dynamics.

This range also features anodized cover pressings for resistance against corrosion and a graphite pressure plate casting for superior burst strength and heat dissipation. The EXEDY Safari Tuff 4WD clutch range from Burson Auto Parts also boasts a substantial increase in clamp load when compared with standard fitments.

Contact your local Burson Auto Parts store to discuss the EXEDY OE replacement or high performance clutch kits that will best suit your customers’ requirements and performance expectations by calling 1300 BURSON (1300 287 766)

/ends.

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Suggested image caption: - Combining total product quality with long term performance and reliability, the EXEDY Clutch range presents Burson Auto Parts’ trade customers with an outstanding product range all the way from standard OE Replacement to the most demanding performance vehicle or 4WD clutch upgrades.

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MAKE SHOCK ABSORBER CHECKING A PRIORITY FOR SAFER ROAD HOLIDAYS

All school holiday periods during 2018 will see many Australian and New Zealand motorists complete thousands of kilometres of driving with heavy vehicle payloads along with significant towing loads.

According to Brydon Tweddell, Monroe Marketing Manager, the importance of regular checking and replacement of worn suspension components cannot be understated.

“Shock absorbers and suspension parts are exposed to constant wear and tear during daily driving conditions and these components play important roles in helping to protect the safety of drivers and their passengers. It is very important that all ride control components are checked with every service visit to enhance the safety of your customers’ cars,” Mr Tweddell stated.

Monroe ride performance product engineers recommend that a vehicle’s shock absorbers be thoroughly inspected every 20,000 kilometres and as a part of other vehicle services, such as tyre replacement, wheel alignment and brake repairs or replacement.

Shock absorbers often wear out gradually, which can make the loss of handling hard to detect. Worn shock absorbers and related suspension components can contribute to a variety of potential safety and reliability concerns. These include reduced steering control, increased braking distances along with increased and uneven tyre wear.

In severe cases, the increased road shock and vibration caused by badly worn shock absorbers has affected the durability and performance of other components, including steering linkage parts, suspension components and headlamps.

To ensure that your workshop is one in which Australian motorists seek for shock absorber checking and replacement, joining the 2018 Monroe Suspension Specialist Program places your business at the head of the field.

This program includes all of the consumer information, point of sale material and several other incentives that provide your workshop with the benefits of Monroe’s vast national consumer marketing campaign. To find out more, contact your Monroe Territory Manager or speak to Monroe’s customer service team on 1800 088 205.

Play the lead role in keeping your customers’ cars safe by always checking all ride performance components for wear and tear with every service or repair visit.

/ends.

Suggested image caption:  The stop and go grind of daily motoring takes its toll on any vehicle’s ride performance components, particularly a vehicle’s shock absorbers. Monroe recommends regular shock absorber checking, particularly ahead of school holiday periods when vehicles are subjected to greater loads and long distance driving.

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March 27, 2018 - CAPRICORN RISK SERVICES PROVIDES AN INDEPENDENT FOCUS ON THE VALUE OF YOUR PROPERTY

Capricorn, Australasia’s largest automotive cooperative, and their Risk Services division, are placing major emphasis on the true value of your property.

Startling new research conducted by Capricorn Risk Services amongst its Members, has revealed that eight out of ten may not carry enough protection to cover the cost of replacing their premises after a major incident. Analysis of more than 500 commercial properties found that just 17 per cent had adequate building protection, meaning that a staggering 83 per cent of Capricorn Members may be leaving themselves financially exposed if they needed to make a claim.

To assist in dealing with this issue of under protection, Capricorn Risk Services has introduced a completely independent assessment of a building replacement value using an estimator tool that has been developed for Capricorn by global data analytics giant, CoreLogic.

Capricorn Members who protect their building with Capricorn Risk Services will now receive a report generated using the estimator tool with their renewal quote if the calculator indicates they may not be adequately protected. Even if a property is not currently protected through Capricorn Risk Services, a Capricorn Member can request an independent review to ensure that they are adequately covered by using the tool.

Capricorn Risk Services Chief Executive Officer Jim Glossat said that using the estimator tool is designed to give business operators peace of mind.

“It can be difficult for Members to calculate the replacement value of a building, so we’ve invested in a solution that will give them an independent estimate,” he said.

“People sometimes forget that while they have an ageing building now, they’ll have to replace it with a brand-new one. It’s not about what it is worth now; it is all about the replacement value. Members are now in a better position to assess whether they are adequately protected, so they aren’t exposed if something goes wrong,” he added.

Capricorn Members can also take part in a Capricorn Risk Services promotion that will see thousands of Capricorn Reward Points and an Ultra HD TV given away during March and April 2018.

All that Capricorn Members need to do is request a Capricorn Risk Services quote to receive an immediate bonus of 1,000 Capricorn Reward Points. Each Member who has requested a quote will also go into the running for an Ultra HD TV valued at $1,800.

Mutual Protection is provided through Capricorn Risk Services as an alternative to insurance. Having been a part of the Australian automotive aftermarket industry for more than four decades, the team at Capricorn perfectly understand your business and the specialised protections that are required.

To this end, Capricorn Risk Services offers you access to protections that are not typically covered by standard commercial insurance policies, including losses from theft of customer vehicles while stored on your premises, damage incurred during road testing and the risk of losses occurring as a result of faulty workmanship.

Capricorn Risk Services also provides access to a full suite of general insurance solutions to provide a one-stop shop for all Capricorn Members and other motor trade professionals. During March and April there is an instant 1,000 reward point gain simply for accessing a quote, while also being in the draw for the Ultra HD TV.

In addition to the 1,000 Capricorn Reward Points being offered during this promotion, Capricorn Members will earn additional reward points on any contributions and any premiums. They will also enjoy complimentary leisure travel insurance and access to their own Capricorn Risk Account Manager for personalised service.

This Capricorn promotion ends on April 30, 2018 and for more information on how you can benefit from membership in Australasia’s largest automotive cooperative, visit www.capricorn.coop.

To request a quote for protection or insurance through Capricorn Risk Services send an email to: info@capricornrisk.com.

/ends.

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Suggested image caption:  - Capricorn Risk Services ensures that their Members are not under-insured by providing a completely independent assessment of building replacement value using an estimator tool that has been developed for Capricorn by global data analytics giant, CoreLogic. Each Capricorn Member who requests a Capricorn Risk Services quote before the end of April receives 1,000 bonus Capricorn Reward points and will be in the running to win an Ultra HD TV.

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March 22, 2018 - AUTOCARE 2018 FREE TRAINING PROGRAM RELEASED

Visitors to the Australian Automotive Industry event of the year, Autocare 2018, can look forward to a series of free informative training sessions focusing on the latest automotive component technology, servicing and diagnostic developments and much more conducted on the AutoMate Training Stage across two days of this inaugural industry convention which takes place at the International Convention Centre in Sydney on May 4 and 5.

Along with the free Autocare 2018 training sessions, over 100 of Australia’s leading automotive aftermarket parts manufacturers, distributors and service providers will also be out in force at this convention, offering customer assistance, advice and training.

Automotive repair business owners, automotive technicians and apprentices are invited to join their industry colleagues at Autocare 2018 to learn about the latest technological advances and the unprecedented developments taking place in the automotive servicing, repair, parts and maintenance sectors.

Autocare 2018’s series of free training sessions start from 9:30am on Friday and Saturday May 4 and 5 at the AutoMate Training Stage and include the following presentations:

·         How a Product is Developed – Brown & Watson International

·         Aftermarket Remotes and Transponder Cloning – Remote King

·         Performance Enhancement for Modern Automotive Workshops – Repco

·         Removal & Refit 2CT for D6GF1 Trans - Schaeffler

·         Utilising Scan Data in Modern Day Diagnostics – The Automotive Technician

·         Auto Logue – Autologic Diagnostics

·         Accelerate 30-30-30 Training – Accessory Belt Drive System (ABOS) – Gates Australia

·         From the Race Track to the Road – ZF Services Australia

·         Toyota Proximity Key Solution Made Easy – Carlab

·         Getting More Out of Your Scope with Pressure Waveform Analysis – The Automotive Technician

To view the full program of presenters and session times visit -  www.autocare.org.au

With senior engineering and management personnel in attendance from over 100 leading Australian automotive aftermarket companies who will have trade displays at Autocare 2018, attendees will also be able to access one-on-one contact for any further questions relating to their own specific workshop circumstances or challenges.

“We are calling all members of the automotive repair and service industry to take advantage of the detailed training being offered free of charge at Autocare 2018 on May 4 and 5 in Sydney. Never before has the industry faced such an important need to stay up to date with the latest product and servicing technology as the Australian car fleet continues to grow in size and complexity,” Stated AAAA Executive Director Stuart Charity.

“We are fortunate to have so many companies who are Australian and international leaders in their field taking part in these free training sessions and trade displays, demonstrating their commitment to ensuring that the industry is kept up to date on the rapid developments that are currently disrupting the mechanical repair and service sectors at an unprecedented pace,” Mr Charity added.

Autocare 2018 is presented by Platinum sponsor Repco and Diamond Sponsor I-CAR. This convention is also proudly supported by a host of the industry’s most successful companies including Brown and Watson International, Ryco Group, ASV Euro Car Parts, Burson Auto Parts and Hella, together with over 80 Silver and Bronze Autocare 2018 partners.

Autocare 2018 also includes a gala dinner sponsored by Pedders Suspension and a special outdoor feature car display at the newly constructed International Convention Centre located at Sydney’s Darling Harbour.

The AAAA anticipates that over 3,000 automotive professionals will attend the two day free entry trade display and onsite training activities, with many also electing to attend the bumper Autocare 2018 Convention education program. More information about the Autocare 2018 convention key note addresses and workshop discussions can be found at www.autocare.org.au.

All of this makes Autocare 2018 an education, networking and business development event that should not be missed by anyone seeking to grow their automotive repair, parts or service business well into the future. Register to attend at no cost by visiting the Autocare 2018 website – www.autocare.org.au.

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AAAA Executive Director,  Stuart Charity

Suggested image caption:  Autocare 2018 takes place at the Sydney International Convention Centre on May 4 and 5. All members of the automotive trade are invited to attend free of charge for the technical displays and training sessions, while also being able to network with 100 of the industry’s leading manufacturers and service providers. Find out more at www.autocare.org.au

Visit the AAAA online at www.aaaa.com.au

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March 19, 2018 - CAPRICORN GROUP CEO GREG WALL TO RETIRE

Capricorn Group Chief Executive Officer Greg Wall has announced that he will retire from his role in June 2019.

Together with the support of the Capricorn Board of Directors, Wall’s experience and leadership has been integral to the continued success of this cooperative organisation. He and his team have ensured that Capricorn continues to generate record returns for all of its Member shareholders throughout his highly successful tenure.

According to Wall, this was not an easy decision to make, given Capricorn’s constant growth and success.

“This was not an easy decision and it followed careful consideration and deliberation with both the Capricorn Board and my family.

“Capricorn is in great shape and has such an exciting future ahead. It is and will continue to be a great organisation and I have loved every minute of making it “just easier” for our Members to run and grow their businesses. I am so proud of what we have achieved together over the nearly seven years since I joined Capricorn,” He stated.

“I will work with the Capricorn Board to plan and deliver the best possible outcome in terms of my successor as Capricorn continues to evolve and go from strength to strength.

“It has been a pleasure to be at the helm of this wonderful cooperative. In the meantime I look forward to continuing to make it “just easier” for all of our Members,” Mr Wall said.

Mr Wall has deliberately made this early retirement announcement in the interests of complete transparency to both the Capricorn Board and the many thousands of Capricorn Members across Australia and New Zealand.

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