By SEMA News Editors
AAM Group and Lippert Launch Innovative Purchase-Fulfillment Model to Drive More Business to Local Shops
The AAM Group has announced a new initiative to support local jobbers in the SEMA marketplace by launching the "Buy Online, Pickup in Store" (BOPIS) purchase-fulfillment system. BOPIS adds an option to a participating supplier's site through which online customers can place orders. The AAM Group then fulfills those orders via an AAM distribution member to each customer's nearest local shop—which receives payment for the sale and completes in-person handoff to the customer.
The arrangement allows suppliers to serve consumers who are ready to buy online without diverting sales from local shops, while jobbers benefit from the high visibility of supplier websites and get the opportunity to perform installations and build new customer relationships.
"We're thrilled to partner with Lippert and CURT to bring BOPIS to life," said AAM Vice President of Operations David Ayers. "This initiative is a game-changer for local jobbers, offering them unparalleled opportunities to connect with new customers while strengthening their presence in the ever-evolving automotive aftermarket. By combining the convenience of e-commerce with the personalized touch of in-store service, we're empowering our warehouse customers to grow their businesses and thrive in today's competitive landscape."
BOPIS is the latest example of AAM's commitment to supporting local jobbers in a way that also benefits its members and supplier partners. AAM launched BOPIS in partnership with Lippert because they also recognize the critical role that healthy local jobbers play in the success of the entire automotive aftermarket ecosystem. The BOPIS functionality is currently live on the websites for CURT, LUVERNE and UWS. Eventually, BOPIS will become available to other AAM supplier partners who share AAM's vision for supporting local shops.
"We really try to stay true to who we are as a manufacturer and focus on driving foot traffic and sales through our customers," said SVP of Lippert Automotive Sales Shane McNallie. "This ultimately leads to the best installation experiences for the consumer."
Gold Eagle Company Announces Executive Leadership Changes
Marc Blackman (left), Matthew Banach (center) and Jennifer Robertson of Gold Eagle Company.
Gold Eagle Company--the Chicago-based manufacturer of Hot Shot's Secret performance lubricants and related brands like STAB-BIL, 303, HEET, and more--has promoted CEO Marc Blackman to CEO and chairman of the board, replacing co-owner Rich Hirsch, who is retiring from the board.
Additionally, Executive Vice President of Market Innovation Matthew Banach has been promoted to chief operating officer (COO) and chief marketing officer (CMO).
Blackman was named president and COO in 2001 before being promoted to president and CEO in 2007. In 2014, he transitioned solely to CEO, effectively holding this position for the last eight years. Under Blackman's leadership, Gold Eagle has grown its brand portfolio to include 303 appearance care products, TriNova home care items and Gold Eagle's first subsidiary of Lubrication Specialties, which includes the brands of Hot Shots Secret, Franz Filters and LSI Chemical.
The company has also announced the promotion of Jennifer Robertson to vice president of marketing. With more than 23 years of experience with Gold Eagle, Robertson will join the company's executive team and oversee its marketing teams, including the Hot Shot's Secret Marketing department.
For more information, visit goldeagle.com.