All-makes parts programs expand reach

摘要

I have written about the proliferation of all-makes parts programs in the past, but it seems that lately OEMs are really focusing on promoting those programs more heavily. What's behind the push? Take Daimler Trucks North America's new stand-alone Alliance parts stores. In addition to buying Alliance brand parts at local dealerships, fleets can purchase parts from these stand-alone locations. By the end of the year, there will be 13 of them. Brad Williamson, director of Alliance and Detroit Reman at DTNA, says the company uses market intelligence, demographic information, and input from dealers to determine where to open these stores. But that's no guarantee of success. Williamson says creating awareness of what is being offered at the stores has been a challenge.