This episode of DriveTime features Jeff Koviak, CEO of the Automotive Parts Services Group. In this interview, Koviak said he views industry consolidation as an inevitable evolution that can ultimately make the independent aftermarket stronger and more competitive. Rather than becoming “distracted by the noise,” he believes Automotive Parts Services Group members should remain focused on running their businesses and getting their parts through the supply chain and installed onto cars.
Koviak sees consolidation creating stronger organizations through investment and greater efficiencies, helping the independent aftermarket compete more effectively with OEM service centers.
Koviak said collaboration and shared innovation represent one of The Group’s greatest opportunities to help members grow while preserving their entrepreneurial spirit. His focus as CEO includes bringing members together through collaborative workshops where they can exchange best practices and learn from one another. While building trust takes time, Koviak added that members are increasingly recognizing the value of working together. He believes closer collaboration can multiply growth opportunities and strengthen The Group and its members.
Data as a Competitive Advantage
Koviak also sees data and technology as critical competitive advantages. The Group is investing in IT best-practices workshops and industry technology initiatives to identify cost-saving opportunities and share innovative approaches across its membership. Koviak said The Group’s extensive North American DIFM market data can help members optimize inventory and make smarter business decisions while supporting closer collaboration with supplier partners on supply chain needs. Ultimately, the goal is to maximize that data to improve product availability and get the right parts where they are needed.
To hear more of Koviak’s insights, be sure to watch the above video.
Episode Overview
- How Koviak views consolidation as an opportunity to strengthen the independent aftermarket and its competitive position. (5:08)
- How greater collaboration and shared best practices can help The Group’s members grow while maintaining their entrepreneurial strengths. (7:15)
- How The Group is investing in data and technology to improve decision-making, inventory optimization and supply chain collaboration. (8:59)
- The value of APSG membership conferences and key takeaways of this type of collaboration. (10:56)
- Lightning Round: Koviak shares some personal insights. (13:59)
