Since replacement parts are non-discretionary, their declining sales share means that a growing portion of aftermarket sales consists of discretionary products.
Aftermarket Matters
The 33 percent rise reflects increases in car repair parts and labor with labor costs rising 51 percent and parts 23 percent.
Patel joins Sonic after a tenure as SVP of marketing and merchandising at ISN and roles at Advance Auto Parts / Carquest, Pep Boys, XL Parts, and NAPA.
The new Plaza Tire in Kentucky represents the brand's 8th in the state; the addition of a Checkpoint Tire & Service location and a Checkpoint Express Lube Center bring Sun Auto's total to 15 locations in Illinois.
His most recent role at First Brands saw him lead significant product line growth while supporting customers through hands-on training and account management.
These trends will directly shape the training curriculum and hands-on learning opportunities featured at the 2026 Worldpac STX, Aug. 19-23, in Maryland.
This contribution marks I-CAR's 18th consecutive year of support for the foundation and brings its cumulative giving to more than $2.3 million.
