Highlights from AAPEX - Google Ads, Battery Tech, and Industry Awards

Braxton Critcher [00:00:05]:
This is Automotive Repair News Today. Thanks for listening to this week's episode broadcasting from Apex 2024 put on by the Autocare association and Mema Aftermarket Suppliers. Hey there, I'm Braxton Critcher and if you're around, stop by. See us. We're at apex level one, booth J9030 Apex level one, booth J9030 let's get to today's headlines. Mema Aftermarket Suppliers is hosting a live demo of its new tech training hub here at apex. Join them November 6th from 4 to 4:30 at the Venetian Level 2, Booth A36001. This online platform connects the repair community with top training courses aligned with ASE certifications.

Braxton Critcher [00:00:52]:
Door prizes will also be given out starting November 21st. Google will require businesses to have a verified Google Business profile to run local service ads affecting millions of small businesses. According to the Associated Press. Fraud in Google Business has been on the rise, causing this change. Verification involves claiming the business address and confirming it via text, phone, email or video, depending on the business type. Additional info and licenses and insurance may be required. If the profile details don't match the ad info, ads will be paused. The change impacts businesses in Europe, the Middle East, Africa and selected U.S.

Braxton Critcher [00:01:37]:
and Canadian markets. Verification may take up to seven days. EnerSIS, the leader in stored energy solutions and maker of Odyssey batteries, is showcasing its cutting edge battery chargers at Apex 2024 in booth A1839. Booth A1839 these lightweight, portable chargers are the first to work with both AGM2 and lithium batteries, making them ideal for various vehicles. The Apex show runs from November 5th to the 7th at the Venetian in Las Vegas. Odyssey batteries built for durability and extreme conditions are also on display, offering twice the power and three times the lifespan of conventional batteries. Interseas is also appearing at the SEMA show in booth 24167, booth 24167 with racing stars Brian and Hayley Deegan and Richard Petty. Attendees can enter an Odyssey battery charger giveaway with the winner announced on November 7 at 3pm Advance Auto Parts has completed the 1.5 billion sale of world Pack to investment firm Carlisle.

Braxton Critcher [00:02:47]:
CEO Shane O'Kelly says this move simplifies Advance Auto's business, allowing greater focus on its core operations. More details on Worldpac's future will be shared in a November 14th earnings call. The alliance of Automotive Service Providers of Pennsylvania is dissolving on December 31, 2024, but members can continue their engagement through the Mid Atlantic autocare Alliance. This reunites the two organizations after more than a decade apartment. Former AASP PA members can join MAACA for $430 throughout 2025 and will gain access to programs in mechanical, collision and towing sectors. Maaca also plans to expand chapters in Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey and Delaware. Stellantis is suing parts supplier Bros after an alleged contract breach, reports Car Scoops. Stellantis claims Breaux, after securing a price agreement in November of 2023, is now seeking further increases.

Braxton Critcher [00:03:52]:
The dispute follows an August 2023 threat from Bros to halt shipments unless higher prices were accepted, resulting in a two day shutdown at Bros Windsor facility. This marks Stellantis fifth supplier lawsuit with recent actions involving other price disputes and separate case with the dealership. Stellantis argues that bro's demands threatens its plant operations and seeks court intervention. A troubling rise in faulty vehicles sold by used car dealers has put consumers safety at risk, with one recent case highlighting the dangers. ABC Action News reported on US Navy veteran Gilbert Santiago, who bought a 2022 Volvo S60 from H. Gregg in Brandon, Florida only to encounter immediate safety issues. Despite H. Gregg's claims of thorough inspection, Santiago's car showed airbag warnings soon after purchase.

Braxton Critcher [00:04:48]:
Further inspection by Tampa's Brazil Automotive found serious problems disconnected seat belt, pre tensioners and tampered wiring. Santiago, denied a refund, has already spent $6,000 on repairs. Shopware Shop Boss Protractor and tire guru have announced the winners of their Shop Hero Awards honoring top auto repair shops at the Apex and SEMA shows in Las Vegas. The prestigious Shop Hero Award went to Liz Perkins of Level 1 Automotive in Tulsa, Oklahoma for her commitment to innovation, community service and team support. Other awardees include Tools Garage in San Carlos, California as Customer Champion, TFS Truck and Diesel in Irwin, North Carolina as Breakthrough Business, Stress Free Auto Care in California as Elite Entrepreneur and Performance Plus Tire in California as Sales superstar. The Vision High Tech Training and Expo is now accepting applications for its 2025 scholarships and awards. Open to shop owners, educators and technicians, these awards recognize innovation, leadership and educational growth. Vision Co Chair Jerry Holcomb emphasized the event's mission to spotlight outstanding professionals and inspire others in the industry.

Braxton Critcher [00:06:10]:
Industry applications close January 8th for scholarships and January 22nd for awards. Winners will receive a four day power pass to the 2025 conference with some scholarships including hotel stays. Categories include Educator of the Year, Green Star Service Facility, Best Website and Humanitarian of the Year. The awards will be presented at the Vision Expo in Kansas City, March 6through9, 2025. For details, visit awards.mwaca.org or vision kc.com that's going to do it for today's episode of Automotive Repair News Today. Reach out of course, if you know of news that needs to be shared on this podcast when you email me@braxtonautomotiverepairnews.com or come say what's up. We're going to be at apex level 1, booth J9030 for the next few days here in Las Vegas. Would love to shake your hand and get to know you a little more.

Braxton Critcher [00:07:08]:
Maybe even have you on the podcast. Thanks for listening to this week's episode. Hey, if you're still here, thank you so much for listening to this episode of Automotive Repair News Today. If you enjoyed the show, please take a moment like share. Subscribe to the podcast that'll help us out a big deal and help grow the show. And you know what? While you're at it, slap on a review too. If you feel like this content is helpful for the industry, don't forget to follow us on all your favorite social media platforms. We're on Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn.

Braxton Critcher [00:07:42]:
Stay connected and be the first to know about new episodes, behind the scene content and more. And until next time, let's make the industry better together.

Highlights from AAPEX - Google Ads, Battery Tech, and Industry Awards
Broadcast by