Bethesda, MD — Following a robust 2010, BB&T Capital Markets expects mergers and acquisition (M&A) activity will be driven by regional and national consolidation of the highly fragmented and growing automotive repair/maintenance sub-sector, according to the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA) Digital Aftermarket Factbook 2012 and the Digital Aftermarket Factbook & Lang Annual 2012. Additionally, the few sub-sectors of the aftermarket industry more closely linked to consumer discretionary spending, such as accessories and performance, are rebounding, and BB&T expects deal activity in these subsectors to rise as a result.

The aftermarket, having proven its resiliency during the economic downturn, is poised for continued long-term growth. Selected growth drivers include:
• The vehicle fleet is aging, which benefits the traditional aftermarket.
• Vehicle miles traveled, a key growth driver for every segment of the aftermarket, is rising.
• The independent aftermarket will continue to take share from OE.
Further predictions for the industry, as well as a three-page overview and a two-page summary of 153 automotive aftermarket transactions, are featured in the extended Enhanced Mergers and Acquisitions section by BB&T Capital Markets in this year’s Factbooks.

AAIA members receive a complimentary copy of the Digital Aftermarket Factbook 2012 as a member benefit, with three guest passes included. While additional copies may be purchased for $200, the non-member price is $500. The Digital Aftermarket Factbook & Lang Annual 2012 is available for $650 to AAIA members and $1,300 for non-members. To order any of these digital publications, contact member services at 301-654-6664 or visit www.aftermarket.org and click “Market Intelligence,” then click on the link for a full listing of market research products.

Links:
http://www.aftermarket.org