Demand for Personalization Drives Automaker Accessory Business
BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT
Demand for Personalization Drives Automaker Accessory BusinessDETROIT (August 13, 2007) - Thanks to shows such as MTV's Pimp My Ride and TLC's Overhaulin', the aftermarket accessories business has grown into a $34 billion annual industry. Recognizing the growth in auto personalization, General Motors and other automakers now offer extended portfolios of accessory products specifically designed and manufactured to the exact standards of each of their vehicle brands. Vehicle owners want their car or truck equipped with items that display personality, luxury and style while providing functionality essential to their daily activities. Through GM dealerships, owners can purchase accessories for their vehicle ranging from dual-player headrest DVD rear-seat entertainment systems and elaborate cargo management systems to head-turners such as chrome accents and plus-size wheels and tires. "It's important that owners understand the value, security and advantage of purchasing accessories through the vehicle manufacturer versus an aftermarket supplier," says Nancy Philippart, executive director, GM Accessories. "Genuine accessories from GM won't compromise the performance of our vehicles or the vehicle systems, and they are fully backed by GM's 36 month/36,000 mile warranty." Philippart says GM recognizes the importance of providing customers with an opportunity to personalize their vehicles while preserving the vehicle's functionality and brand identity. GM designs accessories at its GM Accessories Design Studio, which opened in 2005. The studio connects the accessory and vehicle designers to help ensure a factory-quality fit and finish as well as an integrated, tailored appearance. "GM is the first OEM to use this process on accessories - a contrast to the common industry practice of reverse engineering after the product hits the streets," she adds. "At GM, 'aftermarket' does not mean 'afterthought.'"(Source: GM)
Demand for Personalization Drives Automaker Accessory BusinessDETROIT (August 13, 2007) - Thanks to shows such as MTV's Pimp My Ride and TLC's Overhaulin', the aftermarket accessories business has grown into a $34 billion annual industry. Recognizing the growth in auto personalization, General Motors and other automakers now offer extended portfolios of accessory products specifically designed and manufactured to the exact standards of each of their vehicle brands. Vehicle owners want their car or truck equipped with items that display personality, luxury and style while providing functionality essential to their daily activities. Through GM dealerships, owners can purchase accessories for their vehicle ranging from dual-player headrest DVD rear-seat entertainment systems and elaborate cargo management systems to head-turners such as chrome accents and plus-size wheels and tires. "It's important that owners understand the value, security and advantage of purchasing accessories through the vehicle manufacturer versus an aftermarket supplier," says Nancy Philippart, executive director, GM Accessories. "Genuine accessories from GM won't compromise the performance of our vehicles or the vehicle systems, and they are fully backed by GM's 36 month/36,000 mile warranty." Philippart says GM recognizes the importance of providing customers with an opportunity to personalize their vehicles while preserving the vehicle's functionality and brand identity. GM designs accessories at its GM Accessories Design Studio, which opened in 2005. The studio connects the accessory and vehicle designers to help ensure a factory-quality fit and finish as well as an integrated, tailored appearance. "GM is the first OEM to use this process on accessories - a contrast to the common industry practice of reverse engineering after the product hits the streets," she adds. "At GM, 'aftermarket' does not mean 'afterthought.'"(Source: GM)