THE NEXT DESTINATION WHERE DO YOU SEE THE INDUSTRY SHIFTING ITS ATTENTION TO IN THE NEAR FUTURE? We asked three industry veterans across the aftermarket spectrum their thoughts on the next destination for the auto care industry. GARY BROOKS CMO, Syncron "In 2018, just as the technology within vehicles is becoming automated, so will the after-sales service technologies manufacturers use, ultimately maximizing product uptime and minimizing inventory surplus. Predictive analytics will be the backbone here, as manufacturers will use big data to predict and prepare for when parts will need to be replaced or worked on, prior to part failure." TAMMY TECKLENBURG Vice President, Global Sales and Marketing Operations, Spectrum Brands-Global Auto Care "Consumers increased demand for convenience and choice will drive the importance of having more flexible and nimble supply chains. Speed will be more critical than ever in 2018!" DICK FAIRBANKS President, Orleans Auto Supply "Suppliers are displaying a little more courage regarding price increases. Business is pretty good and some of them have held the line for years. Expect them to at least try to improve their position. Wage inflation will begin to show in earnest. In most areas of the country anyone who wants to work is working and direct recruiting and/ or retention are expensive. General economic activity will remain strong. Our industry will join many in being a general beneficiary." Tell us where you see the industry shifting gears toward next! Email your predictions to camille.sheehan@autocare.org for a chance to have them featured in a future issue of Auto Care Insider. AUTO CARE INSIDER | VOL. 109 5