Partsforce Automotive Introduces Business Intelligence, Marketing Tool for Auto Parts Vendors

(PRWEB) June 21, 2006 -- After successful trails, Partsforce Automotive today announces the launch of its Partsforce business intelligence and marketing service for collision parts vendors (www.partsforce.com).

Partsforce allows wholesale parts vendors to "see" the collision marketplace online — the most frequently ordered OEM and aftermarket parts, plus prices, certification status and other information. This data is useful to plan stock purchases, to identify inventory that is or may become idle, and highlight areas where further marketing could have its greatest impact. Partsforce also empowers parts vendors to advertise or "promo" individual parts at list prices they specify. The circumstances where this is appropriate are several, but include:

1) Manufacturer-sponsored programs that spur OEM parts dealers to compete with aftermarket distributors (Conquest, DOI or truckload programs, for example)
2) Regional aftermarket distributors without insurer-sponsored "preferred" vendor status, but who nevertheless want to compete with large national players
3) Programs that bring to market surplus or non-standard quality OEM parts yet are not included in estimating guides
4) Dealers who also distribute aftermarket parts, but currently do not advertise their availability through the estimating platforms
5) Liquidations of infrequently ordered parts that are returned from customers, but that cannot be returned to the manufacturer(s) without incurring additional expenses
6) As a means of increasing name or brand recognition amongst staff and independent adjusters - those commonly overlooked in traditional marketing efforts
7) As alternative to more costly dealer-to-dealer stock reallocation tools available from other software companies

Partsforce is the idea of Charlie Grahn, the company's founder. "It was apparent to me some time ago that the same new technology that allows consumers to shop for everything from books to real-estate online had also invaded the collision parts marketplace in the form of parts locating and claims auditing solutions," he explains. "This meant that business relationships based on personal friendships were being replaced by a colder, more impersonal marketplace where lists prices ruled parts selection."

Partsforce does not change these forces, Grahn explains. "The trend is irreversible. What we can do is position our clients to succeed in this new environment." In the forthcoming months Partsforce will be adding parts vendors across North America and partnering with other technology companies to distribute its data to collision professionals.