Last month, we wrote about the disappearance of car ashtrays. Well it looks like CD players may soon be out too. Michael Arbaugh, chief designer for Ford interiors, recently told the Automotive Press Association that eliminating CD players from car interiors will reduce weight, help automakers inch towards stricter fuel economy standards and free up room on the dash for newer … [Read more...] about Automakers to Give CD Players the Axe
Industry Trends & Reports
Study: Flame-Retardant Foams Ignite
You may be under the impression that the types of foam your auto upholstery shop uses are flame retardant. But according to a recent study overseen by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, many flame-retardant foams ignite just as quickly and intensely as regular foam – a safety issue we should all be concerned about. … [Read more...] about Study: Flame-Retardant Foams Ignite
Auto Aftermarket To Continue Growing
If your auto upholstery shop experienced an increase in sales related to aftermarket products and services last year, you can expect it to continue to grow. According to the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA), 2012’s growth will match 2011’s growth of 4.1 percent. … [Read more...] about Auto Aftermarket To Continue Growing
Cash in on Customers’ Tax Refunds
American auto upholstery shops not planning any sales or promotions for Tax Day may want to reconsider. A recent survey commissioned by eBay Motors found that more than one-third of vehicle owners anticipating tax refunds plan on spending a portion of that money on products or services related to cars, trucks or motorcycles. … [Read more...] about Cash in on Customers’ Tax Refunds
Cost of Leather Hides Set to Rise
According to a recent report published by IMS Automotive Interiors Worldwide, the use of leather in the European auto market is set to significantly increase in the next five years – placing higher demand on hides and, subsequently, raising its cost for auto trimmers. … [Read more...] about Cost of Leather Hides Set to Rise
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