Industry Updates: Aftermarket Responds to COVID-19
With COVID-19 impacting every facet of life, whether it be cancelled sporting events or school closings, everyone is adjusting to a new normal, and that includes the automotive aftermarket. Suppliers, distributors and organizations from around the industry have responded to the ongoing pandemic with various strategies and have been issuing statements through numerous outlets to update their partners.
Whether it’s to reassure customers that it’s business as usual, or to let them know delays are expected, companies around the industry are taking steps to ensure the health of employees, business partners and customers.
Below are updates provided by a variety of aftermarket companies. We will continue to update this list with messages from suppliers, distributors and organizations as we receive them. If your business has been impacted in any way, please contact us here.
May 22
THE SHOP reached out to industry suppliers and organizations for updates regarding operations.
The following companies have been deemed essential businesses and are open for business with full access:
AJUSA
Eaton Detroit Spring
Engine Pro/Engine Parts Group
Fury Off Road Tires
Kafko Intl.
Owens Products
Performance Distributors
PPE
ProRYDE Suspension Systems
SpeedDirect
Trim Illusion
The following companies have been deemed essential businesses but are running with limited crews and accessibility:
KICKER/Stillwater Designs Audio
Additional Information:
KICKER Performance Audio remains open for day-to-day business with nearly 3/4 of its employees working from home. As restrictions lessen in the Oklahoma, some employees will slowly return to company facilities. The KICKER Museum and Visitors Center remain closed to the public.
May 14
THE SHOP reached out to industry suppliers and organizations for updates regarding operations.
The following companies have been deemed essential businesses and are open for business with full access:
Advanced Fuel Dynamics
Dash Designs
Engine Pro/Engine Parts Group
FAST Shelter
Let’s Go Aero
Motorville
Nitrous Express
Performance Distributors
ProRYDE Suspension Systems
Roadmaster
SpeedDirect
May 13
Anderson Composites is still taking and shipping orders while staff works remotely. The company is currently using temporary phone numbers: 1-877-246-6880, Fax: 1-626-598-7693.
May 12
Sureshifter has indicated to THE SHOP that its main sites are currently closed but the company is operating remotely.
May 11
THE SHOP reached out to industry suppliers and organizations for updates regarding operations.
The following companies have been deemed essential businesses and are open for business with full access:
Arlon Graphics
Flaming River Industries
Intercomp
3D MAXpider
Additional Information:
All 3D MAXpider will be returning to company facilities starting Monday, May 11, and will resume normal shipping and business hours.
May 8
PPE Diesel is currently operating with a reduced staff but is shipping product daily. Tech and sales support is available by phone during normal business hours.
May 7
THE SHOP reached out to industry suppliers and organizations for updates regarding operations.
The following companies have been deemed essential businesses and are open for business with full access:
Bonspeed Wheels
Chassis Engineering
Dash Designs
Hypertech
Kafko Intl.
Kargo Master
Lucas Oil Products
Motorville
Performance Distributors
Phenix Industries
ProRYDE Suspension Systems
Warn Industries
The following companies have been deemed essential businesses but are running with limited crews and accessibility:
Derive Power
Additional Information:
Derive Power offices are currently closed to outside visitors, but order fulfillment is operating as usual.
Motorville is currently operating under normal hours and is offering curbside pickup for will call orders.
May 6
THE SHOP reached out to industry suppliers and organizations for updates regarding operations.
The following companies have been deemed essential businesses and are open for business with full access:
Let’s Go Aero
Roadmaster
Trim-Lok
May 5
Both HMS Motorsport locations are currently closed to the public. The company’s Mooresville, North Carolina, facility will maintain full operations for phone, online, curbside pickup and professional orders.
May 4
THE SHOP reached out to industry suppliers and organizations for updates regarding operations.
The following companies have been deemed essential businesses and are open for business with full access:
Billet Specialties
Performance Distributors
PRW Industries
Roadmaster
The following companies have been deemed essential businesses but are running with limited crews and accessibility:
Classic Performance Products
JackPoint Jackstands
Additional Information:
JackPoint Jackstands’ primary supplier has closed due to a COVID-19 outbreak at its facility. The company has indicated to THE SHOP that it may run out of its primary product.
May 1
THE SHOP reached out to industry suppliers and organizations for updates regarding operations.
The following companies have been deemed essential businesses and are open for business with full access:
Adam’s Polishes
Advanced Fuel Dynamics
CYC Engineering Inc (Raptor Series)
Dash Designs Inc
Eaton Detroit Spring Inc
Endurance Truck Accessories
Hella Inc
Hypertech
Intercomp
McLeod Racing
Owens Products
Scorpion Racing Products
Southwest Auto Accessories
SpeedDirect
STEP-N-SECURE
VP Racing Fuels
The following companies have been deemed essential businesses but are running with limited crews and accessibility:
Carcapsule
Forgeline Motorsports
Leitner Designs
Motorville
ProRYDE Suspension Systems
Trim-Lok
Additonal Information:
Forgeline Motorsports will have a full crew back on Mon., May 4.
Motorville is open Mon. through Fri. from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and is offering curbside pickup for will-call orders.
April 30
Hawk Performance has been deemed essential, and its Medina, Ohio manufacturing facility is open and fully operational. The company is operating under full compliance of the state of Ohio’s guidelines. Orders are being received and processed as usual.
April 29
Automotive/industrial and household cleaner manufacturer Kafko International, Skokie, Illinois, is deemed an essential business and remains open serving customers. Rick Morgando of Kafko reminds everyone of the importance of reading labels and following all instructions of a particular cleaner to ensure proper disinfecting occurs.
April 28
Hellwig Product Co. has been deemed essential and is conducting business as usual. The company’s facility in Visalia, California, is fully operational and is manufacturing and shipping product.
April 27
RodEnd Supply is open and running with a full staff, but facilities are closed to walk-in customers. The company is currently taking orders via email, phone, text or fax and will place orders on its shipping dock for pickup.
April 24
RockJock 4×4 by John Currie remains open and fully operational during the COVID-19 crisis. Remote work has been instituted where possible. The company is still shipping product daily and is experiencing no delays. The company’s Corona, California, front office is closed to the public, but phoned-in orders can be picked up at the will call door.
April 23
Vintage Air is operational but running with limited crews and accessibility. The company’s production crew has been split into two shifts to reduce density, while sales and tech departments are working remotely and are fully operational. Production crew temperatures and general wellness are being monitored twice daily. The company’s retail showroom is currently closed, but product is being shipped daily and curbside pickup is available.
April 22
THE SHOP reached out to industry suppliers and organizations for updates regarding operations.
The following companies have been deemed essential businesses and are open for business with full access:
Dash Designs
Huth Ben Pearson Intl.
Hypertech
King Engine Bearings
Lucas Oil Products Inc
Mirka USA
Performance Distributors
PML Inc.
Seville Auto Trim – GloTrim
VP Racing Fuels
The following companies have been deemed essential businesses but are running with limited crews and accessibility:
Eagle Enterprises
ProRYDE Suspension Systems
April 21
Centerforce Clutches has been deemed an essential business in its home state of Arizona. The company is fully operational and is manufacturing and shipping product.
April 20
Leer, as well as its parent company Truck Accessories Group, has been deemed essential and is open for business with full access. Facilities in California, Indiana, Oregon and Washington will remain open and employees are adhering to CDC guidelines.
April 17
SPAL USA remains open and is shipping product while taking necessary precautions to protect staff. The company’s Italy facility remains open with a reduced staff but is still in full production.
3D MAXpider remains open and continues to ship product with a limited staff. Employees are mandated to maintain social distance, wear masks and temperatures are taken twice a day.
Eagle Enterprises has been deemed essential but is operating with limited crews and accessibility.
Torco Lubricants remains fully operational with a limited staff on site. Remote work has been instituted where possible. The company’s retail showroom and will call desk both remain open.
April 16
JE Pistons is still operational, according to its social media. The company is still shipping product and sales and tech support staff are available to assist customers.
THE SHOP reached out to industry suppliers and organizations for updates regarding operations.
The following companies have been deemed essential businesses and are open for business with full access:
Bullet Proof Diesel
C.H. Hanson
Kargo Master
Legendary Companies/Coker Tire
Red Line Synthetic Oil
RodEnd Supply
Universal Products
Van Sant Enterprises
Wilwood Disc Brakes
The following companies have been deemed essential businesses but are running with limited crews and accessibility:
MAHLE Motorsports
Additional Information:
Bullet Proof Diesel is currently closed to the public but is still operating and shipping product.
Rod End Supply is shipping product daily but no longer allowing walk-in customers. The company is currently taking orders via phone, email, fax or text. Pickup orders will be placed on the shipping dock for customers.
Legendary Companies and its subsidiary Coker Tire is still fully staffed but no longer allowing walk-in customers access to its facilities. Will call pickup is still available.
April 15
Sport Truck USA has resumed shipping product, according to a letter distributed to customers and dealers. The company will resume shipping with a limited staff and will process backlogged orders first in the order received up through new orders being placed. In-stock item orders could take up to seven business days to ship out. Business hours have been updated to 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET, Mon-Fri.
The company has also made several temporary staffing changes and several sales reps are currently not available. Emails to a regular sales rep will be forwarded to sales reps currently handling the territory.
Billet Specialties facilities are closed until May 1 but is running with remote capabilities.
Off-road retailer 4 Wheel Parts has taken safety precautions by offering free curbside pickup and free shipping on all order over $75. Most retail stores remain open with reduced hours of 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tues-Fri and varying hours on Sat. The company’s distribution centers remain open.
April 14
Westin Automotive remains open as an essential business and has retained all employees. Facilities remain operational and the company continues to ship its full line of Westin Automotive and Superwinch products.
The company is also partnering with some of its e-commerce and wholesale warehouse distributors to contribute a portion of its sales receipts to the American Red Cross.
Alpine Electronics is currently operational and has implemented remote work where possible and requiring all on-site employees to adhere to CDC guidelines. The company has also increased sanitization efforts in all of its facilities and is screening those who enter.
THE SHOP reached out to industry suppliers and organizations for updates regarding operations.
The following companies have been deemed essential businesses and are open for business with full access:
Dash Designs Inc.
Exedy Globalparts Corp.
Huth Ben Pearson Intl.
Let’s Go Aero
Performance Distributors
PML Inc.
Roadmaster
Scorpion Protective Coatings
The following companies have been deemed essential businesses but are running with limited crews and accessibility:
AEM Performance Electronics
Fabspeed Motorsport
Gear Vendors
LiquidSpring
Owens Products
Trim-Lok
XRP
The following companies have closed main sites facilities but are running with remote capabilities:
Spork Marketing
Additional Information:
AEM Performance Electronics is still manufacturing, assembling and shipping products, however, all non-essential workers are operating remotely due to the state shelter-in-place mandate, so customer service delays may occur. While there might be a slight delay in technical support, the company offers email tech support, which can be contacted at emstech@aemelectronics.com for engine management support and gentech@aemelectronics.com for all other products.
Dash Designs, located in Tempe, Arizona, has been deemed essential and all levels of manufacturing are operational while adhering to CDC guidelines. The company has opened a secondary production line, assembling surgical masks for first responders and medical staff.
Exedy Globalparts is in full operation and following Michigan guidelines. The company is still processing and fulfilling daily shipments. Orders can be placed during normal daily hours of 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET.
Gear Vendors is manufacturing and shipping orders. Standard telephone support, customer service and retail phone orders are available.
Owens Products is currently operating under reduced hours of 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Mon.-Thur., and 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Fri.
April 13
Addictive Desert Designs remains operational and is adhering to CDC guidelines at its facilities. All customer service and sales teams are available by phone and email, Mon.-Fri. from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. MT.
THE SHOP reached out to industry suppliers and organizations for updates regarding operations.
The following companies have been deemed essential businesses and are open for business with full access:
BundutecUSA
CTECH Manufacturing
Eaton Detroit Spring Inc
Interactive Garage
Master Magnetics Inc
Packard Industries
Pro-werks
Road Armor
Rockland Standard Gear Inc
Scorpion Racing Products
SpeedDirect
The following companies have been deemed essential businesses but are running with limited crews and accessibility:
JackPoint Jackstands
Motorville
ProRYDE Suspension Systems
Additional Information:
Eaton Detroit Spring says its production and shipping has returned to a normal schedule, but is limiting access for walk-in customers.
JackPoint Jackstands is currently open but is encountering delays in restocking essential inventory. The company hit 0 inventory on its primary product after a restock shipment was delayed by the manufacturer due to labor absences. The shipment is expected next week.
April 10
Brandmotion is in full operation and following Michigan guidelines, according to the company, with staff working from home where possible and on-site staff kept to a minimum for core business operations. The company is still processing and fulfilling daily shipments. Sales staff are taking orders during normal daily hours of 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET. The company has worked down backorders from early in the pandemic and is now experiencing limited disruptions in supply chain.
Visteon has temporarily suspended or significantly reduced production at certain facilities in the Americas, Europe and most of Asia outside of China. The company’s Chinese operations are currently resuming.
April 9
Meyer Distributing has added additional stock and has broadened its shop supply category with products like toilet paper, disinfectants, cleaners, sanitizers, soap and more, the company has informed THE SHOP. The distributor has also reduced frequency of some delivery routes, but the company is still delivering products unless otherwise mandated by local and state officials.
Knipex Tools is continuing operations with both a remote team and a small number of employees working at its Buffalo Grove facility, according to a letter sent to customers. Shipments to distributors continue during weekday operating hours.
Rigid Industries remains operational and is manufacturing and shipping product on a daily basis from its Gilbert, Arizona facility. Employees are currently working in staggered shifts and the company’s customer service and sales teams are still available by phone or email.
California-based Katzkin Leather has been deemed an essential business and is fully operational at this time.
Performance Distribution has also been categorized as an essential business and continues to operate. The company is currently following CDC guidelines at company facilities.
April 8
Engine and Performance Warehouse sent a letter to customers stating that all EPWI facilities are currently open and the company continues to accept and ship orders as normal. The company has experienced some minimal delays and supply chain disruptions. EPWI also asks that all order be called in or ordered through the website. The company will not currently be accepting orders at the will call counter.
CTech Manufacturing has been deemed an essential business and continues to operate as normal. The company has been in contact with suppliers and does not anticipate any supply issues in the foreseeable future. The 10-day targeted lead time for Tool Drawer manufacturing remains uninterrupted. The company also continues to follow CDC guidelines, has implemented remote work where possible and has suspended all work-related travel. Visits to company facilities have been limited to business-critical only.
April 7
Classic Industries has resumed shipping orders as of April 6 and has made modifications to its fulfillment facilities to accommodate CDC guidelines. The company has also distributed nitrile gloves, masks and hand sanitizer to employees. Sales and customer service personnel are working remotely and available by phone during regular business hours. Longer than normal wait times are anticipated. Recently placed orders will be processed and shipped soon. Future interruptions are not expected.
Performance Racing Industry issued a press release stating that PRI has instituted remote working for all employees through April and has cancelled or postponed any face-to-face meetings or events through May 31. The PRI Trade Show, scheduled for Dec. 10-12, is currently expected to take place as planned.
Keystone Automotive Operations President Bill Rogers released a statement via the company’s website notifying customers and suppliers that employees are currently following CDC guidelines and instituting more frequent disinfecting of delivery vehicles and facilities. Employees are now working from home where possible, but the company continues to process and fulfill orders.
April 6
RANDYS Worldwide sent a statement notifying customers that all seven warehouses are open and continue to distribute product. Production facilities also remain open and operational. The company’s tech support and sales staff are also available for assistance.
Air Flow Research has received notice of exemption to the ‘Stay-at-Home’ order and resumed operations on April 6. The company will be implementing CDC/OSHA guidelines to protect employees. Lead times on cylinder heads are approximately three to four weeks. Part orders will ship out in under 72 hours if the item is in stock.
THE SHOP reached out to industry suppliers and organizations for updates regarding operations.
The following companies have been deemed essential businesses and are open for business with full access:
Bully Dog
Master Magnetics
SCT Performance
The following companies have been deemed essential businesses but are running with limited crews and accessibility:
Eaton Detroit Spring
MORryde Intl.
April 3
CTEK has not experienced any delays in supply chain, according to a statement from CEO Jon Lind, and is still receiving shipments from suppliers. The company has also instituted remote work for all European and American workers and is no longer holding in-person meetings with customers or partners from areas currently impacted by the coronavirus.
Advanced Clutch Technology has adjusted operations in response to the pandemic. While production continues under CDC guidelines, sales, customer service and engineering staff are all working remotely and an off-site call system has been established to continue servicing customers.
Rhino Linings has been deemed an ‘essential’ business and its three manufacturing facilities remain operational with some staff working remotely, the company says.
Tenneco has temporarily reduced or suspended certain operations, according to a press release. Several of its automotive aftermarket facilities remain operational at this time. The company is also furloughing employees and intends to layoff portions of its salaried workforce. The CEO will temporarily not be taking a salary and other executives will take salary reductions.
April 2
Racecar Engineering, based in Lakeland, Florida, is still fully operational, fully staffed and receiving and shipping parts, according to a press release. The company’s satellite fulfillment center located in the Midwest is also still operating and shipping parts.
SuperPro Suspension Parts is also fully operational and has been following health guidelines like social distancing and limiting access to the company’s facilities.
Hand tool and accessory manufacturers HooVer Products also continue to operate as usual and are still producing and shipping orders.
ProCharger, along with its parent company Accessible Technologies, has been deemed an ‘essential’ business and is fully operational at all its facilities, according to a statement on the company’s website. Sales and tech support are also still available and 80% of all supercharger orders are currently ready to ship within two business days.
April 1
THE SHOP reached out to industry suppliers and organizations for updates regarding operations via a survey.
The following companies have been deemed essential businesses and are open for business with full access:
Advanced Accessory Concepts
Baja Designs
Chassis Shop Performance Products
CTech Manufacturing
Custom Automotive Network
Dash Designs
Deatschwerks
Fluidampr/Vibratech
Fuelab
Huth Ben Pearson Intl.
Hypertech
JackPoint Jackstands
Kafko Intl.
Let’s Go Aero
Mishimoto
Moroso Performance Products
Moser Engineering
Performance Distributors
Pfaff Designs
PML Inc.
Roadmaster
Rockland Standard Gear
Rod End Supply
The Wheel Group/Wheel-1
Transfer Flow
T-REX Truck Products
Universal Products Inc.
VMP Performance
Warn Industries
The following companies have been deemed essential but are running with limited crews and accessibility:
3D MAXpider
Bullet Proof Diesel
KC HiLiTES
MetalCloak
Mickey Thompson Performance Tires
Motorville
Owens Products
Perma-Cool
Premier Performance
ProRYDE Suspension Systems
Romik
STEP-N-SECURE
The following companies have closed main facilities but are running with remote capabilities:
Dometic Corp.
Racequip
Tom Smisek Marketing Consultants
The following companies are temporarily closed:
Bonspeed Wheels
Additional Details:
Mishimoto employees are working from home where possible, but all warehouses are fully operational and engineering staff are continuing R&D as normal.
PML, Inc. has adjusted hours to Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. PT.
Rod End Supply is open and can provide quotes as well as technical information and is shipping product out every day.
The Wheel Group and Wheel-1 have modified operational processes but have seen little to no interruption in normal business. Staff is working remotely where possible, but all distribution centers and logistics are running at full capacity. Employees are required to wear N95 masks, latex or nitrile gloves and are observing social distancing throughout the workplace. The company is also offering no-touch deliveries and no touch will-call services. All small pack, local carrier and LTL shipments are running normally. Sales and service teams are available during normal business hours.
Transfer Flow manufactures several products that are considered essential, including fuel systems and components for wheelchair adaptive vans, DOT legal refueling tank systems, generator tanks and hydraulic tanks. The company’s production facility will focus on manufacturing these critical items during the COVID-19 pandemic.
VMP Performance is currently open for phone calls, remote tuning and shop work. Orders are shipping daily. The company is requesting that those wishing to visit VMP facilities make an appointment.
Bullet Proof Diesel’s operations are unaffected and continue to produce and ship product within 24 hours.
Motorville remains open, but may be short-staffed at times, possibly leading to extended lead times on orders.
Premier Performance says all warehouses are operating at full capacity while office staff works remotely.
STEP-N-SECURE has experienced delivery challenges because of temporary shipping limits implemented by FedEx and Amazon.
RaceQuip staff is currently working from home but is fully operational. The company is shipping product to dealers, available for calls, e-mail and product support.
Bonspeed Wheels is closed due to California’s ‘shelter-in-place’ order. Orders can still be placed through the company’s phone line Mon.-Sat. from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. PT.
March 31
Ranch Hand has closed its Beeville, Texas, facility, the company announced, effective March 30, following the ‘shelter-in-place’ order enacted by local authorities. However, the company’s Shiner, Texas, manufacturing facility remains fully operational. The manufacturing team has also been transitioned to a four-day work week, extending shifts to ensure that production meets demand. Closure of the Beeville facility may cause a temporary extension of lead times for certain products. Customer service and sales staff are still working regular business hours (8 a.m.-5 p.m., CST).
Tonneau cover manufacturer Worksport, based in Toronto, issued a statement informing customers and stakeholders that its Chinese factories are back in operation as of March 16. The company’s supply chain is fully intact, according to CEO Steve Rossi.
SuperSprings remains operational, according to a statement sent out to customers, and is open for orders. The company has implemented remote working for sales, customer service and order fulfillment departments, potentially impacting timeliness of order fulfillment.
DeatschWerks, based in Oklahoma, has been deemed an ‘essential business,’ and is continuing manufacturing, order fulfillment, shipping and customer and technical support functions. However, injector services and pump testing have been suspended. Half of the company’s staff are currently working remotely and production schedules have been altered to maximize employee safety.
Eibach North America announced that it will remain open and will be fulfilling all incoming orders. On-site staff has been minimized and all public entrances to the building have been closed, in addition to increased training in disinfecting.
KC HiLiTES’ Williams, Arizona, headquarters continues to operate, the company informed THE SHOP, while sales and marketing staff based in Los Angeles, California, work remotely.
March 30
Atech Motorsports is still operating without service interruption, according to a press release. The company has been designated as an essential business and continues to have agents available during regular hours of operation. The company is currently shipping from all locations, while providing employees the option to work from home.
Wilwood Disc Brakes, located in California, informed customers via Facebook that the company remains fully operational. Where feasible, employees are working from home and appropriate precautions have been taken at the company’s facilities to ensure the health and safety of staff.
SpeedDirect, a manufacturer of steering and suspension components, remains open for business with no changes in levels of service or supply, according to a press release. All necessary precautions have been implemented, including remote work, sanitation and social distancing. Business can continue to be conducted by phone, e-mail or via the company’s website.
March 27
VSM Rostra, a producer of automotive electronics, has shut down operations after an employee at its Newark, New Jersey, facility tested positive for COVID-19. “The safety of our employees is our number one priority and we will take all necessary measures to ensure a safe work environment in light of this situation,” CEO and CFO James Pineau said in a letter to their customers.
Pineau says the company will begin sanitation efforts as soon as possible and will later determine when production and shipping operations will resume. Any and all personnel that were in contact with the employee have been asked to perform a 14-day self-quarantine process.
Vortech Engineering has been deemed an ‘essential business,’ according to a press release from the company, and is currently receiving product and shipping orders as usual. Sales, tech and customer service staff are available by phone, e-mail and fax during business hours, which are currently 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. PDT. The company also said that staff may be limited at times and delays in communication are possible. Will call orders have also been suspended.
Covercraft is experiencing delays in order fulfillment following recent ‘shelter-in-place’ orders in various locations, according to a statement on the company’s website. While timing of a return to normal processing and fulfillment is uncertain, the company advises that placing an order immediately will ensure more rapid fulfillment once restrictions are lifted. The following products are experiencing delays in shipping: PrecisionFit Seat Covers, Colgan Front End Covers, UVS100 & Flex Sunscreens, Cargo Area Liners, ADCO RV Covers and ProNets.
All Champion Oil facilities are fully operational, according to a press release from the company, and continue to accept and ship orders as normal. The company also noted that its shipping carriers continue to operate as normal, but there have been minimal delays and supply chain disruptions. The company has also transitioned some employees to remote work that are not a part of essential day-to-day manufacturing or warehouse operations.
March 26
Classic Industries, located in California, has suspended all operations, temporarily closing the company’s offices, showroom and warehouse. Order fulfillment has also been suspended. All orders placed after March 20 will be processed and shipped once operations resume.
JVCKenwood is adhering to California’s ‘shelter-in-place’ order and has suspended all shipments of product, according to CE Outlook. However, the company’s staff remain in full contact while working remotely. The company says alternative logistics solutions are being explored.
Firstech has also closed its Washington warehouse and has ceased all warranty and shipping operations through at least April 6, also per CE Outlook.
Brian Murphy, CEO of BBK Performance, issued a statement notifying customers and partners that the company remains in full operation and does not anticipate any disruptions at its Florida warehouse. In response to ‘stay-at-home’ orders, Murphy says, BBK is waiving any drop ship fees to all accounts and has placed additional resources with its shipping team to process additional drop ship volumes.
Pacific Performance Engineering has notified THE SHOP that the company is exempt from California’s ‘shelter-in-place’ mandate and is still operational. The company continues to practice social distancing and is disinfecting its facilities throughout the day. Staff is also working on flexible, alternating hours to reduce the number of employees on site. Several departments have been approved to work remotely and sales representatives are conducting business through phone and e-mail only.
Hellwig Suspension Products is continuing operations as an ‘essential business.’ The company has implemented temporary office hours of 7 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. PDT.
Mustang Dynamometer is currently operating at full capacity, according to a press release. The Ohio-based company’s manufacturing facility is fully operational, and sales and service staff are available for assistance. The company is currently following CDC guidelines and recommends the postponement of tours and in-person visits of its facilities.
ProMedia Publishing & Events, the parent company of the Holley NMRA Ford Nationals and NMCA Muscle Car Nationals, has closed its office, according to a press release, but remains operational as staff is working remotely. Personnel will be available via e-mail only. Longer processing times are expected for merchandise orders, memberships, rule requests and other inquiries.
March 25
Due to a state-wide ‘shelter-in-place’ order in Illinois, Billet Specialties has closed until April 7 and will resume operations on April 8. Orders placed after March 20 will not be processed or shipped until the week of April 8.
Racing Power Company is also subject to a ‘shelter-in-place’ order in California but will continue to operate with minimum warehouse staff on site. USRPC.com will still be accepting online retail orders, but fulfillment may take up to 24 hours.
Fatman Fabrications is still fully operational and will continue to operate as usual until the state of North Carolina mandates the closing of ‘non-essential’ businesses, the company has informed THE SHOP. The company has taken precautions to ensure the health of its staff, which continues to work on a full schedule, including sales and tech support.
1-800 EveryRim is continuing to operate as an ‘essential business’ and has taken steps to protect employees by following CDC regulations.
Bob Scheid, director of business development at McLeod Racing, issued a statement, noting that the company remains fully operational and continues to build and ship product, while practicing safe protocols to protect employees. Tech and sales lines continue to operate normally while staff works remotely.
Livernois Motorsports and Engineering has been deemed ‘essential’ and will continue to function, according to a statement from the company, but will be operating on a limited schedule with limited staff. Staff will also not be giving walk-throughs to new or existing customers unless it is a pre-approved appointment.
Factory Five Racing will be closed for two weeks, effective March 24. The business plans to reopen on April 8. The closure could result in some shipping delays, according to President Dave Smith.
SuperPro is still operating but has taken precautionary measures to facilitate remote work where possible and social distancing for staff still operating at its California, Australia and New Zealand facilities.
Sport Truck USA and its affiliate brands (BDS Suspension, JKS Manufacturing, RT Pro UTV, Zone Offroad and 4×4 Posi-Lok) remain open for business, according to a release from the company. The company will be operating with limited staff over the next few weeks and has instituted remote working where possible.
Those who wish to contact the company should use e-mail, according to company management, as it is currently the most efficient method of communication for staff members working remotely. The limited on-site staff could lead to shipping delays, although same day shipping remains the company’s goal. All departments are running and there have been no changes to business hours. Any updates will be provided via the company’s website.
March 24
US Motor Works issued a statement following California’s statewide ‘Shelter in Place’ order, stating that the company is continuing to operate as an ‘essential’ business and plan on continuing to manufacture and ship product as usual. The company is enforcing CDC guidelines by expanding sanitation efforts and practicing social distancing at its facilities, as well as eliminating all non-essential travel and restricting access to facilities.
Mittler Bros. Machine & Tool continues to operate, according to a letter from Paul Mittler, although upcoming metal shaping and metalworking classes, hosted by the company, for March and April have been postponed.
Pennsylvania-based UMI Performance has closed according to an announcement from the company, citing the state’s mandatory shutdown. The company is closed until further notice and will fulfill any in-process or new orders once production is allowed to resume.
Neuspeed, located in California, is still operating, but has closed its retail location. The company will also not be accepting personal or will-call pick up, except by shipping carriers. Reduced on-site staff has also led the company to extend its shipping time from 24 to 48 hours, but will continue to process and ship orders as long as parcel carries are still in operation.
Melling Engine Parts announced it will be minimizing operations for the next three weeks following a ‘Stay at Home’ order from Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer but will remain open and shipping product with a reduced staff. Customers may experience a delay in shipments.
“Although the automotive aftermarket supply chain and OE service are considered ‘essential’ operations by the federal government, Melling intends to abide by this order as much as possible to protect our employees, customers and the community where we operate,” read a statement from the company.
BorgWarner will be suspending manufacturing operations in North America and Europe, according to a press release, citing reduction in OEM manufacturing, which accounts for 70% of the company’s revenue.
Marelli has also announced suspension of operations, shutting down manufacturing in a staggered fashion, also due to a reduction in OEM manufacturing.
Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb issued a ‘Stay-at-Home’ directive for the state, but Hi-Lift Jack Company is exempted, according to a press release. The company will continue to operate.
“We will continue taking the necessary steps to proactively and effectively manage the safety of our team members and others while we do our part during this national emergency,” said Steve Dowden, vice president of sales and marketing at Hi-Lift. “We appreciate your partnership and express our heartfelt wishes for the continued safety and health of you, your families and your team members.”
March 23
Daystar has altered its production schedule, the performance suspension manufacturer has announced, in addition to taking several other precautions to protect employees. While the company is still distributing products, it has shifted to a three-day per week, 12-hour workday production schedule and is encouraging remote work when possible. It has also provided employees with sanitizer and is following CDC guidelines. The company currently expects no disruption of production or distribution.
Turn 14 Distribution has indicated to THE SHOP that its distribution centers in Pennsylvania, Nevada and Texas remain fully operational, while sales, accounting and support staff work remotely. Employees on the job at the distribution centers are now working on separated shifts, the company said, and professional cleaners have been hired to clean high traffic and high contact areas of its facilities between shifts. ‘Will Call’ service at all three distribution centers has also been suspended until further notice.
On March 23, the performance parts distributor began employee screening at its Hatsfield, Pennsylvania, and other locations. Any employee with an elevated temperature or other symptoms will be asked to stay home.
Alden Stiefel, president and CEO of Maxxsonics USA, issued a statement, noting that the company is continuing to operate as usual.
“Here at Maxxsonics, we are practicing the necessary steps suggested by the World Health Organization and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,” Stiefel said. “It is very crucial that we remember our health should never be taken for granted and that we are all in this battle together.”
Fluidampr, based in western New York, continues to operate and ship products, according to a statement from the company. The company has cancelled all travel, implemented remote work where possible, temporarily suspended any visitors to its facility and instituted social distancing and additional sanitizing measures. The company continues to manufacture product and is taking and fulfilling orders.
American Car Craft, an automotive accessory manufacturer, also continues to operate, with manufacturing of product proceeding as usual. However, the company has closed its Hudson, Florida, showroom to the public, although it will still be open by appointment only. The company is accepting and fulfilling orders through all distributors and retail orders by phone, e-mail and its website.
Additionally, Go Rhino issued an update, detailing its implementation of remote working and suspension of travel. The company has also created a ‘business continuity’ plan that aims to ensure its supply chain continues without disruption. Go Rhino has been working with its raw material and component suppliers to avoid any interruptions in service. Hours of operation and shipping schedule remain the same for the company.
March 20
Air Flow Research has temporarily shut down due to California Governor Gavin Newsome’s ‘Stay at Home Order’ issued on March 19, the company announced. The shut down means the company will not be fulfilling any outgoing shipments until the order is lifted. AFR is also formulating a plan to provide some services to customers remotely and will resume answering phones, e-mails and processing orders as soon as possible.
Chris Casperson, president of Pypes Performance Exhaust, issued a statement reassuring customers that the company is still operating as normal, taking, filling and shipping orders, while still practicing social distancing and employing appropriate sanitary measures.
“We can’t say if there will be any restrictions on our ability to conduct business in the near future, but in the meantime, we are open for business,” Casperson said. “Our entire team is working hard to keep the flow of products and communications moving. Our goal is to continue to provide products and services to our valued customer base for as long as possible without putting the health and welfare of our team in jeopardy.”
Technical partners ProTorque and Boninfante Friction, both located in Pennsylvania, are currently operating without full staffs, as the state recently mandated all non-essential businesses be closed. The companies are currently expecting lengthened lead times and limited production as a result.
“Please bear with us while we do the best we can to keep production up and to keep shipping to you. We ask for your patience and appreciate your understanding as so much of this is simply out of our control,” the companies said in a statement. “We need (and value) your business, and the country and our economy need us all to stay strong, to stay vigilant, and to stay patient. For any inquiries on your existing orders, please call and/or email as normal.”
Owens Products is also addressing the situation with internal guidelines, while maintaining standard operations. The company is currently providing sanitizers to all employees, in addition to CDC and World Health Organization guidelines, and all employees have been instructed to sanitize all equipment prior to and after daily production. Daily staff meetings have also been minimized to every two weeks, and all travel has been suspended. Owens has also closed its facilities to outside visitors.
T-REX Truck Products also issued a statement reassuring customers that the company is currently maintaining standard operations.
“We have begun a proactive measure to limit travel and are taking appropriate steps to limit impacts to our employees, customers and operations,” the statement read. “Additionally, we are developing contingency plans to address potential disruptions. We appreciate your support and patience and we will do everything possible to continue to provide quality parts, productions, and shipments during this time.”
March 19
VP Racing Fuels noted that it continues to supply race fuels, coolants and lubricants to race series and teams, despite the economic challenges caused by COVID-19. VP continues to maintain sufficient inventory and transportation to supply all professional and amateur race customers around the world.
“Product quality and delivery excellence are what we’re known for,” stated Alan Cerwick, VP’s president and CEO. “Amidst this challenging business climate, we remain committed to providing our race and retail customers with product availability and on-time delivery to support their business operations. Our product demand remains stable, and we continue to sign new race series and distribution relationships in 2020.”
Eric York, supply chain and warehouse manager at Armor Protective Packaging, issued an update regarding the company’s operations, stating it is following CDC directives, restricting access to facilities, eliminating non-essential travel, expanding sanitation efforts, practicing social distancing and activating remote work scenarios wherever possible.
York also noted that the company domestically sources the majority of items used in production of its products and does not anticipate any disruption to raw material supply or production.
Bully Dog Performance, as well as its parent company, Derive Systems, is implementing remote work and virtual collaboration and has cancelled all large gatherings and non-essential business travel. The company is also limiting visitors to all office locations. Advance approval is needed for any office visits. Sales and customer service is available and the company is shipping orders as usual.
Goodguys Rod and Customs Association has temporarily closed its corporate office due to a ‘shelter-in-place’ order currently being implemented in the San Francisco Bay area. During the shutdown, Goodguys employees will be working remotely, causing longer than usual response time to any inquiries. New membership cards, event confirmations and refund requests will also not be processed or sent out until the office reopens.
Forrest and Morgan Lucas, Lucas Oil Products executives, also put an emphasis on the health and safety of the company’s employees in a statement, as the company has implemented remote working, alternative scheduling and distance requirements at its facilities and suspended employee travel.
As owner and operator of several motorsport events, the company has also postponed all activities where large crowd gatherings occur.
Custom Automotive Network (CAN) President Tracie Nunez also sent out a letter regarding its CAN Connect conference, set to be held in September, which the organization continues to prepare for as scheduled. If interested in registering for the conference, the organization allows delayed billing (no payment required now) and any payments already are fully refundable until August 12, a date the CAN Board of Directors is currently reviewing. CAN offices are fully operational from multiple remote locations and operational during normal business hours.
