AMN Drivetime

Mike Schwab said Niterra has evolved well beyond its roots as an ignition specialist while maintaining the quality and reliability associated with its NGK brand. Today, Niterra's automotive portfolio extends beyond spark plugs to include ignition coils, wire sets, NTK oxygen and technical sensors, and rotating electrical products such as starters and alternators.

Paolone said Magnaflow’s family-owned heritage has shaped both its culture and its long-term approach to the market. Founded in 1981 by his uncle, Jerry Paolone, the company has operated around a “build it and stand by it” philosophy while emphasizing lasting relationships and accountability from design through manufacturing

Emily Poladian, president of MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers, said the MEMA Top Suppliers 2027 Directory is designed to recognize supplier impact across the aftermarket, rather than simply company size. The initiative highlights suppliers that are investing in their businesses, driving innovation, advancing advocacy and contributing to the broader industry. Poladian said the goal is to provide greater visibility to companies making meaningful investments and helping move the aftermarket forward.

Koviak said he views consolidation as an inevitable evolution that can ultimately make the independent aftermarket stronger and more competitive. While ownership structures are changing,  Koviak said the fundamental business remains relatively stable, with service centers, jobbers, warehouse distributors and suppliers continuing to move parts through the supply chain.Rather than becoming distracted by consolidation, he believes Automotive Parts Services Group members and vendor partners should remain focused on operating effectively.

Buchholz described how the company’s D.R.I.V.E. core values — Dedication, Relationship, Innovation, Value Driven and Expertise — provide the cultural foundation for how its team operates internally and engages with customers and channel partners.He emphasized that culture and strategy are closely connected. By aligning teams around common values and empowering employees to live them every day, he said MotoRad creates a foundation for continuous improvement — reflecting his philosophy that when an organization gets better, it gets bigger.